Monessen Hearth BWBC400MHB User manual

36" and 42"
FACTORY-BUILT WOOD BURNING
FIREPLACES FOR MANUFACTURED HOMES
INSTALLATION AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
READ BEFORE INSTALLING. SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
MODELS
BWBC400MHB
BWBC500MHB
FACTORY-BUILT FIREPLACES
U.L. FILE NO. MH7603
These fireplaces have been tested
to U.L. Safety Standard 127, and
listed by
Underwriters Laboratories, Inc.
Look for the UL listing mark on
your fireplace.
CONGRATULATIONS!
You have chosen the finest wood burning fireplace available. Your fireplace has been
designed for years of heating and viewing enjoyment. Please take time to read this entire
manual before installing or operating your fireplace.

2 61D0087
CONTENTS
Listing and Code Approval .............................................. 2
Important Safety Information .......................................... 3
Fireplace Usage ................................................................ 4
Product Features .............................................................. 5
How This Fireplace Works ............................................... 6
Fireplace Location ............................................................ 8
Fireplace Dimensions ...................................................... 9
Fireplace Installation ........................................................ 9
Safety Strip Installation .............................................. 10
Hearth Extension ....................................................... 10
Unpacking Fireplace .................................................. 12
Clearances ................................................................. 12
Chimney Installation ...................................................... 14
Installing Chimney Safety Information ....................... 14
Firestop and Chimney Installation .............................. 15
Elbow Installation ....................................................... 17
Offset Installation Sequence ...................................... 18
Chimney Cap Installation ........................................... 19
Outside Combustion Air ............................................... 21
Precautions and Recommendations ......................... 21
Model AK6A Combustion Air Assembly ...................... 21
Trim and Mantel Installation for Wood Burning
Fireplaces ................................................................ 22
Locating Front and Side Clearances .......................... 22
Locating Mantel .......................................................... 23
Fan Assembly ................................................................. 23
Glass Door Installation .................................................. 24
Removing Glass Doors .............................................. 24
Replacing a Glass Panel ............................................ 25
Reinstalling Glass Door ............................................. 26
Fireplace Operation ........................................................ 27
Advantages of a Wood Burning Fireplace ................. 27
Which Woods Are Best .............................................. 27
Disposal of Ashes ...................................................... 27
Building and Tending a Fire ....................................... 28
Wood vs. Fossil Fuels ................................................ 28
Glass Doors ............................................................... 29
Maintenance .................................................................... 30
Fireplace Maintenance ............................................... 30
Glass Door Maintenance ........................................... 30
Refractory Components Maintenance ....................... 31
Chimney Maintenance ............................................... 32
Checklist of DOs and DON’Ts .................................... 33
Replacement parts ......................................................... 34
Warranty .......................................................... Back Cover
LISTING AND CODE APPROVALS
The UL listing mark on the fireplace indicates that the fireplace is listed by Underwriters Laboratories, Inc., to U.L. 127 Safety
Standard For Factory-Built Fireplaces. The design of this fireplace and these instructions complied with the applicable U.L.
127 safety standards for a factory-built fireplace in effect at the time the fireplace was manufactured. You should be aware,
however, that failure to properly install, operate, and maintain this or any other factory-built fireplace can result in a home
fire or other occurrences that could cause deaths, injuries, and property damage. It is very important that the persons install-
ing and/or supervising the installation of this fireplace have appropriate skills in using the tools and techniques required; and
reading and comprehension skills sufficient to read and follow these instructions.
These instructions contain warnings, cautions, and notes to emphasize important safety information. To assure that safe and
satisfactory service is received from this fireplace, please read all contents of this manual. The instructions contained in this
manual are in compliance with the requirements of the Department of Housing and Urban Development HUD) “Manufactured
Home Construction and Safety Standards”, and the National Fire Protection Association Safety Standard 211. Before begin-
ning the fireplace installation, you should check with local building officials to obtain required permits and assure compliance
with local regulations and codes. If you encounter problems with code requirements, contact you dealer for assistance.

61D0087 3
INSTALLER
Please leave these instructions with the owner.
OWNER
Please retain these instructions for future reference .
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
Do not use a fireplace insert or other
product not specified for use with
this fireplace.
CAUTION
Improper installation or use of this fireplace will void its warranty and can cause:
• Damage to the fireplace from overheating.
• Hazardous temperatures to develop on combustible materials adjacent to the fireplace
or chimney.
• The emission of smoke, sparks or hazardous gases into the dwelling.
• Leakage of rain water into the dwelling.
WARNING
• Read these instructions entirely before beginning any part of the installation. Save
these instructions for any future repairs.
• Use these instructions as a guide during the installation of the fireplace.
• Install all the parts used with this fireplace system in accordance with these installation
instructions. Failure to do so may be hazardous and will void the warranty.
• Do not alter fireplace and accessories in any way that is not specifically recommended
in this manual.
• Do not install fireplace with a masonry flue.
• Do not pack required air spaces with combustible material or insulation not specifically
recommended for use in such areas.
• When installed in a manufactured home, this fireplace must be equipped with glass
doors and accessories for supplying outside air for combustion.
• WARNING: DO NOT INSTALL IN SLEEPING ROOM OF A MANUFACTURED HOME.
• This fireplace and chimney should not be used for venting a wood or coal burning
heater or fireplace insert.
WARNING

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FIREPLACE USAGE
These fireplaces are for use in manufactured homes. Burn solid wood fuel only or use only with one of the gas log appli-
ances described below. These fireplaces are intended for supplemental heating only and are not intended for use as a primary
heating system.
These fireplaces are designed to sit directly on a combustible floor. Except as noted by this instruction manual, only parts
manufactured by Monessen Hearth Systems. and labeled for use with these specific fireplaces should be used in the instal-
lation and operation of these fireplaces. The use of improper parts in the installation and operation of these fireplaces can be
hazardous and voids the warranty.
Do not use this fireplace and chimney for venting a solid fuel heater or fireplace insert
unless written authorization is given by Monessen Hearth Systems. Failure to heed
this warning may cause a fire hazard and will void the Monessen Hearth System
Warranty.
WARNING
These fireplaces have provision for a gas line connection. The provision for a gas line
is intended only for connecting one of the gas appliances (gas log sets) described by
the following paragraph.
NOTICE
Install only gas log sets which have been tested and certified for installation in these fireplaces in an
aftermarket (completion of sale, not for purpose of resale from the manufacturer) manufactured home,
where not prohibited by state or local codes.
These gas log sets…
have an automatic shutoff device;
comply with applicable standards for gas appliances;
have been tested and certified by a nationally recognized organization for installation in these specific
fireplaces.
These fireplaces have been found to comply with the standard for factory-built fireplaces,
UL 127, when installed with unvented gas logs sets. However, state or local codes may
only allow operation of gas log appliances in a vented configuration. Check your state
or local codes.
NOTICE
When using a decorative gas log appliance in these fireplaces, the fireplace damper
must set in the fully open position. Note: A gas log appliance classified as decorative
is not thermostatically controlled, must be vented and its primary function lies in the
esthetic effect of the flame.
CAUTION

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FIREPLACE USAGE
If a gas appliance is installed in one of the fireplaces, installation must be in accordance
with nation fuel gas code ANSI Z223.1 Guidelines for safely installing and operating one
of the gas appliances (gas lot set) described above are contained in the instructions
provided with the gas appliance.The installer of the gas appliance must describe the
operation of the fireplace and gas appliance to the individuals who will be operating
them. Instruction manuals must be left with operator of the system.
CAUTION
While a gas log appliance is
installed in one of these fireplaces,
solid fuels must not be burned in
the fireplace.
CAUTION
PRODUCT FEATURES
• This fireplace is designed to burn solid
wood fuel (wood), UL-classified processed
solid fuel fire logs, or a certified decorative
gas appliance may be installed in the fire-
place as described later by this instruction
manual.
• The appliance must be properly connected
to a venting system.
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Figure 1 - BWBC400/500MHB
Screens
Grate
Fan
Switch
Glass
Doors
Nail Down
Strap

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As wood is burned in the fireplace, room air enters
the fireplace through its “cool air inlet”, circulates
around the firebox, and exits the fireplace through its
“warm air outlet.” See Figure 2. This air circulation
cools the firebox.
HOW THIS FIREPLACE WORKS
Do not block or restrict air
circulation in any manner.
Blocking or restricting
the air flow will cause the
firebox to reach hazardous
temperatures.
WARNING
Figure 2 - Location of Cool Air Inlet and Warm Air Outlet
Warm Air
Outlet
Cool Air
Inlet
The fireplace will go
through a curing process
(burning off oil residue,
etc.) the first few times it
is fired. Smoke and fumes
may be emitted from its
upper grille. Open a door
or window to let any
smoke or fumes escape
during curing period.
WARNING

61D0087 7
For large fires, the maximum heating benefit from the fireplace will be
obtained with its glass doors fully open. The open doors will allow more
radiant heat to be emitted out of the front opening of the fireplace. When
the glass doors are open, close the fireplace’s mesh screens
to help keep burning embers from popping out of the firebox.
With a small fire, it is best to operate the fireplace with its glass doors
fully closed to prevent excessive room air from being drawn up the
chimney. To prevent room air from escaping up the chimney overnight,
close the fireplace glass doors before retiring in the evenings.
With the provided AK6A combustion air kit installed on the
fireplace, outside combustion air may enter the firebox through
a dampered opening located on the left side of the fireplace.
This feature reduces the room air used for combustion and
prevents excessive heat loss from the room. When the fire-
place is in use, this damper should be open. When the
fireplace is not in use, the damper may be closed to prevent
cold air from entering the firebox. The outside combustion
air control lever is located inside the fireplace firebox just
above the brick panel on the left side of the firebox as shown
by Figure 5.
NOTE: Outside combustion air damper is open when
its control lever is up. The damper is closed
when its control lever is down.
The fireplace must be supplied with outside combustion air
when the fireplace is installed in a manufactured home. See the
Outside Combustible Air section of this manual for additional
information about outside combustion air.
This fireplace is equipped with a factory-installed fan assem-
bly to help circulate heat produced by the fireplace. The fanʼs
ON/OFF rocker switch is installed in the left side of the lower
louver panel on the front of the fireplace. Use the ON/OFF
rocker switch to turn the fan on and off as desired for heat
circulation. See the Wiring for Fan Assembly, page 27 of this
manual for additional information about fan assembly.
Figure 3 - Correct Position
Figure 4 - Incorrect Position
The fireplace should be operated only with
its glass doors fully open or fully closed. If
glass doors are left partially open, gas and
flame may be drawn out of fireplace opening.
This creates risks of both fire and smoke. See
Figures 3 and 4.
WARNING
Fireplace
Fireplace
Glass Doors Fully Open
Glass Doors Partially
Open
Do not
operate
fireplace like
this!
HOW THIS FIREPLACE WORKS
Figure 5 - Outside Combustion Air Control Lever Location
Air Combustion Control Lever

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Do not install fireplace
over carpeting.
CAUTION
FIREPLACE LOCATION
The following factors should be taken into consideration:
• This fireplace should have sufficient access for its safe operation and main-
tenance.
• The SVTR firestop thimble allows chimney to be passed between joist and
rafters or trusses placed 16" on center. See Chimney Installation, page 14.
• Locate a position where the flue system of the fireplace can be properly installed without damaging the integrity of the
building. e.g. cutting wall or ceiling joist (example: load-bearing framing members).
• Install floor protection when the appliance is installed directly on tile or other combustible material.
• No special foundation is needed for this fireplace. If fireplace is trimmed with large stone or brick facing, make sure the
foundation will support those materials.
• Check fireplace and flue system clearance requirements.
• Locate the fireplace in a large and open room that is centrally located in the house. This will optimize heat circulation
and comfort.
• Locate fireplace away from frequently opened doors, central heat outlets or returns, or other places where air movements
may disturb the airflow around the fireplace.
Note: Air turbulence near the fireplace may cause smoke to spill out of the fireplace opening.
• Locate fireplace near a load bearing wall. Make sure the support structure is strong enough or reinforced if fireplace is
to be trimmed with a heavy stone or brick facing and hearth extension.
• This fireplace may be installed along a wall, across a corner, or use an exterior chase. See Figure 6 for suggested loca-
tions.
• Location should be out of high traffic areas and away from furniture and draperies.
• Never obstruct the front opening of the fireplace.
• Do not install in the vicinity where gasoline or other flammable liquids are stored.
• See Chimney Installation, pages 14 through 20 for allowable venting configurations.
• Minimum clearances to combustibles, side-wall, ceiling, woodwork, and windows must be maintained. See Clearances,
page 13 and 14.
Figure 6 - Suggested Fireplace Locations

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A
71/2"
61/2"
61/2"
343/8"
1/2" or 5/8"
Drywall Spacers
21"
10"131/2"
211/2"
25/8"
171/4"
7"
97/8"
Gas
95/8"
Air Kit
1/2" or 5/8"
Drywall
Spacers
133/4"
Electrical
213/4"
Framing
Dimension
403/4"
Framing
Dimension
C
Framing Dimension
B
TOP VIEW
FRONT VIEW SIDE VIEW
BWBC400MHB
BWBC500MHB
Outside
Connector
Center
Line
FIREPLACE DIMENSIONS
Figure 7 - Fireplace Dimensions
400 500
Units Units
A 243/4" 303/4"
B 36" 42"
C 401/2" 461/2"
1. Place fireplace in the desired location. Securely support and level fireplace. Check face of the fireplace with a carpenterʼs
level. If fireplace is not plumb, correct it by placing shims under the edges of fireplace.
2. Block in the fireplace to prevent any shifting of firebox. Secure fireplace with naildown straps located on each side of
the fireplace. See Figure 1, Page 5.Do not enclose the fireplace until the combustion air duct and chimney pipes are
installed.
3. Connect fireplace fan assembly to homeʼs electrical system.
4. Trim and enclose fireplace.
5. Install hearth extension or equivalent. See pages 10 and 11.
Note: Some local codes may require electrically grounding the fireplace and chimney.
FIREPLACE INSTALLATION

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52" (400 Models)
66" (500 Models)
16" Min.
(400 Unit)
20" Min.
(500 Unit)
21"
211/2"
401/2"
401/8" (400 Unit)
461/8" (500 Unit)
SAFETY STRIP INSTALLATION
You must place the metal safety strip (packed with your fireplace in two pieces) beneath the fireplace front before installing
hearth extension Slide safety strip approximately 11/2" under the fireplace. The hearth extension will install on top of the
safety strip. See Figures 8 and 9.
HEARTH EXTENSION
For manufactured home installations, use the Model H1652 (400 unit) or Model H2066 (500 unit) hearth extension or an
equivalent hearth extension* acceptable to the authority having jurisdiction. The hearth extension must cover an area 16"
(400 unit) or 20" (500 unit) in front of, and 8" either side of the fireplace opening. See Figures 8 and 9. If a raised hearth
extension is desired, the fireplace must be elevated accordingly and positioned on a platform constructed of combustible or
noncombustible materials.
The hearth extension may be covered with tile or any noncombustible material. The hearth extension assembly must not
block lower louvered panel.
Note: Do not install hearth extension until after fireplace and chimney have been installed.
FIREPLACE INSTALLATION
Figure 8 - Installing Hearth Extension
Gas
Opening
Junction
Box
Opening
Floor
Level
Safety
Strip
Hearth
Extension
Hearth Extension Clearances & Width
400 Unit 500 Unit
On Both Sides 8" Min. 8" Min.
Front of Fireplace 16" Min. 20" Min.
Extension Width 52" 66"