ORTAL Wilderness 31 Front User manual

Ortal Installation Manual: Wilderness 31 Front (V1)
Installation and Operation Manual
Wilderness 31 Front

2
General
Safety Information and Warnings
WARNING: REVIEW ALL WARNINGS
Be sure to review all safety warnings and installation guidelines contained in this manual. Consider installation location, vent configuration,
clearances, structural requirements, framing and finish materials, and local codes. ALL warnings and instructions apply to all products
manufactured and distributed by Ortal.
WARNING: DO NOT OPERATE FIREPLACE IF:
The glass is NOT properly secured in place; Connection points are not sealed (for fireplaces with glass-to-glass connections);
Glass is cracked; You smell gas; Any part of the fireplace has been under water; You have any doubt about safe operation of the fireplace;
Or if any part has been under water, do not use the fireplace. Immediately call a qualified, professional service technician to inspect the
fireplace and to replace any parts of the control system and any gas controls which have been under water.
WARNING: ELECTRICAL GROUNDING
All electrical connections must be properly installed, insulated, and secured to avoid potential ELECTRICAL SHOCK and FIRE HAZARD
and malfunction of the system. Consult local building code requirements. In the absence of local codes, refer to the National Electric
Code, ANSI/NFPA 70, or the Canadian Electric Code, CSA C22.1.
WARNING: MATERIAL USAGE
All materials and objects used to carry out the installation must be certified/approved or specified by Ortal and are suitable for use. Do
NOT install the system with different materials or objects than those approved for installation by Ortal.
WARNING: INSTALLATION AND SERVICE
Installation and repairs on the fireplace and vent system must be done by an authorized Ortal qualified installer service agency or gas
supplier. If these components are not installed by an authorized Ortal dealer/installer, the warranty of all components will be void and
Ortal will not be responsible for any damage caused by improper installation. The fireplace 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 material,
etc. Control compartments, burners and circulating air passageways of the fireplace must be kept clean. Any alteration to the product can
cause soot or carbon to form and may result in damage. This damage and any other damage that results from not following the instructions
outlined in this manual is not the responsibility of Ortal.
WARNING: HEAT BARRIER
A barrier designed to reduce the risk of burns from hot viewing glass is provided with this fireplace and shall be installed. The fireplace
MUST not be used without the heat barrier in place. If the barrier becomes damaged, the barrier shall be replaced with the manufacturer’s
barrier for this fireplace. Any safety screen, guard, or barrier removed for servicing the fireplace must be replaced before
operating.
WARNING: FIREPLACE TEMPERATURE
Due to hot temperatures, the fireplace should be located out of traffic and away from furniture and draperies.
Children and adults should be alerted to the hazards of high surface temperature and should stay away to avoid burns or clothing ignition.
Clothing or other flammable material should not be placed on or near the fireplace. Young children should be carefully supervised
when they are in the same room as the fireplace. Toddlers, young children, and others may be susceptible to accidental contact burns.
A physical barrier is recommended if there are at-risk individuals in the house. To restrict access to a fireplace or stove, install an
adjustable safety gate to keep toddlers, young children, and other at-risk individuals out of the room and away from hot surfaces.
WARNING: GLASS HANDLING
Only an Ortal certified installer is authorized to remove the glass using a suction cup supplied by Ortal.
WARNING: INSTALLATION AND OPERATION
The fireplace and accompanying components must be installed as an OEM installation in manufactured homes (USA only) or an
aftermarket permanently located, or a mobile home, where not prohibited by local codes. The fireplace must be installed in accordance
with the Manufacturer's instructions and the Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standard, Title 24 CFR, Part 3280, in the
United States, or the Standard for Installation in Mobile Homes, CAN/CSA Z240 MH Series, in Canada. Exceeding the restrictions
imposed in these instructions may result in a fire or explosion, causing property damage, personal injury, or loss of life. Ortal
will not be responsible for any damage caused by improper installation. Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable vapors
and liquids near this fireplace.
WARNING: GAS FIREPLACE
This fireplace is for use only with the type of gas indicated on the rating plate. These fireplaces are not convertible for use with other
gases unless a certified kit is used, and the conversion is performed by an authorized and qualified technician. Applicable standards are
Vented Gas Fireplace Heaters ANSI Z21.88 / CSA 2.33a and Gas-fired Fireplaces for Use at High Altitudes CAN/CGA 2.17-M91

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Table of Contents
General 2
Safety Information and Warnings 2
Product Information 4
Certification 4
Models 4
Rating Label 5
Zero-Clearance Stand-Offs 5
Installation 6
Prior to Installation 6
Locate the Fireplace 6
Fireplace Installation 6
First Trip to Site: Planning 6
Second Trip to Site: Installation 6
Third Trip to Site: Startup 7
Post-Installation 7
Initial Burning Period 7
Final Inspection Procedure 7
Final Checks and User Instruction 7
Building Around the Fireplace 8
Building Checklist 8
Framing 9
Framing Dimensions 9
5/8” Type X Drywall Requirements 10
Platform 10
General Clearances 11
Heat Release 13
Air Intake 15
Mounting a TV/Artwork 17
Access Panel 19
Chase Area Minimum 19
Recessed Ledge 20
Structural Weight Support 21
Step-by-Step Chase Construction 22
Finishing 23
Non-Combustible Finish 23
Combustible Finish 25
Combustible Floor/Hearth Extension 27
Venting 28
General Venting Requirements 28
Vent Installation 28
Vent Clearances 29
Offset Maximum 29
Vent Configuration Diagrams 30
Vent Restrictor Sizing Guidelines 31
Restrictors and Vent Arrangement 32
Vent Termination 33
Horizontal Termination Clearance Diagram 33
Vertical Termination Clearance Diagram 34
Chimney Shroud 35
Vent Maintenance 35
Gas 36
Gas Pressures 36
Routing the Gas Line 36
Gas Conversion 36
High Altitude Requirements 37
Gas and Electrical Components 37

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Electrical 38
Electrical Requirements 38
Pairing the Remote and Receiver 38
Wiring Diagrams 39
Carbon Monoxide Detector Wiring Diagrams 43
Smart Home Wiring Diagram 45
Log Sets 46
Dark Brown Logs: Placement 46
Log Placement for Natural Gas 47
Log Placement for Propane 53
Chopped Wood Logs: Placement 60
Log Placement for Natural Gas and Propane 61
Log Base Position Adjustment 65
Adjustment Instructions 66
Operation 70
10-Button Remote Control Handset 70
Wall Switch 71
myFire App 72
Fireplace Maintenance 73
General Maintenance 73
Troubleshooting 73
Product Information
Certification
The Wilderness 31 Front fireplace has been tested and approved by CSA Group for safety and efficiency for use with Natural Gas (NG)
and Propane (LP) only, and NOT for use with solid fuels. CSA Group is approved by the American National Standards Institute
(ANSI) as an Accredited Standards Developer.
Certification Standard:
US: ANSI Z21.88 – 2016: Vented Gas Fireplace Heaters
Canada: CSA 2.33 – 2016: Vented Gas Fireplace Heaters
Products:
CLASS 2901 84: DOMESTIC HEATERS (GAS) Vented Fireplace: Certified to US Standard
CLASS 2901 04: DOMESTIC HEATERS (GAS) Vented Fireplace
The fireplaces are permitted for indoor use only. “Indoor” is defined as a conditioned space. The fireplaces are not approved for outdoor
or partial outdoor installation. The fireplaces must be installed while maintaining required clearances. Installation is recommended in living
spaces such as bedrooms, living rooms, great rooms, etc. The fireplaces are not approved for closet installation. The fireplace must be
installed according to Ortal requirements in addition to any local codes that may apply, such as USA: ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54, Canada:
CSA B149.
IMPORTANT:
Consult the authority having jurisdiction to determine the need for a permit prior to starting the installation.
It is the responsibility of the fireplace dealer and installer to ensure that this fireplace is installed and framed in compliance with
these instructions and all applicable codes.
Before starting, take careful note of ALL the WARNINGS in this manual.
Models
Series Model Burners Certification Standard Available
Gas Types
Venting
Wilderness
31
Wilderness 31
Front
Dark Brown Log Set
or
Chopped Wood Log Set
US: ANSI Z21.88 - 2016
Canada: CSA 2.33 - 2016
Natural Gas
or
Propane
5”x8” Co-axial
Direct Vent
NOTE: Venting is not supplied by Ortal with the fireplace. The fireplace is certified to be used with, and can be obtained
from, the vent manufacturers outlined in “General Venting Requirements” section.

5
Rating Label
The fireplace rating label is found on a metal plate separate included with the fireplace.
DEALERS/INSTALLERS: You MUST leave the fireplace’s rating label with the fireplace in an area easily accessible by the owner
(typically near the access panel, if available). You must instruct the owner before handing over the fireplace where this label can be found.
OWNERS: Make sure the installer leaves your fireplace’s rating label in an area that is easily accessible for you. This information is
required for servicing and receiving replacement parts.
Wilderness Dark Brown/Chopped Wood Log Set Rating Label
Zero-Clearance Stand-Offs
Fireplace has zero-clearance stand-offs fastened to the body of the fireplace as shown in the figures below. Stand-offs must be fully
extended upon installation.
Zero-Clearance Stand-Offs (Isometric View)
Zero-Clearance Stand-Offs (Top View)

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Installation
Prior to Installation
Locate the Fireplace
Keep the following factors in mind when selecting a location for the fireplace:
Fireplace clearance requirements (review “General Clearances” sections).
Heat release and air intake requirements (review “Heat Release Requirements” and “Air Intake Requirements” sections).
Adequate space for servicing.
Access panel recommendations (review “Access Panel” section).
Minimum vertical vent rise, allowed horizontal lengths, and degree of offset (review “Venting” section).
Framing and finishing requirements (review “Framing” and “Finishing” sections).
Front wall installation and finishes to be completed after fireplace and vent installation (review “Step-By-Step Chase
Construction” section).
Floor or Platform requirements (review “Platform” section).
Fireplace Installation
Use the following guidelines to ensure a smooth installation. The installation sequence is divided into three phases: Planning, Installation,
and Startup.
First Trip to Site: Planning
Consult with the contractor and go over all requirements:
Chase framing requirements.
5/8” Type X Drywall (or equivalent) requirements.
Heat release requirements.
Air Intake requirements (if applicable).
Access panel size and location.
Gas and electric specs and location.
Vent configuration.
Finishing details.
NOTE: Provide the contactor with a copy of the “Building Checklist” and review requirements with them.
Second Trip to Site: Installation
Confirm the following items are properly located and built to specification:
Framing (with 5/8” Type X Drywall as applicable)
Platform
Gas and electric
Access panel (if applicable)
Heat release
Air intake (if applicable)
Clear a path free of any possible obstruction to carry in the fireplace.
Uncrate the fireplace and set in place.
Make sure all zero-clearance metal stand-offs on the outside of the fireplace are fully extended.
Secure the fireplace to the framing by attaching the nailing flanges to the framing. See “Securing the Fireplace” section below.
Remove all zip ties.
Optional: Remove gas and electrical components from metal shipping plate if desired.
Move the components to the access panel location. Be mindful of the routing for future service needs.
Connect the light grounding cable to the fireplace leg closest to the access panel.
Install the vent components. See “Vent Installation” section below.
Review the front wall requirements (see “Step-By-Step Chase Construction” section) and finishing details with the contractor.
Protect the fireplace and components from damage.

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Securing the Fireplace
The fireplace has nailing flanges attached to the upper and lower face of the front of the
fireplace (highlighted in grey on “Nailing Flanges” image). The nailing flanges are to be
attached into the framing upon installation. It is crucial to the finishing that the fireplace is
stable, level, and plumb. For added stability (though not required), re-use the shipping
brackets to secure the legs of the fireplace to floor/platform.
Vent Installation
Venting must be installed according to the requirements detailed in the “Venting” section of
this manual in conjunction with the vent system manufacturer’s installation instructions.
Venting must be supported by the structural surrounding and not by the fireplace. Each
offset (elbow) must be strapped to reduce movement or possible disconnection.
The first section of venting must be secured to the fireplace starter collar with a minimum
of 3 sheet metal screws no longer than ½”. DO NOT use silicone to seal the sections. If
sealing is required by the vent manufacturer or local code, use Mil-Pac sealant.
Nailing Flanges
Third Trip to Site: Startup
Perform a visual inspection to confirm that all work was completed correctly and per specification.
Confirm that gas and electric are properly connected and live.
Remove the safety barrier and glass and clean the inside of the fireplace.
Install the Dark Brown Logs or Chopped Wood Logs on the burner as specified in “Log Placement” section.
Confirm the log placement is set up per specification.
Confirm the fireplace is operating properly.
Check remote-control setup.
Remove protective layer from glass
Clean glass.
Reinstall the glass and safety barrier.
Review operation of the fireplace and remote control with the owner.
Set up return visit to clean glass after the Initial Burning Period (see “Post Installation” section below).
Post-Installation
Complete the following post-installation steps upon 4th trip to site.
Initial Burning Period
There is a 12-hour minimum burning period following installation of the fireplace. This 12-hour period must include a minimum of 4
consecutive hours of continuous burning. During this time, the owner or installer may notice:
The glass developing a white or “cloudy” film
An unusual smell
Both the film and the smell are due to the paint on the fireplace metal heating and “burning off”. This is normal. The cloudiness and odor
will disappear after the 12-hour period elapses and the installer returns to service the fireplace and complete startup.
Final Inspection Procedure
When the 12-hour burning period is complete, the installer must return and perform the final inspection, which includes:
Cleaning the glass with a ceramic glass cleaner (otherwise the white film will remain)
Checking the interior media setup
Checking for gas leaks
Adjusting the restrictor (if necessary)
Performing an overall check to make sure that everything is working properly
When these activities are complete, initial startup is concluded and the fireplace may be operated by the owner.
Final Checks and User Instruction
Before releasing the fireplace to the customer for use without installer supervision, the installer must ensure that the fireplace is burning
correctly. In addition, the installer must review and explain the following to the owner:
Safety warnings
Fireplace operation
Warranty requirements
Maintenance requirements
Glass is hot during and after operation
If any questions or concerns arise, owner must contact the local Ortal dealer/installer for support.

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Building Around the Fireplace
Building Checklist
The following building checklist is a quick reference for a typical Ortal Wilderness 31 Front installation. This list
is not exhaustive and does not supplement thorough review of the installation manual.
Fireplace Location: Ensure the location allows for min. 40” clearance from viewing area to furniture and
other combustibles. Make sure a clear path is established to allow the fireplace to be safely transported to
installation location.
Venting: Confirm vent size (5”x8”), vent clearance (1” on sides and bottom, 3” on top), vent configuration,
and termination location.
Platform Height: Determine desired fireplace viewing area location on the wall. Average height of bottom
of glass to the floor is 12”-24”. Platform must be able to bear the weight of the fireplace. Platform can be
constructed out of wood, concrete, metal, or any other solid materials (not required to be non-combustible).
A platform is not required. The fireplace may sit directly on the floor. The floor has the same construction
requirements as a platform.
Chase Construction: No materials can be attached directly to the fireplace (exception: 5/8” Type X
Drywall). Chase interior must be large enough to accommodate fireplace with all metal stand-offs fully
extended. The area of the chase interior must be min. 124 square inches at any given point within the
chase.
Framing: Adhere to minimum framing dimensions (or greater). The first 18” above the top of the fireplace
viewing area must always be non-combustible framing. Maintain min. ¼” clearance from front face of
fireplace and front metal off-set to the framing. For recessed fireplaces, do not exceed 12” max. front
overhang depth limit. No material is permitted to extend past the ½” metal lip surrounding the fireplace
viewing area.
5/8” Type X Drywall Requirements: One layer of 5/8” Type X Drywall (or equivalent) must be installed on
the exterior of the chase framing. 5/8” Type X Drywall (or equivalent) may be fastened to the front face of
the fireplace with 1" self-tapping drywall screws 16'' on center a minimum of 2 ½” from the metal lip (above
the viewing area).
TV/Artwork: TV/Art must be min. 12” above top of fireplace viewing area. First 18” min. above the viewing
area must have non-combustible framing (top front metal stand-off + non-combustible studs).
Gas Supply Line and Power Location: Locate gas line with manual shut off according to local code.
Power provided by single gang 120V outlet in same area as gas line.
Access Panel: Access panel highly recommended to access gas and electrical components for servicing.
Can be placed at side or back of the fireplace within 3’ of the pilot. Access panel is required for power-
vented fireplaces. Min. size 10”x10”.
Heat Release: Crucial for Cool Wall Technology. Must start within 6” (max.) from the chase’s ceiling. Min.
heat release size is 124 sq.in. of net free air space. Height of the heat release must not exceed 1/3 of the
width.
Air Intake: Only required for double glass heat barrier. Must be located at or below level of double glass
fans. Min. 124 sq.in. of net free air space.
Finishing: Maintain required clearances depending on your finish material.

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Framing
Fireplace chase may be framed with either combustible (typically wood studs) or non-combustible framing (typically metal studs). Any
framing within 18” from the top of the fireplace glass (viewing area) must be non-combustible.
The framing of the fireplace chase must be designed to carry the entire weight of the wall and finish material. Surrounding material must
not transfer weight to the fireplace or be connected in any way to the fireplace, with the exception of 5/8” Type X Drywall (or its equivalent).
It may be fastened to the front face of the fireplace with 1" self-tapping drywall screws 16 inches on center, with a minimum of 2 ½ inches
from the metal lip.
No material is permitted to extend past the ½” metal lip surrounding the fireplace viewing area. This area must be unobstructed to allow
the heat barrier and inside glass panel to be removable.
Framing Dimensions
The following diagrams are for illustrative purposes only. There are multiple approved installation scenarios. A flush application is not the
only permitted application. The fireplace may be recessed into the wall. Refer to diagrams and values below and in the following pages
for details.
Wilderness 31 Front Framing
Model Dimension A Dimension B Dimension C Dimension D
Wilderness 31 F 61” 39-1/16” 19-1/8” Refer to pipe manufacturer’s firestop
dimensions

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5/8” Type X Drywall Requirements
Framing must be covered with 5/8” Type X Drywall (or equivalent). The chase interior does not require a layer of 5/8” Type X Drywall (or
equivalent). The chase interior does not require a non-combustible layer.
NOTE: 5/8” Type X Drywall (or equivalent) is not required on the exterior portion of an insulated outside-facing wall.
Platform
The fireplace must be installed on a flat, solid, continuous surface. Surface can be wood, concrete, metal, and other typical solid floor
types. Surface material is not required to be non-combustible.
To raise the fireplace higher than standard height, build a platform to which the fireplace can be secured. Platform must be stable and
able to bear the full weight of the fireplace. Platform can be constructed out of wood, concrete, metal, or any other solid materials. Material
is not required to be non-combustible.
To lower the fireplace, it must be recessed into the floor. Fireplace legs cannot be removed, cut, or adjusted.

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General Clearances
Non-Combustible Zone
Furniture and other combustibles are not permitted within the non-combustible zone. The non-combustible zone is an area that extends
40 inches perpendicular from the fireplace glass. Combustibles are permitted below and around the non-combustible zone
Non-Combustible Zone
Framing Clearance
Maintain a minimum ¼ inches of space between the framing and the face of the fireplace/front stand-off.

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Clearance to a Side Wall
The following requirements apply to a wall perpendicular to the front glass of the fireplace.
Side Wall
≤
12 inches Side Wall > 12 inches
Top View
Building Material
Top View
Clearance: No clearance required.
Clearance: Minimum 12-inch clearance required between the side wall
and the side viewing area lip.
Maximum Overhang Depth
Overhang depth of a recessed fireplace must not exceed 12 inches. Overhang depth is measured from the edge of the fireplace lip to
the out-most part of the wall (including finish material).
Bottom recess (or “hearth extension”) has no minimum or maximum depth requirement. If bottom recess depth exceeds 12 inches,
ensure the structure is capable of supporting the weight of a fireplace technician for servicing.

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Heat Release
A heat release is an opening in the fireplace chase that allows the heat inside the chase to passively circulate into an interior room. This
heat is generated convectively as the fireplace heats up. It is separate from exhaust heat produced at the combustion chamber of the
fireplace. A heat release is required to keep the wall around the fireplace cool.
Heat Release Requirements
The heat release must be located at or near the top of the fireplace chase and start within 6 inches (0-6 inches max) of the
chase ceiling (draft stop). It can start at the chase ceiling. It can be located on the front, sides or back of the chase. It can be
released into any interior space that shares a wall with the chase.
The heat release cannot be vented outdoors as this would expose the fireplace to outdoor elements.
Minimum heat release size requirement depends on heat release orientation:
Horizontal Heat Release Vertical Heat Release
Minimum 124 sq. in. of net free air space Minimum 160 sq. in. of net free air space
For horizontal heat releases, the height of the heat release must not exceed 1/3 of the width. The heat release must be 2/3 wider
than it is tall.
The heat release can be in the form of (but not limited to) a louvered ventilation grille, gap, or reveal.
For louvered ventilation grilles, the net free air space allowed in the louvered area must be equal or greater than the
minimum number of square inches required per fireplace.
The interior area of the narrowest part of the fireplace chase (in square inches) must never be less than your required heat
release size (see “Chase Area Minimum” section for details).
The following diagrams are examples of potential heat release options. These drawings serve as illustrative purposes only.
Horizontal Heat Release
Gap Heat Release
Louvered Grille Heat Release

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Vertical Heat Release: Split Front
Vertical Heat Release: Full Side
The heat release is oriented vertically and split between the two
sides of the chase.
The heat release is oriented vertically. Entire heat release is on
one side of the fireplace chase.
Split Front Vertical Heat Release Full Vertical Heat Release on One Side
Sprinkler Clearance to Heat Release
In a situation where a sprinkler head is near the heat release, the sprinkler head must be minimum 60 inches (linear length) from
every point of the heat release opening.

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Air Intake
When installing a fireplace with a double glass heat barrier, it is essential to maintain cool air flow between the double glass panels. For
this purpose, an opening must be provided toward the bottom of the wall to allow the double glass fans to circulate room air through the
glass panels and up into the chase. This opening, called an air intake, needs to be made before closing the wall surface below the
fireplace. Air intake must meet the minimum size requirement.
Air Intake
Minimum 124 sq. in. of net free air space
The air intake can be in the form of a louvered ventilation grille, gap, or toe-kick (reveal). For louvered ventilation grilles, the net free air
space allowed in the louvered area must be equal or greater than the minimum number of square inches required per fireplace.
The entire air intake must be located at or below the double glass fans. The air intake is not required to be on the front wall of the
fireplace. The air intake cannot be on a wall that allows air from outside the house directly into the fireplace chase.

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Air Intake for a Platform
NOTE: Please refer to the “Platform” section for details on platform construction.

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Mounting a TV/Artwork
Ortal’s Cool Wall Technology is a technique that reduces the convective heat from the fireplace and prevents heat buildup inside the
fireplace chase, mitigating any damage that may result from the wall reaching high temperatures. Ortal’s Cool Wall system enables the
option of safely installing artwork, a TV, or other similar electronic components above the fireplace by reducing the wall temperature
above the fireplace.
Location Wall Temperature
0-6 inches above fireplace
100˚F - 120˚F
6-12 inches above fireplace
90˚F - 100˚F
12 inches above fireplace 80˚F - 90˚F
Required minimum clearance between bottom edge of TV or other similar device or artwork
and top of fireplace viewing area is 12 inches.
Maintain the following general requirements to mount a TV or artwork above the fireplace and prevent heat damage:
Mount the TV or artwork a minimum of 12 inches above the top of the fireplace viewing area.
TV wires must be routed through framing and cannot pass through the fireplace chase.
The decision to install a television above an Ortal fireplace is up to the discretion of the owner. TV and art manufacturers may specify
that their product should not be installed on, near or above a heat source. Ortal will not be held liable for any adverse effects on a TV,
artwork or other equipment located near the Ortal fireplace. It is the owner’s responsibility to verify that their TV or artwork can withstand
the wall temperatures as outlined in the above wall temperature chart.
The following diagrams can be used as a guide for customers who do decide to locate their TV and artwork above their Ortal fireplace.
These drawings illustrate ways of reducing the amount of heat impact to the area surrounding the fireplace.
Flush Mounted TV/Artwork

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Recessed TV/Artwork
The top stand-off on the fireplace is composed of two metal panels. The top
panel is attached to the bottom panel with a series of bolts. This top panel
can be unbolted and removed for recessed TV installations.
The first 18 inches above the top of the fireplace viewing area must be
framed with non-combustible framing. The lower stand-off offsets your
non-combustible framing distance. Non-combustible framing plus the height
of the lower stand-off must be minimum 18 inches.
IMPORTANT NOTE: When a TV/artwork is recessed above the
fireplace, the depth of the fireplace prevents the TV/artwork from being
closer than 15-1/2” from the top of the viewing area. See diagram
below for illustration.
NOTES:
The first 18 inches above the top of the fireplace
viewing area must be framed with non-combustible
framing.

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Access Panel
An access panel is not required (see note below for exception), but it is highly recommended. It allows for access to the fireplace’s gas
and electrical components for servicing.
NOTE: An access panel at the fireplace is required for fireplaces with a power vent to allow access to the power vent control
box for servicing.
Access Panel Size and Location Recommendations:
Minimum of 10 inches x 10 inches in size.
Located within 36 inches of the pilot to the side or back of the fireplace (see “Routing the Gas Line”)
The size and location of the access panel may vary, but in all cases, it must allow the technician to comfortably access and service the
fireplace’s gas and electrical components. These components are attached to the pilot on a flexible gas line and can be moved within 36
inches of the pilot (located at the center front of the burner) to the side or back of the fireplace.
For ease of access, move the fireplace’s gas and electrical components as close to the access panel as possible. If there is any distance
between the access panel and the gas and electrical components, the access panel size must be increased accordingly. Prior
to installation, fireplace dealers/installers should work with the owner, builder, project architects and/or interior designers to determine the
best size and location of their access panel.
If an access panel cannot be incorporated, the alternative method of servicing the gas and electrical components is though the fireplace.
This procedure requires removing the glass panel(s) and interior design media, and lifting the grill, burner, and bottom pressure release
valve. This will increase service time and difficulty. An access panel is always preferred. Fireplace dealers/installers are advised to consult
with their clients regarding the advantages and disadvantages of each service option.
Chase Area Minimum
To ensure the convective heat within the chase passively moves to the heat release at an optimal rate, all parts of the interior of the chase
must be minimum 124 sq. in. in size at any given point. To determine if your chase meets this requirement, use the following equation
at the narrowest part of the chase.
Chase Area = (Chase Length x Chase Depth) – (50.27in2)
Fireplace Chase (Top View)
If the heat release is split into 25/75 portions due to an oversized ledge, the chase only needs to be the size of 75% of the heat release
because 25% of the heat is already being released at the ledge (see “Ledge Detail” section below for details).

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Recessed Ledge
A ledge over the top of a fireplace that is less than 24 inches from the top of the fireplace viewing area must maintain a minimum
of 12 inches from the top of the viewing area to the bottom of the building material. Entire structure must be non-
combustible (framing and finish).
If ledge surface area exceeds 220 sq.in., the heat release must be divided up between the ledge and the chase ceiling: 25% at
the ledge and 75% at the chase ceiling.
Ledge Size: A x B ≤ 220 sq. in.
A = ledge depth, B= ledge length (Top View)
Oversized Ledge Detail
NOTES:
Top portion of the top front stand-off must be removed. See “Recessed TV/Artwork” section for details.
Chase area minimum requirements must be met throughout the entire fireplace chase. See “Chase Area Minimum” section
above for details.