Empire Comfort Systems VFSE-18-1 Quick start guide

INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
AND OWNER'S MANUAL
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
Vented/Vent-Free Burner
This is an unvented gas-red heater. It uses air (oxy-
gen) from the room in which it is installed. Provisions
for adequate combustion and ventilation air must be
provided. Refer to page 6.
WARNING: If not installed, operated and maintained
in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions,
this product could expose you to substances in fuel
or from fuel combustion which can cause death or
serious illness.
WATER VAPOR:ABY-PRODUCT OF UNVENTED ROOM
HEATERS
Water vapor is a by-product of gas combustion. An
unvented room heater produces approximately one (1)
ounce (30ml) of water for every 1,000 BTU's (.3KW's)
of gas input per hour. Refer to page 44.
This appliance may be installed in an aftermarket
permanently located, manufactured (mobile) home,
where not prohibited by local codes.
This appliance is only for use with the type of gas
indicated on the rating plate. This appliance is not
convertible for use with other gases.
Installer: Leave this manual with the appliance.
Consumer: Retain this manual for future reference.
— Do not store or use gasoline or other ammable
vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any
other appliance.
— WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS
• Do not try to light any appliance.
• Do not touch any electrical switch; do not use
any phone in your building.
• Immediately call your gas supplier from a
neighbor’s phone. Follow the gas supplier’s
instructions.
• If you cannot reach your gas supplier, call the
re department.
— Installation and service must be performed by a
qualied installer, service agency or the gas sup-
plier.
WARNING: If the information in these instructions
are not followed exactly, a re or explosion may
result causing property damage, personal injury
or loss of life.
EMPIRE
EMPIRE
Comfort Systems
GAS-FIRED
Page 1

28092-8-0614Page 2
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. Troubleshooting.
VFSE, see page 23. VFSV, see page 40.
11. Show the homeowner how to operate the burner.
VFSE, see page 15. VFSV, see page 33.
12. Show the homeowner how to do the basic maintenance.
VFSE, see page 28. VFSV, see page 36.

28092-8-0614 Page 3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Introduction ..............................................................................................................4
Product Specications..............................................................................................5
Accessories..............................................................................................................5
Provisions for Adequate Combustion & Ventilation Air.............................................6
Clearances ............................................................................................................7-8
Combustible Material ...............................................................................................9
Fireplace Preparation.............................................................................................10
Installing as a Vented Appliance ............................................................................ 11
Before Fully Installing the Appliance ...................................................................... 11
Gas Supply.............................................................................................................12
Placement of Glowing Embers and Lava Rock......................................................13
Operation Instructions/Flame Appearance.............................................................13
VFSE-(18,24,30) Lighting Instructions ...................................................................14
VFSE Remote Electronic Ignition and Control System .....................................15-22
Intermittant Troubleshooting..............................................................................23-27
Cleaning and Servicing ..........................................................................................28
Pilot Flame Characteristitcs ...................................................................................29
VFSE Parts View....................................................................................................30
VFSE Parts List......................................................................................................31
VFSV-(16,18,24,30) Lighting Instructions ..............................................................32
VFSV Remote Control Instructions ...................................................................33-34
Pilot Flame Characteristitcs ...................................................................................35
Cleaning and Servicing ..........................................................................................36
VFSV Parts View....................................................................................................38
VFSV Parts List......................................................................................................39
Troubleshooting......................................................................................................40
Important Safety Information..................................................................................41
Safety Information for Users of LP-Gas .................................................................42
Requirements for Canada ......................................................................................43
General Information ...............................................................................................44
Water Vapor: A By-Product of Unvented Room Heaters ........................................44
Master Parts Distributor List...................................................................................45
How To Order Repair Parts ....................................................................................45
Warranty.................................................................................................................46
Appliance Service History ......................................................................................47
SECTION PAGE

28092-8-0614Page 4
Important
All correspondence should refer to complete Model Number, Serial
Number and type of gas.
Attention: During initial use of log you will detect an odor as
the log is cured.
Notice: During initial ring of this unit, its paint will bake out, and
smoke will occur. To prevent triggering of smoke alarms, ventilate
the room in which the unit is installed.
WARNING: This appliance is for installation only in a solid-fuel
burning masonry or UL 127 factory-built replace or in a listed
ventless rebox enclosure. It has been design certied for
these installations. Exception: DO NOT install this appliance
in a factory-built replace that includes instructions stating
it has not been tested or should not be used with unvented
gas logs.
WARNING: Any modication to this unvented gas heater or
its controls can be dangerous. Improper installation or use
of the heater can cause serious injury or death from re,
burns, explosion or carbon monoxide poisoning.
Well Head Gas Installations
Some natural gas utilities use "well head" gas. This may affect the
Btu output of the unit. Contact the gas company for the heating value.
Contact the manufacturer or your gas company before changing
spud/orice size.
IMPORTANT: Read all instructions carefully before starting
installation. Failure to follow these installation instructions may
result in a possible re 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. Installer must have owner ll out and mail warranty card supplied
with unvented room heater/vented decorative appliance.
3. Installer should show owner how to start and operate unvented
room heater/vented decorative appliance.
Always consult your local Building Department regarding regulations,
codes or ordinances which apply to the installation of an unvented
room heater/vented decorative appliance.
This appliance may be installed in an aftermarket* manufactured
(mobile) home, where not prohibited by state or local codes.
*Aftermarket: Completion of sale, not for purpose of resale, from
the manufacturer.
This appliance is only for use with the type of gas indicated on the
rating plate. This appliance is not convertible for use with other
gases.
New Installation
Solid-fuels shall not be burned in a replace where a vented decorative
appliance is installed.
A vented decorative appliance must be installed only in a solid-
fuel burning replace with a working ue and constructed of
noncombustible material.
Any alteration of the original design, installed other than as
shown in these instructions or use with a type of gas not
shown on the rating plate is the responsibility of the person
and company making the change.
INTRODUCTION

28092-8-0614 Page 5
Accessory Description Color
For use with VFSE and VFSV models
EK-1 Embers Kit
ELH-1 Fireplace Hood for Vent-Free Logs Black
ELH-2 Fireplace Hood for Vent-Free Logs Brass
For use with VFSE models ONLY
AD1106V AC/DC Adapter
Note: Thermostats are for Vent-Free Applications only.
Note: For vented applications of VFSE models, an FRIP (non-
thermostat) remote must be used.
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 Orice Gas Air Shutter Valve Type BTUH Max. Rate BTUH Med. Rate BTUH Min. Rate
VFSE-18 #36 Natural 1/8" Intermittent 32,000 — 26,000
VFSE-18 1.65mm Propane Full Open Intermittent 32,000 — 26,000
VFSE-24 #33 Natural 1/16" Intermittent 36,000 — 28,800
VFSE-24 #50 Propane Full Open Intermittent 36,000 — 28,800
VFSE-30 #32 Natural 1/16" Intermittent 38,000 — 30,000
VFSE-30 #49 Propane Full Open Intermittent 38,000 — 30,000
VFSV-16 #42 Natural 1/16" Variable 25,000 — 18,000
VFSV-16 1.40mm Propane Full Open Variable 22,500 — 17,000
VFSV-18 #36 Natural 1/16" Variable 32,000 — 21,000
VFSV-18 #51 Propane Full Open Variable 32,000 — 21,000
VFSV-24 #32 Natural 1/16" Variable 36,000 — 24,000
VFSV-24 1.80mm Propane Full Open Variable 36,000 — 24,000
VFSV-30 #31 Natural 1/16" Variable 38,000 — 27,000
VFSV-30 #49 Propane Full Open Variable 38,000 — 27,000
Note: Thermostats are for Vent-Free Applications only.
ACCESSORIES

28092-8-0614Page 6
Example of Large Room with 1/2 Wall divider.
H
WL1
L
2
FIREPLACE
DIVIDER
Figure 1
The following formula can be used to determine the maximum heater
rating per the denition of unconned space:
Btu/Hr = (L1+ L2)FT x (W)FT x (H)FT x 1000
50
If the area in which the heater may be operated is smaller than that
dened as an unconned space, provide adequate combustion and
ventilation air by one of the methods described in the National Fuel
Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1, NFPA54.
Adhere to all codes, or in their absence, the latest edition of THE
NATIONAL FUEL GAS CODE ANSI Z223.1/NFPA54 which can be
obtained from:
American National Standards InstituteNational Fire Protection As-
sociation, Inc.
11 West 42nd St. Batterymarch Park
New York, NY 10018 Quincy, MA 02269
This heater shall not be installed in a conned space unless provi-
sions are provided for adequate combustion and ventilation air.
A conned 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 conned spaces. Furnaces installed in a conned space
which supply heated air to areas outside the space must draw return
air from outside the space through tightly sealed return air ducts. A
conned space must have 2 openings into the space for combus-
tion air. One opening must be within 12 inches of the ceiling and
the other must be within 12 inches of the oor. The required sizing
of these openings is determined by whether inside or outside air is
used to support combustion, the method by which the air is brought
to the space (vertical or horizontal duct) and by the total input rate
of all appliances in the space.
Unusually Tight Construction
The air that leaks around doors and windows may provide enough
fresh air for combustion and ventilation. However, in buildings of
unusually tight construction, you must provide additional fresh air.
Unusually tight construction is dened as construction
where:
a. Walls and ceilings exposed to the outside atmosphere have
a continuous water vapor retarder with a rating of one perm
or less with openings gasketed or sealed, and
b. Weatherstripping has been added on openable windows and
doors, and
c. Caulking or sealants are applied to areas such as joints
around window and door frames, between sole plates and
oors, between wall-ceiling joints, between wall panels, at
penetrations for plumbing, electrical, and gas lines, and at
other openings.
If your home meets all of the three criteria above, you must
provide additional fresh air.
Warning: If the area in which the heater may be operated is smaller
than that dened as an unconned space or if the building is of
unusually tight construction, provide adequate combustion and
ventilation air by one of the methods described in the National Fuel
Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54, Air for Combustion and Ventila-
tion, or applicable local codes.
PROVISIONS FOR ADEQUATE COMBUSTION & VENTILATION AIR

28092-8-0614 Page 7
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"
The dimensions shown and dened in the replace manufactur-
er’s instructions are minimum clearances to maintain in installing
this heater. Left and right clearances are determined when facing
the front of the heater.
Glass Doors
Make sure that glass doors are open during all operations of
the logset. The opening of the glass door frame should be the
dimension used for the minimum front opening of the rebox.
Follow these instructions to ensure safe installation.
Failure to follow instructions exactly can create a re hazard.
Figure 2
Sidewall & Ceiling Clearances
Figure 3
The sides of the replace opening must be 6" from any combustible
wall. The ceiling must be at least 36" (for the 16" log) and 41" (for
18", 24" and 30" logs) from the replace opening.
CLEARANCES
Mantel Clearances Without Hood
You must have non-combustible materials above the replace
opening. Non-combustible material must extend at least 12" above
replace 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.
Figure 4
If your installation does not meet the above clearances, you must
proceed to one of the following steps:
• Use a hood
• Operate the heater with ue damper open. See page 11 for
Installing as a Vented Appliance.
• Raise the mantel to the proper height.
• Remove the mantel.
Non-Combustible
Material Distance
Requirements for Safe Installation
12" or more Non-combustible material
Less than 12" Non-combustible material must be ex-
tended to at least 8" with the installation
of the optional replace hood. If you can-
not extend non-combustible material at
least 8", you must operate heater with
ue damper open.

28092-8-0614Page 8
Mantel Clearances with Hood
You must have non-combustible materials above the replace
opening. Non-combustible material must extend at least 8" above
replace 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.
Example: A mantel may project from the wall a maximum of 2" at a
minimum of 8" above the opening, and a maximum of 6" at a
minimum of 15" above the opening.
Figure 5
If your installation does not meet the above minimum clearances,
you must proceed to one of the following steps:
• Operate the heater with the ue damper open. See page 11
for Installing as a Vented Appliance.
• Raise the mantel to the proper height.
• Remove the mantel.
Floor Clearance
If installing heater at oor level, the minimum distance to combus-
tibles is “0” inches.
HEATER IN FIREPLACE
OR FIREBOX
COMBUSTIBLE
MATERIAL
Figure 6
Note: If oor is sunken below the opening, the unit needs to be
raised above the hearth level or the opening of the glass door
surround.
Figure 6a
CLEARANCES (continued)

28092-8-0614 Page 9
Do not attach combustible material to the mantel of your replace.
This is a re hazard.
Figure 7
No greeting card, stockings or ornamentation of any type should be
placed on or attached to the replace. This is a heating appliance.
The ow of heat can ignite combustibles.
Figure 8
Television Considerations
Installing a television above a replace has become a desirable
feature; however, the following information should be considered.
All replaces, whether decorative or heater rated create heat.
Most television manufacturers recommend not placing a
television near a heat source. Because there is a large variety of
television manufactures, styles and sizes, it is impractical to test
every potential installation. If you choose to install a television
above or near your replace, understand that Empire Comfort
Systems accepts no responsibility for this decision and any
injury or damage due to this application is the sole responsibility
of the owner. Additionally, it is highly recommended to turn off
the replace and let it cool down before servicing or using the
operational buttons located on the television. In all cases, the
television manufacturer’s instructions and warnings should be
followed.
COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL

28092-8-0614Page 10
FOR INSTALLATION IN SOLID FUEL BURNING FIREPLACES
FOR MASONRY BUILT FIREPLACES
FREE OPENING AREA OF CHIMNEY DAMPER FOR VENTING
COMBUSTION PRODUCTS FROM DECORATIVE APPLIANCES
FOR INSTALLATION IN SOLID FUEL BURNING FIREPLACES
• Turn off gas supply to replace or rebox.
• Have the replace oor 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 oor
or wall of replace. If not, drafting may cause pilot
outage or sooting. Use a heat-resistant sealant. Do not seal
chimney ue damper.
Install and operate the appliance as directed in this manual.
FOR FACTORY BUILT FIREPLACES
FREE OPENING AREA OF CHIMNEY DAMPER FOR VENTING
COMBUSTION PRODUCTS FROM DECORATIVE APPLIANCES
FIREPLACE PREPARATION
Appliance Input Rate (BTU/hr)
20 30 40
Chimney
Height* (ft) Minimum Opening** (sq. in.)
10 11.3 16.6 22.1
15 8.6 12.6 17.3
20 7.5 10.8 14.5
25 6.6 9.6 12.6
30 6.2 9.1 11.3
35 5.7 8.0 10.8
40 5.3 7.5 10.2
* Height is from hearth to top of chimney and the minimum
height is 10 feet.
** Chart shows minimum opening (sq. in.) for given height and
input rate.
Appliance Input Rate (BTU/hr)
20 30 40
Chimney
Height* (ft) Minimum Opening** (sq. in.)
6 17.6 25.7 33.8
8 16.5 23.7 31.2
10 15.1 21.7 28.7
15 14.1 19.9 26.1
20 12.9 18.5 23.7
30 12.2 16.9 21.6
* Height is from hearth to top of chimney and the minimum height
is 6 feet.
** Chart shows minimum opening (sq. in.) for given height and
input rate.

28092-8-0614 Page 11
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 rst time.
Installing Damper Clamp
Remove all ashes or other debris from the replace. If the replace
is equipped with an ash dump be sure to seal the door with furnace
cement or high temperature silicone. Be sure to check the damper
for proper operation and verify that the ue passageway is open.
Place the clamp over the lip of the damper and tighten the hold
down bolt until the clamp is securely attached to the damper. This
will prevent the damper from accidentally closing.
Manual and millivolt controlled gas logs may be installed as a vented
decorative log set in compliance with ANSI Z21.60 and National
Fuel Gas Code. When the gas logs are operated with the damper
open, noncombustible material and minimum mantel requirements
do not apply.
• Turn off the gas supply to the replace or rebox.
• Seal any fresh air vents and/or ash clean-out doors located on
the oor or wall of the replace. If left unsealed, drafting may
cause pilot outage or sooting. Use a heat resistant sealant. Do
not seal the chimney ue damper.
Before installing in a solid fuel burning replace, the chimney ue
and rebox must be cleaned of soot, creosote, ashes and loose
paint by a qualied chimney cleaner.
You must secure the gas log heater to the replace oor. If
not, the entire unit may move when you adjust the controls.
Movement of unit may cause shifting of the gas logs which
leads to sooting and improper burning. Grate movement
could cause a gas leak.
Special care is required if you are installing the unit into a
sunken replace. You must raise the replace oor to allow
access to gas log controls. This will insure adequate air ow
and guard against sooting. Raise the replace oor using
noncombustible materials.
Assembly Procedure:
1. Center the gas log unit in the replace or rebox. Make certain
the front feet of the grate sit inside the front edge of the replace
or rebox.
2. An anchor hole is provided in the two bottom side members of
the grate frame. After centering the grate correctly, mark the
hole positions on the replace/rebox oor. Drill two (2) 5/32"
diameter holes approximately 1 1/2" deep for masonry screws
or 1/8" hole for sheet metal screws.
3. Anchor the grate to the replace/rebox oor using the screws
provided. Refer to Figure 10.
Proper installation of the grate is essential to prevent any move-
ment of the gas logs and controls during operation.
Figure 10
Figure 9
INSTALLING AS A VENTED APPLIANCE
BEFORE FULLY INSTALLING THE APPLIANCE

28092-8-0614Page 12
Check all local codes for requirements, especially for the size and
type of gas supply line required.
Note: Never use plastic pipe. Check to conrm whether your local
codes allow copper tubing or galvanized.
Note: Since some municipalities have additional local codes, it is
always best to consult your local authority and installation code.
Installing a New Main Gas Cock
Each appliance should have its own manual gas cock.
A manual main gas cock should be located in the vicinity of the unit.
Where none exists, or where its size or location is not adequate,
contact your local authorized installer for installation or relocation.
Compounds used on threaded joints of gas piping shall be resistant
to the action of liqueed petroleum gases. The gas lines must be
checked for leaks by the installer. This should be done with a soap
solution watching for bubbles on all exposed connections, and if
unexposed, a pressure test should be made.
Never use an exposed ame to check for leaks. Appliance must
be disconnected from piping at inlet of control valve and pipe
capped or plugged for pressure test. Never pressure test with
appliance connected; control valve will sustain damage!
A gas valve and ground joint union should be installed in the gas
line upstream of the gas control to aid in servicing. It is required by
the National Fuel Gas Code that a drip line be installed near the gas
inlet. This should consist of a vertical length of pipe tee connected
into the gas line that is capped on the bottom in which condensation
and foreign particles may collect.
Figure 11
The use of the following gas connectors is recommended:
— ANS Z21.24Appliance Connectors of Corrugated Metal Tubing
and Fittings
— ANS Z21.45Assembled FlexibleAppliance Connectors of Other
Than All-Metal Construction
The above connectors may be used if acceptable by the authority
having jurisdiction. The state of Massachusetts requires that a exible
appliance connector cannot exceed three feet in length.
Pressure Testing of the Gas Supply System
1. To check the inlet pressure to the gas valve, a 1/8" (3.175mm)
N.P.T. plugged tapping, accessible for test gauge connection,
must be placed immediately upstream of the gas supply
connection to the appliance.
2. The appliance and its individual shutoff valve must be
disconnected from the gas supply piping system during any
pressure testing of that system at test pressures in excess of
1/2 psig (3.5 kPa).
3. The appliance must be isolated from the gas supply piping
system by closing its individual manual shutoff valve during
any pressure testing of the gas supply piping system at test
pressures equal to or less than 1/2 psig (3.5 kPa).
Attention! If one of the procedures results in pressures in excess
of 1/2 psig (14" w.c.) (3.5 kPa) on the appliance gas valve, it will
result in a hazardous condition.
GAS SUPPLY
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”
12.7mm
100-150 feet
31-46 meters
3/4”
19mm
1/2”
12.7mm
7/8”
22.2mm
3/4”
19mm

28092-8-0614 Page 13
Placing Lava Rock in Front of Burner on Fireplace Floor
Spread lava rocks on replace oor in front of the burner pan. The
lava rocks are for decorative effect and are not required for replace
operation.
ATTENTION: DO NOT PLACE LAVA ROCKS ON BURNER,
LOGS OR ROCK WOOL. THE LAVA ROCKS SHOULD ONLY
BE PLACED ON THE FIREPLACE FLOOR.
Note: Refer to log instruction manual for log placement.
Flames from the pilot (rear right back side of the pan burner) as
well as the main ame should be visually checked as the log set
is installed.
In normal operation at full rate after 10 to 15 minutes, the ame
appearance should be sets of yellow ames.
NOTE: All ames will be random by design, ame height will go
up and down.
Glowing embers (rock wool) can cover the pan burner in between
the front and middle logs, but very little is necessary to cover this
area. Excess ember material causes the yellow ame to become
orange and stringy. Apply just enough to obtain slow glow and a
gold yellow ame.
Avoid any drafts that alter burner ame patterns. Do not allow fans to
blow directly into replace. Do not place a blower inside the burner
area of the rebox. Ceiling fans may create drafts that alter ame
patterns. Sooting and improper burning will result.
During manufacturing, fabricating and shipping, various components
of this appliance are treated with certain oils, lms or bonding agents.
These chemicals are not harmful, but may produce annoying smoke
and smells as they are burned off during the initial operation of the
appliance, possibly causing headaches or eye or lung irritation. This
is a normal and temporary occurrence.
The initial break-in operation should last 2 to 3 hours with the
burner at the highest setting. Provide maximum ventilation by
opening windows or doors to allow odors to dissipate. Any odors
remaining after this initial break-in will be slight and will disappear
with continued use.
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 uffy as possible.
Place just enough embers on the burner to obtain the glow and a
gold, yellow ame.
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.
Replacement of loose material (glowing embers) must be purchased
from Empire Comfort Systems, Inc. Application of excess loose
material (glowing embers) may adversely affect performance of
the heater. WARNING: All previously applied loose material must
be removed prior to reapplication.
Refer to Parts List, Pages 31 and 39 to order loose material (rock
wool).
PLACEMENT OF GLOWING EMBERS AND LAVA ROCK
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS/FLAME APPEARANCE
Intermittent - Figure 12
Variable - Figure 13

28092-8-0614Page 14
VFSE-(18,24,30) LIGHTING INSTRUCTIONS
FOR YOUR SAFETY READ BEFORE LIGHTING
WARNING: If you do not follow these instructions exactly, a re or explosion may
result causing property damage, personal injury or loss of life.
LIGHTING INSTRUCTIONS
A. BEFORE LIGHTING smell all around the appliance
area for gas. Be sure to smell next to the oor because
some gas is heavier than air and will settle on the oor.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS
• Do not try to light any appliance.
• Do not touch any electrical switch.
• Do not use any phone in your building.
• Immediately call your gas supplier from a neigh-
bor's phone. Follow the gas supplier's instructions.
• If you can not reach your gas supplier, call the re
department.
B. Use only your hand to push in or turn the gas control
knob. Never use tools. If the knob will not push in or
turn by hand, don't try to repair it, call a qualied ser-
vice technician. Force or attempted repair may result in
a re or explosion.
C. Do not use this appliance if any part has been under
water. Immediately call a qualied service technician
to inspect the appliance and to replace any part of the
control system and any gas control which has been
under water.
1. STOP! Read the safety information above on this page.
2. Open bottom louver assembly, (if applicable).
3. Press the "I/O" (ON/OFF) button on the valve to face to "O"
(OFF).
4. Wait ve (5) minutes to clear out any gas, then smell for
gas including near the oor. If you smell gas, STOP! Follow
"A" in the safety information above. If you don't smell gas,
go to the next step.
LIGHTING PROCEDURE - HANDSET METHOD
1. Turn control arrow on valve face to "ON." Press the "I/O"
button to "I". Press the "OFF" and "UP" buttons on the
handset rmly at the same time. A long "beep" will sound,
followed by 5 short "beeps". Ignitor will spark and will con-
tinue until pilot is lit. For full Remote Control operation see
appliance installation manual.
LIGHTING PROCEDURE - MANUAL METHOD
1. Press the "I/O" (ON/OFF) button to "I" for on.
2. Turn control arrow on valve face to "MAN" for manual.
3. Change the ignition cable from the receiver to the valve
(Piezo Ignition tab).
4. Using a small bladed screwdriver, press & hold button
within hole on control. Manually depress piezo igniter button
to light the pilot. If pilot does not light, step 4 can be im-
mediately repeated. If the pilot will not stay lit after several
tries, follow the instructions "To Turn Off Gas to Appliance"
and call your service technician or gas supplier.
5. When the pilot is lit and stable, turn the valve control knob
counterclockwise to the "ON" position. Turn ame
height control knob counterclockwise and the main
burner will ignite. Turn ame height control knob to adjust
ame height.
TO TURN OFF GAS TO THE APPLIANCE
MANUAL MODE - To turn off main burner, turn ame height
control knob fully clockwise . To fully shut down, press
"I/O" button to "O".
HANDSET MODE - Press "OFF" button on handset. To fully
shut down, press "I/O" button to "O".
“I/O”
(ON/OFF)
SWITCH
MAN
ON

28092-8-0614 Page 15
MA
GR
MO
SW
PANEL
SW TC
SPARK
O
I
IGNITION CABLE
THERMOCOUPLE
RF ANTENNA
THERMO CURRENT
CABLE #1
ON/OFF SWITCH
8WIRE CABLE
INTERRUPTER
BLOCK
COMBINATION CONTROL
MANUAL KNOB
PIEZO IGNITER
MAINVALVE KNOB
CONNECTION FOR
MANUAL IGNITION
THERMO CURRENT
CABLE #2 OR ON/OFF
SWITCH WITH SOLDERED CABLE
BUTTON “RESET”
BATTERY
COMPARTMENT
Wiring Diagram
Figure 14
VFSE REMOTE ELECTRONIC IGNITION AND CONTROL SYSTEM

28092-8-0614Page 16
GENERAL NOTES
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. Operation is
subject to the following two conditions: (1) This device may not
cause harmful interference, and (2) This device must accept any
interference received, including interference that may cause unde-
sired operation. Changes or modications not expressly approved
by the party responsible for compliance could void the user’s au-
thority to operate the equipment.
NOTICE
Wiring of valve and receiver must be completed before starting
ignition. Failure to do so could damage the electronics.
Batteries – Handset
• 1 x 9 V (quality alkaline recommended).
• Low battery indicator on handsets with display.
• Handsets without display: the red LED gets darker.
• Battery replacement is recommended after 2 years.
Batteries – Receiver
• 4 x 1.5 V “AA” (quality alkaline recommended).
• Low battery indication: frequent beeps for 3 seconds when
motor turns.
• An AC Mains Adapter may be used instead of batteries.
NOTICE
Only the Mertik Maxitrol AC Mains Adapter or one preapproved by
Mertik Maxitrol can be used. Use of other adaptors can render the
system inoperable.
• The module for fan speed control and light/dimmer includes
mains power together with batteries in the receiver for auto-
matic backup in case of power outage.
• Without using a mains adapter, battery replacement is recom-
mended at the beginning of each heating season.
NOTICE
The handsets and receivers, are not interchangeable with previ-
ous electronics. See Figure 17.
Figure 15
NOTICE
Replacement handsets for CSA models also must have the same
part number (see label).
SETTING THE ELECTRONICS CODE
(First time use only.)
Radio Frequency Handset
A code is selected automatically for all Mertik Maxitrol electronics
from among 65,000 random codes available.
The receiver has to learn the code of the handset:
• Press and hold the receiver’s reset button (see gure 16) until
you hear two (2) beeps. The rst beep is short and the second
beep is long. After the second beep, release the reset button.
• Within the subsequent 20 seconds press the (small ame)
button on the handset until you hear two additional short
beeps conrming the code is set. If you hear one long beep,
this indicates the code learning sequence has failed or the
wiring is incorrect.
NOTE: This is a one time setting only, and is not required after
changing the batteries of the handset or receiver.
Figure 16
Figure 17
VFSE REMOTE ELECTRONIC IGNITION AND CONTROL SYSTEM

28092-8-0614 Page 17
TO TURN ON APPLIANCE
WARNING
When pilot ignition is conrmed, motor turns automatically to
maximum ame height.
▪ Turn MANUAL knob to the ON, full counterclockwise po-
sition.
▪ Place ON/OFF switch (if equipped) in I(ON position).
▪ Simultaneously press the OFF and (large
ame) buttons until a short beep conrms the
start sequence has begun; release buttons.
▪ Continuing beeps conrm the ignition is in pro-
cess.
▪ Once pilot ignition is conrmed, there is main
gas ow.
▪ After main burner ignition the handset will au-
tomatically go into manual mode (CSA version,
CE version).
WARNING
If the pilot does not stay lit after several tries, turn the main valve
knob to off and follow the instructions “TURN OFF GAS TO AP-
PLIANCE”.
STANDBY MODE (Pilot Flame)
Handset
• Press and hold (small ame) to set appliance at pilot ame.
Handset
• Press OFF button
TO TURN OFF APPLIANCE
FLAME HEIGHT ADJUSTMENT
Handset
• In standby mode: Press and hold (large
ame) button to increase ame height.
• Press and hold (small ame) button to de-
crease ame height or to set appliance at pilot
ame.
• For ne adjustment tap the (large ame) or
(small ame) buttons.
Designated Low Fire and High Fire
• Double-click (small ame) button. “LO” will
be displayed.
NOTE: Flame goes to high re rst before going to
designated low re.
• Double-click (large ame) button. Flame
automatically goes to high re. “HI” will be dis-
played.
WARNING
If the appliance will not operate, follow the instructions “TURN
OFF GAS TO APPLIANCE” on page 14.
VFSE REMOTE ELECTRONIC IGNITION AND CONTROL SYSTEM

28092-8-0614Page 18
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
ame) buttons to switch the Burner OFF. Print-
ed instructions are on the battery cover. See
Figure 18.
▪ Simultaneously press SET and (large
ame) buttons to switch Burner On. (The AUX
symbol on the display indicates the solenoid
valve is OPEN.)
NOTE: The operation of the AUX is blocked in
timer OFF mode, when the setting of the
nighttime setback Temperature is
“-- ”.
Figure ____
VFSE REMOTE ELECTRONIC IGNITION AND CONTROL SYSTEM
MODES OF OPERATION
▪ Briey pressing the SET button changes the
mode of operation in the following order:
NOTE: Manual mode can also be reached by pressing either the
(large ame) or the (small ame) button.
• Manual Mode
Manual ame height adjustment.
• Daytime Temperature Mode
(Appliance must be in standby mode; pilot ig-
nited)
The room temperature is measured and com-
pared to the set temperature. The ame height
is then automatically adjusted to achieve the
Daytime Set Temperature.
• Nighttime Setback Temperature
Mode
(Appliance must be in standby mode; pilot ig-
nited)
The room temperature is measured and com-
pared to the nighttime setback Temperature.
The ame height is then automatically adjusted
to achieve the nighttime setback Temperature.
• Timer Mode
(Appliance must be in standby mode; pilot ig-
nited)
The Timers P1 and P2 (Program 1, Program 2)
each can be programmed to go ON and OFF at
specic times. For instructions see Timer Pro-
gramming Mode.
NOTE: The display shows the set temperature every 30 seconds.

28092-8-0614 Page 19
SETTING °C/24 HOUR OR °F/12 HOUR CLOCK
• Press OFF and (small ame) button until
display changes from Fahrenheit/12 hour clock
to Celsius/24 hour clock and vice versa.
SETTING THE TIME
▪ The Time display will ash after either:
a) Installing the battery or
b) Simultaneously pressing the (large ame)
and (small ame) buttons.
▪ Press (large ame) button to set the hour.
▪ Press (small ame) button to set the min-
ute.
▪ Press OFF or simply wait to return to manual
mode.
VFSE REMOTE ELECTRONIC IGNITION AND CONTROL SYSTEM
SETTING THE ON/OFF TEMPERATURES
Setting the “DAYTIME” Temperature
DEFAULT SETTINGS: (SUN), 23°C/74°F
• Briey press SET button to scroll to TEMP
(sun) mode. Hold the SET button until
the TEMP ashes.
• Press (large ame) button to increase
Daytime Set Temperature.
• Press (small ame) button to decrease
Daytime Set Temperature.
• Press OFF of simply wait to complete program-
ming.

28092-8-0614Page 20
Setting the “NIGHTTIME SETBACK” Temperature
DEFAULT SETTINGS: (MOON), “--” (OFF)
• Briey press SET button to scroll to TEMP
(moon) mode. Hold the SET button
until the TEMP ashes.
• Press (large ame) button to increase the
Nighttime Setback Temperature.
• Press (small ame) button to decrease the
Nighttime Setback Temperature.
• Press OFF of simply wait to complete the pro-
gramming.
SETTING PROGRAM TIMERS
Default Settings
CE: Program 1: P1 :6:00am P1 :8:00am
CSA: Program 2: P2 :11:50pm P2 :11:50pm
• 2 ON times can be programmed per day.
• CE: The day starts at 0:00, ends at 23:50.
• CSA: The day starts at 12:00am, ends at 11:50pm
• The ON/OFF times have to be programmed in the order
P1 ≤ P1 < P2 ≤ .
• If P1 = P1 or P2 = P2 the timer is deactivated.
• To have the re over night, it can be set:
CE: P2 23:50 and P1 0:00
CSA: P2 11:50am and P1 12:00am
• Select Timer Mode by briey pressing the SET
button.
Setting P1 ON Time
• Hold the SET button until P1 (sun) is dis-
played and the time ashes.
• Set the hour by pressing the (large ame)
button.
VFSE REMOTE ELECTRONIC IGNITION AND CONTROL SYSTEM