INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS AND OWNER'S MANUAL Vented/Vent-Free Burner UNVENTED GAS LOG HEATER OR INTERMITTENT MODELS VFSE-(18,24,30)-1 VARIABLE MODELS VFSV-(16,18,24,30)-4 VENTED DECORATIVE APPLIANCE VARIABLE MODELS VFSV-(16,18,24,30)-4 GAS-FIRED Installer: Leave this manual with the appliance. Consumer: Retain this manual for future reference.
BEFORE YOU START 1. Read the safety information on Page 41. 2. If located in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, please note the special requirements on page 44. 3. Install the gas lines. See page 12. 4. Fireplace sizing, see page 7. 5. Install the burner. See page 11. 6. Air shutter setting, see page 5. 7. Install the remote system. VFSE, see page 15, VFSV, see page 33. 8. Install the logs and embers. See page 13. 9. Light the burner. VFSE, see page 14. VFSV, see page 32. 10.
TABLE OF CONTENTS SECTION PAGE Introduction...............................................................................................................4 Product Specifications...............................................................................................5 Accessories...............................................................................................................5 Provisions for Adequate Combustion & Ventilation Air..............................................6 Clearances.
INTRODUCTION IMPORTANT: Read all instructions carefully before starting installation. Failure to follow these installation instructions may result in a possible fire hazard and will void the warranty. Save this manual for future reference. Please read this manual before installing and using the appliance. Instructions to Installer 1. Installer must leave instruction manual with owner after installation. 2.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS Natural Gas Propane Gas VFSE VFSV VFSE VFSV Regulator pressure setting 3.5" W.C. 4.0" W.C. 10.0" W.C. 10.0" W.C. Gas inlet pressure Max. 10.5" W.C. 10.5" W.C. 13.0" W.C. 13.0" W.C. Min. 7.0" W.C. 7.0" W.C. 11.0" W.C. 11.0" W.C. Model Orifice Gas BTUH Max. Rate BTUH Med. Rate BTUH Min. Rate VFSE-18 #36 Natural 1/8" Intermittent 32,000 — 26,000 VFSE-18 1.
PROVISIONS FOR ADEQUATE COMBUSTION & VENTILATION AIR This heater shall not be installed in a confined space unless provisions are provided for adequate combustion and ventilation air. A confined space is an area with volume less than 50 cubic feet per 1,000 Btuh of the combined input rates of all appliances drawing combustion air from that space. Small areas such as equipment rooms are confined spaces.
CLEARANCES Minimum Dimensions For Solid Fuel Burning Fireplaces UL127 Factory Built Fireplaces (Figure 2) Model A B C D VFSE-18 17" 14" 28" 17" VFSE-24 23" 14" 30" 18" VFSE-30 26" 14" 34" 20" VFSV-16 18" 11 1/2" 24" 18" VFSV-18 17" 14" 28" 17" VFSV-24 23" 14" 30" 18" VFSV-30 26" 14" 34" 20" Mantel Clearances Without Hood You must have non-combustible materials above the fireplace opening. Non-combustible material must extend at least 12" above fireplace opening.
CLEARANCES (continued) Mantel Clearances with Hood You must have non-combustible materials above the fireplace opening. Non-combustible material must extend at least 8" above fireplace opening. With sheet metal, you must have non-combustible material behind it. Heat resistant materials such as slate and marble must be at least 1/2" thick. Sheet metal should not be installed onto combustible material.
COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL Do not attach combustible material to the mantel of your fireplace. This is a fire hazard. Television Considerations Installing a television above a fireplace has become a desirable feature; however, the following information should be considered. All fireplaces, whether decorative or heater rated create heat. Most television manufacturers recommend not placing a television near a heat source.
FIREPLACE PREPARATION • • Turn off gas supply to fireplace or firebox. Have the fireplace floor and chimney professionally cleaned to remove ashes, soot, creosote or other obstructions. Have this cleaning performed annually after installation. • Seal any fresh air vents or ash clean-out doors located on floor or wall of fireplace. If not, drafting may cause pilot outage or sooting. Use a heat-resistant sealant. Do not seal chimney flue damper. Install and operate the appliance as directed in this manual.
INSTALLING AS A VENTED APPLIANCE Notice: (Damper Clamp Installation) When installing your log set as a vented installation the damper clamp must be used. When installing your log set as a vent-free installation the damper clamp can be used to eliminate the potential for odors when burning the logs for the first time. Installing Damper Clamp Remove all ashes or other debris from the fireplace.
GAS SUPPLY Check all local codes for requirements, especially for the size and type of gas supply line required. Recommended Gas Pipe Diameter Pipe Length Schedule 40 Pipe Inside Diameter Tubing, Type L Outside Diameter Nat. L.P. Nat. L.P. 0-10 feet 0-3 meters 1/2” 12.7mm 3/8” 9.5mm 1/2” 12.7mm 3/8” 9.5mm 10-40 feet 4-12 meters 1/2” 12.7mm 1/2” 12.7mm 5/8” 15.9mm 1/2” 12.7mm 40-100 feet 13-30 meters 1/2” 12.7mm 1/2” 12.7mm 3/4” 19mm 1/2” 12.
PLACEMENT OF GLOWING EMBERS AND LAVA ROCK Placement of the glowing embers (rock wool) is very individual and light coverage will provide your best effects. We recommend separation of the rock wool by hand and make your coverage as light and fluffy as possible. Place just enough embers on the burner to obtain the glow and a gold, yellow flame. Do not place embers (rock wool) over large ports in rear portion of burner. Rock wool should not be placed in the area of the pilot assembly.
VFSE-(18,24,30) LIGHTING INSTRUCTIONS FOR YOUR SAFETY READ BEFORE LIGHTING WARNING: If you do not follow these instructions exactly, a fire or explosion may result causing property damage, personal injury or loss of life. A. BEFORE LIGHTING smell all around the appliance area for gas. Be sure to smell next to the floor because some gas is heavier than air and will settle on the floor. WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS • Do not try to light any appliance. • Do not touch any electrical switch.
VFSE REMOTE ELECTRONIC IGNITION AND CONTROL SYSTEM MAIN VALVE KNOB MANUAL KNOB PIEZO IGNITER CONNECTION FOR MANUAL IGNITION COMBINATION CONTROL ON/OFF SWITCH O INTERRUPTER BLOCK I THERMO CURRENT CABLE #2 OR ON/OFF SWITCH WITH SOLDERED CABLE THERMO CURRENT CABLE #1 THERMOCOUPLE IGNITION CABLE RF ANTENNA SPARK SW TC MA GR MO PANEL SW 8 WIRE CABLE BATTERY COMPARTMENT BUTTON “RESET” Wiring Diagram Figure 14 28092-9-0714 Page 15
VFSE REMOTE ELECTRONIC IGNITION AND CONTROL SYSTEM GENERAL NOTES NOTICE The handsets and receivers, are not interchangeable with previous electronics. See Figure 17. Radio Frequency Handset 433.92 MHz for Europe; 315 MHz for U.S. (FCC ID: RTD-G6R) and for Canada (IC: 4943A-G6R). This device complies with part 15 of the FCC Rules.
VFSE REMOTE ELECTRONIC IGNITION AND CONTROL SYSTEM TO TURN ON APPLIANCE WARNING When pilot ignition is confirmed, motor turns automatically to maximum flame height. ▪ ▪ TO TURN OFF APPLIANCE Handset • Press OFF button Turn MANUAL knob to the ON, full counterclockwise position. Place ON/OFF switch (if equipped) in I (ON position). ▪ ▪ ▪ ▪ Simultaneously press the OFF and (large flame) buttons until a short beep confirms the start sequence has begun; release buttons.
VFSE REMOTE ELECTRONIC IGNITION AND CONTROL SYSTEM TO OPEN AND CLOSE SOLENOID VALVE/BURNER NOTE: The latching solenoid valve cannot operate manually. If the battery runs down it will remain in the last operating position. During normal operation the solenoid valve will be reset to the On position when the GV60 is switched OFF remotely. ▪ Upon ignition Main Burner and Decorative Burner are On. ▪ Simultaneously press SET and (small flame) buttons to switch the Burner OFF.
VFSE REMOTE ELECTRONIC IGNITION AND CONTROL SYSTEM SETTING °C/24 HOUR OR °F/12 HOUR CLOCK • Press OFF and (small flame) button until display changes from Fahrenheit/12 hour clock to Celsius/24 hour clock and vice versa. SETTING THE ON/OFF TEMPERATURES Setting the “DAYTIME” Temperature DEFAULT SETTINGS: (SUN), 23°C/74°F • Briefly press SET button to scroll to TEMP (sun) mode. Hold the SET button until the TEMP flashes.
VFSE REMOTE ELECTRONIC IGNITION AND CONTROL SYSTEM Setting the “NIGHTTIME SETBACK” Temperature SETTING PROGRAM TIMERS DEFAULT SETTINGS: Default Settings CE: Program 1: CSA: Program 2: • (MOON), “--” (OFF) Briefly press SET button to scroll to TEMP (moon) mode. Hold the SET button until the TEMP flashes. • • • • • • • Press (large flame) button to increase the Press • Page 20 Select Timer Mode by briefly pressing the SET button.
VFSE REMOTE ELECTRONIC IGNITION AND CONTROL SYSTEM • Set the minutes by pressing the flame) button. (small Setting P1 OFF Time • Briefly press SET button to scroll to setting P1 OFF time. P1 time flashes. (moon) is displayed and the • Set the hour by pressing the button. (large flame) • Set the minutes by pressing the flame) button. (small MANUAL OPERATION (Only possible, when MANUAL knob is used) Access to the pilot burner is only required for ignition with a match.
VFSE REMOTE ELECTRONIC IGNITION AND CONTROL SYSTEM TO TURN OFF GAS TO APPLIANCE 1. Place ON/OFF switch (if equipped) in O (OFF position). 2. If gas control is accessible turn main valve knob to the off full clockwise position. 3 Replace appliance access cover (if applicable). AUTOMATIC SHUT OFF Low Battery Receiver ▪ With low battery power in the receiver the system shuts off the fire completely. This will not happen if the power supply is interrupted.
INTERMITTANT TROUBLESHOOTING OBSERVED PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE REMEDY Will not operate with Handset 1. Transmitter batteries low Replace Transmitter batteries. Quality alkaline recommended. 2. Receiver batteries low Replace Receiver batteries with 1.5V "AA" quality alkaline batteries. 3. Optional Mains Adapter not operating properly Check Mains Adapter. 4. Check coding of Transmitter and Receiver (Initial sync.) Learn new code (reset). See label on receiver. 5. Transmitter distance limited 1.
INTERMITTANT TROUBLESHOOTING OBSERVED PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE REMEDY No transmission: (motor does not turn) (continued) 3. The Receiver is surrounded by metal, reducing the transmission range. Change the position of the adjustable antenna. WARNING Make sure that the adjustable antenna is not too close to the electrode cable and ignition coil (beneath the cover) It will damage the Receiver (see Figure 22). Figure 22 4. Receiver Replace receiver and reprogram code 5.
INTERMITTANT TROUBLESHOOTING OBSERVED PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE REMEDY Ignition stops after the first spark 1. Loose ground connection at the valve Check ground connection at the Valve and tighten screw. See Figure 25. No pilot flame but spark 1. No gas supply Check the gas supply 2. Air in the pilot supply line Purge the line or start ignition several times 3. No spark and Pilot Burner Check pilot setup, page 14. Check wiring connections. Check for spark in location along cable. 4.
INTERMITTANT TROUBLESHOOTING OBSERVED PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE REMEDY Pilot flame lights but there is no main gas flow 1. Manual override knob (if equipped) is in MAN position. Turn manual override knob to ON position (See Figure 19). 2. Valve turned down to pilot flow. Turn flame to high fire by pressing up button on remote handset. 3. Valve Replace Valve. Do not overtighten the Thermocouple Interrupter 1. Loose connection Check connection is tight and pins are straight 2.
INTERMITTANT TROUBLESHOOTING OBSERVED PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE REMEDY New remote receiver batteries have been installed, but the receiver is not responding to the handheld remote 1. Receiver must learn new code Press and hold the Receiver’s reset button (see figure 29) until you hear 2 acoustic signals. After the second, longer acoustic signal, release the reset button.
CLEANING AND SERVICING Annual inspection and cleaning by your dealer or qualified service technician is recommended to prevent malfunction and/or sooting. TURN OFF HEATER AND ALLOW TO COOL BEFORE CLEANING. Remove logs, handling carefully by holding gently at each end. Gloves are recommended to prevent skin irritation from ceramic fibers. If skin becomes irritated, wash gently with soap and water. Refer to manual for correct log placement.
PILOT FLAME CHARACTERISTICS Figure 30 shows a correct pilot flame pattern. The correct flame will be blue and will extend beyond the thermocouple. The flame will surround the thermocouple just below the tip. A slight yellow flame may occur where the pilot flame and main burner flame meet. Figure 31 shows an incorrect pilot flame pattern. The incorrect pilot flame is not touching the thermocouple. This will cause the thermocouple to cool. When the thermocouple cools, the heater will shut down.
VFSE PARTS VIEW Page 30 28092-9-0714
VFSE PARTS LIST Attention: When ordering parts, it is very important that part number and description of part coincide. INDEX NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION INDEX NO. PART NO.
VFSV-(16,18,24,30) LIGHTING INSTRUCTIONS FOR YOUR SAFETY READ BEFORE LIGHTING WARNING: If you do not follow these instructions exactly, a fire or explosion may result causing property damage, personal injury or loss of life. A. This appliance has a pilot which must be lighted by hand. When lighting the pilot, follow these instructions exactly. B. BEFORE LIGHTING smell all around the appliance area for gas.
VFSV REMOTE CONTROL INSTRUCTIONS NOTE: This remote is for use on VFSV Models ONLY. INTRODUCTION This remote control system was developed to a provide safe, reliable, user-friendly remote control system for gas heating appliances. The system can be operated manually from the transmitter. • It is suggested that the slide switch be placed in the OFF position if you will be away from your home for an extended period of time. TRANSMITTER The transmitter operates on a 12V (A23) battery that is included.
VFSV REMOTE CONTROL INSTRUCTIONS THERMO-SAFETY FEATURE When the ambient temperature inside the receiver case reaches 130°F, the RECEIVER will automatically send power to the step motor on the valve to shut the fireplace system off and the RECEIVER will begin emitting a series of 4 "beeps" every 2 seconds. When the ambient temperature at the RECEIVER drops between 120°F and 130°F, the user can reactivate the fireplace by pushing the ON/OFF button on the transmitter.
PILOT FLAME CHARACTERISTICS Figure 33 shows a correct pilot flame pattern. The correct flame will be blue and will extend beyond the thermocouple. The flame will surround the thermocouple just below the tip. A slight yellow flame may occur where the pilot flame and main burner flame meet. Figure 34 shows an incorrect pilot flame pattern. The incorrect pilot flame is not touching the thermocouple. This will cause the thermocouple to cool. When the thermocouple cools, the heater will shut down.
CLEANING AND SERVICING Annual inspection and cleaning by your dealer or qualified service technician is recommended to prevent malfunction and/or sooting. TURN OFF HEATER AND ALLOW TO COOL BEFORE CLEANING. Remove logs, handling carefully by holding gently at each end. Gloves are recommended to prevent skin irritation from ceramic fibers. If skin becomes irritated, wash gently with soap and water. Refer to manual for correct log placement.
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VFSV PARTS VIEW Page 38 28092-9-0714
VFSV PARTS LIST Attention: When ordering parts, it is very important that part number and description of part coincide. INDEX NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION INDEX NO. PART NO.
TROUBLESHOOTING SYMPTOMS - POSSIBLE CAUSES AND CORRECTION 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. When ignitor button is pressed, there is no spark at ODS/ pilot. a. Ignitor electrode positioned wrong - Replace pilot. b. Ignitor electrode is broken - Replace pilot. c. Ignitor electrode not connected to ignitor cable - Reconnect ignitor cable. d. Ignitor cable pinched or wet. Keep ignitor cable dry - Free ignitor cable if pinched by any metal or tubing. e. Broken ignitor cable - Replace ignitor cable. f.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION DANGER: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, will result in death or serious injury. WARNING: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided, could result in death or serious injury. • WARNING! This fireplace needs fresh air for ventilation to run properly. This fireplace has an ODS (oxygen depletion sensor) which will shut down the heater if adequate fresh air is not available. See troubleshooting section in the instructions.
SAFETY INFORMATION FOR USERS OF LP-GAS Propane (LP-Gas) is a flammable gas which can cause fires and explosions. In its natural state, propane is odorless and colorless. You may not know all the following safety precautions which can protect both you and your family from an accident. Read them carefully now, then review them point by point with the members of your household. Someday when there may not be a minute to lose, everyone's safety will depend on knowing exactly what to do.
REQUIREMENTS FOR CANADA This unit cannot be installed in a UNVENTED application, this unit can only be installed as a VENTED application with these requirements. IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION This unit complies with ANSI Z21.60 and CGA 2.26 Decorative Gas Appliances For Installation In Solid Fuel Burning Fireplaces. Do not burn wood or solid fuels in a fireplace where a decorative gas log set is installed.
GENERAL INFORMATION This is an unvented gas-fired heater. It uses air (oxygen) from the room in which it is installed. Provisions for adequate combustion and ventilation air must be provided. Keep room area clear and free from combustible materials, gasoline and other flammable vapors and liquids. Unvented gas heaters are a supplemental zone heater. They are not intended to be a primary heating appliance.
MASTER PARTS DISTRIBUTOR LIST To Order Parts Under Warranty, please contact your local Empire dealer. See the dealer locator at www.empirecomfort. com. To provide warranty service, your dealer will need your name and address, purchase date and serial number, and the nature of the problem with the unit. To Order Parts After the Warranty Period, please contact your dealer or one of the Master Parts Distributors listed below. This list changes from time to time.
WARRANTY Empire Comfort Systems Inc. warranties this hearth product to be free from defects at the time of purchase and for the periods specified below. Hearth products must be installed by a qualified technician and must be maintained and operated safely, in accordance with the instructions in the owner’s manual. This warranty applies to the original purchaser only and is not transferable. All warranty repairs must be accomplished by a qualified gas appliance technician.
APPLIANCE SERVICE HISTORY Date Dealer Name 28092-9-0714 Service Technician Name Service Performed/Notes Page 47
Empire Comfort Systems Inc. 918 Freeburg Ave. Belleville, IL 62220 If you have a general question about our products, please e-mail us at info@empirecomfort.com. If you have a service or repair question, please contact your dealer. www.empirecomfort.