Anyone know anything about gas fireplaces with electric switch starter?

[hlthe2b]

Problem is lately, I flip the switch and nothing happens (circuit breaker is fine and the pilot light in the fireplace is continually lit)

I've only been in this house a year and never received any info on it--I don't even know what brand/type it is. However, out of frustration, I sort of pounded on the glass and it lit one night... Since then, it sometimes comes on when I flip the switch or it will respond to the pretty intense tapping of the glass.

I am a little concerned, because a basic google of the issue kept saying to never strike the glass...

Any thoughts?