Superior Fireplaces VRT3032FS User manual

Installation and Operation Instructions
Unvented (Vent-Free) Universal Firebox
P/N 900781-00 Rev. NC 07/2016
VRT3032FS
VCT3032FS
VRT3036FS
VCT3036FS
VRT3042FS
VCT3042FS
Models
P900781-00
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: 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.
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
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SAFETY
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.
WARNING: Improper
installation, adjustment,
alteration, service or
maintenance can cause
injury or property dam-
age. Refer to this manual
for correct installation
and operational proce-
dures. For assistance or
additional information
consult a qualified in-
staller, service agency or
the gas supplier.
This appliance may be in-
stalledinanaftermarket,*
permanently located,
manufactured (mobile)
home, where not prohib-
ited by local codes.
* Aftermarket: Completion of sale, not for
purpose of resale, from the manufacturer
IMPORTANT: Read this owner’s
manualcarefullyandcompletely
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,electricalshockandcarbon
monoxide poisoning.
WARNING: Any change to
this firebox or its controls can
be dangerous.
WARNING:Donotallowfans
to blow directly into the firebox.
Avoidanydraftsthatalterburner
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
insertorotheraccessorynotap-
provedfor use with thisfirebox.
Do not place clothing or other
flammable material on or near
the appliance. Never place any
objectsinthefireboxoronlogs.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Safety .................................................................. 2
Local Codes......................................................... 4
Product Features................................................. 4
Locating Firebox.................................................. 4
Product Specifications......................................... 5
Air For Combustion and Ventilation..................... 8
Installation ......................................................... 10
Replacement Parts............................................ 21
Service Hints ..................................................... 21
Technical Service............................................... 21
Accessories....................................................... 22
Parts.................................................................. 24
Warranty............................................................ 27
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Fireboxfrontandscreenbecome
very hot when running heater.
Keep children and adults away
from hot surface to avoid burns
or clothing ignition. Firebox
will remain hot for a time after
shutdown.Allowsurfacetocool
before touching.
Carefully supervise young chil-
dren when they are in the room
with firebox.
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.
Keepthefireplaceareaclearand
freefromcombustiblematerials,
gasoline and other flammable
vapors and liquids.
1. Donotusethisfireboxasawood-burning
fireplace. Use only decorative unvented
room heaters (log sets).
2. Do not add extra logs or ornaments such
SAFETY
Continued
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 heatersinstalledin these
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 fireboxoffandletcoolbefore servic-
ing.Onlya qualifiedserviceperson should
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.
Thefireboxcanopy(hood)must
not be modified or replaced
with a canopy (hood) that may
be provided with the unvented
decorative room heater.
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PRODUCT FEATURES
OPERATION
Thisfireboxisdesigned for usewithapproved
ANSIZ21.11.2decorativetypeunventedroom
heaters.(Physicalsizelimitations 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.
FIBER BRICK LINERS
A traditional look with neutral hues that ac-
centavarietyofstyles.Lightweightfiberbrick
panels are factory installed.
LOCATING FIREBOX
PLANNING
Planwhereyouwillinstall the firebox.This will
save time and money later when you install
the firebox. Before installation, consider the
following:
1. Wherethefireboxwill belocated.Allowfor
wall and ceiling clearances (see Installa-
tion Clearances, Page 11).
2. Everything needed to complete installation.
3. These models CANNOT be installed in a
bedroomunlessthemaximumBTU rating
of the installed vent-free log set is less
than 10,000 Btu/Hr.
4. Proper air for combustion and ventilation
(Page 8).
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.
• Theflexiblegaslineconnectorused shall not exceed 36 inches(92centimeters)inlength.
• 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.
BLOWER ACCESSORY
The circulating models will accept either a
rotary type fan (model BK) or the triple radial
fan blower system (model BK3) accessories.
Theblowercirculatesheatedairfromthefire-
box into the room. Use of blower is optional.
OPTIONAL OUTSIDE AIR KIT
The optional AK4 and AK4F air kit provides
additional outdoor air to improve burner ef-
ficiency and reduce build-up of condensation
in the living space. Follow the instructions
included with the air kit.
LOCAL CODES NOTE:Donotpickupappliancebaseas-
semblybyburners.Thiscoulddamage the
appliance.Always handle baseassembly
by grate.
2. Remove all protective packaging applied
to logs and appliance for shipment.
3. Check appliance for any shipping dam-
age. If appliance is damaged, promptly
inform dealer where you purchased the
appliance.
Install and use appliance with care. Follow all
localcodes.In theabsenceoflocalcodes,use
the latest edition of The National Fuel Gas
Code, ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54*.
*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
Quincy, MA 02269
UNPACKING
1. Removelogsandappliancebaseassem-
bly from carton(s).
CAUTION:Donotremovethe
data plates from the grate as-
sembly. The data plates contain
important warranty and safety
information.
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PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Figure 1 - Product Specifications 32'' Models
32" MODELS 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
Right Side View
Left Side View
Front View
Outside Air
Kit Location
Electrical
Outlet
Firebox Top View
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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
36" MODELS
Figure 2 - Product Specifications 36'' Models
Right Side View
Left Side View
Front View
Outside Air
Kit Location
Electrical
Outlet
Firebox Top View
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PRODUCT SPECIFICATIONS
Continued
27-1/8
50-1/8
2-3/8
4-3/8
22-3/8
1-3/8
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
Outside Air
Kit Location
Electrical
Outlet
Firebox Top View
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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-m2) 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 three criteria above,
you must provide additional fresh air. See
Ventilation Air From Outdoors, Page 10.
Ifyour homedoes notmeet all three criteria
above, proceed to Determining Fresh-Air
Flow For Heater Location, Page 8.
Confined and Unconfined Space
The National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1/
NFPA54 allows two methods for determining
whetherthespacein whichtheheateris being
installedisconfinedor unconfinedspace.The
standardmethoddefinesaconfinedspaceasa
space whose volume is less than 50 cubic feet
per1,000Btuperhour(4.8m3perkw)oftheag-
gregateinputratingofallappliancesinstalledin
thatspaceandanunconfinedspaceasaspace
whose volumeis not lessthan 50cubicfeetper
1,000 Btu per hour (4.8 m3per kw) of the ag-
gregateinputratingofallappliancesinstalledin
thatspace.Roomscommunicatingdirectlywith
thespaceinwhichtheappliancesareinstalled*,
through openings not furnished with doors, are
considered a part of the unconfined space.
Where the air infiltration rate of a structure is
known,theKnownAirInfiltrationRate Method
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
therearedoorlesspassageways orventilation
grills between them.
DETERMINING FRESH-AIR FLOW
FOR FIREPLACE LOCATION
Determining if You Have a Confined or
Unconfined Space Using the Standard
Method
AIR FOR COMBUSTION AND VENTILATION
Today’s homes are built more energy efficient
thanever.Newmaterials,increasedinsulation,
and new construction methods help reduce
heat loss in homes. Homeowners apply
weather strip and caulk around windows and
doors to keepthecoldairoutandthewarmair
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-
pliancesneedfreshairforpropercombustion
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
ThefollowingareexcerptsfromNationalFuel
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 8–10 will help you
classify your space and provide adequate
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 not
be installed in a room or space un-
less 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. Read the
following instructions to ensure
properfresh air for thisand other fuel-
burning appliances in your home.
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40,000
39,000
79,000
Use this work sheet to determine if you have
a confined or unconfined space.
Space: Includestheroominwhich youwill install
fireplace plus any adjoining rooms with door-
less passageways or ventilation grills between
the rooms.
1. Determine the volume of the space (length
x width x height).
LengthxWidth x Height=__________cu.ft.
(volume of space)
Example: Space size 20 ft. (length) x 16 ft.
(width) x 8 ft. (ceiling height) = 2,560 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: 2,560 cu. ft. (volume of space) x
20 = 51,200 (maximum Btu/Hr the space can
support)
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: 51,200 Btu/Hr (maximum the
space can support)
73,000 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:
AIR FOR COMBUSTION AND VENTILATION
Continued
A. Rework worksheet, adding the space of an
adjoiningroom. Iftheextraspaceprovides an
unconfined space, remove door to adjoining
room or addventilation grills between 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 maxi-
mum Btu/Hr the space can support, thespace is
anunconfinedspace.You willneedno additional
fresh air ventilation.
WARNING: If the area in which
the heater may be 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
NationalFuelGasCode,ANSIZ223.1/
NFPA 54, the International Fuel Gas
Code, or applicable local codes.
VENTILATION AIR
Ventilation Air From Inside Building
This fresh air would come from an adjoining
unconfined space. When ventilating to an
adjoiningunconfinedspace, youmustprovide
twopermanentopenings: onewithin12"of the
ceiling and one within 12" of the floor on the
wall connecting the two spaces (see options
1and2,Figure 4).You can 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.
Figure 4 - Ventilation Air from Inside
Building
Or
Remove
Door into
Adjoining
Room,
Option
3
Ventilation Grills
Into Adjoining Room,
Option 2
Ventilation
Grills
Into Adjoining
Room,
Option 1
12"
12"
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AIR FOR COMBUSTION AND VENTILATION
Figure 5 - Ventilation Air from Outdoors
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
andonewithin12"ofthefloor. 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
Outlet
Air
Ventilated
Attic
Outlet
A
ir
Inlet
Air
Inlet Air Ventilated
Crawl Space
To
Crawl
Space
To Attic
WARNING: A qualified service
person must install firebox. Follow
all local codes.
WARNING:Maintaintheminimum
clearances.Ifyoucan,providegreater
clearances from floor, ceiling and
adjoining wall.
WARNING: Never install the
firebox
• in a bedroom or bathroom*
• in a recreational vehicle
• where curtains, furniture, clothing
orotherflammableobjectsareless
than42"fromthefront,toporsides
of the firebox
• in high traffic areas
• in windy or drafty areas
* Unless the installed log set is
rated at 10,000 Btu/Hr or less in a
bedroom or 6,000 Btu/Hr or less in
a bathroom.
CAUTION:Logheatersinstalled
in this firebox create warm air cur-
rents. These currents move heat to
wallsurfacesnexttofirebox.Install-
ingfireboxnexttovinylorclothwall
coveringsoroperatingfireboxwhere
impurities (such as, but not limited
to,tobaccosmoke,aromaticcandles,
cleaningfluids,oilorkerosenelamps,
etc.) in the air exist, may discolor
walls or cause odors.
IMPORTANT:Vent-free gas log heaters add
moisturetotheair.Althoughthisisbeneficial,
installing firebox in rooms without enough
ventilationairmaycausemildewtoformfrom
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
areintegrallyattached.If standoff spacersare
attached to your firebox, these spacers can
beplaceddirectlyagainstwallorframingma-
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
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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:Thefaceofamantel,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. Clearancesfromthetopoffireboxopening
to ceiling should not be less than 42".
C. When firebox is installed on carpeting or
other combustible material, other than
wood flooring, firebox should be installed
on a metal or wood panel extending the
full width and depth of enclosure.
D. Clearances from bottom of firebox to the
floor is 0".
Thesefireboxescanbeinstalledasfreestand-
ing units against a wall with the approved,
optional cabinet mantels (see Accessories,
Page 22) or as a built-in unit. Clearances are
the same for either installation method.
INSTALLATION
Continued
*Minimum 16" from Side Wall
*
Example
Mantel Clearances for Built-In Installation
Ifplacingcustom mantelabovebuilt-infirebox,
you must meet the minimum allowable clear-
ance between mantel shelf and top of firebox
opening shown in Figure 7, Page 12. These
aretheminimumallowable mantelclearances
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
CAUTION: Do not install the
firebox directly on carpet or vinyl.
CAUTION:Donotallowthevent-
freegaslogheatertotouchorextend
beyond the fireplace screen.
NOTICE:Surfacetemperaturesofad-
jacentwallsandmantelsbecomehot
duringoperation.Wallsandmantels
abovethefireboxmaybecomehotto
thetouch.Ifinstalledproperly,these
temperatures meet the requirement
ofthenationalproductstandard.Fol-
low all minimum clearances shown
in this manual.
NOTICE: If your installation does
not meet the minimum clearances
shown, you must do one of the fol-
lowing:
• raise the mantel to an acceptable
height
• remove the mantel
BUILT-IN FIREBOX INSTALLATION
Built-in installation of this firebox involves
installing firebox into a framed-in enclosure.
This makes the front of firebox flush with wall.
Optional brass trim accessories are available
(see Accessories, Page 22). The brass trim
willextendpastsidesoffirebox approximately
1/2". This will cover the rough edges of the
wall opening. If installing a mantel above the
firebox,youmustfollow the clearancesshown
in Figure 7. Follow the instructions below to
install the firebox in this manner.
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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
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 formin.Clearances
to a 45° projected side wall. However, clear-
ances to projected mantel trims and facings
are allowed within a min. Of 16" to a perpen-
dicularwallas showninFigure6,on Page 11.
Minimum clearance requirements include
any projections such as shelves, window
sills, mantels, etc. above the appliance.
NOTE:To avoid heat-relatedfinishdamage,
we recommendthe useof hightemperature
paint (rated 175° F or higher) on the under-
side of the mantel.
55 5/8"
39 3/8"
34 1/2"
27 3/4"
0" CLEARANCE
0" CLEARANCE
*10 1/2"*10 1/2"
0" CLEARANCE
FOR 32"
MODELS
FOR 36"
MODELS
48 1/4"
82"
58"
*17"
41"
*17"
FOR 42"
MODELS
*14 1/2"
*14 1/2"
50 3/8"
71 1/4"
35 5/8"
41 3/8"
Depth
(Minimum)
Width
(Inside to Inside)
Height
Figure 8a
Figure 8b
Figure 8c
Figure 8d
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SuperiorFireplaces.US.com
900781-00_NC 13
IMPORTANT: If installing blower accessory,
see Wiring Instructions, Page 15.
3. Carefullysetfireboxinfrontof roughopen-
ing with back of firebox inside wall open-
ing.IMPORTANT: If installing a perimeter
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
paintingofwall.Seeinstructionsincluded
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.maybe buttedupnextto thesidesandtop
of the firebox. Combustible materials should
never overlap the firebox front facing.
WARNING: Do not allow any
combustiblematerialstooverlap
the firebox front facing.
INSTALLATION
Continued
Figure 9 - Attaching Firebox to Wall Studs
(Model May Vary From Illustration)
Nailing
Flanges
Nails or Wood
Screws
IMPORTANT:Noncombustiblematerialssuch
asbrick,tile,etc.mayoverlap the front facing,
but should never cover any necessary open-
ings like louvered slots.
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.
INSTALLING FIREBOX USING
OPTIONAL ACCESSORY MANTELS
WARNING: A qualified ser-
vicepersonmustinstallfirebox.
Follow all local codes.
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.
WARNING: DO NOT FILL THE
SPACES AROUND THE FIRE-
BOX WITH INSULATION OR
OTHER MATERIALS.
WARNING: DO NOT ALTER,
CUT, OR MODIFY FIREPLACE
SPACERS.
WARNING: FRAMING MAY BE
PLACED OR REST AGAINST
FIREPLACE SPACER, HOW-
EVER, FRAMING MUST NEVER
BE NOTCHED.
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SuperiorFireplaces.US.com 900781-00_NC14
INSTALLATION
Continued
INSTALLING GAS LINE
NOTICE:Aqualifiedserviceper-
son must connect heater to gas
supply. Follow all local codes.
IMPORTANT:SeeConnectingtoGas Supply
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 14). Decide
which side you want to run the gas line from.
NOTE:Thisisoneoptionforinstallingshutoff
valve. Check local codes for equipment shut-
off valve location requirements.
Thereisagasknockoutin each side panelfor
the gas line to feed through (see Figure 10).
Determine on which side the gas connection
will be located. Using a utility knife or cutting
blade, remove the identified gas knockout.
CAUTION: Do not use ex-
cessive force to remove the
knockout. Too much force may
damage the fiber panels.
Figure 11 - Location of Knockout for
Gas Line
Knockout
Fiber Brick Side Wall
Remove
this Area
Side
View
INSTALLING OPTIONAL BLOWER
ACCESSORIES
NOTICE: The firebox identifica-
tionlabel(includingmodelnum-
ber, serial number, clearances,
etc.) is located in the right side
screen pocket area on the front
of the firebox. See Figures 24
and 25, Page 20.
NOTICE: If a log set is installed
in the firebox, disconnect log
setfromgassupplyandremove
fromfirebox.Contactaqualified
service person to do this.
NOTE: Appearance of firebox may vary de-
pending on model.
Therearetwo (2)bloweraccessoryoptionsfor
useinthis fireplace.Bloweraccessorymodels
areBKavailable onallunitsand BK3available
for VCT36 and VCT42 series. Model BK is a
rotarysquirrelcagetype blower withmagnetic
attachment and variable speed control. The
BK3 is a triple fan blower system with an on/
off rocker switch.
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)
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SuperiorFireplaces.US.com
900781-00_NC 15
INSTALLATION
Continued
Figure 13 - Accessing Blower Compartment
(Controls Not Shown for Clarity)
Lower
Panel
Control
Access
Cover
ON/OFF
Rocker
Switch
Electrical
Bushing
Electrical
Cover
Plate
Rocker
Switch
Figure 12 - Fan Switch-Electrical
Bushing
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
Wiring Instructions
1. Removeelectricalcoverplatewith bush-
ing from fireplace by removing 2 sheet
metal screws as shown in Figure 12.
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. Secureelectricalcoverplatewith screws
previously removed.
NOTE: Electrical housing and cover plate
have sharp edges. Wear protective gloves.
Decide which way you intend to gain access
intothebottomrearofthefirebox to 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
toscratchanysurfaces.Models with louvered
frontpanelscanalsoberemovedbyinserting
fingertipsbetweenslots andgentlypullingout.
DO NOT FORCE. The panels are actually
held in place by means of a retention dimple
embossed on the edge of removable panels.
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.
Duplex Electrical Outlet
Figure 14 - Accessing Duplex Electrical
Outlet Installed in Bottom Right Side of
Firebox
Accessibility to the bottom on 36" and 42"
models only, can also be gained through the
access panel Lift access panel out by using
fingerholes.Bloweraccessory BK orBK3can
now be installed.
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SuperiorFireplaces.US.com 900781-00_NC16
5. For VRT or VCT models only: Remove
metal lock nut from plastic control shaft
by turning lock nut with pliers counter
clockwise. Mount speed control box
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 firebox
bottom and up behind firebox side (see
Figure 17). Secure speed control to side
face with previously removed lock nut by
pushing and turning lock nut clockwise
withpliers until it is tight against side face
of fireplace (see Figure 17).
CAUTION: Use gloves as
sheetmetal partsmaybesharp.
6. For VCT models only: RemoveON/OFF
switch from louver panel by pressing top
andbottomretainingclips (see Figure 13,
Page 15).
7. For VCT models only: Place louver
panel,louverspointingup,backintoframed
opening.Aligncontrolshaftwithrectangular
opening by sliding control bracket along
flange (see Figure 16).
8. For VCT models only: Fully seat louver
panelintoframeopeningbygentlypress-
ing along ends until all dimpled retainers
have snapped in place.
9. Placecontrolknob,provided,ontocontrol
shaft (see Figures 16 and 17).
Figure 16 - Attaching Speed Control to
Firebox with Panel Louvers
Control
Shaft
Control
Knob Lock Nut
Speed
Control
Bracket
Lower
Louver
Firebox Face
Hearth
Pan
Flange
Screw
Head and
Top Hole
on Bracket
Lower
Flange
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
greengroundwireis tight(seeFigure 15).
2. Place blower against lower rear wall of
fireboxouterwrapper withexhaustportdi-
rectedupward.Dependingonyourmodel,
youmayhaveto carefullyroutetheblower
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).
3. For VCT models only: Position speed
control bracket over flange on hearth pan
by sliding it up between firebox face and
hearthpanflange,thendownuntilseated
onto lower flange of louver opening (see
Figure 16).
4. For VCT models only: Remove metal
lock nut from plastic control shaft by
turning lock nut with pliers counter clock-
wise.Mount speed control box by placing
plastic control shaft through bottom hole
on speed control bracket (see Figure
16). Top screw head on control box will
fit inside top hole on bracket (see Figure
16). Secure speed control to bracket with
previously removed lock nut by pushing
and turning lock nut with pliers clockwise
until it is tight against bracket.
Figure 15 - Blower Model BK
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
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SuperiorFireplaces.US.com
900781-00_NC 17
INSTALLATION
Continued
10. Check to make sure power cord is com-
pletelyclearofblower wheelandthereare
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.
CAUTION: Never touch
blowerwheelwhileinoperation.
11. Turn on power to duplex outlet if previ-
ously turned off per warning in column 2,
Page 15.
12. Pluginblowerpowercord to duplex outlet
(see Figure 14, Page 15).
13. Turn blower on and check for operation.
Turnbloweroffby turning knobfullycoun-
terclockwise before continuing.
14. Peel off backing paper and stick supplied
wiring diagram decal on firebox bottom
approximately 12" in front of blower (see
Figure 18).
15. Replace all panels and/or brick bottom
panel if previously removed.
Figure 17 -Attaching Speed Control
(Model May Vary From Illustration)
Control
Shaft
Control
Access
Control
Knob
Lock Nut
Secondary
Face
Figure 18 - Location of Wiring Diagram
Decal (Model May Vary From Illustration)
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
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SuperiorFireplaces.US.com 900781-00_NC18
Figure 20 - Connecting Rocker Switch
ON/OFF
Rocker
Switch
Wire Harness
Connectors
Switch
Terminals
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 21 - BK3 Wiring Diagram
3. Connectwireconnectorstorearofswitch
terminalsonrocker switchlocatedinlower
louver panel (see Figure 20).
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. Pluginblowerpowercord to 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 previously removed.
INSTALLATION
Continued
Model BK3 Installation
(VCT3036 and VCT3042 Models Only)
1. PlaceBK3fanassemblybetweentwoleg
stands with fan blades pointing toward
rear of fireplace (see Figure 19).
2. Using screws provided, fasten upper
flangeofblower brackettohearthpanand
endflangesto leg 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
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SuperiorFireplaces.US.com
900781-00_NC 19
INSTALLATION
Continued
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 22.
Figure 22 - 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:Combustionair
inlet ducts shall not terminate
in attic space.
Cat. No. Model Description
F1091 AK4 4" Air Kit with Collar, Hood and
3' Flex
F1093 AK4F Air Kit Collar, Hood & 3' Flex for
Floor Venting
OPTIONAL OUTSIDE AIR KITS
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SuperiorFireplaces.US.com 900781-00_NC20
INSTALLATION
Continued
Figure 25 - Screen Pocket Location
INSTALLING FIREPLACE HOOD
AND SCREEN
1. Attach hood to firebox using screws pro-
vided (see Figure 23).
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 24).
4. Insert other rod into front hole on right
sideoffireboxand fasten using remaining
Phillips screw.
Figure 23 - Screw and Hood Placement
(Model May Vary From Illustration)
Figure 24 - Installing Fireplace Screen
(Model May Vary From Illustration)
Screw
Rear Hole
Top View of Rod Layout
Rod
Front
Hole
Ring
Screen
Identification
Label Location
Screws
Hood
Screen Pocket
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