Monessen Hearth VWF30 User manual

MHS, Inc.
This gas log set is to be installed only
in a solid-fuel burning fireplace with a
workingflueconstructedofnoncombus-
tible material.
READ AND SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
VENTED GAS LOG SET
INSTALLATION AND OPERATING
INSTRUCTIONS
Approved to ANSI Z21.60
MODELS: VWF18 VWF24 VWF30 VWF36
Natural Gas or Propane/LPG Control Type:
Manual and Milli-Volt
WARNINGS
IF THE INFORMATION IN THIS MANUAL IS NOT
FOLLOWED EXACTLY, A FIRE OR EXPLOSION MAY
RESULT CAUSING PROPERTY DAMAGE, PERSONAL
INJURY OR LOSS OF LIFE.
– Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable
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.
• Immediatelycallyourgassupplierfromaneighbor's
phone. Follow the gas supplier's instructions.
• If you cannot reach your gas supplier, call the fire
department.
– Installation and service must be performed by
a qualified installer, service agency or the gas
supplier.

2 27D8520
CONTENTS
Important Safety Information ..........................3
Product Specifications .....................................4
Getting Started .................................................5
Placement in a Fireplace with a Restrictive
Barrier ..........................................................6
Installation .........................................................7
Damper Stop Installation................................7
Before Installing the Appliance.......................7
Installing Valve Cover.....................................8
Wiring (Milli-volt) ...............................................9
Connecting the Gas ........................................10
Manual Control.............................................11
Milli-Volt Control...........................................11
Log Placement ................................................12
VWF18 Massive Oak Log Placement ..........12
VWF24 Massive Oak Log Placement ..........14
VWF30 Massive Oak Log Placement ..........15
VWF36 Massive Oak Log Placement ..........17
VWF18 American Oak Log Placement.........19
VWF24 American Oak Log Placement.........20
VWF30 American Oak Log Placement.........21
VWF24B Log Placement..............................23
VWF24/18 Split River Oak Log Placement..24
VWF30/24 Split River Oak Log Placement..26
VWF36/30 Split River Oak Log Placement..28
VWF18 Split Pine Placement.......................30
VWF24 Split Pine Placement.......................32
VWF30 Split Pine Placement.......................32
VWF24/18WP Weathered Pine Log
Placement....................................................36
VWF30/24WP Weathered Pine Log
Placement....................................................38
WF36/30WP Weathered PINE LOG............40
Operating Instructions....................................42
Manual Control Lighting Instructions ...........42
Milli-Volt Control Lighting Instructions .........43
Flame Appearance...........................................44
Fireplace Draft Test.........................................45
Remote Control Receiver Replacement........46
Cleaning and Servicing ..................................46
Replacement Parts Lists ................................47
Assembly......................................................47
Massive Oak Logs........................................48
American Oak Logs......................................49
Birch Logs....................................................49
Split River Oak Logs ....................................50
Split Pine Logs.............................................51
Weathered Pine Logs...................................52
Massachussetts Residents Only....................53
Warranty...........................................Back Cover

27D8520 3
INSTALLER
Please leave these instructions with the appliance.
OWNER
Please retain these instructions for future reference .
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
1. The installation, combustion and ventilation air must
conform with local codes or, in the absence of local
codes, with the National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1, or
the CAN/CGA-B149 Installation code (series). This unit
complies with ANSI Z21.60 decorative gas appliance for
installation in solid-fuel burning fireplace.
2. Installation and repair should be done by a qualified
service person. MHS Vented Gas Logs must be installed
only in a masonry or a UL 127 solid-fuel fireplace with
minimum venting requirements, see installation sec-
tion.
3. To prevent malfunction, gas log set and flue should be
cleaned at least annually by a professional service person.
More frequent cleaning may be required due to exces-
sive lint from carpeting, etc. It is imperative that control
compartments, burners and circulating air passageways
be kept clean.
4. A damper clamp must be installed to provide the mini-
mum permanent vent opening to vent flue products,
Refer to installation instructions.
5. Never burn solid fuels in a fireplace where a gas log set
is installed.
6. This appliance must NOT be used with glass
doors in the closed position. A fireplace screen
must be in place when the log set is burning. Provisions
for adequate combustion air must be provided. Adequate
combustion air usually results in all flames curling into
the fireplace away from the screen and up the flue.
8. Keep room area clear and free from combustible materi-
als, gasoline and other flammable vapors and liquids.
9. Children and adults should be alerted to the hazard of
high surface temperature and should stay away to avoid
burns or clothing ignition.
10. Young children should be carefully supervised when they
are in the same room with the gas log set in operation.
11. Do not place clothing or other flammable material near
the fireplace when the gas logs are in use.
12. Do not use this gas log set if any part has been underwater.
Immediately call a qualified service technician to inspect
the gas logs and replace any part of the control system
and any gas control which has been under water.
13. The gas log set
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
(3.5kPa).
14. Secure gas log set to fireplace.
15. This log set will burn off the paint on the front grate bar.
Note: See cleaning section for refurbishing.
16.FOR MASSACHUSETTS RESIDENTS ONLY:
IMPORTANT
Read these instructions carefully before installing or trying to operate this gas log set.
• Any change to this appliance or its controls can be dangerous.
• Improper installation or use of the heater can cause serious injury or death from fire,
burns, explosion or carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Do not allow fans to blow directly into the fireplace. Avoid any drafts that alter burner
flame patterns.
• Do not use a blower insert, heat exchanger insert or other accessory, not approved for
use with this appliance where applicable.
WARNING
This applianceisforinstallationonlyin
a solid fuel burning fireplace (masonry
fireplace or manufactured fireplace).
WARNING
This product must be installed by a
licensed plumber of gas fitter when
installed within the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts.
WARNING
Installation of this vented gas log in the Commonwealth
of Massachusetts requires the damper be permanently
removed or welded in the full open position. In addition, a
naturally vented gas log may not be installed in a bedroom
or bathroom in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Flex line installation must not exceed 36".

4 27D8520
The manifold pressure for propane is 10" WC.
The manifold pressure for natural is 4"WC.
The minimum inlet gas supply pressure is 4" WC for natural and 10" WC for LP.
The maximum inlet gas supply pressure for this log set is 10" WC for natural and 13" WC for LP.
Nominal Rates (BTU/Hr)
VWF18N/P 60,000 VWF24N 70,000 VWF30N 80,000 VWF36N 80,000
VWF24P 60,000 VWF30P 60,000 VWF36P 60,000
Note: Actual performance, flame height, BTU/Hr will vary with specific installation, gas pressure,
shutoff valve position (fully open), valve type, and firebox draft conditions.
Figure 1 - Minimum Hearth Dimensions
MINIMUM HEARTH DIMENSIONS
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
www.nficertified.org
We suggest that our gas hearth
products be installed and
serviced by professionals who
are certified in the U.S. by the
National Fireplace Institute®
(NFI) as Gas Specialists.
SAFETY INFORMATION
Never connect unit to private
(non-utility) gas wells. This
gas is commonly known as
wellhead gas.
WARNING
MANUAL CONTROL
Model A B C
VWF18 21" 131/2" 24"
VWF24 27" 131/2" 30"
VWF30 33" 131/2" 36"
VWF36 39" 131/2" 42"
MILLI-VOLT CONTROL*
Model A B C
VWF18 25" 131/2" 28"
VWF24 31" 131/2" 34"
VWF30 37" 131/2" 40"
VWF36 43" 131/2" 46"
*NOTE: Use the above chart
for SRO and WP Manual
Control Logs.

27D8520 5
CHIMNEY HEIGHT FLUE OPENING
6' 64 sq in
8' 64 sq in
10' 64 sq in
15' 51 sq in
20' 51 sq in
30' 51sq in
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:
BURNER - GRATE ASSEMBLY 18, 24, 30, 36"
• Burner and Grate Weldment Assembly • Lava Rocks (x2) • Extenders with Knob (Manual Control Only)
• Glowing Embers (Rock Wool) • Damper Clamp • Vermiculite
• Installation /Operating Instructions • 3/8" Aluminum tube with 3/8"90° elbow, 1/2"to 3/8"tube fitting
• Control Cover • Shield Plate
18", 24", 30" OR 36" CERAMIC FIBER OR REFRACTORY LOGS
• Individual Logs • Installation Instructions
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.
ITEMS REQUIRED FOR INSTALLATION
Ensure that the following items are available before proceeding with installation:
• External regulator (for propane/L.P.G. only) • Shutoff valve
• Piping which complies with local codes • Pipe wrench
• Pipe sealant approved for use with propane/L.P.G. (Resistant to sulfur compounds)
• Drill with masonry bit (for mounting to the floor)
MINIMUM OPENING AREA OF CHIMNEY DAMPER FOR VENTING
MINIMUM CHIMNEY HEIGHT AND FLUE OPENING
• Handle the gas log burner assembly by the grate only. Do not pick the unit up by the
burner. Burner pan is a separate assembly.
• Gloves are recommended when handling ceramic fiber logs to prevent skin irritation
from loose fibers. Logs are fragile — handle with care.
CAUTION
The fireplace and gas logs function as a system. If the fireplace is not drafting properly
and spilling into the room (check with a match or a smoke stick), reposition the damper
clamp until a positive draft is obtained by opening the damper. If negative pressure in
home prevents having a positive draft, contact your dealer for assistance.
WARNING

6 27D8520
Height of Restriction (X) Minimum Depth of Fireplace/Firebox
No restriction 13" Manual Control 131/2" Milli-Volt Control
0 to 1.5" 15"
Greater than 11/2" to 3" 15"
Greater than 3" ANY BARRIER GREATER THAN THREE INCHES (3")
PLACED IN FRONT OF THE GAS LOG SET IS NOT
RECOMMENDED BY THE MANUFACTURER.
PLACEMENT IN A FIREPLACE WITH A RESTRICTIVE BARRIER
IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR THE INSTALLATION OF THIS GAS LOG SET
The following are guidelines for placing a VWF log set in a fireplace that has a restrictive barrier along the bottom front
opening of the fireplace. Some examples of barriers are glass/screen door frames and sunken/recessed fireplaces.
Glass door frames
with adjustable
louvers should have
the lovers fully open
while the unit is in
operation.
Height of restrictive barrier
caused by glass door frames,
recessed fireplaces, etc. from
the base or bottom surface of the
unit. (Refer to Table).
The log set should be
placed against or as near
as possible to the rear wall
of the fireplace/firebox.
Depth of fireplace/firebox.
(Refer toTable).
Figure 2
NOTE: Non combustible material such as
refractory brick may be used to line the
floor of the fireplace in order to raise the
height of the gas log set in relation to a
restrictive barrier.
X
Barriers such as the bottom of a glass door frame placed in front of a gas log set can
change the air flow characteristics of the fireplace which in turn can cause the unit to
overheat and malfunction. Any deviation from the installation guidelines on this sheet
will potentially void the warranty.
WARNING
If the fireplace has a restrictive barrier
and isequippedwitharemotereceiver,
it must be placed outside or the
combustion chamber. See “Installing
Receiver” on page 9.
CAUTION

27D8520 7
Damper Stop
Damper
Injector
(Natural Gas
only)
FOR MASSACHUSETTS RESIDENTS ONLY
Installation of this vented gas log set in the Commonwealth
of Massachusetts requires the damper be permanently
removed or welded in the fully open position. In addition, a
naturally vented gas log may not be installed in a bedroom
or bathroom in the Commonwealth of Masasachusetts.
BEFORE INSTALLING THE APPLIANCE:
• Turn off gas supply to fireplace or firebox.
• Clean the fireplace floor and chimney before installing the log set. Seal any ash clean-out doors to protect the
unit from down drafts.
INSTALLATION
Figure 4 - Securing Grate/Burner Assembly into Firebox
Screws
INSTALL AND OPERATE THE APPLIANCE AS DIRECTED IN THIS MANUAL.
DAMPER STOP INSTALLATION
A damper stop must be provided with the unit. The damper stop must be installed as shown in (Figure 3) to prevent full
closure of the fireplace damper blade and provide a minimum flue opening, per table on page 5.
Should the clamp not fit, or provide the required permanent opening from the table, have the damper cut to provide a
minimum permanent opening or install a permanent stop.
Figure 3 - Damper Stop Installation
In compliance with ANSI Z21.60•CGA2.26 and National Fuel Gas Code, Section 6.
ASSEMBLY PROCEDURE
1. Place grate/burner assembly into firebox
with the front pan facing forward.
2. Drill two (2) 5/32" diameter holes approxi-
mately 1 1/2" deep.
3. Anchor the front pan to the floor using
the screws provided.
Proper installation of the grate is
essential to prevent any movement
of the gas logs and controls during
operation.

8 27D8520
Covers must be installed prior to
operation to prevent overheating.
WARNING
Grate bar must not touch the valve.
NOTICE
Figure 5 - Placing Cover on Manual Control
Figure 6 - Placing Cover on Milli-volt Control
INSTALLATION
Grate Bar
INSTALLING VALVE COVER
Valve
Cover
Valve
Grate Bar
Valve Cover
Valve

27D8520 9
Label all wires prior to disconnection
when servicing controls. Wiring errors
can cause improper and dangerous
operation. Verify proper operationafter
servicing.
WARNING
Do not connect to 110 volt supply.
WARNING
Keep wiring away from heat
source and hot surfaces.
WARNING
THTP
TP TH
Milli-volt
Valve
Pilot
WIRING (MILLI-VOLT)
Figure 7 - Wiring Diagram
The Milli-Volt (thermopile) is a self powered combination gas con-
trol that does not require 110VAC to operate. Refer to Figure 8 and
installation instructions provided with optional wall switch or remote
control for wiring instructions. A maximum length of 15 feet of 18awg
two conductor wire is to be used for wall switch. Note switches must
be suitable for millivolt operation. The optional wall switch must be
mounted outside the firebox. The remote receiver location must not
exceed a temperature of 120F.
CHECKING SYSTEM OPERATION
The milli-volt system and individual components may be
checked with a millivolt meter having a 0-1000MV range.
Conduct each check shown in chart below by connection
meter test leads to terminals as indicated.
A. COMPLETE MILLI-VOLT SYSTEM CHECK
("A" READING - CONTACTS CLOSED - CONTROL KNOB "ON" - MAIN BURNER SHOULD BE COME
ON)
a. If the reading is more than 100 millivolts and the automatic valve still does not come on - replace the control.
b. If the closed circuit reading (“A” reading) is less than 100 millivolts, determine cause for low reading —
proceed as follows:
B. THERMOPILE OUTPUT READING CHECK
(“B” READING - CONTACTS OPEN - MAIN BURNER OFF)
a. 325 millivolts minimum. If the minimum millivolt reading is not obtainable, readjust pilot for maximum millivolt
output. If millivolt reading is still below minimum specified, replace thermopile.
CONNECT
METER METER
CHECK TO LEADS TO READING
TEST TEST TERMINALS SHOULD BE
A COMPLETE TH & THTP Min. 100 mV
SYSTEM
B THERMOPILE TP & THTP Min. 325 mV
OUTPUT
Optional Wall Switch
or Remote Reciever
Switch

10 27D8520
CONNECTING THE GAS
Pipe Coupling
To Gas Log
Set or to Gas
Valve Shutoff
Valve
Gas Supply Inlet
Figure 8 - Gas Connection
Pipe
IMPORTANT: Hold appliance firmly with a wrench to prevent movement when connecting to inlet piping.
Always use an external regulator for all propane/LPG gas logs only, to reduce the supply tank pressure to a maximum of
13" w.c. High pressure natural gas systems require a regulator to reduce supply pressure to 10" W.C.
Locations that the Pressure Tapping
Point May be Installed
NOTICE: A qualified gas appliance installer must connect the appliance to the gas
supply. Consult all local codes before installation.
NOTICE
Use new black iron pipe, steel pipe, copper tubing, or internally tinned copper tubing.
Copper or internally tinned copper tubing can only according to the National Fuel Gas
Code, section 2.6.3, providing gas meets sulfide limits, and where permitted by local
codes. Gas piping system must be sized to provide minimum inlet pressure at the
maximum flow rate (BTU/Hr). Undue pressure loss will occur if the pipe is too small.
A manual shutoff valve must be installed upstream of the appliance. Union tee and
plugged 1/8" NPT pressure tapping point should be installed upstream of the appliance.
See Figure 9.
CAUTION
Connecting directly to an
unregulated propane/LPG
tank can cause an explosion.
WARNING