Vanguard VN1800TB Quick start guide

INFRARED VENT-FREE NATURAL GAS HEATER
OWNER’S OPERATION AND INSTALLATION MANUAL
Save this manual for future reference.
WARNING: If the information in this manual is not
followed exactly, a fire or explosion may result
causing property damage, personal injury, or loss
of life.
— Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable
vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any
other appliance.
— WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS
• Do not try to light any appliance.
• Donottouchanyelectricalswitch;donotuse
any phone in your building.
• Immediately call your gas supplier from a
neighbor’s phone. Follow the gas supplier’s
instructions.
• Ifyoucannot reach yourgassupplier, call the
fire department.
— Installation and service must be performed by a
qualified installer, service agency, or the gas
supplier.
WARNING: This is an unvented
gas-firedheater.Itusesair(oxy-
gen)fromtheroominwhichitis
installed. Provisions for ad-
equate combustion and ventila-
tion air must be provided. Refer
to Air for Combustion and Ven-
tilation onpage4ofthismanual.
WARNING: Improper installa-
tion, adjustment, alteration,
service, or maintenance can
causeinjury or propertydam-
age. Refer to this manual for
correct installation and op-
erational procedures. For as-
sistance or additional infor-
mation consult a qualified in-
staller, service agency, or the
gas supplier.
* Aftermarket: Completion of sale, not for purpose of resale, from the manufacturer
This appliance may be installed in an aftermarket*, permanently located, manufac-
tured (mobile) home, where not prohibited by local codes.
This appliance is only for use with the type of gas indicated on the rating plate. This
appliance is not convertible for use with other gases.
®
VN1800TB
VN3000TB

2
104820
INFRARED NATURAL GAS HEATER
®
1. This appliance is only for use with the
typeof gasindicated onthe ratingplate.
Thisappliance isnot convertiblefor use
with other gases.
2. If you smell gas
• Shut off gas supply.
• Do not try to light any appliance.
• Donot touchanyelectrical switch;do
not use any phone in your building.
• Immediately call your gas supplier
from a neighbor’s phone. Follow the
gas supplier’s instructions.
• Ifyou cannotreach yourgas supplier,
call the fire department
SAFETY
INFORMATION
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Early signs
ofcarbonmonoxidepoisoningresemblethe
flu, with headaches, dizziness, or nausea. If
you have these signs, the heater may not be
working properly. Get fresh air at once!
Haveheaterserviced.Somepeoplearemore
affected by carbon monoxide than others.
These include pregnant women, persons
with heart or lung disease or anemia, those
under the influence of alcohol, and those at
high altitudes.
Natural Gas: Natural gas is odorless. An
odor-making agent is added to natural gas.
Theodorhelpsyoudetectanaturalgasleak.
However, the odor added to natural gas can
fade.Naturalgasmaybepresenteventhough
no odor exists.
Make certain you read and understand all
warnings.Keepthismanualforreference.It
isyourguidetosafeandproperoperationof
this heater.
IMPORTANT: Read this owner’s
manual carefully and completely
before trying to assemble, oper-
ate, or service this heater. Im-
properuseofthisheatercancause
seriousinjuryordeathfromburns,
fire, explosion, electrical shock,
and carbon monoxide poisoning.
3. This heater shall not be installed in a
bedroom or bathroom.
4. Before usingfurniture polish,wax, car-
pet cleaner, or similar products, turn
heater off. If heated, the vapors from
theseproducts may createa whitepow-
der residue within burner box or on
adjacent walls or furniture.
5. This heater needs fresh, outside air ven-
tilation to run properly. This heater has
an Oxygen Depletion Sensing (ODS)
safety shutoff system. The ODS shuts
down the heater if not enough fresh air
is available. See Fresh Air for Combus-
tion and Ventilation, pages 4 through 6.
6. Keep all air openings in front and
bottom of heater clear and free of de-
bris. This will insure enough air for
proper combustion.
7. If heater shuts off, do not relight until
you provide fresh, outside air. If heater
keeps shutting off, have it serviced.
8. Do not run heater
• where flammable liquids or vapors
are used or stored
• under dusty conditions
9. Do not use heater if any part has been
under water. Immediately call a quali-
fied service technician to inspect the
room heater and to replace any part of
the control system and any gas control
which has been under water.
10. Turn off and unplug heater and let
cool before servicing. Only a quali-
fied service person should service and
repair heater.
11. Operating heater above elevations of
4,500 feet could cause pilot outage.
12. Keep combustible materials, gasoline,
andother flammableliquids andvapors
away from the appliance area.
WARNINGS
DANGER: Carbon monoxide
poisoning may lead to death!
WARNING: Any change to
this heater or its controls can
be dangerous.
WARNING: Do not use any
accessory not approved for use
with this heater.
Do not place clothing or other
flammable material on or near
the appliance. Never place any
objects on the heater.
Surface of heater becomes very
hot when running heater. Keep
children and adults away from
hot surface to avoid burns or
clothing ignition. Heater will re-
main hot for a time after shut-
down. Allow surface to cool be-
fore touching.
Carefully supervise young chil-
dren when they are in the same
room with heater.
Make sure grill guard is in place
before running heater.
Keeptheapplianceareaclearand
free from combustible materials,
gasoline, and other flammable
vapors and liquids.
Due to high temperatures, the
appliance should be located out
oftrafficandawayfromfurniture
and draperies.

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OWNER’S MANUAL
PRODUCT
IDENTIFICATION
LOCAL CODES
Install and use heater with care. Follow all
localcodes.Intheabsenceoflocalcodes,use
the latest edition of National Fuel Gas Code
ANS Z223.1, also known as NFPA 54*.
*Available from:
American National Standards Institute, Inc.
1430 Broadway
New York, NY 10018
National Fire Protection Association, Inc.
Batterymarch Park
Quincy, MA 02269
Figure 1 - Vent-Free Natural Gas Heater (Model VN3000TB Shown)
Control Knob
PRODUCT
FEATURES
SAFETY DEVICE
This heater has a pilot with an Oxygen
Depletion Sensing (ODS) safety shutoff
system. The ODS/pilot is a required feature
for vent-free room heaters. The ODS/pilot
shuts off the heater if there is not enough
fresh air.
PIEZO IGNITION SYSTEM
This heater has a piezo ignitor. This system
requires no matches, batteries, or other
sources to light heater.
UNPACKING
1. Remove heater from carton.
2. Remove all protective packaging ap-
plied to heater for shipment.
3. Check heater for any shipping damage.
If heater is damaged, promptly inform
dealer where you bought heater.
Grill
Guard
Burners
Piezo Ignitor
Heater
Cabinet
Front
Panel

4
104820
INFRARED NATURAL GAS HEATER
®
AIR FOR
COMBUSTION AND
VENTILATION
Today’s homes are built more energy effi-
cient than ever. New materials, increased
insulation, and new construction methods
helpreduceheatlossinhomes.Homeowners
weatherstripand caulk aroundwindowsand
doorstokeepthecoldairoutandthewarmair
in. During heating months, home owners
want their homes as airtight as possible.
While it is good to make your home energy
efficient,yourhomeneedstobreathe.Fresh
air must enter your home. All fuel-burning
appliances need fresh air for proper com-
bustion and ventilation.
Exhaustfans,fireplaces,clothesdryers,and
fuel burning appliances draw air from the
house to operate. You must provide ad-
equate fresh air for these appliances. This
will insure proper venting of vented fuel-
burning appliances.
PRODUCING ADEQUATE
VENTILATION
The following are excerpts from National
FuelGas Code.NFPA 54/ANSZ2233.1, Sec-
tion 5.3, Air for Combustion and Ventilation.
Allspacesinhomesfallintooneofthethree
following ventilation classifications:
1. Unusually Tight Construction
2. Unconfined Space
3. Confined Space
The information on pages 4 through 6 will
help you classify your space and provide
adequate ventilation.
Unusually Tight Construction
The air that leaks around doors and win-
dows may provide enough fresh air for
combustion and ventilation. However, in
buildings of unusually tight construction,
you must provide additional fresh air.
Unusually tight construction is de-
fined as construction where:
a. walls and ceilings exposed to the
outside atmosphere have a con-
tinuous water vapor retarder with
a rating of one perm (6 x 10-11 kg
per pa-sec-m2) or less with open-
ings 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, be-
tween sole plates and floors,be-
tween wall-ceiling joints, be-
tween wall panels, at penetra-
tionsforplumbing,electrical,and
gas lines, and at other openings.
If your home meets all of the three
criteria above, you must provide ad-
ditional fresh air. See Ventilation Air
From Outdoors , page 6 .
If your home does not meet all of the
threecriteriaabove,see Determining
Fresh-Air Flow for Heater Location,
page 5
Confined and Unconfined Space
The National Fuel Gas Code ANS Z223.1
defines a confined space as a space whose
volume is less than 50 cubic feet per 1,000
Btu per hour (4.8 m3per kw) of the aggre-
gate input rating of all appliances installed
in that space and an unconfined space as a
space whose volume is not less than 50
cubicfeetper1,000Btuperhour(4.8m3per
kw) of the aggregate input rating of all
appliances installed in that space. Rooms
communicating directly with the space in
whichtheappliancesareinstalled*,through
openings not furnished with doors, are con-
sidered a part of the unconfined space.
This heater shall not be installed in a con-
fined space or unusually tight construction
unlessprovisions areprovided for adequate
combustion and ventilation air.
*Adjoiningroomsarecommunicatingonly
iftherearedoorlesspassagewaysorventila-
tion grills between them.
WARNING: This heater shall
notbeinstalledinaconfinedspace
or unusually tight construction
unless provisions are provided
foradequatecombustionandven-
tilation air. Read the following in-
structions to insure proper fresh
air for this and other fuel-burning
appliances in your home.

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104820
OWNER’S MANUAL
AIR FOR
COMBUSTION AND
VENTILATION
Continued
DETERMINING FRESH-AIR FLOW FOR HEATER LOCATION
Determining if You Have a Confined or Unconfined Space
Use this worksheet to determine if you have a confined or unconfined space.
Space:Includestheroominwhichyouwillinstallheaterplusanyadjoiningroomswithdoorlesspassagewaysorventilationgrillsbetween
the rooms.
1. Determine the volume of the space (length x width x height).
Length x Width x Height = ____________________ cu. ft. (volume of space)
Example: Space size 20 ft. (length) x 16 ft. (width) x 8 ft. (ceiling height) = 2560 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. Divide the space volume by 50 cubic feet to determine the maximum Btu/Hr the space can support.
_________________ (volume of space) ÷50 cu. ft. = (Maximum Btu/Hr the space can support)
Example: 2560 cu. ft. (volume of space) ÷50 cu. ft. = 51.2 or 51,200 (maximum Btu/Hr the space can support)
3. Add the Btu/Hr of all fuel burning appliances in the space.
Vent-free heater ________________ 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.
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)
58,000 Btu/Hr (actual amount of Btu/Hr used)
ThespaceintheaboveexampleisaconfinedspacebecausetheactualBtu/HrusedismorethanthemaximumBtu/Hrthespacecansupport.
You must provide additional fresh air. Your options are as follows:
A. Rework worksheet, adding the space of an adjoining room. If the extra space provides an unconfined space, remove door to adjoin-
ing room or add ventilation grills between rooms. See Ventilation Air From Inside Building, page 6.
B. Vent room directly to the outdoors. See Ventilation Air From Outdoors, page 6.
C. Install a lower Btu/Hr heater, 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.
Continued
Example:
Gas water heater 40,000 Btu/Hr
Vent-free heater +18,000 Btu/Hr
Total =58,000 Btu/Hr
WARNING:Iftheareainwhichtheheatermaybeoperatedissmallerthanthatdefinedasanunconfinedspace
or if the building is of unusually tight construction, provide adequate combustion and ventilation air by one of
the methods described in the National Fuel Gas Code, ANS Z223.1, Section 5.3 or applicable local codes.

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104820
INFRARED NATURAL GAS HEATER
®
Figure 3 - Ventilation Air from Outdoors
Ventilation Air From Outdoors
Provide extra fresh air by using ventilation
grills or ducts. You must provide two per-
manent openings: one within 12" of the
ceiling and one within 12" of the floor.
Connecttheseitemsdirectlytotheoutdoors
orspacesopentotheoutdoors.Thesespaces
include attics and crawl spaces. Follow the
National Fuel Gas Code NFPA 54/ANS
Z223.1,Section5.3,AirforCombustionand
Ventilation for required size of ventilation
grills or ducts.
IMPORTANT: Do not provideopeningsfor
inlet or outlet air into attic if attic has a
thermostat-controlledpowervent.Heatedair
enteringtheatticwillactivatethepowervent.
Outlet
Air Ventilated
Attic
Outlet
Air
Inlet
Air
Inlet Air Ventilated
Crawl Space
To
Crawl
Space
To Attic
AIR FOR
COMBUSTION AND
VENTILATION
Continued
Or
Remove
Door into
Adjoining
Room,
Option 3
Ventilation Grills
Into Adjoining Room,
Option 2
12"
12"
Ventilation
Grills
into Adjoining
Room,
Option 1
VENTILATION AIR
Ventilation Air From Inside
Building
Thisfreshairwouldcomefromanadjoining
unconfined space. When ventilating to an
adjoining unconfined space, you must pro-
vide two permanent openings: one within
12" of the ceiling and one within 12" of the
floor on the wall connecting the two spaces
(seeoptions1and2,Figure2).Youcanalso
remove door into adjoining room (see op-
tion 3, Figure 2). Follow the National Fuel
Gas Code NFPA 54/ANS Z223.1, Section
5.3, Air for Combustion and Ventilation for
required size of ventilation grills or ducts.
Figure 2 - Ventilation Air from Inside Building
WARNING: Rework work-
sheet, adding the space of the
adjoiningunconfinedspace.The
combined spaces must have
enough fresh air to supply all
appliances in both spaces.

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104820
OWNER’S MANUAL
INSTALLATION
WARNING ICON G 001
WARNING: A qualified ser-
vice person must install heater.
Follow all local codes.
CHECK GAS TYPE
Use only natural gas. If your gas supply is
notnatural, do notinstall heater.Calldealer
where you bought heater for proper type
heater.
INSTALLATION ITEMS
Beforeinstallingheater,makesureyouhave
the items listed below.
• piping (check local codes)
• sealant (resistant to propane/LP gas)
• equipment shutoff valve *
• ground joint union
• test gauge connection *
• sediment trap
• tee joint
• pipe wrench
* A CSA/AGA design-certified equipment
shutoff valve with 1/8" NPT tap is an ac-
ceptable alternative to test gauge connec-
tion. Purchase the optional CSA/AGA de-
sign-certifiedequipmentshutoffvalvefrom
your dealer. See Accessories, page 22.
LOCATING HEATER
This heater is designed to be mounted on
a wall.
WARNING ICON G001
WARNING:Maintainthemini-
mumclearancesshowninFigure
4.Ifyoucan,providegreaterclear-
ances from floor, ceiling, and
joining wall.
Youcan locateheater on floor,away froma
wall. An optional floor mounting stand is
needed. Purchase the floor mounting stand
fromyourdealer. SeeAccessories,page 22.
WARNING: Never install the
heater
• in a bedroom or bathroom
• in a recreational vehicle
• where curtains, furniture,
clothing, or other flammable
objectsarelessthan36inches
from the front, top, or sides of
the heater
• as a fireplace insert
• in high traffic areas
• in windy or drafty areas
IMPORTANT: Vent-free heaters add mois-
ture to the air. Although this is beneficial,
installing heater in rooms without enough
ventilationairmaycausemildewtoformfrom
too much moisture. See Fresh Air for Com-
bustion and Ventilation, pages 4 through 6.
Continued
CAUTION: If you install the
heater in a home garage
• heaterpilotandburnermustbe
at least 18 inches above floor
• locateheaterwheremovingve-
hicle will not hit it
CAUTION: This heater cre-
ates warm air currents. These
currents move heat to wall sur-
faces next to heater. Installing
heater next to vinyl or cloth wall
coverings or operating heater
where impurities (such as to-
bacco smoke, aromatic candles,
cleaning fluids, oil or kerosene
lamps, etc.) in the air exist, may
discolor walls.
NOTICE: This heater is intended
foruseassupplementalheat.Use
this heater along with your pri-
mary heating system. Do not in-
stall this heater as your primary
heatsource.If youhaveacentral
heating system, you may run
system’scirculatingblowerwhile
usingheater.Thiswillhelpcircu-
late the heat throughout the
house. In the event of a power
outage, you can use this heater
as your primary heat source.
Forconvenienceandefficiency,installheater
• where there is easy access for operation,
inspection, and service
• in coldest part of room
An optional fan kit is available from your
dealer. See Accessories, page 22. If plan-
ningtousefan,locateheaternearanelectri-
cal outlet.
36"
3"
FLOOR
CEILING
Minimum
Minimum
Of Carpe
Combust
8"
Minimum
From
Sides Of
Heater
Left
Side Right Side
Figure4-MountingClearancesAsViewed
From Front of Heater
Minimum To
Top Surface
Of Carpeting,
Tile Or Other
Combustible
Material

8
104820
INFRARED NATURAL GAS HEATER
®
Methods For Attaching
Mounting Bracket To Wall
Only use last hole on each end of mounting
bracket to attach bracket to wall. These two
holes are 16 inches apart from their centers.
Attach mounting bracket to wall in one of
two ways.
1. Attaching to wall stud
2. Attaching to wall anchor
Attaching to wall stud: This method pro-
vides the strongest hold. Insert mounting
screws through mounting bracket and into
wall studs.
Attaching to wall anchor: This method
allows you to attach mounting bracket to
hollowwalls(wallareasbetweenstuds)orto
solid walls (concrete or masonry).
Decidewhichmethodbettersuitsyourneeds.
Eithermethodwillprovideasecureholdfor
the mounting bracket.
Marking Screw Locations
1. Tape mounting bracket to wall where
heater will be located. Make sure
mounting bracket is level.
Model VN3000TB
Model VN1800TB
Figure 7 - Mounting Bracket Clearances
2. Mark screw locations on wall (see Fig-
ure 7).
Note: Only mark last hole on each end
of mounting bracket. Insert mounting
screws through these holes only.
3. Remove tape and mounting bracket
from wall.
18 3/4"
Min.
13"
Min. 16"
Adjoining Wall
Only Insert Mounting
Screws Through Last
Hole On Each End
Floor
WARNING:Maintainminimum
clearances shown in Figure 7. If
you can, provide greater clear-
ancesfromfloorandjoiningwall.
INSTALLING HEATER TO
WALL
Mounting Bracket
Locate mounting bracket in heater car-
ton. Remove mounting bracket from
heater carton.
Figure6-RemovingFrontPanelOfHeater
Removing Front Panel Of Heater
1. Remove two screws near bottom cor-
ners of front panel.
2. Liftstraightupongrillguarduntilitstops.
Grill guard will slide up about 1/4".
3. Pull bottom of front panel forward,
then down.
Figure 5 - Mounting Bracket Location
Mounting
Bracket
INSTALLATION
Continued
16"
18 3/4"
Min.
9 1/4"
Min.
Adjoining Wall
Only Insert Mounting
Screws Through Last
Hole On Each End
Floor

9
104820
OWNER’S MANUAL
Installing Bottom Mounting
Screws
1. Locate two bottom mounting holes.
These holes are near bottom on back
panel of heater (see Figure 11).
2. Mark screw locations on wall.
3. Remove heaterfrom mountingbracket.
4. If installing bottom mounting screws
into hollow or solid wall, install wall
anchors. Follow steps 1 through 4 un-
der Attaching To Wall Anchor Method.
If installing bottom mounting screw
into wall stud, drill holes at marked lo-
cations using 9/64" drill bit.
5. Replace heater onto mounting bracket.
6. Place spacers between bottom mount-
ingholes andwallanchor ordrilled hole
(see Figure 11).
7. Hold spacer in place with one hand.
With otherhand, insertmounting screw
through bottom mounting hole and
spacer. Place tip of screw in opening
of wall anchor or drilled hole.
8. Tightenbothscrewsuntilheaterisfirmly
secured to wall. Do not over tighten.
Note: Do not replace front panel at this
time. Replace front panel after making
gas connections and checking for leaks
(see pages 10 and 11).
Figure 9 - Popping Open Anchor Wings
For Thin Walls
Attaching Mounting Bracket To
Wall
Note: Wall anchors, mounting screws, and
spacers are in hardware package. The hard-
ware package is provided with heater.
Attaching To Wall Stud Method
Forattachingmountingbrackettowallstuds
1. Drill holes at marked locations using
9/64" drill bit.
2. Place mountingbracket ontowall. Line
uplast hole oneach endof bracket with
holes drilled in wall.
3. Insert mountingscrews through bracket
and into wall studs.
4. Tighten screws until mounting bracket
is firmly fastened to wall studs.
Attaching To Wall Anchor Method
For attaching mounting bracket to hollow
walls (wall areas between studs) or solid
walls (concrete or masonry)
1. Drill holes at marked locations using
5/16"drill bit. Forsolid walls(concrete
or masonry), drill at least 1" deep.
2. Fold wall anchor as shown in Figure 8.
3. Insert wall anchor (wings first) into
hole. Tap anchor flush to wall.
4. For thin walls (1/2" or less), insert red
key into wall anchor. Push red key to
“pop” open anchor wings.
IMPORTANT: Do not hammer key!
Forthick walls(over 1/2" thick)or solid
walls, do not pop open wings.
5. Place mountingbracket ontowall. Line
uplast hole oneach endof bracket with
wall anchors.
6. Insert mountingscrews through bracket
and into wall anchors.
7. Tighten screws until mounting bracket
is firmly fastened to wall.
Placing Heater On Mounting
Bracket
1. Locate two horizontal slots on back
panel of heater.
2. Place heater onto mounting bracket.
Slide horizontal slots onto stand-out
tabs on mounting bracket.
Figure 8 - Folding Anchor
INSTALLATION
Continued
Figure 10 - Mounting Heater Onto
Mounting Bracket
Stand-Out Tab Mounting Bracket
(attached to wall)
Horizontal Slots
Figure 11 - Installing Bottom Mounting
Screws
Continued
Screw
Spacer
Wall

10
104820
INFRARED NATURAL GAS HEATER
®
Figure 12 - Gas Connection
* ACSA/AGAdesign-certifiedequipmentshutoffvalvewith1/8"NPTtapisanacceptable
alternative to test gauge connection. Purchase the optional CSA/AGA design-certified
equipment shutoff valve from your dealer. See Accessories, page 22.
Inlet Pipe From Gas
Meter (7" W.C. to
10.5" W.C. Pressure)
CONNECTING TO GAS
SUPPLY
WARNING:Aqualifiedservice
person must connect heater to
gassupply.Followalllocalcodes.
Typical Inlet Pipe Diameters
VN1800TB 3/8" or greater
VN3000TB 1/2" or greater
Installation must include an equipment
shutoff valve, union, and plugged 1/8" NPT
tap. Locate NPT tap within reach for test
gauge hook up. NPT tap must be upstream
from heater (see Figure 12).
Installsedimenttrapinsupplylineasshown
in Figure 12. Locate sediment trap where it
is within reach for cleaning. Locate sedi-
menttrap where trapped matter isnot likely
to freeze. A sediment trap traps moisture
and contaminants. This keeps them from
going into heater controls. If sediment trap
is not installed or is installed wrong, heater
may not run properly.
IMPORTANT: Hold pressure regulator
with wrench when connecting it to gas pip-
ing and/or fittings.
CAUTION:Usepipejointseal-
ant that is resistant to liquid pe-
troleum (LP) gas.
IMPORTANT: Check gas linepressure be-
fore connecting heater to gas line. Gas line
pressure must be no greater than 14 inches
of water. If gas line pressure is higher,
heater regulator damage could occur.
WARNING: Never connect
heater to private (non-utility) gas
wells. This gas is commonly
known as well-head gas.
CAUTION: Use only new,
black iron or steel pipe. Inter-
nally-tinned copper tubing may
be used in certain areas. Check
yourlocalcodes.Usepipeoflarge
enough diameter to allow proper
gas volume to heater. If pipe is
too small, undue loss of pres-
sure will occur.
INSTALLATION
Continued
Tee Joint
Reducer
Bushing to
1/8" NPT
1/8" NPT
Plug Tap
Test
Gauge
Connection *
Sediment
Trap
Tee Joint
Pipe Nipple
Cap
Equipment Shutoff
Valve *
3/8" NPT
Pipe Nipple
Ground Joint
Union
Heater
Cabinet
3" Minimum
Pressure Regulator
IMPORTANT: Installanequipmentshutoff
valve in an accessible location. The equip-
ment shutoff valve is for turning on or
shutting off the gas to the appliance.
Apply pipe joint sealant lightly to male
threads. This will prevent excess sealant
fromgoing intopipe. Excesssealant inpipe
could result in clogged heater valves.
WARNING:Thisappliancere-
quires a 3/8" NPT (National Pipe
Thread) inlet connection to the
pressure regulator.

11
104820
OWNER’S MANUAL
CHECKING GAS
CONNECTIONS
Pressure Testing Gas Supply
Piping System
Test Pressures In Excess Of 1/2 PSIG
(3.5 kPA)
1. Disconnect appliance with its appliance
maingasvalve(controlvalve)andequip-
ment shutoff valve from gas supply pip-
ingsystem.Pressuresinexcessof1/2psig
will damage heater regulator.
2. Cap off open end of gas pipe where
equipment shutoff valve was con-
nected.
3. Pressurize supply piping system by
either using compressed air or open-
ing main gas valve located on or near
gas meter.
4. Check all joints of gas supply piping
system. Apply mixture of liquid soap
and water to gas joints. Bubbles form-
ing show a leak.
5. Correct all leaks at once.
6. Reconnect heater and equipment
shutoff valve to gas supply. Check re-
connected fittings for leaks.
Test Pressures Equal To or Less Than
1/2 PSIG (3.5 kPA)
1. Close equipment shutoff valve (see
Figure 13).
2. Pressurize supply piping system by ei-
ther using compressed air or opening
main gas valve located on or near gas
meter.
WARNING:Neveruseanopen
flame to check for a leak. Apply a
mixture of liquid soap and water
to all joints. Bubbles forming
show a leak. Correct all leaks at
once.
WARNING: Test all gas pip-
ing and connections for leaks
after installing or servicing. Cor-
rect all leaks at once.
3. Check all joints from gas meter to
equipment shutoff valve (see Figure
14). Apply mixture of liquid soap and
water to gas joints. Bubbles forming
show a leak.
4. Correct all leaks at once.
Pressure Testing Heater Gas
Connections
1. Open equipment shutoff valve (see Fig-
ure 13).
2. Open main gas valve located on or near
gas meter.
3. Make sure control knob of heater is in
the OFF position.
4. Check alljoints from equipmentshutoff
valve to control valve (see Figure 14).
Apply mixture of liquid soap and wa-
ter to gas joints. Bubbles forming show
a leak.
5. Correct all leaks at once.
6. Light heater (see Operating Heater,
pages ll through 13). Check the rest of
the internal joints for leaks.
7. Turn off heater (see To Turn Off Gas to
Appliance, page 12).
8. Replace front panel.
O
PO
S
P
Figure 13 - Equipment Shutoff Valve
Equipment
Shutoff
Valve
Closed
Figure 14 - Checking Gas Joints
Equipment
Shutoff
Valve
Gas Meter
Control Valve Location
Open
OPERATING
HEATER
FOR YOUR SAFETY
READ BEFORE
LIGHTING
A. Thisappliance hasapilotwhichmust
belightedbyhand.Whenlightingthe
pilot,followtheseinstructionsexactly.
B. BEFORE LIGHTING smell all
aroundtheappliance areaforgas. Be
suretosmell nextto thefloor because
some gas is heavier than air and will
settle on the floor.
WHATTODOIFYOUSMELLGAS
• Do not try to light any appliance.
• Donottouch anyelectricswitch; do
notuse anyphonein your building.
• Immediatelycall yourgas supplier
from a neighbor’s phone. Follow
the gas supplier’s instructions.
• If you cannot reach your gas sup-
plier, call the fire department.
C. Useonly yourhand topush inor turn
thegas controlknob. Neveruse tools.
If the knob will not push in or turn
by hand, don’t try to repair it, call a
qualified service technician or gas
supplier. Force or attempted repair
may result in a fire or explosion.
D. Do not use this appliance if any part
has been under water. Immediately
call a qualified service technician
to inspect the appliance and to re-
place any part of the control sys-
tem and any gas control which has
been under water.
WARNING: If you do not fol-
low these instructions exactly, a
fireorexplosionmayresultcaus-
ing property damage, personal
injury or loss of life.
INSTALLATION
Continued
Continued

12
104820
INFRARED NATURAL GAS HEATER
®
TO TURN OFF GAS
TO APPLIANCE
Shutting Off Heater
1. Turncontrolknobclockwise
to the OFF position.
2. Turn off all electric power to the ap-
pliance if service is to be performed.
Shutting Off Burner Only (pilot
stays lit)
Turn control knob clockwise to
the PILOT position.
CAUTION:Donottrytoadjust
heatinglevelsbyusingtheequip-
ment shutoff valve.
OPERATING
HEATER
Continued
Ignitor Electrode
Pilot Burner
Thermocouple
Figure 16 - Pilot
IGNITOR
PILOT
LO
OFF
HI
LIGHTING
INSTRUCTIONS
Figure 15 - Control Knob In The OFF
Position
Control Knob
Ignitor Button
1. STOP! Read the safety information
on page 11, column 3.
2. Make sure equipment shutoff valve
is fully open.
3. Turncontrolknobclockwise
to the OFF position.
4. Waitfive(5)minutesto clearout any
gas. Then smell for gas, including
near the floor. If you smell gas,
STOP! Follow “B” in the safety in-
formation page 11, column 3. If you
don’t smell gas, go to the next step.
5. Turn control knob counterclockwise
to thePILOT position.Press
in control knob for five (5) seconds
(see Figure 15).
Note: You may be running this
heater for the first time after hook-
ing up to gas supply. If so, the con-
trol knob may need to be pressed in
for 30 seconds. This will allow air to
bleed from the gas system.
• If control knob does not pop up
when released, contact a quali-
fied service person or gas sup-
plier for repairs.
6. With control knob pressed in, push
down and release ignitor button.
This will light pilot. The pilot is at-
tached to the front of burner. If
needed, keep pressing ignitor but-
ton until pilot lights.
Note: If pilot does not stay lit, refer to
Troubleshooting, pages 14 through 16.
Alsocontactaqualifiedserviceperson
or gas supplier for repairs. Until re-
pairsaremade, lightpilot withmatch.
To light pilot with match, see Manual
Lighting Procedure on page 13.
7. Keep control knob pressed in for 30
seconds after lighting pilot.After 30
seconds, release control knob.
Note: If pilot goes out, repeat steps
3 through 7.This heater has a safety
interlocksystem.Waitone(1)minute
before lighting pilot again.
8. Turn control knob counterclockwise
to desired heating level. The
mainburnershouldlight.Set control
knob to any heat level between HI
and LOW (see Figure 17).
THERMOSTAT
CONTROL
OPERATION
The thermostatic control used on these
modelsdiffersfromstandardthermostats.
Standardthermostatssimply turnonand
off the burner. The thermostat used on
this heater senses the room temperature.
At times the room may exceed the set
temperature.Ifso,theburnerwillshutoff.
The burner will cycle back on when room
temperaturedropsbelowthesettempera-
ture. The control knob can be set to any 2
comfort level between HI and LO.
Note: The thermostat sensing bulb mea-
sures the temperature of air near the
heatercabinet.Thismaynotalwaysagree
with room temperature (depending on
housing construction, installation loca-
tion, room size, open air temperatures,
etc.) Frequent use of your heater will let
you determine your own comfort levels.
Figure 17 - Burner Patterns
OFF
HI
LO
PILOT
OFF
HI
LO
PILOT
Control Knob VN1800TB VN3000TB

13
104820
OWNER’S MANUAL
INSPECTING
BURNER
Check pilot flame pattern and burner flame
pattern often.
PILOT FLAME PATTERN
Figure18showsacorrectpilotflamepattern.
Figure 19 shows an incorrect pilot flame
pattern.Theincorrectpilotflameisnottouch-
ing the thermocouple. This will cause the
thermocouple to cool. When the thermo-
couple cools, the heater will shut down.
If pilot flame pattern is incorrect, as shown
in Figure 19
• turn heater off (see To Turn Off Gas to
Appliance, page 12)
• seeTroubleshooting,pages 14 through 16
GRH/OV 009GOOD PILOT
Figure 18 - Correct Pilot Flame Pattern
Thermocouple
GRH/OV 010BAD PILOT
Thermocouple
Figure 19 - Incorrect Pilot Flame Pattern
Pilot Burner
Pilot Burner
Figure 20 - Correct Burner Flame Pattern
Bad Burner Pattern-Plaque GRH/OV 019
Figure21-IncorrectBurnerFlamePattern
BURNER FLAME PATTERN
Figure 20 shows a correct burner flame
pattern.Figure21showsanincorrectburner
flame pattern.
If pilot flame pattern is incorrect, as shown
in Figure 21
• turn heater off (see To Turn Off Gas to
Appliance, page 12)
• seeTroubleshooting,pages 14 through 16
CLEANING AND
MAINTENANCE
ODS/PILOT AND BURNER
ORIFICE
• Use a vacuum cleaner, pressurized air, or
small, soft bristled brush to clean.
CLEANING BURNER
PILOT AIR INLET HOLE
We recommend that you clean the unit every
2,500hoursofoperationoreverythreemonths.
Wealsorecommendthatyoukeeptheburner
tubeandpilotassemblycleanandfreeofdust
anddirt. To clean these parts we recommend
using compressed air no greater than 30 PSI.
Yourlocalcomputerstore,hardwarestore,or
home center may carry compressed air in a
can. You can use a vacuum cleaner in the
blow position. If using compressed air in a
can,pleasefollowthedirectionsonthecan.If
you don't follow directions on the can, you
could damage the pilot assembly.
1. Shut off the unit, including the pilot.
Allow the unit to cool for at least
thirty minutes.
2. Inspect burner, pilot for dust and dirt.
3. Blow air through the ports/slots and
holes in the burner.
Clean the pilot assembly also. A yellow tip
on the pilot flame indicates dust and dirt in
the pilot assembly. There is a small pilot air
inlet hole about two inches from where the
pilot flame comes out of the pilot assembly
(see Figure 22). With the unit off, lightly
blow air through the air inlet hole. You may
blowthroughadrinkingstrawifcompressed
air is not available.
CABINET
Air Passageways
• Use a vacuum cleaner or pressurized air
to clean.
Exterior
• Use a soft cloth dampened with a mild
soap and water mixture. Wipe the cabi-
net to remove dust.
CAUTION: You must keep
control areas, burner, and circu-
lating air passageways of heater
clean. Inspect these areas of
heater before each use. Have
heaterinspectedyearlybyaquali-
fied service person. Heater may
needmorefrequentcleaningdue
to excessive lint from carpeting,
bedding material, pet hair, etc.
WARNING: Turn off heater
and let cool before cleaning.
MANUAL LIGHTING
PROCEDURE
1. Followsteps1through5 underLight-
ing Instructions on page 12.
2. With control knob pressed in, strike
match. Hold match to pilot until pi-
lot lights.
3. Keep control knob pressed in for 30
seconds after lighting pilot.After 30
seconds, release control knob. Now
follow step 8 under Lighting Instruc-
tions, page 12
OPERATING
HEATER
Continued
Figure 22 - Pilot Inlet Air Hole
Pilot Assembly
Pilot Air Inlet
Hole

14
104820
INFRARED NATURAL GAS HEATER
®
TROUBLESHOOTING
OBSERVED PROBLEM
Whenignitorbuttonispressedin,thereisno
spark at ODS/pilot
ODS/pilot lights but flame goes out when
control knob is released
POSSIBLE CAUSE
1. Ignitor electrode positioned wrong
2. Ignitor electrode broken
3. Ignitor electrode not connected to igni-
tor cable
4. Ignitor cable pinched or wet
5. Broken ignitor cable
6. Bad piezo ignitor
7. Piezo ignitor nut is loose
1. Gas supply turned off or equipment
shutoff valve closed
2. Control knob not fully pressed in while
pressing ignitor button (non-thermostat
models only)
Thermostat control knob not fully
pressed in while pressing ignitor button
(thermostat models only)
3. Air in gas lines when installed
4. ODS/pilot is clogged
5. Gas regulator setting is not correct
6. Thermostat control knob not in pilot
position
REMEDY
1. Replace ignitor
2. Replace ignitor
3. Reconnect ignitor cable
4. Free ignitor cable if pinched by any
metal or tubing. Keep ignitor cable dry
5. Replace ignitor cable
6. Replace control valve (piezo is part of
control valve)
7. Tighten nut holding piezo ignitor. Nut
is located inside heater cabinet at top
1. Turn on gas supply or open equipment
shutoff valve
2. Fully press in control knob while press-
ing ignitor button (non-thermostat mod-
els only)
Fully press in thermostat control knob
while pressing ignitor button (thermo-
stat models only)
3. Continue holding down control knob.
Repeat igniting operation until air is re-
moved
4. Clean ODS/pilot (see Cleaning and
Maintenance, page 13 ) or replace ODS/
pilot assembly
5. Replace gas regulator
6. Turn thermostat control knob to pilot
position
WARNING: Turn off and un-
plug heater and let cool before
servicing. Only a qualified ser-
vice person should service and
repair heater.
CAUTION: Never use a wire,
needle, or similar object to clean
ODS/pilot.ThiscandamageODS/
pilot unit.
www.desatech.com
Note: For additional help, visit DESA
International’stechnicalservicewebsite
at www.desatech.com.
Note: Alltroubleshootingitemsarelistedin
order of operation.

15
104820
OWNER’S MANUAL
OBSERVED PROBLEM
When ignitor button is pressed in, there is a
spark at ODS/pilot but no ignition
Burner(s)does not lightafter ODS/pilotislit
Delayed ignition of burner(s)
Burner backfiring during combustion
Burner plaque(s) does not glow
Slightsmoke or odorduringinitial operation
Heater produces a clicking/ticking noise
just after burner is lit or shut off
Whitepowderresidueformingwithinburner
box or on adjacent walls or furniture
TROUBLESHOOTING
Continued
REMEDY
1. Press in control knob fully
2. After ODS/pilot lights, keep control
knob pressed in 30 seconds
3. Fully open equipment shutoff valve
4. Hand tighten until snug, then tighten
1/4 turn more
5. A) Contact local natural gas company
B) Clean ODS/pilot (see Cleaning and
Maintenance, page 13) or replace ODS/
pilot assembly
6. Replace thermocouple
7. Replace control valve
8. Waitone minutefor safety interlock sys-
tem to reset. Repeat ignition operation
1. Clean burner orifice(s) (see Cleaning
and Maintenance, page 13) or replace
burner orifice(s)
2. Replace burner orifice(s)
3. Contact local natural gas company
1. Contact local natural gas company
2. Clean burner orifice(s) (see Cleaning
and Maintenance, page 13) or replace
burner orifice(s)
1. Clean burner orifice(s) (see Cleaning
and Maintenance, page 13) or replace
burner orifice(s)
2. Replace burner
3. Replace gas regulator
1. Replace burner
2. Contact local natural gas company
3. Turn control knob until it locks at de-
sired setting
1. Problem will stop after a few hours of
operation
1. This is common with most heaters. If
noise is excessive, contact qualified ser-
vice person
1. Turn heater off when using furniture
polish, wax, carpet cleaners, or similar
products
POSSIBLE CAUSE
1. Control knob not fully pressed in
2. Control knobnot pressedin longenough
3. Equipment shutoff valve not fully open
4. Thermocouple connection loose at con-
trol valve
5. Pilot flame not touching thermocouple,
which allows thermocouple to cool,
causing pilot flame to go out. This prob-
lem could be caused by one or both of
the following:
A) Low gas pressure
B) Dirty or partially clogged ODS/pilot
6. Thermocouple damaged
7. Control valve damaged
8. Safety interlock system has been trig-
gered (thermostat models only)
1. Burner orifice(s) is clogged
2. Burner orifice(s) diameter is too small
3. Inlet gas pressure is too low
1. Manifold pressure is too low
2. Burner orifice(s) is clogged
1. Burner orifice(s) is clogged or damaged
2. Burner damaged
3. Gas regulator defective
1. Plaque damaged
2. Inlet gas pressure is too low
3. Control knob set between locked
positions
1. Residues from manufacturing processes
1. Metal expanding while heating or con-
tracting while cooling
1. When heated,vapors fromfurniture pol-
ish, wax, carpet cleaners, etc. turn into
white powder residue
Continued
www.desatech.com

16
104820
INFRARED NATURAL GAS HEATER
®
TROUBLESHOOTING
Continued
WARNING: If you smell gas
• Shut off gas supply.
• Do not try to light any appliance.
• Do not touch any electrical switch; do not use any phone in your
building.
• Immediatelycallyourgassupplierfromaneighbor’sphone.Followthe
gas supplier’s instructions.
• If you cannot reach your gas supplier, call the fire department.
POSSIBLE CAUSE
1. Heater burning vapors from paint, hair
spray, glues, etc. See IMPORTANT
statement above
2. Gas leak. SeeWarning statement at
top of page
1. Not enough fresh air is available
2. Low line pressure
3. ODS/pilot is partially clogged
1. Gas leak. SeeWarning statement at
top of page
2. Control valve defective
1. Foreign matter between control valve
and burner
2. Gas leak. SeeWarning statement at
top of page
1. Not enough combustion/ventilation air
OBSERVED PROBLEM
Heater produces unwanted odors
Heater shuts off in use (ODS operates)
Gas odor even when control knob is in OFF
position
Gas odor during combustion
Moisture/condensationnoticedonwindows
REMEDY
1. Ventilate room. Stop using odor caus-
ing products while heater is running
2. Locate and correct all leaks (see Check-
ing Gas Connections, page 11)
1. Open windowand/ordoorfor ventilation.
2. Contact local natural gas company.
3. Clean ODS/pilot (see Cleaning and
Maintenance, page 13)
1. Locate and correct all leaks (see Check-
ing Gas Connections, page 11)
2. Replace control valve
1. Take apart gas tubing and remove for-
eign matter
2. Locate and correct all leaks (see Check-
ing Gas Connections, page 11)
1. Refer to Fresh Air for Combustion and
Ventilation requirements (page 4)
IMPORTANT: Operating heater where impurities in air exist may create odors. Cleaning
supplies, paint, paint remover, cigarette smoke, cements and glues, new carpet or textiles,
etc., create fumes. These fumes may mix with combustion air and create odors.
www.desatech.com

17
104820
OWNER’S MANUAL
TECHNICAL
SERVICE
SPECIFICATIONS
VN1800TB VN3000TB
Btu 18,000 30,000
Type Gas Natural Only Natural Only
Ignition Piezo Piezo
Pressure Regulator Setting 6" W.C. 6" W.C.
Inlet Gas Pressure* (in. of water)
Maximum 10.5" 10.5"
Minimum 7" 7"
Dimensions, Inches (H x W x D)
Heater 23.5 x 18.5 x 8 23.5 x 25.9 x 8
Carton 25.8 x 21.3 x 10.1 25.8 x 28.7 x 10.1
Weight (pounds)
Heater 22 30
Shipping 27 36
Note :Dimensions listed are outer most points on the heater (includes control knobs
and grill).
* For purposes of input adjustment.
SERVICE
PUBLICATIONS
Youcanpurchaseaservicemanualfromthe
address listed on the back page of this
manual. Send a check for $5.00 payable to
DESA International.
SERVICE HINTS
When Gas Pressure Is Too Low
• pilot will not stay lit
• burner(s) will have delayed ignition
• heater will not produce specified heat
When Gas Quality Is Bad
• pilot will not stay lit
• burner(s) will produce flames and soot
• heater will backfire when lit
Youmayfeelyourgaspressureistoolowor
gas quality is bad. If so, contact your local
natural gas supplier.
REPLACEMENT
PARTS
Note: Use only original replacement parts.
Thiswillprotectyourwarrantycoveragefor
parts replaced under warranty.
PARTS UNDER WARRANTY
Contact authorized dealer from whom you
purchased this product. If they are unable to
supply original replacement part(s), call
DESAInternational’sTechnicalServiceDe-
partmentat1-800-323-5190forinformation.
When contacting your dealer or DESA In-
ternational, have ready:
• your name
• your address
• model and serial numbers of your heater
• how heater was malfunctioning
• typeofgasused(propane/LPornaturalgas)
• purchase date
Usually,wewillaskyoutoreturnthedefec-
tive part to the factory.
PARTS NOT UNDER
WARRANTY
Contact authorized dealers of this product.
If they can’t supply original replacement
part(s), call DESA International’s Parts
Department at 1-800-972-7879 for referral
information. When calling DESA Interna-
tional, have ready:
• model number of your heater
• the replacement part number
You may have further questions about in-
stallation, operation, or troubleshooting. If
so,contactDESAInternational’sTechnical
Service Department at 1-800-323-5190.
You can also visit DESA International’s
technical service web site at
www.desatech.com.

18
104820
INFRARED NATURAL GAS HEATER
®
1
2
3
11
6
4
7
5
6
12
13 9
10
15
14
8
ILLUSTRATED
PARTS
BREAKDOWN
VN1800TB
BURNER ASSEMBLY
13-1
13-2
13-4
13-3
13-5
13-10
13-6
13-8
13-7
13-3
13-9
13-6
13-12
13-11
ODS/PILOT

19
104820
OWNER’S MANUAL
PARTS LIST
VN1800TB
This list contains replaceable parts used in your heater. When ordering parts, follow the instructions
listed under Replacement Parts on page 17 of this manual.
KEY PART
NO. NUMBER DESCRIPTION QTY.
1 098304-01 Screw, #10 x 3/8" 2
2 098742-13 Front Panel 1
3 098238-06 Grill Guard 1
4 101108-01 Clip-Grill Guard 2
5 103843-02 Apron 1
6 M11084-26 Screw, #10 x 3/8" 9
7 098457-01 Reflector Assembly 1
8 098271-03 Ignitor Cable 1
9 099415-08 Regulator with Pressure Tap 1
10 098303-02 Screw, #6 x 3/8" 2
11 104617-10 Cabinet Assembly 1
12 097159-04 Piezo Ignitor, Snap-In 1
13 See Detail Burner Assembly 1
13-1 099218-06 Burner 1
13-2 099056-03 Injector-Plaque A 1
13-3 104818-01 Tubing-Valve to Burner 1
13-4 099056-24 Injector-Plaque B 1
13-5 M11084-37 Screw, #8 x 1/4" 2
13-6 099387-06 Pilot Tubing 1
13-7 103256-01 Inlet Tubing 1
13-8 103594-06 ODS/Pilot 1
13-9 098522-16 Control Valve 1
13-10 M11084-26 Screw, #10 x 3/8" 2
13-11 098514-01 Thermocouple 1
13-12 106842-01 Ignitor Electrode 1
14 099066-01 Mounting Bracket 1
15 104819-01 Regulator Bracket 1
PARTS AVAILABLE - NOT SHOWN
098305-01 Control Position Label 1
100642-01 Hardware Assembly 1

20
104820
INFRARED NATURAL GAS HEATER
®
ILLUSTRATED
PARTS
BREAKDOWN
VN3000TB
13-12
13-11
ODS/PILOT BURNER ASSEMBLY
13-1
13-4
13-2
13-5
13-3
13-3
13-8
13-4
13-6
13-6
13-9
13-10
13-7
1
2
3
11
6
4
8
5
6
12
13
9
10
14
15
7
13-5