Superior Fireplaces VCT3032B User manual

VCT3032B
VCT3032WS
VRT3032B
VRT3032WS
VCT3036B
VCT3036WS
VRT3036B
VRT3036WS
VCT3042B
VCT3042WS
VRT3042B
VRT3042WS
Installation and Operation Instructions
Unvented (Vent-Free) Universal Firebox
P/N 126712-01 Rev. C 01/2017
Models
P126712-01
INSTALLER: Leave this manual with the appliance.
CONSUMER: Retain this manual for future reference.
WARNING: Carefully review the instructions supplied with the decorative type unvented room heater for
the minimum fireplace size requirement.
DO NOT INSTALL THE APPLIANCE IN THIS FIREBOX, UNLESS THIS FIREBOX MEETS THE MINIMUM
DIMENSIONS REQUIRED FOR THE INSTALLATION.
WARNING:
FIRE OR EXPLOSION HAZARD
Failure to follow safety warnings exactly could result in serious injury, death, or property damage.
- 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.
• 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 fire department.
- Installation and service must be performed by a qualified installer, service agency or the gas supplier.
PFS
®
US
Report No. F12-020
WARNING: FOR USE ONLY WITH A LISTED, GAS-FIRED UNVENTED DECORATIVE ROOM HEATER NOT TO
EXCEED 40,000 BTU/H.
DO NOT BUILD A WOOD FIRE.

126712-01C
SAFETY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Safety .................................................................. 2
Local Codes......................................................... 3
Product Features................................................. 4
Locating Firebox.................................................. 4
Product Specifications......................................... 5
Air For Combustion and Ventilation..................... 8
Installation ......................................................... 10
Replacement Parts............................................ 21
Technical Service............................................... 21
Accessories....................................................... 22
Parts.................................................................. 24
Warranty............................................................ 29
SuperiorFireplaces.US.com
2
WARNING: Improper installation, adjustment, altera-
tion,serviceormaintenancecancauseinjuryorproperty
damage. Refer to this manual for correct installation and
operational procedures. For assistance or additional
information consult a qualified installer, service agency
or the gas supplier.
IMPORTANT: Read this owner’s
manual carefully and complete-
ly before trying to assemble,
operate or service this heater.
Improper use of this fireplace
can cause serious injury or
death from burns, fire, explo-
sion, electrical shock and car-
bon monoxide poisoning.
WARNING: Do not allow
fans to blow directly into the
firebox. Avoid any drafts that
alter burner flame patterns.
Ceiling fans can create drafts
that alter burner flame patterns.
Altered burner patterns can
cause sooting.
WARNING: Do not use a
blower insert, heat exchanger
insert or other accessory not ap-
proved for use with this firebox.
Do not place clothing or other
flammable material on or near
the appliance. Never place any
objectsinthefireboxoronlogs.
WARNING: Any change to
this heater or its controls can
be dangerous.”
WARNING: This product
contains and/or generates
chemicals known to the state
of California to cause cancer or
birth defects or other reproduc-
tive harm.
This appliance may be
installed in an aftermar-
ket,* permanently located,
manufactured (mobile)
home, where not prohib-
ited by local codes.
* Aftermarket: Completion of sale, not for
purpose of resale, from the manufacturer
WARNING: If the information
in this manual is not followed
exactly, a fire or explosion may
result causingproperty damage,
personal injury or loss of live

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126712-01C 3
SAFETY
Continued
1. Donotusethisfireboxasawood-burning
fireplace. Use only decorative unvented
room heaters (log sets).
2. Do not add extra logs or ornaments such
as pine cones, vermiculite or rock wool.
Using these added items can cause
sooting.
3. Use only the provided hood or appropri-
ate hood accessory. See Accessories on
Page 22.
4. Vent-freegaslog heatersinstalled inthese
fireboxes require fresh air ventilation to
run properly. See Air for Combustion and
Ventilation, Page 8.
5. Do not run firebox
• where flammable liquids or vapors are
used or stored
• under dusty conditions
6. Do not use this firebox to cook food or
burn paper or other objects.
7. Turn fireboxoffand let cool beforeservic-
ing.Onlyaqualifiedservice personshould
service and repair firebox.
8. Operating firebox above elevations of
4,500 feet could cause pilot outage.
9. Do not use the firebox if it has been un-
der water due to the shock hazard that
could result with the blower accessary (if
installed) in place.
Firebox front and screen be-
comes very hot when running
firebox.Keepchildrenandadults
awayfromhotsurfacestoavoid
burns or clothing ignition. Fire-
box will remain hot for a time
after shutdown. Allow surfaces
to cool before touching.
You must operate this fireplace
with the provided fireplace
screen, hood if provided, in
place. Make sure these parts
are in place and screens are
closed before running firebox.
The supplied hood may not be
replacedwithahoodwhichmay
be provided with a log heater.
Thefireboxcanopy(hood)must
not be modified or replaced
with a canopy (hood) that may
be provided with the unvented
decorative room heater.
Keepthefireplaceareaclearand
freefromcombustiblematerials,
gasoline, and other flammable
vapors and liquids.
Children and adults should be
alerted to the hazard of high
surfacetemperatureandshould
stay away to avoid burns or
clothing ignition.
Young children should be care-
fully supervised when they are
in the same room with the ap-
pliance.

SuperiorFireplaces.US.com 126712-01C4
PRODUCT FEATURES
OPERATION
Thisfirebox isdesigned for usewithapproved
ANSIZ21.11.2 decorativetype unventedroom
heaters.(Physical sizelimitations apply.Refer
to minimum firebox requirements supplied
with log heater.) It requires no outside vent-
ing or chimney making installation easy and
inexpensive. When used without the blower,
the firebox requires no electricity making it
ideal for emergency backup heat.
BLOWER ACCESSORY
The circulating models will accept either a ro-
tarytype fan (modelBK)or the tripleradialfan
blower system (model BK3) or thermostatic
blower (model BKT) accessories. The blower
circulates heated air from the firebox into the
room. Use of the blower is optional.
REFRACTORY BRICK LINER
Yourfireboxmay feature aconcrete refractory
brickliner.As with allconcreteliners, this liner
may develop slight cracks when exposed to
heat. These cracks will not affect the perfor-
mance of the fireplace or vent-free gas logs.
OPTIONAL FIBER AND PORCELAIN
LINERS
For a vintage look, the fiber panels give a
old masonry brick look and are light weight
and easy to install. For a modern look, the
porcelain panels accessory have a black
sleekfinishthat reflects the glow of the flame.
OPTIONAL OUTSIDE AIR KIT
The optional AK4, AK4X AK4F and AK4B air
kit provides additional outdoor air to improve
burner efficiency and reduce build-up of
condensation in the living space. Follow the
instructions included with the air kit.
LOCATING FIREBOX
PLANNING
Planwhere you willinstall the firebox.Thiswill
save time and money later when you install
the firebox. Before installation, consider the
following:
1. Wherethefireboxwill belocated.Allow for
wall and ceiling clearances (see Installa-
tion Clearances, Page 11).
2. Everything needed to complete installation.
3. These models CANNOT be installed in a
bedroomunless the maximumBTU rating
of the installed vent-free log set is less
than 10,000 Btu/Hr.
4. Proper air for combustion and ventilation
(Page 8).
LOCAL CODES
*Available from:
American National Standards Institute, Inc.
25 West 43rd Street, 4th floor
New York, NY 10036
National Fire Protection Association, Inc.
1 Batterymarch Park
Quincy, MA 02169-7471
COMMONWEALTH OF MASSACHUSETTS REQUIREMENTS
These appliances are approved for installation in the US state of Massachusetts if the fol-
lowing additional requirements are met:
• Un-vented Room Heaters shall be installed in accordance with 527 CMR 30.
• Installation and repair must be done by a plumber or gas fitter licensed in the Common-
wealth of Massachusetts.
• Theflexible gasline connectorused shall notexceed 36inches (92 centimeters) in length.
• The individual manual shut-off must be a T-handle type valve.
• Unvented appliances may NOT be installed in bedrooms or bathrooms.
• A working smoke detector must be installed in the area where vent-free appliances are
installed.
Seller of unvented propane or natural gas-fired supplemental room heaters shall provide
to each purchaser a copy of 527 CMR 30 upon sale of the unit.
Installandusefireboxwith care.Follow alllocal
codes. In the absence of local codes, use the
latest edition of The National Fuel Gas Code
ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54*; National Fuel Gas
Code; Natural Gas and Propane Installation
Code (latest edition). Firebox must be electri-
callygrounded inaccordancewith the National
ElectricalCode,ANSI/NFPA70(latestedition).

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126712-01C 5
22-1/2
19-1/2
36-3/8
18-1/4
32-1/4
34-1/2
12-5/8
24
7-5/8
3-3/8
3-5/8
8-1/4
29-3/8
36-5/8
2-5/8
7
7
6-1/8
16-5/8
4-3/8
10-5/8
13-1/8
10-1/2
3-5/8
8-1/4
6-7/8 6-7/8
8-1/4
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Figure 1 - Product Specifications 32'' Models
Right Side View
Left Side View
Front View
32" MODELS
Outside Air
Kit Location
Electrical
Outlet
Firebox Top View
Inches

SuperiorFireplaces.US.com 126712-01C6
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Continued
6-1/8 29-1/8
25
21-1/8
21
43-1/8
41-1/8
35
7-1/8
36-1/8
8-1/8
26-3/8
8-1/4 8-1/4
8-3/8
10-3/8
14
8-5/8
8-5/8
7-1/2
2-5/8
11-1/2
3-3/8
40-1/4
Right Side View
Left Side View
Front View
Firebox Top View
36" MODELS
Figure 2 - Product Specifications 36'' Models
Outside
Air Kit
Location
Electrical
Outlet
Inches

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126712-01C 7
PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Continued
27-1/8
50-1/8
2-3/8
22-3/8
3-1/8
40-1/4
2-5/8
8-1/4
10-3/4
10-1/2
12-5/8
14-1/4
7-1/8
42
40-1/8
42
6-1/8
23-1/4
4-1/2
36-1/4
40-1/8
24
44-1/4
3-3/8
13-3/8
8-1/4
2-5/8
10-5/8
7-5/8
42" MODELS
Figure 3 - Product Specifications 42'' Models
Right Side View
Left Side View
Front View
Firebox Top View
Outside
Air Kit
Location
Electrical
Outlet
Inches

SuperiorFireplaces.US.com 126712-01C8
AIR FOR COMBUSTION AND VENTILATION
Unusually tight construction is defined as
construction where:
a. walls and ceilings exposed to the out-
side atmosphere have a continuous
water vapor retarder with a rating of
one perm (6 x 10
-11
kg per pa-sec-m
2
) or
less with openings gasketed or sealed
and
b. weather stripping has been added on
openable windows and doors and
c. caulking or sealants are applied to
areas such as joints around window
and door frames, between sole plates
and floors, between wall-ceiling joints,
between wall panels, at penetrations
for plumbing, electrical and gas lines
and at other openings.
If your home meets all of the three criteria
above,youmustprovide additionalfreshair.
SeeVentilationAirFromOutdoors,Page10.
If your home does not meet all of the three
criteria above, proceed to Determining
Fresh-Air Flow For Firebox Location.
Confined and Unconfined Space
The National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1/
NFPA54 allows two methods for determining
whetherthespaceinwhichtheheaterisbeing
installedis confinedor unconfinedspace.The
standardmethod definesa confined spaceas
a space whose volume is less than 50 cubic
feet per 1,000 Btu per hour (4.8 m
3
per kw)
of the aggregate input rating of all appliances
installed in that space and an unconfined
space as a space whose volume is not less
than50cubic feet per 1,000 Btu per hour (4.8
m
3
per kw) of the aggregate input rating of
all appliances installed in that space. Rooms
communicating directly with the space in
which the appliances are installed*, through
openingsnotfurnishedwithdoors, areconsid-
ered a part of the unconfined space.
Where the air infiltration rate of a structure is
known,the KnownAirInfiltration RateMethod
may be used. Follow The National Fuel Gas
Code, ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54 to use this
method to determine if the space is confined
or unconfined.
* Adjoining rooms are communicating only if
thereare doorlesspassagewaysorventilation
grills between them.
Today’shomes are built more energy efficient
thanever.New materials,increased insulation
and new construction methods help reduce
heat loss in homes. Homeowners apply
weather strip and caulk around windows and
doorsto keepthecold airoutand thewarmair
in.During heating months, homeowners want
their homes as airtight as possible.
While it is good to make your home energy
efficient, your home needs to breathe. Fresh
air must enter your home.All fuel-burning ap-
pliancesneed fresh air for proper combustion
and ventilation.
Exhaust fans, some fireplaces, clothes dryers
and some fuel-burning appliances draw air
from the house to operate. You must provide
adequate fresh air for these appliances. This
will ensure proper venting of vented fuel-
burning appliances.
PROVIDING ADEQUATE
VENTILATION
Thefollowing are excerpts from National Fuel
Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54, Air for
Combustion and Ventilation.
All spaces in homes fall into one of the three
following ventilation classifications:
1. Unusually Tight Construction
2. Unconfined Space
3. Confined Space
The information on Pages 8 through 10 will
help you classify your space and provide ad-
equate ventilation.
Unusually Tight Construction
The air that leaks around doors and windows
may provide enough fresh air for combustion
and ventilation. However, in buildings of un-
usually tight construction, you must provide
additional fresh air.
WARNING: This heater shall
notbeinstalledinaroomorspace
unlesstherequiredvolumeofin-
door combustion air is provided
by the method described in the
National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI
Z223.1/NFPA54,theInternational
Fuel Gas Code, or applicable
local codes. Read the following
instructions to ensure proper
fresh air for this and other fuel-
burningappliancesinyourhome.

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126712-01C 9
DETERMINING FRESH-AIR FLOW
FOR HEATER LOCATION
Determining if You Have a Confined or
Unconfined Space Using the Standard
Method
Use this work sheet to determine if you have
a confined or unconfined space.
Space: Includes the room in which you will
install heater plus any adjoining rooms with
doorless passageways or ventilation grills
between the rooms.
1. Determine the volume of the space (length
x width x height).
Lengthx Width xHeight =__________cu. ft.
(volume of space)
Example :Space size 22 ft. (length) x 18 ft.
(width) x 8 ft. (ceiling height) = 3,168 cu. ft.
(volume of space)
If additional ventilation to adjoining room
is supplied with grills or openings, add the
volume of these rooms to the total volume
of the space.
2. Multiply the space volume by 20 to determine
the maximum Btu/Hr the space can support.
________ (volume of space) x 20 = (Maxi-
mum Btu/Hr the space can support)
Example :3,168 cu. ft. (volume of space) x 20
=63,360(maximumBtu/Hrspacecansupport)
3. Add the Btu/Hr of all fuel burning appliances
in the space.
Vent-free fireplace _________Btu/Hr
Gas water heater* _________Btu/Hr
Gas furnace _________Btu/Hr
Vented gas heater _________Btu/Hr
Gas fireplace logs _________Btu/Hr
Other gas appliances*+ _________ Btu/Hr
Total = _________Btu/Hr
* Do not include direct-vent gas appliances.
Direct-vent draws combustion air from the
outdoors and vents to the outdoors.
Example:
Gas water heater _________Btu/Hr
Vent-free fireplace + _________Btu/Hr
Total = _________Btu/Hr
4. Compare the maximum Btu/Hr the space
can support with the actual amount of Btu/
Hr used.
_______ Btu/Hr (maximum the space can
support)
_______ Btu/Hr (actual amount of Btu/Hr
used)
Example :63,360 Btu/Hr (maximum the
space can support)
79,000 Btu/Hr (actual amount of
Btu/Hr used)
The space in the example is a confined space
because the actual Btu/Hr used is more than the
maximum Btu/Hr the space can support. You
must provide additional fresh air. Your options
are as follows:
A. Rework worksheet, adding the space of an
adjoiningroom.Iftheextra spaceprovidesan
unconfined space, remove door to adjoining
room or addventilation grillsbetween rooms.
See Ventilation Air From Inside Building.
B. Vent room directly to the outdoors. See
Ventilation Air From Outdoors, Page 10.
C. Install a lower Btu/Hr fireplace, if lower Btu/
Hr size makes room unconfined.
If the actual Btu/Hr used is less than the
maximum Btu/Hr the space can support, the
space is an unconfined space. You will need
no additional fresh air ventilation.
40,000
39,000
79,000
WARNING: If the area in
which the heater may be oper-
ated 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/NFPA54,theInternation-
al Fuel Gas Code, or applicable
local codes.

SuperiorFireplaces.US.com 126712-01C10
VENTILATION AIR
Ventilation Air From Inside Building
This fresh air would come from an adjoining
unconfined space. When ventilating to an
adjoiningunconfinedspace,you mustprovide
twopermanent openings:one within12" ofthe
ceiling and one within 12" of the floor on the
wall connecting the two spaces (see options
1and2, Figure 4).Youcan also remove door
into adjoining room (see option 3, Figure 4).
Follow the National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI
Z223.1/NFPA 54, Air for Combustion and
Ventilation for required size of ventilation
grills or ducts.
AIR FOR COMBUSTION AND VENTILATION
Figure 5 - Ventilation Air from Outdoors
Figure 4 - Ventilation Air from Inside
Building
Ventilation Air From Outdoors
Provide extra fresh air by using ventilation
grills or ducts. You must provide two perma-
nent openings: one within 12" of the ceiling
andonewithin 12" of the floor. Connect these
items directly to the outdoors or spaces open
to the outdoors. These spaces include attics
and crawl spaces. Follow the National Fuel
Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54, Air for
Combustion and Ventilation for required size
of ventilation grills or ducts.
IMPORTANT:Do not provide openings
for inlet or outlet air into attic if attic has a
thermostat-controlled power vent. Heated air
entering the attic will activate the power vent.
INSTALLATION
Or
Remove
Door into
Adjoining
Room,
Option
3
Ventilation Grills
Into Adjoining Room,
Option 2
Ventilation
Grills
Into Adjoining
Room,
Option 1
12"
12"
Outlet
Air
Ventilated
Attic
Outlet
A
ir
Inlet
Air
Inlet Air Ventilated
Crawl Space
To
Crawl
Space
To Attic
WARNING:Never installthe
firebox
• in a bedroom or bathroom*
• in a recreational vehicle
• where curtains, furniture,
clothing or other flammable
objectsarelessthan42"from
the front, top or sides of the
firebox
• in high traffic areas
• in windy or drafty areas
* Unlesstheinstalled logset is
ratedat10,000Btu/Hrorless
ina bedroomor6,000 Btu/Hr
or less in a bathroom.
WARNING: A qualified ser-
vicepersonmustinstallfirebox.
Follow all local codes.
CAUTION: Log heaters in-
stalled in this firebox create
warmaircurrents.Thesecurrents
move heat to wall surfaces next
to firebox. Installing firebox next
tovinylorclothwallcoveringsor
operating firebox where impuri-
ties(suchas,butnotlimitedto,to-
bacco smoke, aromatic candles,
cleaning fluids, oil or kerosene
lamps, etc.) in the air exist, may
discolor walls or cause odors.

SuperiorFireplaces.US.com
126712-01C 11
IMPORTANT:Vent-free gas log heaters add
moisture to the air.Although this is beneficial,
installing firebox in rooms without enough
ventilationairmay cause mildew to form from
too much moisture. See Air for Combustion
and Ventilation, Page 8.
IMPORTANT:Make sure firebox is level.
If firebox is not level, log set will not work
properly.
NOTE: Your firebox is designed to be used in
zero clearance installations. Wall or framing
material can be placed against any exterior
surface on the rear, sides, top or bottom of
your firebox, except where standoff spacers
areintegrally attached. Ifstandoff spacers are
attached to your firebox, these spacers can
beplaceddirectly against wall or framing ma-
terials. Use the dimensions shown for rough
opening to create the easiest installation.
Use dimensions shown for rough openings
to create the easiest installation (see Built-In
Firebox Installation, Page 12).
INSTALLATION CLEARANCES
INSTALLATION
Continued
*Minimum 16" from Side Wall
*
optional cabinet mantels (see Accessories,
Page 22)or as a built-in unit. Clearances are
the same for either installation method.
Example
Mantel Clearances for Built-In Installation
Ifplacingcustommantelabovebuilt-infirebox,
you must meet the minimum allowable clear-
ance between mantel shelf and top of firebox
opening shown in Figure 7, Page 12. These
arethe minimumallowable mantel clearances
for a safe installation. Use larger clearances
wherever possible to minimize the heating of
objects and materials placed on the mantel.
Figure 6 - Minimum Clearance for
Combustible to wall
WARNING: Maintain the
minimum clearances.If you can,
provide greater clearances from
floor, ceiling and adjoining wall.
Carefully follow these instructions. This will
ensure safe installation.
Minimum Wall and Ceiling Clearances (see
Figure 6)
A. Clearances from the side of fireplace
cabinet to any combustible material and
wall should follow diagram in Figure 6.
Example:Theface ofa mantel,bookshelf,
etc. is made of combustible material and
protrudes 3-1/2" from the wall. This com-
bustiblematerialmustbe4" from the side
of the fireplace cabinet (see Figure 6).
B. Clearancesfrom thetopoffireboxopening
to ceiling should not be less than 42".
C. When firebox is installed on carpeting, tile
(vinyl) or other combustible material, other
than wood flooring, firebox should be in-
stalledona metalorwood panelextending
the full width and depth of enclosure.
D. Clearances from bottom of firebox to the
floor is 0".
Thesefireboxescan beinstalled asfreestand-
ing units against a wall with the approved,
CAUTION: Do not install
the firebox directly on carpet
or vinyl.
CAUTION: Do not allow the
vent-free gas log appliance to
touch or extend beyond the
firebox screen.
NOTICE: Surface temperatures
ofadjacentwallsandmantelsbe-
comehotduringoperation.Walls
and mantels above the firebox
may become hot to the touch.
If installed properly, these tem-
peratures meet the requirement
ofthenationalproductstandard.
Follow all minimum clearances
shown in this manual.

SuperiorFireplaces.US.com 126712-01C12
55 5/8"
39 3/8"
34 1/2"
27 3/4"
0" CLEARANCE
0" CLEARANCE
*10 1/2"*10 1/2"
*14 1/2"
50 3/8"
71 1/4"
35 5/8"
41 3/8"
0" CLEARANCE
48 1/4"
82"
58"
*17"
41"
*17"
FOR 32" MODELS
FOR 36" MODELS
FOR 42" MODELS
INSTALLATION
Figure 7 - Minimum Mantel Clearances
for Built-In Installation Figure 8 - Rough Opening Dimensions
Supplied
Firebox Hood
Must Be Used
at All Times
Wire-mesh
Screen
Firebox
Noncombustible
Material May
Project Off this
Surface above
the Firebox Hood
Mantel Shelf
Note: Any portion of the
mantel shelf must NOT
extend beyond this profile.
12" 16" 20"
1
1
/ 2 "
6
3
/ 4 "
12"
Note: All vertical
measurements are
from top of fireplace
hood opening to
bottom of mantel shelf.
These minimum
clearances replace any
other recommended
clearances supplied
with your ANSI Z21.11.2
approved gas logs.
Wall board or facing
material (above
firebox) may be of
combustible material,
including decorative
mantel ornaments or
other similar projec-
tions off of the facing
material.
Framing
Material
Rough Opening Dimensions for
Built-in Installation
Model Front Width (Inside to Inside) Height Depth (Min.)
32" 34 1/2" 36 5/8" 16 5/8"
36" 41 3/8" 40 1/4" 21 1/8"
42" 48 1/4" 43 3/4" 23 1/2"
Table 1
Depth
(Minimum)
Width
(Inside to Inside)
Height
Figure
8a
Figure
8b
Figure
8c
Figure
8d
BUILT-IN FIREBOX INSTALLATION
Built-in installation of this firebox involves
installing firebox into a framed-in enclosure.
Thismakes the front of firebox flush with wall.
Optional brass trim accessories are available
(see Accessories, Page 22). The brass trim
willextend pastsidesof fireboxapproximately
1/2". This will cover the rough edges of the
wall opening. If installing a mantel above the
firebox,youmust followtheclearances shown
in Figure 7. Follow the instructions below to
install the firebox in this manner.
1. Frameinroughopening.Thefireboxfram-
ing should be constructed of 2 x 4 lumber
or heavier. Use dimensions in Table 1
and rough opening layout in Figure 8a.
Adjust framing so that firebox flushes
with finished wall surface. If installing in
a corner, use dimensions in Figures 8b,
8c and 8d for rough opening.
2. Install gas piping to firebox location. See
Installing Gas Line, Page 14 and Con-
necting to Gas Supply in log set owner’s
manual.
* These dimensions allow for min. Clearances
to a 45° projected side wall. However, clear-
ancestoprojectedmanteltrimsandfacingsare
allowed within a min. Of 16" to a perpendicular
wall as shown in Figure 6, On Page 11.
NOTICE:Ifyourinstallationdoes
not meet the minimum clear-
ances shown, you must do one
of the following:
• raise the mantel to an ac-
ceptable height
• remove the mantel

SuperiorFireplaces.US.com
126712-01C 13
IMPORTANT: If installing blower accessory,
see Wiring Instructions, Page 14.
3. Carefullysetfireboxinfront ofrough open-
ing with back of firebox inside wall open-
ing.IMPORTANT: If installing aperimeter
trim kit, see instructions included with
trim accessory. You must install shoulder
screws from trim kit now.
4.
Carefully insert firebox into rough opening.
5. Attach firebox to wall studs using nails
or wood screws through holes in nailing
flange (see Figure 9).
6. If using an optional perimeter trim kit,
install the trim after final finishing and/or
paintingof wall. See instructions included
with trim accessory for attaching trim.
7. Install and properly test gas log heater.
Follow installation instructions included
with the vent-free gas log heater that is
being installed.
IMPORTANT: When finishing your firebox,
combustible materials such as wall board,
gypsum board, sheet rock, drywall, plywood,
etc.maybebutted upnext tothe sidesand top
of the firebox. Combustible materials should
never overlap the firebox front facing.
INSTALLATION
Continued
Figure 9 - Attaching Firebox to Wall Studs
(Model May Vary From Illustration)
WARNING: DO NOT FILL
THE SPACES AROUND THE
FIREBOXWITHINSULATIONOR
OTHER MATERIALS.
WARNING: DO NOT ALTER,
CUT OR MODIFY FIREPLACE
SPACERS.
WARNING: FRAMING MAY
BEPLACEDORRESTAGAINST
FIREPLACE SPACER, HOW-
EVER; FRAMING MUST NEVER
BE NOTCHED.
WARNING: Do not allow
noncombustible materials to
cover any necessary openings
like louvered slots.
WARNING: Use only non-
combustible mortar or adhe-
siveswhenoverlappingthefront
facing with noncombustible
facing material.
WARNING: Do not allow any
combustiblematerialstooverlap
the firebox front facing.
WARNING: A qualified ser-
vicepersonmustinstallfirebox.
Follow all local codes.
IMPORTANT:Noncombustiblematerialssuch
asbrick, tile, etc. mayoverlapthe front facing,
but should never cover any necessary open-
ings like louvered slots.
INSTALLING FIREBOX USING
OPTIONAL ACCESSORY MANTELS
This firebox may be installed using a cabinet
mantel accessory against a wall in your
home. The firebox and cabinet mantel can
be installed directly on the floor. A trim kit is
included with the mantel accessories. Follow
instructions with mantel for installation.
Nailing
Flanges
Nails or Wood
Screws

SuperiorFireplaces.US.com 126712-01C14
INSTALLATION
Continued
Figure 11 - Location of Knockout for
Gas Line
Knockout Chisel
Firebrick Side Wall
Remove
this Area
Side
View
Figure 10 - Installing Gas Line and
Equipment Shutoff Valve (Model May
Vary From Illustration)
Knockout
Locations
(Knock Out
One Hole) Gas Line Hole
Equipment Shutoff
Valves (Install One)
No Hearth
NOTICE:Aqualifiedserviceper-
son must connect heater to gas
supply. Follow all local codes.
Notice:Thefireboxidentification
label (including model number,
serial number, clearances, etc.)
islocatedintherightsidescreen
pocket area on the front of the
firebox. See Figures 23 and 24,
Page 20.
Notice: If a log set is installed in
the firebox, disconnect log set
from gas supply and remove
fromfirebox.Contactaqualified
service person to do this.
CAUTION:Donotuseexces-
sive force to remove the knock-
out.Toomuchforcemaydamage
the firebrick concrete insert.
INSTALLING GAS LINE
IMPORTANT:SeeConnecting to GasSupply
in your log set owner’s manual for details on
gas hookup.
You may run the gas line from either side of
the firebox (see Figure 10, Page 13). Decide
which side you want to run the gas line from.
NOTE: This is one option for installing shutoff
valve. Check local codes for equipment shut-
off valve location requirements.
Locate the recessed knockout in one of the
firebrick sidewall liners (see Figure 10 on
Page 13 andFigure 11).Firmlytapthe center
ofthe knockoutwith achisel untilit isreleased.
Carefully chisel the rough edges of the hole
you have made to smooth edges. This hole
will line up with the hole in the outer casing.
INSTALLING OPTIONAL BLOWER
ACCESSORIES
NOTE: Appearance of firebox may vary de-
pending on model.
Therearetwo(2)bloweraccessoryoptions for
usein thisfireplace.Blower accessorymodels
areBKavailableonallunitsandBK3available
for VCT36 and VCT42 series. Model BK is a
rotarysquirrel cagetypeblower withmagnetic
attachment and variable speed control. The
BK3 is a triple fan blower system with an on/
off rocker switch.
Wiring Instructions
1. Removeelectricalcover platewithbush-
ing from fireplace by removing 2 sheet
metal screws as shown in Figure 12.

SuperiorFireplaces.US.com
126712-01C 15
INSTALLATION
Continued
Figure 13 - Accessing Blower Compartment
(Controls Not Shown for Clarity)
Figure 12 - Fan Switch-Electrical
Bushing
2. Slide power source wiring through
electrical bushing opening and electri-
cal cover plate and make all necessary
connections.
3. Slide all wiring connections in electrical
housing as shown in Figure 12.
4. Secureelectricalcover platewith screws
previously removed.
NOTE: Electrical housing and cover plate
have sharp edges. Wear protective gloves.
Decide which way you intend to gain access
intothe bottom rear of thefireboxto install the
blower accessory. The lower front panel can
be removed easily by snapping out the front
with a flat blade screwdriver. Use caution not
toscratch any surfaces.Modelswith louvered
frontpanels can also be removed byinserting
fingertipsbetweenslots andgently pullingout.
DO NOT FORCE. The panels are actually
held in place by means of a retention dimple
embossed on the edge of removable panels.
Accessibility to the bottom on 36" and 42"
models only, can also be gained through the
access panel underneath the bottom front
refractory brick liner.
Lift the bottom front refractory brick liner up
and out of the firebox floor, exposing the
rectangularshaped accesspanel(see Figure
13). The sides and back refractory brick liner
pieces do not have to be removed. Lift ac-
cess panel out by using finger holes. Blower
accessory BK or BK3 can now be installed.
Duplex Electrical Outlet
Figure 14 - Accessing Duplex Electrical
Outlet Installed in Bottom Right Side of
Firebox
WARNING:Ifthereisaduplex
electrical outlet installed in the
right side of the bottom of the
fireplace base area (see Figure
14), be sure that the electrical
power to the outlet is turned off
before proceeding with blower
installation. Failure to do this
may result in serious injury.
Electrical
Bushing Electrical
Cover
Plate
Electrical
Housing Wire Nut (3x)
(Not Supplied) Outer Wrapper
of Fireplace
Electrical Cover
Plate and
Electrical Bushing
Fireplace Chassis
Ground
To Power
Source
Receptacle
(Supplied)
Power Source Wiring
(Not Supplied)
Prewired Receptacle
and Ground
Sheet
Metal
Screws Front
Refractory
Panel
Lower
Panel
Control
Access
Cover

SuperiorFireplaces.US.com 126712-01C16
INSTALLATION
Continued
Model BK Installation
1. Be certain that all wire terminals are
securely attached to terminals on blower
motor and that the screw retaining the
greenground wireis tight(seeFigure 15).
2. Place blower against lower rear wall of
fireboxouterwrapper with exhaustport di-
rectedupward. Dependingon yourmodel,
youmay haveto carefullyroute theblower
assembly past controls and brackets and
position blower inside back opening. The
blower will be held in position against the
back wall by magnets incorporated onto
blower housing (see Figure 15 and 16).
Magnetic Strips
Exhaust
Port
Screw
Green
Ground
Wire
Spade
Terminals
Side View
Firebox Bottom
Air Flow
Direction
Blower
Installed
After
Lower
Panel
Removed Blower
Location Magnets
CAUTION: Use gloves as
sheetmetalparts maybesharp.
4. Placecontrol knob, provided, onto control
shaft (see Figure 17).
5. Check to make sure power cord is com-
pletelyclear ofblower wheelandthere are
no foreign objects in blower wheel. Also,
double check all wire leads and make
sure wire routing is not pinched or in a
precarious position. Correct accordingly.
Figure 15 - Blower Model BK
Figure 16 - Blower Model BK (Side View)
3. Remove metal lock nut from plastic
control shaft by turning lock nut with
pliers counter clockwise. Mount speed
controlbox by placing plastic control shaft
through hole on lower portion of the left
or right side of secondary face by sliding
control box down through large hole in
fireboxbottomandupbehind firebox side
(see Figure 17). Secure speed control
to side face with previously removed
lock nut by pushing and turning lock nut
clockwisewith pliers until it is tight against
side face of fireplace (see Figure 17).
Control
Shaft
Control
Access
Control
Knob
Lock Nut
Secondary
Face
Figure 17 -Attaching Speed Control
(Model May Vary From Illustration)

SuperiorFireplaces.US.com
126712-01C 17
INSTALLATION
Continued
Figure 18 - Location of Wiring Diagram
Decal (Model May Vary From Illustration)
CAUTION: Never touch
blowerwheelwhileinoperation.
6. Turn on power to duplex outlet if previ-
ously turned off per warning in column 2,
Page 15.
7. Plugin blower power cordto duplex outlet
(see Figure 14, Page 15).
8. Turn blower on and check for operation.
Turnbloweroffby turning knob fullycoun-
terclockwise before continuing.
9. Peel off backing paper and stick supplied
wiring diagram decal on firebox bottom
approximately 12" in front of blower (see
Figure 18).
10. Replace all panels and/or brick bottom
panel if previously removed.
Wiring Diagram
Decal 12" in
Front of Blower
Variable
Fan Switch
Green
White
On
110/115
V.A.C.
Blower
Motor
Black
Off 1
2 Black

SuperiorFireplaces.US.com 126712-01C18
Black
110/115
V.A.C.
Blower
Motor
No. 1
Black
Hot
Nuetral
ON/OFF
Panel Switch
Blower
Motor
No. 2
Blower
Motor
No. 3
Figure 20 - BK3 Wiring Diagram
3. Connectwire connectors to rear of switch
terminals on rocker switch.
4. Check to make sure power cord is com-
pletely clear of blower and that there are
no foreign objects in blower.Also, double
check all wire leads and make sure wire
routing is not pinched or in a precarious
position. Correct accordingly.
5. Turn on power to duplex outlet if previ-
ously turned off per warning in column 2,
Page 15.
6. Plugin blower power cordto duplex outlet
(see Figure 14, Page 15).
7. Using ON/OFF rocker switch to turn
blower on and check for operation. Turn
blower off before continuing.
8. Peel off backing paper and stick supplied
wiring diagram decal on firebox bottom
approximately 12" in from of blower (see
Figure 18, Page 17).
9. Replace all panels and/or brick bottom
panel if previously removed.
INSTALLATION
Continued
Model BK3 Installation (VCT3036 and
VCT3042 Models Only)
1. PlaceBK3 fan assembly between two leg
stands with fan blades pointing toward
rear of fireplace (see Figure 19).
2. Using screws provided, fasten upper
flangeofblower bracket tohearth panand
endflangestoleg stands (seeFigure 19).
NOTE: The wire assembly must be ar-
ranged in front of and away from fan
blades to reach power receptacle plug.
Figure 19 - Mounting BK3 Blower
BK3 Blower
Screws
for Leg
Stands
Screws at Upper Flange

SuperiorFireplaces.US.com
126712-01C 19
INSTALLATION
Continued
OPTIONAL OUTSIDE AIR KIT
(MODEL AK4/AK4F)
Installation of outside air kit should be per-
formed during rough framing of fireplace due
to the nature of it's location. Outside combus-
tion air is accessed through a vented crawl
space (AK4F) or through a sidewall (AK4).
See Figure 21.
Figure 21 - Outside Air Kit
Secure to Collars with Metal Tape, Screws
or Straps (Min. of 1/4" x 20" in size)
Air Inlet
Location
Must Allow
For Bushes
or Snow
Vent Hood
Required for
Wall Installation
Air Inlet
Eyebrow
Vented Crawl Space
(Check Local Codes
Before Installing in a
Vented Crawl Space)
CAUTION: Combustion air
inlet ducts shall not terminate in
attic space.

SuperiorFireplaces.US.com 126712-01C20
INSTALLATION
Continued
Figure 24 - Screen Pocket Location
INSTALLING FIREPLACE HOOD
AND SCREEN
1. Attach hood to firebox using screws pro-
vided (see Figure 22).
2. Insert each rod through all rings located
at top of screen.
3. Insert first rod into rear hole in left side
of firebox. Fasten rod to rear hole near
center of firebox using #10 x 3/8" Phillips
screw provided (see Figure 23).
4. Insert other rod into front hole on right
sideof firebox andfasten using remaining
Phillips screw.
LOCATING ACCESS COVER PLATE
Sheet metal cover plates located underneath
front hearth refractory (if included) may have
shifted or moved out of place while fireplace
was in transit. These cover plates must be
kept in the proper location prior to using the
fireplace (See Figure 25).
Figure 22 - Screw and Hood Placement
(Model May Vary From Illustration)
Figure 23 - Installing Fireplace Screen
(Model May Vary From Illustration)
Figure 25 - Locating Access Cover Plate
Screen Pocket
Screws
Hood
Screw
Rear Hole
Top View of Rod Layout
Rod
Front
Hole
Ring
Screen
Identification
Label Location
Access
Panel