Monessen Hearth VFI33L(N/P)(V/I) User manual

20307670 10/15 Rev. 2
VFI Series Vent Free Gas Fireplace
Installation and Operating Instructions
Models: VFI33L(N/P)(V/I), VFI33C(N/P)(V/I)
This is an unvented gas-red heater. It uses air
(oxygen) from the room in which it is installed.
Provisions for adequate combustion and venti-
lation air must be provided. Refer to Page 7.
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.
– 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.
WARNING: 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.

VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
220307670
CONTENTS
Important Safety Information ..................................... 3
Codes...................................................................... 4
Product Features......................................................... 5
VFI33 Controls ........................................................ 5
Operation ................................................................ 5
Gas Pressures ........................................................ 5
Gas Specications and Orice Sizes ...................... 5
Ignition Controls ...................................................... 5
Pilot ......................................................................... 5
Thermal Generator.................................................. 5
Cold Climate Option................................................ 5
Framing Dimensions................................................... 6
Pre-installation Information........................................ 7
Getting Started........................................................ 7
What You Will Need for Installation......................... 7
Clearances and Height Requirements....................... 8
Before Installing the Fireplace Insert ...................... 8
Clearances ................................................................... 9
Heat Resistant Material .......................................... 9
Clearances and Installation...................................... 10
Remove Screen .................................................... 10
Install Canopy ....................................................... 10
Installation.................................................................. 11
Secure Heater to Floor.......................................... 11
Connect Gas Line...................................................... 12
Gas Pressure — Millivolt .......................................... 13
Checking Gas Pressure: Millivolt Control.............. 13
Electrical Wiring — Millivolt ..................................... 14
Connect Optional Wall Switch or Thermostat ....... 14
Connect Remote Receiver.................................... 15
Check System Operation ...................................... 15
Operating Instructions — Millivolt........................... 16
For Your Safety Read Before Lighting .................. 16
Lighting Pilot for the First Time ............................. 16
Lighting Pilot ......................................................... 17
Lighting Burner...................................................... 18
To Turn Off Gas..................................................... 18
Gas Pressure and Electrical Installation — IPI....... 19
Check Gas Pressure — IPI................................... 19
Electrical Wiring .................................................... 19
Junction Box Wiring .............................................. 19
Wall Switch Installation ......................................... 20
IPI System Wiring Diagram................................... 20
Operating Instructions — IPI.................................... 21
For Your Safety Read Before Lighting .................. 21
What to Do If You Smell Gas ................................ 21
Operating Instructions........................................... 21
To Turn Off Gas..................................................... 21
EcoLogic Control................................................... 22
Electrical Wiring — Fan ............................................ 23
Log Placement........................................................... 24
Before You Begin .................................................. 24
Cast Iron Grate Installation ................................... 24
Rock Wool Placement........................................... 25
Berkley Oak Logs.................................................. 25
Place the Decorative Rock.................................... 26
Highland Oak Logs ............................................... 27
Place the Decorative Rock.................................... 28
Kentucky Wildwood Logs...................................... 28
Fireglass Placement ............................................. 29
Flame Appearance and Operating Instructions...... 30
Visual Flame Check .............................................. 30
Check the Pilot Flame........................................... 30
Thermostat and Millivolt Control ........................... 30
Operating Instructions........................................... 30
For Your Safety Read Before Lighting .................. 31
Millivolt/Thermostat Control Lighting Instructions . 32
To Turn Off Gas to Heater..................................... 32
Match Lighting Instructions ................................... 33
Blower Operation .................................................. 33
Cleaning and Servicing............................................. 34
Annual Cleaning and Inspection ........................... 34
Periodic Cleaning ................................................. 34
Troubleshooting ........................................................ 35
Replacement Parts .................................................... 37
Firebox Assembly ................................................. 37
Millivolt Burner Assembly ..................................... 38
IPI Burner Assembly ............................................. 39
Berkley Oak Logs.................................................. 40
Highland Oak Logs ............................................... 41
Kentucky Wildwood Logs...................................... 42
Warranty ..................................................................... 43
Thank you and congratulations on your purchase of a Monessen vent free gas replace.
PLEASE READ THE INSTALLATION AND OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
BEFORE USING THE APPLIANCE.
IMPORTANT: Read all instructions and warnings carefully before starting installation.
Failure to follow these instructions may result in a possible re hazard and will void the warranty.

VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
20307670 3
13. Avoid any drafts that alter burner ame patterns. Do not
allow fans to blow directly into replace. Do not place
a blower inside burn area of rebox. Ceiling fans may
create drafts that alter burner ame patterns. Sooting
and improper burning will occur.
14. CAUTION: Candles, incense, oil lamps, etc. produce
combustion byproducts including soot. Vent-free
appliances will not lter or clean soot produced by
these types of products. In addition, the smoke and/or
aromatics (scents) may be re-burned in the vent-free
appliance which can produce odors. It is recommended
to minimize the use of candles, incense, etc. while the
vent-free appliance is in operation.
15. This is an unvented gas-fired heater. It uses air
(oxygen) from the room in which it is installed. Provi-
sions for adequate combustion and ventilation air must
be provided.
16. This heater shall not be installed in a room or space
unless the required volume of indoor combustion air is
provided by the method described in the National Fuel
Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54, the International
Fuel Gas Code or applicable local codes.
17. Keep room area clear and free from combustible
materials, gasoline and other ammable vapors and
liquids.
18. Unvented gas heaters are a supplemental zone heater.
They are not intended to be the primary heating appli-
ance.
19. Unvented gas heaters emit moisture into the living
area. In most homes of average construction, this
does not pose a problem. In houses of extremely
tight construction, additional mechanical ventilation is
recommended.
20. 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.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
1. Due to high temperatures, the appliance should be
located out of trafc and away from furniture and
draperies.
2. Children and adults should be alerted to the hazard
of high surface temperature and should stay away
to avoid burns or clothing ignition.
3. Young children should be carefully supervised when
they are in the same room with the appliance.
4. Do not place clothing or other ammable material
on or near the appliance.
5. Any safety screen or guard removed for servicing
an appliance, must be replaced prior to operating
the heater.
6. Installation and repair should be done by a qualied
service person.
7. To prevent malfunction and/or sooting, an unvented
gas heater should be cleaned 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 be kept
clean.
INSTALLER
Please leave these instructions with the appliance.
OWNER
Please retain these instructions for future reference .
8. CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING: Early signs of
carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to the u with
headaches, dizziness and/or nausea. If you have these
signs, obtain fresh air immediately. Have the heater
serviced as it may not be operating properly.
9. The installation must conform with local codes or, in
the absence of local codes, with the National Fuel
Gas Code, ANSI Z223.l/NFPA54.
10. This unit complies with the latest edition of ANSI
Z21.11.2, Unvented Heaters.
11. Do not install the heaters in a bathroom or bedroom.
12. Correct installation of the ceramic ber logs, proper
location of the heater, and annual cleaning are neces-
sary to avoid potential problems with sooting. Sooting,
resulting from improper installation or operation, can
settle on surfaces outside the replace. See log place-
ment instructions for proper installation.
WARNING:
• Any change to this 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.
• Do not allow fans to blow directly into the replace. Avoid any drafts that alter burner ame
patterns.
• Do not use a blower insert, heat exchanger insert or other accessory, not approved for use with
this heater where applicable.

VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
420307670
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
The initial break-in operation should last four hours
with the burner at the highest setting. Provide maxi-
mum ventilation by opening windows or doors to allow
odors to dissipate. Any odors remaining after this initial
break-in period will be slight and will disappear with
continued use.
21. Input ratings are shown in BTU per hour and are for
elevations up to 2,000 feet. For elevations above 2,000
feet, input ratings should be reduced 4 percent for each
1,000 feet above sea level. Refer to the National Fuel
Gas Code.
22. The appliance must be isolated from the gas supply
piping system by closing its equipment 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).
23. 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.
24. Never burn solid fuels in a replace where a unvented
room heater is installed.
25. Always have a replace screen in place when the
appliance is in operation and, unless other provisions
for combustion air are provided, the screen must have
an opening(s) for induction of combustion air.
THIS APPLIANCE MAY BE INSTALLED IN AN
AFTER-MARKET, 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 CONVERT-
IBLE FOR USE WITH OTHER GASES.
Nous recommandons que nos
appareils de chauffage au gaz
soient installés et entretenus par
des professionnels qui ont été
accrédités aux È.U. par le National
Fireplace Institute ® (NFI) comme
étant des spécialistes du NFI en
matièred’appareils de chauffage
au gaz.
CODES
Adhere to all local codes or, in their absence, the latest edition of THE NATIONAL FUEL GAS CODE ANSI Z223.1 or
NFPA54 which can be obtained from…
American National Standards Institute, Inc.
1430 Broadway
New York, NY 10018
or
National Fire Protection Association, Inc.
Batterymarch Park
Quincy, MA 02269
WARNING: Never connect unit to
private (non-utility) gas wells. This gas
is commonly known as wellhead gas.

VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
20307670 5
OPERATION
This unvented gas heater requires no outside venting and
burns cleanly with high heating efciency.
PRODUCT FEATURES
Figure 1 -
Unvented Gas Heater with Control Access Door Open
GAS PRESSURES
Control Fuel Millivolt T-stat
Regulator Pressure Natural 3.5" w.c.
Pilot Regulator Natural 3.5" w.c.
Max. Inlet Pressure Natural 10.5" w.c.
Min. Inlet Pressure Natural 5.0" w.c.
Regulator Pressure LP 10.0" w.c.
Max. Inlet Pressure LP 13.0" w.c.
Min. Inlet Pressure LP 11.0" w.c.
NOTE: For LP models an external regulator is required
to reduce supply pressure to a maximum of 13" w.c.
IGNITION CONTROLS
Piezo ignitor allows ignition of the pilot without the use of
matches or batteries.
Millivolt and EcoLogic®2.0 controls have four (4)
positions:
OFF - All gas to the gas logs is shut off at the
valve.
IGN - Valve position to light/maintain a standing
pilot.
ON - Valve position to turn ON/OFF log set with
remote switch/thermostat.
LOW/HI - Variable position to control ame height
(heat output). Both front and rear burners
are in operation to provide realistic glow
and yellow ame.
PILOT
The gas log heater is tted with a specially designed safety
pilot light (ODS assembly) which senses the amount of
oxygen available in the room and shuts the gas log heater
off if the oxygen level begins to drop below a satisfactory
level. The pilot can only be re-lit when adequate fresh air
is available.
THERMAL GENERATOR
The millivolt gas log pilot is tted with a millivolt generator
to provide power for remote activation.
VFI33 CONTROLS GAS SPECIFICATIONS & ORIFICE SIZE
MODEL FUEL CONTROL MAX. INPUT
(BTU/h)
MIN. INPUT
(BTU/h)
ORIFICE
SIZE
VFI33LNV NAT. Millivolt 28,000 19,000 #38
VFI33LPV L P. Millivolt 27,000 22,000 #52
VFI33CNV NAT. Millivolt 28,000 19,000 #38
VFI33CPV L P. Millivolt 27,000 22,000 #52
VFI33LNI NAT. IPI 28,000 19,000 #38
VFI33LPI L P. IPI 27,000 22,000 #52
VFI33CNI NAT. IPI 28,000 19,000 #38
VFI33CPI L P. IPI 27,000 22,000 #52
COLD CLIMATE OPTION (IPI Models Only)
NOTE: If you live in a cold climate, seal all cracks around
your appliance and wherever cold air could enter the room,
with noncombustible material. It is especially important to
insulate the outside chase cavity between the studs and
under the oor on which the appliance rests, if the oor is
above ground level.
Your replace is equipped with an intermittent pilot ignition
(IPI) control. An IPI control with a standing pilot option
provides the dual benet of an economical and environ-
mentally responsible product and one which lights easily
even in the coldest climates. When in intermittent pilot
Piezo Ignitor
Control Knobs
Surround
On/Off Switch
Blower

VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
620307670
FRAMING DIMENSIONS
mode (as it comes from the factory), your pilot remains
unlit until needed, saving you fuel. Standing pilot mode,
by comparison, is characterized by a continuously burning
pilot. The benet of a pilot which lights only when needed
is fuel savings. However, with no pilot burning in your re-
place, units operating in colder climates may experience
delayed start up or lock out. Because colder air is heavier
than milder air and there is no pilot burning to maintain
a warm stable temperature in your rebox, establishing
a draft to aid ignition becomes difcult. This is perfectly
normal but can be somewhat frustrating.
To remedy this issue, your replace has been designed with
a cold climate pilot option, which, when active, maintains
a warmer temperature inside your rebox to make ignition
faster and more efcient. Operating your appliance in cold
climate (aka standing) pilot mode will prohibit the need for
multiple ignition attempts and will prevent the system from
delaying start up or locking out.
To activate the cold climate option, simply move the cold
climate toggle switch located on the right side of the black
control center to the “On” (left) position. (Figure 2) You can
operate your appliance in this mode regardless of whether
you are using a remote control, wall switch or thermostat.
Figure 3 -
Framing Dimensions
Rough
Opening
Depth
1/2"
or 5/8"
Rough
Opening
Height
16"
331⁄2" Rough Opening Width
241⁄2"
371⁄4"
371⁄4"
64
1
⁄
4
"
31
7
⁄
8
"
Cold Climate
Switch
Master Switch
Figure 2 -
Cold Climate Option
FRAMING DIMENSIONS

VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
20307670 7
PRE-INSTALLATION INFORMATION
GETTING STARTED
Make sure you have received all parts
Check your packing list to verify that all listed parts have
been received. You should have the following:
•Installation/Operating instructions
•33" unvented gas heater
•Canopy
•Volcanic rock and rock wool (traditional sets only)
• Stone and reglass kit (contemporary sets only)
•Two (2) anchoring screws
•Mounting screws for canopy
Accessories required to nish the installation:
One of two surrounds:
•VFICFSS Black small surround 33"H x 43"W
•VFICFSL Black large surround 36"H x 50"W
One of three rebox liners:
•FBVFIC(M/LR) Firebrick
•BLPVFIC Black porcelain panels
•BMGVFIC Black Magic glass panels
WHAT YOU WILL NEED FOR INSTALLATION
You must have the following items available before pro-
ceeding with installation:
•External regulator (for propane / L.P.G. and 1/2 lb.
Natural Gas systems only)
•Piping which complies with local codes
•Sediment trap
•Tee joint
• Pipe wrench or appropriate size crescent wrench
set
•Phillips head screwdriver
•Drill with 5/32" bit
•Surround
•Manual shutoff valve
•Pipe sealant approved for use with liquid propane
(resistant to sulfur compounds)
FRAMING DIMENSIONS
If unit is to be “built in,” replace framing can be built before
or after the appliance is set in place. BE SURE THAT ALL
PACKING MATERIAL HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM
THE UNDERSIDE OF THE UNIT PRIOR TO SETTING
THE FIREBOX IN PLACE. Construct replace framing
following Figure 3 on page 6. The framing headers may
not rest directly on top of the rebox.
The replace may be installed directly on a combustible
oor or a raised platform of an appropriate height. Do
not place replace on carpeting, vinyl, tile or other soft
oor coverings. It may, however, be placed on at wood,
plywood, particle board or other hard surfaces. Be sure
replace rests on a solid continuous oor or platform with
appropriate framing for support and so that no cold air can
enter from under the rebox. Your vent-free replace must
be mounted to the oor or the replace hearth.
The millivolt controlled version of this heater is the only
style designed to be operated with optional devices for
ON/OFF functions. The following options may be used
with the millivolt controlled heater. These options are not
packaged with the unit.
•Hand held Remote with Receiver
•Wall switch with 15' wire.
•Hand held Thermostat Remote with Receiver
IPI controlled versions of this unit have the following options
that may be used but are not packaged with the unit.
• IPIFKN2: Stepper motor kit (NG)
• IPIFKP2: Stepper motor kit (LP)
Carefully inspect the contents for shipping damage. If any
parts are missing or damaged, immediately inform the
dealer from whom you purchased the appliance. Do not
attempt to install any part of the appliance unless you have
all parts in good condition.
• Handle the gas log burner assembly by the
grate only. Do not pick the unit up by the
burners.
• Gloves are recommended when handling
ceramic ber logs to prevent skin irritation
from loose bers. Logs are fragile — handle
with care.
WARNING:
WARNING—Do not install the heater:
•Where curtains, furniture, clothing, or
other ammable objects are less than
42" from the front of the heater.
• In high trafc areas.
• In windy or drafty areas.
WARNING: If the area in which the heater
is operated does not meet the required
volume for indoor combustion air, combustion
and ventilation air shall be provided by one of
the methods described in the National Fuel Gas
Code, ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54, the International
Fuel Gas Code or applicable local codes.

VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
820307670
CLEARANCE and HEIGHT REQUIREMENTS
NOTE: Clearances are necessary to combustible surfaces
only. No clearance is necessary for noncombustible sur-
face.
Sidewall clearances: The clearance from the inside of the
appliance to any combustible adjacent wall should no be
less than 9". Figure 4
Ceiling clearance: The ceiling must be at least 42" from
the top of the rebox opening. Figure 4
Back wall clearance: The appliance can be placed against
the combustible back wall.
Floor clearance: The replace may not be installed onto
any combustible ooring material, such as carpeting, vinyl
or tile without the hearth or a minimum 22 GA (0.030") metal
or a minimum 1/2" wooden base covering the entire width
and depth of the base.
Mantel clearances: The canopy supplied with the unit
must be installed. If a combustible mantel is installed. It
must meet the clearance requirements shown in Figure 7.
FP2770
sidewall ceiling clearances
9"
Minimum
9"
Minimum
42"
Minimum
Figure 4 -
Sidewall and Ceiling Minimum Clearances
FP2770
33"
15 1/4
22
3/4
23 7/8
Figure 5a -
Dimensions for Installing in Masonry Fireplace or UL
Listed Box
Surround Dimensions*
A B
Small 33" 43"
Large 36" 50"
*A surround is required to complete the installation.
WARNING: The dimensions shown in
Figures 4 and 5 and dened in the replace
manufacturer's instructions are minimum
clearances to maintain when installing this
heater. Left and right clearances are determined
when facing the front of the heater.
Follow these instructions carefully to ensure
safe installation. Failure to follow instructions
exactly can create a re hazard.
Figure 5b -
Surround dimensions
B
A

VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
20307670 9
BEFORE INSTALLING THE FIREPLACE
INSERT
Have replace oor and chimney professionally cleaned to
remove ashes, soot, creosote or other obstructions. Close
and seal any fresh air vents or ash clean-out doors located
on oor or wall
HEAT RESISTANT MATERIAL (MINIMUM
REQUIREMENTS) WITH NO WOODEN MANTEL
OR OTHER COMBUSTIBLE PROJECTION
Heat resistant material (minimum requirements) with
wooden mantel or other combustible projection:
To install the heater with a wooden mantel shelf or other
combustible projection above, rst measure the heat resis-
tant material shown in Figure 6. Heat resistant material
(minimum requirements) with no wooden mantel or
other combustible projection
Heat resistant material (minimum requirements) with
wooden mantel or other combustible projection:
To install the heater with a wooden mantel shelf or other
combustible projection above, rst measure the heat resis-
tant material shown in Figure 6.
CLEARANCES
FP2772
mantel material
No combustible
materials within 8"
of opening.
Hood
Grate
Figure 6 -
Measure Heat Resistant Material for Mantel
Example: A mantel may project from the wall a maximum of
21⁄2" at minimum of 8" above the opening, and a maximum
of 12" at a minimum of 26" above the opening.
10"
12"
14"
26"
8"
12"
10"
8"
6"
2¹⁄₂”
FP2773
Min mantel clearances
Figure 7 -
Minimum Mantel Clearances
Figure 8 is an example of an unsafe mantel installation.
The mantel projects 4" at 8" above the opening, exceed-
ing the maximum acceptable distance of 21⁄2". The mantel
also projects 8" at 10" above the opening, exceeding the
maximum acceptable distance of 6".
If your mantel prole is unsafe, you may either:
•Raise the mantel to an acceptable height or,
•Remove the mantel.
8"
4"
2
1
/ 2 "
10"
6"
8"
FP2774
unsafe mantel
Hood
No combustible
materials within 8"
of opening.
Figure 8

VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
10 20307670
CLEARANCES and INSTALLATION
The gas log heater must be installed at least 5" above
any combustible ooring material, such as carpeting or
tile, which is closer than 14" to the base of the replace.
Figure 8
5"
1”
FP2775
min clearance above comb floor
Combustible
Material
Noncombustible
Material
Figure 9 -
Minimum Clearance above Combustible Flooring
REMOVE SCREEN
Remove replace screen by pushing screen frame panel
up and out. Figure 9
NOTE: Fireplace screen must be removed to access log
box and to install canopy.
Figure 10 -
Remove Fireplace Screen
INSTALL CANOPY
1. Remove the replace screen as described in the previ-
ous section.
2. Align canopy with the holes in the top frame assembly.
Figure 10
3. Install the three (3) screws (in owner’s manual packag-
ing) which attach the canopy to the top frame assembly.
Figure 10
4. Tighten all screws. Make sure the canopy is level and
secure. Install the replace screen.
Figure 11 -
Install Canopy
WARNING: Do not operate the unit without
the screen frame panel and canopy installed.