Empire Comfort Systems VFD20MS30N-1 Quick start guide

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.
This is an unvented gas-red heater. It uses air
(oxygen) from the room in which it is installed.
Provisions for adequate combustion and
ventilation air must be provided. Refer to page 7.
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS
AND OWNER’S MANUAL
UNVENTED
ROOM HEATER MODELS:
SMALL
VFD20MS(30,70)(N,P)-1
MEDIUM
VFD30MS(30,70)(N,P)-1
WARNING
FIRE OR EXPLOSION HAZARD
If the information in this manual is not
followed exactly, a re or explosion may
result causing property damage, personal
injury or loss of life.
— 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.
• Leave the building immediately.
• 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 supplier.
INSTALLER:
Leave this manual with the appliance.
CONSUMER:
Retain this manual for future reference.
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.
WARNING
Hot surfaces when in operation.
WATER VAPOR: A BY-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 6.
GAS-FIRED
MH46389
Page 1

42605-3-0621Page 2
SECTION PAGE
Important Safety Information.................................................................................................................... 3
Safety Information For Users Of Propane Gas ........................................................................................ 4
Introduction............................................................................................................................................... 5
Specications ........................................................................................................................................... 6
Provisions For Adequate Combustion And Ventilation Air........................................................................ 7
Gas Supply............................................................................................................................................... 8
Clearances ............................................................................................................................................... 9
Log Identication .................................................................................................................................... 10
Log Placement .................................................................................................................................. 11-18
Placement Of Glowing Embers (Rock Wool) ......................................................................................... 19
Operation Instructions/Flame Appearance............................................................................................. 19
Operating Guidelines.............................................................................................................................. 20
Millivolt Lighting Instructions................................................................................................................... 21
Pilot Flame Characteristics................................................................................................................ 22-23
Millivolt Wiring ................................................................................................................................... 24-25
Millivolt Troubleshooting .................................................................................................................... 26-27
IP Operating Instructions........................................................................................................................ 28
IP Wiring................................................................................................................................................. 29
IP Lighting Instructions ........................................................................................................................... 30
IP Troubleshooting ............................................................................................................................ 31-33
Main Burner Flame Characteristics........................................................................................................ 34
Maintenance........................................................................................................................................... 35
Parts List - VFD20MS(30,70) ................................................................................................................. 36
Parts List - VFD30MS(30,70) ................................................................................................................. 37
Parts View - VFD(20,30)MS(30,70)........................................................................................................ 38
Master Parts Distributor List................................................................................................................... 39
How To Order Repair Parts .................................................................................................................... 39
CIB4-1 Optional Blower Installation Instructions ............................................................................... 40-41
CIB3-1 Optional Blower Installation Instructions ............................................................................... 42-43
Appliance Service History ...................................................................................................................... 44
Warranty................................................................................................................................................. 45
Quick Reference Guide..................................................................................................................... 46-47
TABLE OF CONTENTS

42605-3-0621 Page 3
THIS IS A HEATING APPLIANCE
DO NOT OPERATE THIS APPLIANCE WITHOUT FRONT PANEL INSTALLED.
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.
CAUTION: Indicates a hazardous situation which, if not avoided,
could result in minor or moderate injury.
NOTICE: Addresses practices not related to personal injury.
• An unvented room heater having an input rating of more than
6,000 Btu per hour shall not be installed in a bathroom
• An unvented room heater having an input rating of more than 10,000
Btu per hour shall not be installed in a bedroom or bathroom.
• Due to high temperatures, the appliance should be located out of
trafc and away from furniture and draperies.
• Children and adults should be alerted to the hazard of high surface
temperature and should stay away to avoid burns or clothing
ignition.
• Young children should be carefully supervised when they are in
the same room with the appliance.
• Do not place clothing or other ammable material on or near the
appliance.
• Avoid the use of scented air fresheners (plug in type air
fresheners, etc. ) while the log set is in operation. Air fresheners
produce a residue in the air similar to candles and may produce
a soot like substance.
• Avoid the use of scented or decorative candles while the log
set is in operation. Candles produce a residue in the air that
creates a soot like substance. Burning candles while the log
set is operating magnies the problem. It should be noted that
candles, in general, produce soot. The amount of time burned
and the quantity of candles burned will determine the amount
of soot produced and deposited.
• Installation and repair should be done by a QUALIFIED SERVICE
PERSON. This appliance should be inspected before use and at
least annually by a professional service person. More frequent
cleaning may be required due to excessive lint from carpeting,
bedding materials, etc. It is imperative that control compartments,
burners and circulating air passageways of the appliance be
kept clean.
• DO NOT use this room heater if any part has been under water.
Immediately call a qualied service technician to inspect the
room heater and to replace any part of the control system and
any gas control which has been under water.
• You must operate heater with replace screen in place.
• Do not place trash, logs or other articles on the log set during
operation.
• During manufacturing, fabricating and shipping, various
components of this appliance are treated with certain oils,
lms or agents. These agents are not harmful but may produce
annoying smoke and smells as they are burned off during
initial operation of the appliance. This is a normal temporary
occurrence. A window should be opened during the initial bake
out period.
• Correct installation of the ceramic ber logs, proper location of
the heater and annual cleaning are necessary to avoid potential
problems with sooting. Sooting, resulting from improper
installation or operation, can settle on surfaces outside the
replace. See instructions for proper installation.
• WARNING: Do not allow fans to blow directly into the replace.
Avoid any drafts that alter burner ame patterns.
• WARNING: Do not use a blower insert, heat exchanger insert
or other accessory not approved for use with this heater.
• WARNING! This replace needs fresh air for ventilation to
run properly. This replace 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.
• WARNING: DO NOT operate this appliance unless all
components including logs, burners, and controls are in good
working condition. Never operate this appliance if any log or
twig is broken, or out of their intended position. Refer to the
Log set placement instructions for correct log and twig
positioning.
Replacement components are available through your local
dealer as indicated in the How to Order Repair Parts section of
the appliance manual.
• Keep appliance area clear and free from combustible materials,
gasoline and other ammable vapors and liquids.
• WARNING: Failure to keep the primary air opening(s) of the
burner(s) clean may result in sooting and property damage.
WARNING
When used without adequate combustion and ventilation
air, heater may give off CARBON MONOXIDE, an odorless,
poisonous gas.
Do not install heater until all necessary provisions are
made for combustion and ventilation air. Consult the writ-
ten instructions provided with the heater for information
concerning combustion and ventilation air. In the absence
of instructions, refer to the National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI
Z223.1/NFPA 54, Air for Combustion and Ventilation, or
applicable local codes.
This heater is equipped with a PILOT LIGHT SAFETY SYS-
TEM designed to turn off the heater if not enough fresh air
is available.
DO NOT TAMPER WITH PILOT LIGHT SAFETY SYSTEM!
If heater shuts off, do not relight until you provide fresh air.
If heater keeps shutting off, have it serviced. Keep burner and
control compartment clean.
CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING MAY LEAD TO DEATH.
Early signs of carbon monoxide poisoning resemble the u,
with headache, dizziness and/or nausea. If you have these
signs, heater may not be working properly. Get fresh air at
once! Have heater serviced.
Some people — pregnant women, persons with heart or lung
disease, anemia, those under the inuence of alcohol , those
at high altitudes — are more affected by carbon monoxide
than others.
The pilot light safety system senses the depletion of oxygen
at its location. If this heater is installed in a structure having a
high vertical dimension, the possibility exists that the oxygen
supply at the higher levels will be less than that at the heater.
In this type of application, a fan to circulate the structure air will
minimize this effect. The use of this fan will also improve the
comfort level in the structure. When a fan is used to circulate
air, it should be located so that the air ow is not directed at
the burner.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION

42605-3-0621Page 4
SOME POINTS TO REMEMBER
NO ODOR DETECTED - ODOR FADE
PROPANE GAS WARNING ODOR
If a gas leak happens, you should be able to smell the gas because of the odorant put in the Propane Gas.
That's your signal to go into immediate action!
Propane is a ammable gas which can cause res and explo-
sions. 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. If, after reading the following information,
you feel you still need more information, please contact your
gas supplier.
• Do not operate electric switches, light matches, use your phone.
Do not do anything that could ignite the gas.
• Get everyone out of the building, vehicle, trailer, or area. Do that
IMMEDIATELY.
• Close all gas tank or cylinder supply valves.
• Propane Gas is heavier than air and may settle in low areas
such as basements. When you have reason to suspect a gas
leak, keep out of basements and other low areas. Stay out until
reghters declare them to be safe.
• Use your neighbor's phone and call a trained Propane Gas
service person and the re department. Even though you may
not continue to smell gas, do not turn on the gas again. Do not
re-enter the building, vehicle, trailer, or area.
• Finally, let the service man and reghters check for escaped
gas. Have them air out the area before you return. Properly
trained Propane Gas service people should repair the leak, then
check and relight the gas appliance for you.
Some people cannot smell well. Some people cannot smell the
odor of the chemical put into the gas. You must nd out if you
can smell the odorant in propane. Smoking can decrease your
ability to smell. Being around an odor for a time can affect your
sensitivity or ability to detect that odor. Sometimes other odors in
the area mask the gas odor. People may not smell the gas odor
or their minds are on something else. Thinking about smelling a
gas odor can make it easier to smell.
The odorant in Propane Gas is colorless, and it can fade under
some circumstances. For example, if there is an underground
leak, the movement of the gas through soil can lter the odorant.
Odorants in Propane Gas also are subject to oxidation. This fading
can occur if there is rust inside the storage tank or in iron gas pipes.
The odorant in escaped gas can adsorb or absorb onto or into
walls, masonry and other materials and fabrics in a room. That will
take some of the odorant out of the gas, reducing its odor intensity.
Propane Gas may stratify in a closed area, and the odor intensity
could vary at different levels. Since it is heavier than air, there may
be more odor at lower levels. Always be sensitive to the slightest
gas odor. If you detect any odor, treat it as a serious leak. Imme-
diately go into action as instructed earlier.
• Learn to recognize the odor of Propane Gas. Your local Pro-
pane Gas Dealer can give you a "Scratch and Sniff" pamphlet.
Use it to nd out what the propane odor smells like. If you suspect
that your Propane Gas has a weak or abnormal odor, call your
Propane Gas Dealer.
• If you are not qualied, do not light pilot lights, perform service,
or make adjustments to appliances on the Propane Gas system.
If you are qualied, consciously think about the odor of Propane
Gas prior to and while lighting pilot lights or performing service
or making adjustments.
• Sometimes a basement or a closed-up house has a musty smell
that can cover up the Propane Gas odor. Do not try to light pilot
lights, perform service, or make adjustments in an area where
the conditions are such that you may not detect the odor if there
has been a leak of Propane Gas.
• Odor fade, due to oxidation by rust or adsorption on walls of
new cylinders and tanks, is possible. Therefore, people should
be particularly alert and careful when new tanks or cylinders are
placed in service. Odor fade can occur in new tanks, or reinstalled
old tanks, if they are lled and allowed to set too long before
relling. Cylinders and tanks which have been out of service for
a time may develop internal rust which will cause odor fade. If
such conditions are suspected to exist, a periodic sniff test of
the gas is advisable. If you have any question about the gas
odor, call your Propane Gas Dealer. A periodic sniff test
of the Propane Gas is a good safety measure under any
condition.
• If, at any time, you do not smell the Propane Gas odorant and
you think you should, assume you have a leak. Then take the
same immediate action recommended above for the occasion
when you do detect the odorized Propane Gas.
• If you experience a complete "gas out," (the container is under
no vapor pressure), turn the tank valve off immediately. If the
container valve is left on, the container may draw in some air
through openings such as pilot light orices. If this occurs, some
new internal rusting could occur. If the valve is left open, then
treat the container as a new tank. Always be sure your container
is under vapor pressure by turning it off at the container before it
goes completely empty or having it relled before it is completely
empty.
SAFETY INFORMATION FOR USERS OF PROPANE GAS

42605-3-0621 Page 5
Such equipment shall be located, or protected, so it is not subject
to physical damage by a moving vehicle.
Preparation
This vent free gas replace and its components are tested and safe
when installed in accordance with this Installation Manual. Report
to your dealer any parts damaged in shipment, specically check
log placement. Do not install unit with damaged, incomplete, or
substitute parts. Read all instructions before starting installation
and follow these instructions carefully during installation to insure
maximum benet and safety. Failure to follow them will void your
warranty and may present a re hazard.
The warranty will be voided by, and the warranter disclaims any
responsibility for the following actions:
• Installation of any damaged replace.
• Modication of the replace.
•
Installation other than as instructed by Empire Comfort
Systems Inc.
• Improper positioning of the logs.
• Installation and/or use of any component part not manufactured
or approved by manufacturer.
Qualied Installing Agency
Installation and replacement of gas piping, gas utilization equipment or
accessories and repair and servicing of equipment shall be performed
only by a qualied agency. The term "qualied agency" means any
individual, rm, corporation or company which either in person or
through a representative is engaged in and is responsible for (a)
the installation or replacement of gas piping or (b) the connection,
installation, repair or servicing of equipment, who is experienced in
such work, familiar with all precautions required and has complied
with all the requirements of the authority having jurisdiction.
Commonwealth of Massachusetts: The installation must be
made by a licensed plumber or gas tter in the Commonwealth
of Massachusetts.
Sellers of unvented Propane or Natural Gas-red supplemental
room heaters shall provide to each purchaser a copy of 527 CMR
30 upon sale of the unit. In the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,
unvented Propane or Natural Gas-red space heaters shall be
prohibited in bedrooms and bathrooms.
The installation must conform with local codes or, in the absence of
local codes, with the National Fuel Gas Code,ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54.*
*Available from the American National Standards Institute, Inc., 11
West 42nd St., New York, N.Y. 10036.
WARNING
Any change to this replace or its controls can be dangerous.
Improper installation or use of the replace can cause serious
injury or death from re, burns, explosions, or carbon monoxide
poisoning.
Any alteration of the original design, installed other than 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.
WARNING
Hot surfaces when in operation.
Always consult your local Building Department regarding regulations,
codes or ordinances which apply to the installation of an unvented
room heater.
This appliance may be installed in an aftermarket* permanently
located, manufactured (mobile) home, where not prohibited by
state or local codes.
Instructions to Installer
1. Installer must leave instruction manual with owner after
installation.
2. Installer must have owner ll out and mail product registration
card supplied with unvented room heater.
3. Installer should show owner how to start and operate unvented
room heater.
This product is design certied in accordance with American National
Standards Institute Z21.11.2 by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) as
an Unvented Room Heater and should be installed according to
these instructions.
*Aftermarket: Completion of sale, not for purpose of resale, from
the manufacturer.
Well Head Gas Installations
Some Natural Gas utilities use “well head” gas. This may affect
the Btu output of the unit and promote sooting. Units shall not be
converted to use well head gas.
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.
WARNING
This appliance is equipped for (Natural or Propane) Gas.
Field conversion is not permitted.
NOTICE: Remove screw in valve cover. Screw is required to prevent
shipping damage.
Attention: During initial use of ceramic log you will detect an
odor as the ceramic log is cured.
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. Do not operate this appliance
unless all components including logs, burners, and controls
are in good working condition. Never operate this appliance
if any log or twig is broken, or out of their intended position.
Refer to Log Placement on pages 10 - 11 for correct log and
twig positioning.
Replacement parts are available through your local dealer as
indicated in the Parts Sections on pages 36 through 38.
WARNING
This unit is not for use with solid fuels.
Important
All correspondence should refer to complete Model Number, Serial
Number and type of gas.
NOTICE: During initial ring of this unit, its paint will bake out, and
smoke may occur. To prevent triggering of smoke alarms, ventilate
the room in which the unit is installed.
Installation in Residential Garages
Gas utilization equipment in residential garages shall be installed
so that all burners and burner ignition devices are located not less
than 18" (457 mm) above the oor.
INTRODUCTION - VFD20/30MS

42605-3-0621Page 6
Water vapor is a by-product of gas combustion. An unvented room
heater produces approximately one ounce (30 ml) of water for every
1,000 BTU's (.3KW's) of gas input per hour.
Unvented room heaters must be used as supplemental heat
(a room) rather than a primary heat source (an entire house). In most
supplemental heat applications, the water vapor does not create a
problem. In most applications, the water vapor enhances the low
humidity atmosphere experienced during cold weather.
The following Steps will help insure that water vapor does not
become a problem.
1. Be sure the heater is sized properly for the application, including
ample combustion air and circulation air.
2. If high humidity is experienced, a dehumidier may be used to
help lower the water vapor content of the air.
3. Do not use an unvented room heater as the primary heat source
(an entire house).
WATER VAPOR: A BY-PRODUCT OF UNVENTED ROOM HEATERS
SPECIFICATIONS
Model VFD20MS
Input BTU/HR (KW/H) Maximum (Propane)
20,000
Input BTU/HR (KW/H) Minimum (Propane)
16,000
Input BTU/HR (KW/H) Maximum (Natural)
20,000
Input BTU/HR (KW/H) Minimum (Natural)
14,500
Height 23-3/8" (593.7 mm)
Width 21-1/2" (546.1 mm)
Depth 15-5/8" (396.8 mm)
Gas Inlet 3/8" (9.5 mm)
Air Shutter Setting (Natural) 1/8"
Air Shutter Setting (Propane) 3/8"
Model VFD30MS
Input BTU/HR (KW/H) Maximum (Propane)
25,000
Input BTU/HR (KW/H) Minimum (Propane)
21,000
Input BTU/HR (KW/H) Maximum (Natural)
25,000
Input BTU/HR (KW/H) Minimum (Natural)
17,500
Height 27-1/8" (688.9 mm)
Width 25-1/2" (647.7 mm)
Depth 15-5/8" (396.8 mm)
Gas Inlet 3/8" (9.5 mm)
Air Shutter Setting (Natural) 1/16"
Air Shutter Setting (Propane) 7/16"
ACCESSORIES
FRBC Battery Operated Remote Control
FRBTC2 Battery Operated Remote Control
w/Thermostat
FRBTPS 7-Day Programmable Remote
FREC Electric Remote Control
FWS Wall Switch
TMV Millivolt Wall Thermostat - Reed Switch
TRW Remote Wall Thermostat
CIB4 Automatic Blower (VFD(20)MS Units)
CIB3 Automatic Blower (VFD30MS Units)

42605-3-0621 Page 7
This heater shall not be installed in a conned space or unusually
tight construction unless provisions 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.
The following example is for determining the volume of a typical
area in which the VFD30 may be located and for determining if this
area ts the denition of an unconned space.
The maximum input of the VFD30 is 25,000 Btu per hour. Based
on the 50 cubic feet per 1,000 Btu per hour formula, the minimum
area that is an unconned space for installation of the VFD30 is
1,250 cubic feet, 50 cubic feet x 25 = 1,250 cubic feet. To determine
the cubic feet of the area in which the VFD30 is to be installed,
measure the length, width and height of the area. Example: The
area measures 16 feet in length, 10 feet in width and 8 feet in
height, the area is 1,280 cubic feet. The VFD30 can be installed
in this unconned space with no requirement to provide additional
combustion and ventilation air.
PROVISIONS FOR ADEQUATE COMBUSTION & VENTILATION 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 com-
bustion and ventilation air by one of the methods described
in the or applicable local codes.
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. Weather-stripping 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 the VFD30 heater is installed in a building of unusually tight con-
struction, adequate air for combustion, ventilation and dilution of ue
gases shall be provided in accordance with ANSI Z223.1/NFPA54.

42605-3-0621Page 8
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
Natural Propane Natural Propane
0-10 feet
0-3 meters
1/2”
12.7 mm
3/8”
9.5 mm
1/2”
12.7 mm
3/8”
9.5 mm
10-40 feet
4-12 meters
1/2”
12.7 mm
1/2”
12.7 mm
5/8”
15.9 mm
1/2”
12.7 mm
40-100 feet
13-30 meters
1/2”
12.7 mm
1/2”
12.7 mm
3/4”
19 mm
1/2”
12.7 mm
100-150 feet
31-46 meters
3/4”
19 mm
1/2”
12.7 mm
7/8”
22.2 mm
3/4”
19 mm
NOTICE: Never use plastic pipe. Check to conrm whether your
local codes allow copper tubing or galvanized.
NOTICE: Since some municipalities have additional local codes, it
is always best to consult your local authority and installation code.
Installing a New Main Gas Shut-Off Valve
Each appliance should have its own manual gas shut-off valve.
A manual main gas shut-off valve 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.
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 Commonwealth of Massachusetts requires
that a exible appliance connector cannot exceed three feet in length.
GAS SUPPLY
Figure 1
Pressure Testing of the Gas Supply System
1. To check the inlet pressure to the gas valve, a 1/8" (3 mm) 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 shut-off 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 shut-off 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).
WARNING
If one of the above 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.
Checking Manifold Pressure
Natural Gas will have a manifold pressure of approximately
3.5" w.c. (.871 kPa) for maximum input or 1.7" w.c. (.423 kPa) for
minimum input at the pressure regulator outlet with the inlet pressure
to the pressure regulator from a minimum of 4.5" w.c. (1.245 kPa)
for the purpose of input adjustment to a maximum of 10.5" w.c.
(2.614 kPa). Propane Gas will have a manifold pressure approximately
10.0" w.c. (2.49 kPa) for maximum input or 6.3" w.c. (1.568 kPa) for
minimum input at the pressure regulator outlet with the inlet pressure to
the pressure regulator from a minimum of 11.0" w.c. (2.739 kPa) for the
purpose of input adjustment to a maximum of 13.0" w.c. (3.237 kPa).
NOTICE: The gas control is equipped with a captured screw type
pressure test point, therefore it is not necessary to provide a 1/8"
test point up stream of the control.
Atest gauge connection is located downstream of the gas appliance
pressure regulator for measuring gas pressure. The connection is
a 1/8 inch (3 mm) N.P.T. plugged tapping.

42605-3-0621 Page 9
In selecting a location for installation, it is necessary to provide
adequate accessibility clearances for servicing and proper operation.
Locating and Venting the Direct Vent Stove
Clearances: When facing the front of the direct vent stove the
minimum clearances to combustible construction (material) are
the following:
Top of appliance (ceiling) 36" (914.4 mm)
Rear Wall 2" (50.8 mm)
Side Wall 6" (152.4 mm)
Heater Corners (45° angle) to Wall 4" (101.6 mm)
Floor 0" (0 mm)
Installation on Rugs and Tile
This appliance must be installed on a at, solid, continuous surface
(e.g. wood, metal, concrete). This may be the oor, or it may be
raised up on a platform to enhance its visual impact. The continu-
ous surface may be covered with carpeting, vinyl, wood ooring
or other combustible material.
6” (153mm)
TO SIDE WALL
OR
COMBUSTIBLE
MATERIAL
6” (153mm)
TO SIDE WALL
OR
COMBUSTIBLE
MATERIAL
36” (915mm) TO CEILING OR
HORIZONTAL PROJECTION
ABOVE APPLIANCE
36” (915mm) TO CEILING OR
HORIZONTAL PROJECTION
ABOVE APPLIANCE
Figure 2
NOTE: HEATER INSTALLED AT 45° ANGLE IN CORNERNOTE: HEATER INSTALLED AT 45° ANGLE IN CORNER
4” (102mm) HEATER CORNERS TO SIDE WALL
4” (102mm) HEATER CORNERS TO SIDE WALL
4”
(102mm)
4”
(102mm)
Figure 3
2” (51mm) TO COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL2” (51mm) TO COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL
Figure 4
CLEARANCES
4" (102mm) HEATER CORNERS TO SIDEWALL
4"
(102mm)
2" (51mm) TO COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL
36" (915mm) TO CEILING OR
HORIZONTAL PROJECTION
ABOVE APPLIANCE
6" (153mm) TO
SIDEWALL OR
COMBUSTIBLE
MATERIAL
NOTE: HEATER
INSTALLED
AT 45° ANGLE
IN CORNER

42605-3-0621Page 10
Log
Description
Part Number
Front View Top View
VFD20MS VFD30MS
Log A 29553 29546
Log B 29554 29547
Log C 29555 29548
Log D 29556 29549
Log E 29558 29551
Log F 29557 29550
LOG IDENTIFICATION
NOTE: Middle Top Log (F) is available as an optional log for the VFD10CC logsets. For more information, contact your Empire Dealer.

42605-3-0621 Page 11
LOG PLACEMENT
CAUTION
Do not change the angle of the two Log Locating Tabs on
the rear log shelf or the two Log Locating Tabs on the burn-
er base. Doing so will cause misalignment of logs.
WARNING
Failure to position the parts in accordance with this diagram
or failure to use only parts specically approved with this
heater may result in property damage or personal injury.
NOTE: For step by step log placement instructions with im-
ages, see pages 12-18.
Figure 6 - Log Placement
Figure 5 - Burner
Figure 7 - Completed Log Placement

42605-3-0621Page 12
1. Place Log A onto the two Log Locating Tabs on the rear log shelf as shown below.
LOG PLACEMENT
TOP VIEW
FRONT VIEW

42605-3-0621 Page 13
2. Place Log B behind the two Log Locating Tabs on the burner base as shown below.
LOG PLACEMENT
TOP VIEW
FRONT VIEW

42605-3-0621Page 14
3. Place Log C onto the two Log Locating Extensions on the burner body as shown below.
LOG PLACEMENT
TOP VIEW
FRONT VIEW

42605-3-0621 Page 15
4. Place Log D onto the left pin on Log A. The end of Log D will rest on Log C as shown below.
LOG PLACEMENT
TOP VIEW
FRONT VIEW

42605-3-0621Page 16
5. Place Log E on the right pin on Log A. The end of Log E will rest in the right at area on Log C as shown below.
LOG PLACEMENT
TOP VIEW
FRONT VIEW

42605-3-0621 Page 17
TOP VIEW
FRONT VIEW
6. This step is optional for 10,000 BTU units. Place Log F next to the right nub on Log B and the left at area on Log C.
See image below.
LOG PLACEMENT

42605-3-0621Page 18
7. Log assembly is completed.
LOG PLACEMENT
TOP VIEW
FRONT VIEW

42605-3-0621 Page 19
Provided with the log set is a small bag of glowing embers (rock
wool) to be placed between logs on the at metal surface of the
burner.
Placement of the embers (rock wool) is very individual and light
coverage of the areas indicated 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 (rock wool) on the burner to obtain the
glow and a gold yellow ame.
Do not place rock wool over large ports in rear portion of burner.
A thin layer of rock wool should be placed under open space
between the front and middle logs.
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.
NOTICE: A single layer of embers is to be used when applying
Platinum Bright Embers (alone or in combination with production
embers) to the burner.
Replacement Loose Material
(glowing embers) Part Number
Rock Wool - VFD(20,30)MS 15998
Platinum Bright Embers PE-20-1
Flames from the pilot (rear right back side of the 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.
NOTICE: All ames will be random by design, ame height will go
up and down.
Glowing embers (rock wool) can cover the 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 2-3 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.
WARNING
Hot surfaces when in operation.
PLACEMENT OF GLOWING EMBERS (ROCK WOOL)
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS/FLAME APPEARANCE
Figure 8

42605-3-0621Page 20
Standing Pilot Operation
1. Follow the SAFETYand LIGHTING INSTRUCTIONS for standing
pilot controls found in this manual and on labels found attached
to the appliance.
CAUTION
During the initial purging and subsequent lightings, never
allow the gas valve control knob to remain depressed in the
"pilot" position without pushing the piezo ignitor button at
least once every second.
2. During the heating season, leave the control valve knob in the
"ON" position. This will allow the pilot ame to remain lit. Turn
the burner ame on or off with the appliance REMOTE/OFF/ON
rocker switch, wall switch, remote control kits or 750 millivolt wall
thermostat.
Figure 9
NOTICE:The gas control valve allows you to increase or decrease
the height of the main burner ame. The control valve has a pressure
regulator with a knob as shown in Figure 9. Rotate the knob clockwise
to "HI" to increase the ame height and counterclockwise to "LO"
to decrease the ame height.
3. When the heating season is over, turn the REMOTE/OFF/ON
switch to "OFF" and the control valve to "OFF". The system,
including the pilot light, will be shut down.
Maximum and Minimum Input
The gas valve on the appliance allows the input to adjust between
a maximum input of 25,000 Btuh to a minimum input of 17,500
Btuh. Please be advised, the maximum input provides the greatest
amount of yellow ame and ember glow on the log set. The minimum
input substantially decreases the yellow ame and ember glow on
the log set.
Before operating this heater, please review the safety warnings
pages at the beginning of this manual and those precautions and
warnings listed below.
1. Know what type of ignition system this model has (standing
pilot) and follow the applicable SAFETY and LIGHTING
instructions.
2. Check to ensure there are no gas leaks. If you are unsure,
turn gas off to the heater and call a service person or your gas
utility.
CAUTION
Clothing or other ammable material should not be placed
on or near the appliance.
WARNING
Children and adults should be alerted to the hazard of high
surface temperature and should stay away to avoid burns
or clothing ignition. Young children should be carefully
supervised when they are in the same room as the appliance.
3. Tampering is DANGEROUS and voids all warranties. Any
component that is found to be faulty, must be replaced with an
approved component.
Initial Lighting
Upon completing the gas line or turning the gas valve "ON" after it
has been in the "OFF" position, a small amount of air will be in the
lines. When rst lighting the appliance, it will take a few minutes
for the lines to purge themselves of this air. Once the purging is
complete, the appliance will light and operate satisfactorily.
Subsequent lightings of the appliance will not require such purging
if the gas valve is not turned to "OFF."
WARNING
Hot surfaces when in operation.
OPERATING GUIDELINES