Well finally fixed the fireplace this morning. Whoever installed the fireplace left gaping cracks at the bottom where the firebrick panels meet. Nothing a little high-temp fireplace mortar wouldn't solve. So I finally got to start a fire in my fireplace for the first time today. It will be nice doing my programming and design next to a roaring fire. Not overly excited about the cutting and busting to keep it going but it should save on the electric bill. :)