Vanguard VMH26TPB 14 Quick start guide

Save this manual for future reference.
OWNER’S OPERATION AND INSTALLATION MANUAL
VENT-FREE PROPANE/LP GAS
COMPACT CLASSIC HEARTH®FIREPLACE
®
Shown with Optional
Cabinet Mantel/Hearth
Base Accessory
VMH26TPB
14,000 to 26,000 Btu/Hr
withThermostat
WARNING: If the information in this manual is not
followedexactly,a fire orexplosionmay result caus-
ing property damage, personal injury, or loss of life.
— Do not store or use gasoline or other
flammable vapors and liquids in the vicinity
of this or any other appliance.
— WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS
• Do not try to light any appliance.
• Do not touch any electrical switch; do not
use any phone in your building.
• Immediately call your gas supplier from a
neighbor’s phone. Follow the gas
supplier’s instructions.
• Ifyoucannotreachyourgas supplier, call
the fire department.
— Installation and service must be performed
byaqualifiedinstaller,serviceagency,orthe
gas supplier.
WARNING: Improper installa-
tion,adjustment,alteration,ser-
vice, or maintenance can cause
injury or property damage. Re-
fer to this manual for correct
installationandoperationalpro-
cedures.Forassistanceoraddi-
tional information consult a
qualified installer, service
agency, or the gas supplier.
WARNING: This is an unvented
gas-fired heater. It uses air (oxy-
gen) from the room in which it is
installed.Provisionsforadequate
combustion and ventilation air
mustbeprovided.Referto Airfor
Combustion and Ventilation sec-
tion on page 5 of this manual.
This appliance may be installed in an aftermarket*, permanently located, manufactured (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.
*Aftermarket: Completion of sale, not for purpose of resale, from the manufacturer

2
107030
COMPACT CLASSIC HEARTH
®
FIREPLACE
VMH26TPB
®
IMPORTANT: Read this owner’s
manual carefully and completely
beforetryingtoassemble,operate,
or service this fireplace. Improper
use of this fireplace can cause se-
rious injury or death from burns,
fire,explosion,electricalshock,and
carbon monoxide poisoning.
SAFETY
INFORMATION
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Early signs
ofcarbonmonoxidepoisoningresemblethe
flu, with headaches, dizziness, or nausea. If
you have these signs, the fireplace may not
beworkingproperly.Getfreshairatonce!
Have fireplace serviced. Some people are
more affected by carbon monoxide than
others. These include pregnant women,
peoplewithheart orlungdiseaseoranemia,
those under the influence of alcohol, and
those at high altitudes.
Propane/LP Gas: Propane/LP gas is odor-
less. An odor-making agent is added to pro-
pane/LP gas. The odor helps you detect a
propane/LPgasleak.However,theodoradded
to propane/LP gas can fade. Propane/LP gas
may be present even though no odor exists.
Make certain you read and understand all
warnings.Keepthismanualforreference.It
isyourguidetosafeandproperoperationof
this fireplace.
DANGER: Carbon monoxide
poisoning may lead to death!
WARNING ICON G 001
WARNINGS
1. This appliance is only for use with the
typeofgasindicated on the rating plate.
Thisapplianceis not convertible for use
with other gases.
2. Do not placepropane/LPsupply tank(s)
insideanystructure. Locate propane/LP
supply tank(s) outdoors.
3. 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
• immediately call your gas supplier
from a neighbor’s phone. Follow the
gas supplier’s instructions
• ifyoucannotreach your gas supplier,
call the fire department
4. This fireplace shall not be installed in
a bedroom or bathroom.
5. Do not use this fireplace as a wood-
burning fireplace. Use only the logs
provided with the fireplace.
6. Do not add extra logs or ornaments
suchas pine cones, vermiculite, or rock
wool. Using these added items can
cause sooting. Do not add lava rock
aroundbase.Rockanddebriscouldfall
into the control area of fireplace.
7. This fireplace is designed to be smoke-
less. If logs ever appear to smoke, turn
off fireplace and call a qualified ser-
vice person. Note: During initial op-
eration,slightsmokingcouldoccurdue
to log curing and fireplace burning
manufacturing residues.
8. To prevent the creation of soot, follow
the instructions in Cleaning and Main-
tenance, page 19.
9. Before using furniture polish, wax, car-
pet cleaner, or similar products, turn
heater off. If heated, the vapors from
theseproducts may create a white pow-
der residue within burner box or on
adjacent walls or furniture.
10. This fireplace needs fresh air ventila-
tion to run properly. This fireplace has
an Oxygen Depletion Sensing (ODS)
safety shutoff system. The ODS shuts
down the fireplace if not enough fresh
air is available. See Air for Combus-
tion and Ventilation, pages 5 through
7. If fireplace keeps shutting off, see
Troubleshooting, pages 20 through 22.
11. Do not run fireplace
• where flammable liquids or vapors
are used or stored.
• under dusty conditions.
12. Do not use this fireplace to cook food
or burn paper or other objects.
13. Do not use fireplace ifanyparthas been
under water. Immediately call a quali-
fied service technician to inspect the
room fireplace and to replace any part
of the control system and any gas con-
trol which has been under water.
14. Turn off and unplug fireplace and let
cool before servicing. Only a qualified
service person should service and re-
pair fireplace.
Due to high temperatures, the
appliance should be located out
oftraffic and awayfrom furniture
and draperies.
Do not place clothing or other
flammable material on or near
the appliance. Never place any
objects in the fireplace.
Fireplace front and screen be-
comes very hot when running
fireplace. Keep children and
adults away from hot surfaces to
avoid burns or clothing ignition.
Fireplace will remain hot for a
time after shutdown. Allow sur-
faces to cool before touching.
Carefully supervise young chil-
dren when they are in the room
with fireplace.
Keeptheapplianceareaclearand
free from combustible materials,
gasoline,andotherflammableva-
pors and liquids.
You must operate this fireplace
with a fireplace screen in place.
Make sure fireplace screen is in
place before running fireplace.
WARNING:Anychangetothis
fireplace or its controls can be
dangerous.
WARNING: Do not allow fans
toblowdirectlyintothefireplace.
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
insert,orotheraccessorynotap-
provedforusewiththisfireplace.

3
107030
OWNER’S MANUAL
PRODUCT IDENTIFICATION
LOCAL CODES
Installanduse fireplacewithcare.Followall
localcodes.Intheabsenceoflocalcodes,use
the latest edition of The National Fuel Gas
Code ANSI Z223.1/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 Propane/LP Gas Compact Fireplace
PRODUCT
FEATURES
SAFETY PILOT
This fireplace has a pilot with an Oxygen
DepletionSensing(ODS)safetyshutoffsys-
tem. The ODS/pilot is a required feature for
vent-freeroomfireplaces.TheODS/pilotshuts
offthefireplaceifthereisnotenoughfreshair.
PIEZO IGNITION SYSTEM
This fireplace has a piezo ignitor. This sys-
tem requires no matches, batteries, or other
sources to light fireplace.
THERMOSTATIC HEAT
CONTROL
Thisfireplacehasathermostatsensingbulb
and a control valve. The thermostat will
automatically modulate the heat output to
maintain a consistent room temperature.
This results in greater fireplace comfort.
This can also result in lower gas bills.
Ignitor Button
Screen
Fireplace
Cabinet
Logs
Control Knob
IMPORTANT:
THIS PACKAGE CONTAINS A
FIREPLACE HOOD. UNWRAP
CARTON AND REMOVE HOOD
BEFORE DISCARDING
PROTECTIVE PACKAGING.
1
2
UNPACKING
1. Remove log box and fireplace from
carton. The hood is not attached.
IMPORTANT: The fireplace hood is
inside the cardboard protective end
wrap on the left side of fireplace (as
viewed from front). A decal is on the
outside of the cardboard end wrap stat-
ing hood is enclosed (see Figure 2).
2. Remove hood from cardboard protec-
tive end wrap as shown in Figure 2.
3. Remove all protective packaging ap-
plied to fireplace for shipment.
4. Make sure your fireplace includes one
hardware packet.
5. Check fireplace for any shipping
damage. If fireplace is damaged,
promptly inform dealer where you
bought fireplace.
Figure 2 - Removing Fireplace Hood
Hood
Cardboard
Protective
Fireplace
End Wrap
Hood Enclosed
Decal
SAFETY
INFORMATION
Continued
15. Operating fireplace above elevations of
4,500 feet could cause pilot outage.
16. Do not operate fireplace if any log is
broken. Do not operate fireplace if a
log is chipped (dime-sized or larger).
17. To prevent performance problems, do
not use propane/LP fuel tank of less
than 100 lbs. capacity.
18. Provide adequate clearances around air
openings.

4
107030
COMPACT CLASSIC HEARTH
®
FIREPLACE
VMH26TPB
®
ASSEMBLY
WARNING: Always have
branch support and screen in
place before operating fireplace.
Thispreventsexcessivetempera-
tures on fireplace surfaces.
WARNING:Failuretoposition
thepartsinaccordancewiththese
diagrams or failure to use only
parts specifically approved with
this fireplace may result in prop-
erty damage or personal injury.
Figure 3 - Assembling Fireplace
Log
Screen
Burner Support with
Log Locator Tabs
Branch
Support
Shoulder
Screw
ASSEMBLING FIREPLACE
Tools Required:
• Phillips screwdriver
• 5/16" hex wrench
• slotted screwdriver
Installing Log
1. Lift screen up and pull out to remove.
2. Cut two plastic straps to remove the log
from the firebox cavity.
3. An optionalbloweris available. See Ac-
cessories, page 26. Install optional
blower now. Follow installation in-
structions provided with blower.
4. Remove log packaging material and
discard packaging. Gently place log set
on burner support (see Figure 3). The
log should fit flat against top of burner
support and log locator tabs fit into the
slots under the log. Do not allow log to
contact flame. If flame contacts log,
soot will be created.
5. Reattach screen by placing the notches
in the screen frame over the shoulder
screws and pushing down.
Figure 4 - Assembling Hood
Hood
Tabs Hood
Louver
Hood Tab
Baffle
Sheet Metal
Screw Firebox Top
Assembling Hood
1. Locate four black phillips sheet metal
screws from the hardware packet.
2. Rotate hood as shown in Figure 4.
Make sure hood tabs point toward
fireplace.
3. Insert hood tabs betweenbaffleand lou-
vers (see Figure 4).
4. Gently rotate hood to upright position.
Make sure hood tabs are behind lou-
vers and hood is resting on firebox top
(see Figure 4).
5. Align screw holes on hood with screw
holes on firebox top.
6. Insert screws as shown in Figure 4.
Tighten screws firmly.

5
107030
OWNER’S MANUAL
AIR FOR
COMBUSTION AND
VENTILATION
Today’s homes are built more energy effi-
cient than ever. New materials, increased
insulation,andnewconstructionmethodshelp
reduce heat loss in homes. Home owners
weather strip and caulk around windows and
doorstokeepthecoldairoutandthewarmair
in.Duringheatingmonths,homeownerswant
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.
PROVIDING ADEQUATE
VENTILATION
The following are excerpts from National
Fuel GasCode,ANSI Z223.1/ NFPA54, 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 5 through 7 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 andceilings exposed to the
outside atmosphere have a con-
tinuouswatervaporretarderwith
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
addedon openablewindows 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-
tweenwall-ceilingjoints,between
wall panels, at penetrations for
plumbing, electrical, and gas
lines, and at other openings.
WARNING: This heater shall
notbeinstalledinaconfinedspace
or unusually tight construction
unlessprovisionsareprovidedfor
adequate combustion and venti-
lation air. Read the following in-
structions to insure proper fresh
air for this and other fuel-burning
appliances in your home.
Continued
If your home meets all of the three
criteria above, you must provide ad-
ditional fresh air. See Ventilation Air
From Outdoors
, page 7.
If your home does not meet all of the
threecriteriaabove,proceedto
Deter-
mining Fresh-Air Flow For Fireplace
Location , page 6.
Confined and Unconfined Space
TheNationalFuelGasCode,ANSIZ223.1.3/
NFPA54definesaconfinedspaceasaspace
whose volume is less than 50 cubic feet per
1,000 Btu per hour (4.8 m3per kw) of the
aggregate input rating of all appliances in-
stalledinthatspaceandanunconfinedspace
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.
*Adjoiningroomsarecommunicatingonly
iftherearedoorlesspassagewaysorventila-
tion grills between them.

6
107030
COMPACT CLASSIC HEARTH
®
FIREPLACE
VMH26TPB
®
DETERMINING FRESH-AIR FLOW FOR FIREPLACE LOCATION
Determining if You Have a Confined or Unconfined Space
Use this worksheet to determine if you have a confined or unconfined space.
Space: Includes the room in which you will install fireplace 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).
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. Multiply the space volume by 20 to determine the maximum Btu/Hr the space can support.
_________________ (volume of space) x 20 = (Maximum Btu/Hr the space can support)
Example: 2560 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.
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)
56,000 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 7.
B. Vent room directly to the outdoors. See Ventilation Air From Outdoors, page 7.
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.
WARNING:Iftheareainwhichtheheatermaybeoperatedissmallerthanthatdefinedasanunconfinedspace
or if the building is of unusually tight construction, provide adequate combustion and ventilation air by one of
themethodsdescribedinthe NationalFuelGasCode,ANSIZ223.1/NFPA54Section5.3 orapplicablelocalcodes.
AIR FOR
COMBUSTION AND
VENTILATION
Continued
Example:
Gas water heater 30,000 Btu/Hr
Vent-free fireplace +26,000 Btu/Hr
Total =56,000 Btu/Hr

7
107030
OWNER’S MANUAL
Figure 6 - Ventilation Air from Outdoors Shown with Optional Mantel
Outlet
Air Ventilated
Attic
Outlet
Air
Inlet
Air
Inlet Air Ventilated
Crawl Space
To
Crawl
Space
To Attic
AIR FOR
COMBUSTION AND
VENTILATION
Continued
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,Figure5).Youcanalso
remove door into adjoining room (see op-
tion 3, Figure 5). Follow the National Fuel
Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54, Section
5.3, Air for Combustion and Ventilation for
required size of ventilation grills or ducts.
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, ANSI Z223.1/
NFPA 54, Section 5.3, Air for Combustion
and Ventilation for required size of ventila-
tion grills or ducts.
IMPORTANT: Do not provideopeningsfor
inlet or outlet air into attic if attic has a
thermostat-controlledpowervent.Heatedair
enteringtheatticwillactivatethepowervent.
Figure 5 - Ventilation Air from Inside Building Shown with Optional Mantel
Or
Remove
Door into
Adjoining
Room,
Option 3
Ventilation Grills
Into Adjoining Room,
Option 2
12"
12"
Ventilation
Grills
into Adjoining
Room,
Option 1

8
107030
COMPACT CLASSIC HEARTH
®
FIREPLACE
VMH26TPB
®
Note: YourVanguardfireplaceisdesignedto
beusedinzeroclearanceinstallations.Wallor
framingmaterialcanbeplaceddirectlyagainst
any exterior surface of your fireplace, except
wherestandoffspacersareintegrallyattached.
If standoff spacers are attached to your fire-
place, these spacers can be placed directly
against wall or framing materials.
Use the dimensions shown for rough open-
ings to create the easiest installation (see
Built-In Fireplace Installation, page 9).
CHECK GAS TYPE
Useonlypropane/LPgas.Ifyourgassupply
is not propane/LP, do not install fireplace.
Call dealer where you bought fireplace for
proper type fireplace.
INSTALLATION ITEMS
Before installing fireplace, make sure you
have the items listed below.
• external regulator (supplied by installer)
• piping (check local codes)
• sealant (resistant to propane/LP gas)
• equipment shutoff valve *
• test gauge connection*
• ground joint union
• sediment trap
• tee joint
• pipe wrench
* ACSAdesign-certifiedequipmentshutoff
valve with 1/8" NPT tap is an acceptable
alternative to test gauge connection. Pur-
chase the optional CSA design-certified
equipment shutoff valve from your dealer.
See Accessories, page 26.
Note: Ifdesired,purchaseafour-sidedbrass
trimkit forbuilt-ininstallations. SeeAcces-
sories, page 26.
WARNING: A qualified ser-
vicepersonmustinstallfireplace.
Follow all local codes.
You can recess firebox into the wall. You
can also position fireplace in the optional
cabinet or corner mantels. IMPORTANT:
Onlyuseoptional cabinet orcornermantels
specified in this manual. Purchase the op-
tional mantel from your dealer (see Acces-
sories, page 26).
LOCATING FIREPLACE
WARNING: Never install the
fireplace
•in a bedroom or a bathroom
•in a recreational vehicle
•where curtains, furniture,
clothing, or other flammable
objectsarelessthan36inches
from the front, top, or sides of
the fireplace
•as a fireplace insert
•in high traffic areas
•in windy or drafty areas
CAUTION: This fireplace cre-
ateswarmaircurrents.Thesecur-
rents move heat to wall surfaces
next to fireplace. Installing fire-
place next to vinyl or cloth wall
coverings or operating fireplace
where impurities (such as, but
not limited to, tobacco smoke,
aromatic candles, cleaning flu-
ids,oilorkerosenelamps,etc.)in
the air exist, may discolor walls
or cause odors.
IMPORTANT: Vent-freefireplacesaddmois-
ture to the air. Although this is beneficial,
installing fireplace in rooms without enough
ventilationairmaycausemildewtoformfrom
too much moisture. See Air for Combustion
and Ventilation, pages 5 through 7.
Figure8-MountingClearancesAsViewed
From Front of Fireplace Shown with
Optional Mantel
Top Of
Mantel Can
Be Flush
With Wall
Left
Side
CEILING
Right
Side
36"
Minimum
6"
Minimum
From
Sides Of
Fireplace
Left
Side
CEILING
36"
Minimum
FLOOR
Right
Side
INSTALLATION
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 you haveacentral
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.
WARNING:Maintainthemini-
mum clearances shown in Fig-
ures 7 and 8. If you can, provide
greater clearances from floor,
ceiling, and joining wall.
0" Minimum To Top Surface Of Carpeting,
Tile Or Other Combustible Material
Note: When installing fireplace directly on
carpeting, tile or other combustible mate-
rial, other than wood flooring, the fireplace
shall be installed on a metal or wood panel
extending the full width and depth of the
fireplace.
0" Minimum To Top Surface Of Carpeting,
Tile Or Other Combustible Material
Figure7-MountingClearancesAsViewed
From Front of Fireplace Shown Built-In
the Wall

9
107030
OWNER’S MANUAL
Figure 11 - Attaching Fireplace to Wall
Studs
Nails or
Wood
Screws
INSTALLATION
Continued
1. Frame in rough opening. Use dimen-
sions shown in Figure 9 for the rough
opening.
If installing in a corner, use dimensions
shown in Figure 10 for the rough open-
ing. The height is 26 7/8" which is the
same as the wall opening above.
365 / 8"257
/ 8"
513
/ 4"
267
/ 8"
Figure 10 - Rough Opening for Installing
in Corner
BUILT-IN FIREPLACE
INSTALLATION
Built-ininstallationofthisfireplaceinvolves
installing fireplace into a framed-in enclo-
sure. This makes the front of fireplace flush
with wall. An optional brass trim kit acces-
soryisavailable(seeAccessories,page26).
Brasstrimwillextendpastsidesoffireplace
approximately 1/2 inch. This will cover the
rough edges of the wall opening. If install-
ingabuilt-inmantelabovethefireplaceyou
must follow the clearances shown in Figure
12, page 10. Follow the instructions below
to install the fireplace in this manner.
Actual Framing
Height 26" 26 7/8"
Front Width 26 3/4" 26 7/8"
Depth 9 1/2" 10 1/2"
Bottom 3/4" 3/4"
WARNING: Do not allow any
combustiblematerialstooverlap
the firebox front facing.
IMPORTANT: Noncombustible materials
suchasbrick,tile,etc.mayoverlapthefront
facing, but should never cover any neces-
sary openings like louvered slots.
Continued
CAUTION: If you install the
fireplace in a home garage
•fireplace pilot and burner must
beatleast18inchesabovefloor.
•locate fireplace where moving
vehicle will not hit it.
Forconvenienceandefficiency,installfire-
place
• where there is easy access for operation,
inspection, and service.
• in coldest part of room.
An optional blower kit is available from
your dealer (see Accessories, page 26). If
planningtouseblower,locatefireplacenear
an electrical outlet.
26
7/8
"
26
7/8
"
3/4" Off
The Floor
Minimum
10
1/2
"
Figure9-RoughOpeningforInstallingin
Wall
WARNING: If pre-wiring, do
notconnectwiringtoanyelectri-
cal source at this time.
Install fireplace electrical outlet
and connect wiring to outlet be-
fore connecting to electrical
source. The fireplace electrical
outlet is included with the
GA3450T blower accessory.
Only use the fireplace electrical
outletsuppliedwiththeGA3450T
blower accessory.
2. If installing GA3450T blower acces-
sory, do so at this time. See Installing
Blower Accessory GA3450T, page 11.
Note: If not installing blower acces-
sory, you may wish to run electrical
wiring to your fireplace for future
blower installation (see Accessories,
page26)Useonlyapprovedthree-wire
electrical wiring.
Note: A qualified installer should
make all electrical connections.
3. Install gas piping to fireplace location.
This installation includes an approved
flexible gas line (if allowed by local
codes) after the equipment shutoff
valve.The flexible gas line must be the
last item installed on the gas piping.
4. If you have not assembled firebox, fol-
low instructions on page 4.
5. Carefully set fireplace in front of rough
opening with back of fireplace inside
wall opening.
6. Attach flexible gas line to fireplace gas
regulator. See Connecting Fireplace to
Gas Supply, page 15.
7. Bend four nailing flanges on outer cas-
ing with pliers (see Figure 11).
8. Attach fireplace to wall studs using
nails or wood screws through holes in
nailing flange.
9. Check allgasconnections for leaks. See
Checking Gas Connections, page 16.
10. If using optional brass trim kit, install
the trim after final finishing and/or
painting of wall. See instructions in-
cluded with brass trim accessory for at-
taching brass trim.
IMPORTANT: When finishing your fire-
box, combustible materials such as wall
board, gypsum board, sheet rock, drywall,
plywood, etc. may be butted up next to the
sides and top of the firebox. Combustible
materials should never overlap the firebox
front facing.
Nailing
Flanges

10
107030
COMPACT CLASSIC HEARTH
®
FIREPLACE
VMH26TPB
®
INSTALLATION
Continued
Figure 13 - Attaching Brass Trim to
Fireplace
Shoulder Screws
Assembled
Brass Trim
Hole for 3" wood
screw for attaching
fireplace to mantel
Figure14-AttachingWoodBasetoFloor
9. Place wood base next to wall at instal-
lation location.
10. Attach woodbase to floorwith two 1 3/4"
black screws provided (see Figure 14).
Ifthefloorisconcrete useanchormethod
(seeAttachingWoodBasetoSolid Floor,
page 14).
11. Install gas line. See Connecting To Gas
Supply, page 14.
12. Check for leaks. See Checking Gas
Connections, page 16.
13. Place mantel around fireplace. Be care-
ful not to damage wall or mantel.
14. Place brass trim kit on the shoulder
screws located on the side and top of
thefireplace.Firmlysnap the brass trim
over the shoulder screws on fireplace
(see Figure 13).
15. Adjust assembly to remove any gaps.
Attach remaining two 3" wood screws
from hardware pack through openings
inside of fireplace sides into the man-
tel. The openings are located at top be-
hind the area for the brass louvers (see
Figure 14).
16. Reinstall top brass louvers.
Mantel Clearances for Built-In
Installation
If placing mantel above built-in fireplace,
youmustmeetminimumclearancebetween
mantel shelf and top of fireplace opening.
NOTICE:Ifyourinstallationdoes
notmeettheminimumclearances
shown, you must do one of the
following:
•raise the mantel to an accept-
able height
•remove the mantel
NOTICE:Surfacetemperaturesof
adjacent walls and mantels be-
comehotduringoperation.Walls
and mantels above the firebox
may become hot to the touch. If
installedproperly,thesetempera-
turesmeettherequirementofthe
national product standard. Fol-
low all minimum clearances
shown in this manual.
OPTIONAL MANTEL
INSTALLATION
Note: Refer to instructions provided with
the mantel for assembly instructions. Refer
to instructions below for system installa-
tion. Refer to instructions on page 4 for
fireboxassembly. Bloweraccessoryshould
be installed if it is being used (see Accesso-
ries, page 26).
1. Unscrew four brass screws that attach
top louver to fireplace. Remove louver
from fireplace and set aside.
2. Place fireplace on wood base.
3. Place mantel around fireplace/base
assembly.
4. Assemble brass trim kit. See Assem-
bling Brass Trim, page 11.
5. Firmly snap brass trim kit on shoulder
screws. Shoulder screws are located on
fireplace cabinet (see Figure 13).
6. Align brass trim kit for flush fit around
opening.
7. Use two 3" wood screws provided and
attach fireplace base to wooden base
(see Figure 13).
8. Remove brass trim kit and mantel. Be
careful not to damage wall or mantel.
1 3/4" Screw
Wood Base
13" 16"
19"
21"
2
1
/2"
6"
8"
10"
Note:
All vertical
measurements
are from top of
fireplace
opening to
bottom of
mantel shelf. All
measurements
are in inches.
Figure 12 - Minimum Mantel Clearances
for Built-In Installation
Mantel Shelf
Side of
Firebox
WARNING: Do not allow non-
combustible materials to cover
anynecessaryopeningslikelou-
vered slots.
WARNING:Useonlynoncom-
bustible mortar or adhesives
when overlapping the front fac-
ing with noncombustible facing
material.
WARNING: Never modify or
cover the louvered slots on the
front of the firebox.
Hole for 3"
wood screw
for attaching
fireplace to
wooden base

11
107030
OWNER’S MANUAL
Assembling Brass Trim (Brass
trim shipped with mantel)
1. Remove packaging from three remain-
ing pieces of brass trim.
2. Locate two adjusting plates with set
screws, and two shims in the hardware
packet.
3. Align shim under adjusting plate as
shown in Figure 15.
4. Slide one end of adjusting plate/shim
inslotonmiterededgeoftopbrasstrim
(see Figure 15).
5. Slide other end of adjusting plate/shim
in slot on mitered edge of side brass
trim (see Figure 15).
6. While firmly holding edges of brass
trim together, tighten both set screws
on the adjusting plate with slotted
screwdriver.
7. Repeat steps 1 through 6 for other corner.
8. Set brass assembly aside for later in-
stallation.
Side
Brass
Trim
Top Brass Trim
Mitered
Edge
Figure 15 - Assembling Brass Trim
Shim
Set
Screws
Adjusting
Plate
Slot
Slot
INSTALLATION
Continued
INSTALLING BLOWER
ACCESSORY GA3450T
Removing Upper Louver
Assembly
To install the blower accessory, you must
first remove the upper louver assembly.
1. Lift screen off heater.
2. Remove 4 screws from louver assem-
bly (see Figure 16). Save these screws.
3. Pull louver assembly straight out from
the cabinet. Be careful not to scratch
the paint. Set louver assembly and
screws aside.
Figure 16 - Removing Upper Louver
Assembly
Upper Louver
Assembly
Brass Screws
Blower Bracket
Mounting Holes
1
2
Remove
Screw
Valve
Cover
Shield
Shoulder
Screw
Removing Valve Cover Shield
1. Open bottom louver assembly by
swinging the assembly down (see Fig-
ure 17).
2. Using short Phillips screwdriver, re-
move the screw under the center of the
branch support. Rotate valve cover
shield clockwise and slide out.
IMPORTANT: Do not remove shoul-
derscrewontheleftsideofvalvecover
shield. Slide the valve cover shield off
of the shoulder screw (see Figure 17).
Note: If you do not have a short
Phillipsscrewdriver, the screen, log set,
and branch support must be removed
so a longer screwdriver may be used.
See Connecting Fireplace To Gas Sup-
ply, page 15 and follow step 2.
Figure17- Removing Valve Cover Shield
Branch
Support
Snap
Bushings
Bottom Louver
Assembly
Installing Blower Assembly
CAUTION: Label all wires
priortodisconnectionwhenser-
vicing controls. Wiring errors
cancauseimproperanddanger-
ous operation.
CAUTION: Verify proper op-
eration after servicing.
Note: If you are using a mantel with your
heater, use the following instructions. If
your heater is built-in, see For Built-In In-
stallation on page 13.
1. Install snap bushingsfoundin hardware
kitintobothholesinrear of valve cover
shield.
2. Make sure the wire harness is firmly
connectedto theterminalson theblower
bracket assembly.
3. Note the wire locations on back of
AUTO/OFF/ON switch.The terminals
on back of switch are numbered 1, 2,
and 3. Carefully remove red wire from
terminal 1 and blue wire from terminal
3. Black wire can remain on middle
terminal 2 (see Figure 18, page 12).
Continued

12
107030
COMPACT CLASSIC HEARTH
®
FIREPLACE
VMH26TPB
®
4. Carefully disconnect green and white
wires at their insulated connectors.
5. In top of the heater cabinet, locate the
four mounting holes on the outer cas-
ing. Align these four holes with those
on the blower bracket assembly. Attach
blower bracket assembly to the outer
casing with 4 #10 screws provided (see
Figure 18).
Figure 18 - Installing Blower Bracket Assembly
3
2
1
Wire
Harness
Blower Bracket
Assembly
Screw
Power
Cord
Valve Cover
Shield Box Cover
Wire
Harness
Switch
Plate
Switch
Baffle
Wiring Routing
Hole in Baffle
Blue Red
6. Route the wire harness through the
hole in left side of baffle. Pull wire
harness through lower opening above
where the valve shield was removed.
(see Figure 18).
7. Insert the 4 wire harness into one of the
roundholes intherear ofthevalve cover
shield and through the rectangular hole
in the front of shield (see Figure 18).
8. Reconnect red wire to switch position
3. Reconnect blue wire to switch posi-
tion1. Reconnectgreenand whitewires.
Figure19-InstallingSwitchPlatetoValve
Cover Shield
Switch
Plate Screw
Valve Cover
Shield
INSTALLATION
Continued
9. Install the switch plate on the valve
covershield with 2#10screws provided
(see Figure 18). Reinstall the valve
cover shield. Route power cord out of
the cabinet by inserting it through the
bushing on the outer casing (see Fig-
ure 18). Plug fan kit into 120-Volt
grounded power supply and test opera-
tion. Note: When switch is in the
AUTO position, the fan will start after
the heater has run for a few moments.
The fan will continue to run for several
moments after the heater has been
turned off. When switch is in the ON
position, the fan will run until turned
to OFF. Reinstall upper louver assem-
bly and hood if previously removed,
(see Figure 16, page 11). Close lower
louver door.

13
107030
OWNER’S MANUAL
For Built-In Installation
WARNING: A licensed elec-
trician must connect the wiring
harness to electrical supply fol-
lowing all local codes. Electri-
cian must provide a clamp on
the box cover to secure the wir-
ing. Wiring should be routed
through the bushing in the hole
on the outer casing of heater.
Follow instructions Removing Valve Cover
Shield (page 11), then
1. Install asnapbushing foundinhardware
kitintooneoftheholes found on rear of
valve cover shield. The other hole is for
a strain relief clamp (not supplied) to
secure incoming electrical supply.
2. Follow steps 2 through 6 in Installing
Blower Assembly, pages 11 and 12.
Also remove black wire from middle
switch terminal 2.
3. Remove black plastic strain relief and
power cord from switch plate. The
power cord supplied will not be used in
built-in installations. Pop in the plastic
snapbushingfoundinhardwarekitinto
theholeleft by supply cord/strain relief.
4. A licensed electrician must follow the
wiring diagram to connect incoming
electrical supply to fan kit wiring har-
ness (see Figure 20).
5. Plug power cord totheoutletreceptacle
(not provided) as shown in figure 19.
Wind the extra cable in power cord and
and tie it up with the plastic wire strap
(see Figure 21). Set the cable bundle
between the burner bracket and outer
casing, away from the burner.
6. Reinstall valve cover shield.
7. Test to make sure the blower is work-
ing properly.
8. Reinstall upper louver assembly and
hood if previously removed, (see Figure
16, page 11). Close lower louver door.
Figure 21 - Installing Blower Bracket Assembly
INSTALLATION
Continued
Red
Red
Fan Switch
(Auto/Off/On)
Blue
Blue
Thermostat
Switch
(N.O.)
Green
White Green
White
On
110/115
V.A.C.
Blower
Motor
Black
Off
1
23
Auto
Figure 20 - Wiring Diagram For Blower Accessory Built-In Installation
Continued
Extension Cord
Useextensioncordifneeded. The cord must
have a three-prong, grounding plug and a
three-hole receptacle. Make sure cord is in
goodshape.Itmustbeheavyenoughtocarry
the current needed. An undersized cord will
cause a drop in line voltage. This will result
in loss of power and overheating. Use a No.
16 AWG cord for lengths less than 50 feet.
3
2
1
Blower Bracket
Assembly
Screw
Wire
Harness
Power
Cord
Valve
Cover
Shield Box Cover Wire
Harness
Switch
Plate
Switch
Clamp Connector
(not included)
Outlet
Receptacle
Blue Red
Plastic
Wire Strap

14
107030
COMPACT CLASSIC HEARTH
®
FIREPLACE
VMH26TPB
®
CONNECTING TO GAS
SUPPLY
WARNING: A qualified ser-
vice person must connect fire-
place to gas supply. Follow all
local codes.
CAUTION:Neverconnectfire-
place directly to the propane/LP
supply. This fireplace requires
an external regulator (not sup-
plied).Installtheexternalregula-
torbetweenthefireplaceandpro-
pane/LP supply.
CAUTION: Use only new,
black iron or steel pipe. Inter-
nally-tinned copper tubing may
be used in certain areas. Check
yourlocalcodes.Usepipeof1/2"
or greater diameter to allow
propergasvolumetofireplace.If
pipe is too small, undue loss of
volume will occur. WARNING:Usepipejointseal-
ant that is resistant to liquid pe-
troleum (LP) gas.
Theinstaller mustsupplyan externalregu-
lator. The external regulator will reduce
incoming gas pressure. You must reduce
incoming gas pressure to between 11 and
14 inches of water. If you do not reduce
incoming gas pressure, fireplace regulator
damage could occur. Install external regu-
latorwiththeventpointingdownas shown
in Figure 23. Pointing the vent down pro-
tects it from freezing rain or sleet.
We recommend that you install a sediment
trap in supply line as shown in Figure 24.
Locate sediment trap where it is within
reach for cleaning. Install in piping system
betweenfuelsupplyandheater.Locatesedi-
menttrapwheretrappedmatterisnotlikely
to freeze. A sediment trap traps moisture
and contaminants. This keeps them from
going into fireplace controls. If sediment
trap is not installed or is installed wrong,
fireplace may not run properly.
Propane/LP
Supply Tank
External Regulator
Attaching Wood Base to Solid
Floor
For attaching base to solid floors (concrete
or masonry)
Note: Floor anchors and mounting screws
areinhardwarepackage.Thehardwarepack-
age is provided with fireplace.
1. Drill holes at marked locations using
5/16"drillbit. For solid floors (concrete
or masonry), drill at least 1" deep.
2. Fold flooranchoras showninFigure 22.
3. Insert floor anchor (wings first) into
hole. Tap anchor flush to floor.
4. Insert mounting screws through base
and into floor anchors.
5. Tighten screws until base is firmly fas-
tened to floor.
Figure 22 - Folding Anchor
Installationmustincludeaequipmentshutoff
valve, union, and plugged 1/8" NPT tap.
Locate NPT tap within reach for test gauge
hook up. NPT tap must be upstream from
fireplace (see Figure 24).
IMPORTANT: Install equipment shutoff
valve in an accessible location. The equip-
ment shutoff valve is for turning on or
shutting off the gas to the appliance.
Check your building codes for any special
requirementsforlocatingequipmentshutoff
valve to fireplaces.
ApplypipejointsealantlightlytomaleNPT
threads. This will prevent excess sealant
fromgoinginto pipe. Excess sealant inpipe
could result in clogged fireplace valves.
* Purchase the optional CSA design-certified equipment shutoff valve from your dealer.
See Accessories, page 26.
Sediment Trap
Figure 24 - Gas Connection
Figure 23 - External Regulator with Vent
Pointing Down
Vent Pointing Down
INSTALLATION
Continued
CSA Design-Certified
Equipment Shutoff Valve With
1/8" NPT Tap*
3" Minimum From External Regulator
(11" W.C. to 14" W.C.
Pressure)
Pipe Cap Tee
Nipple Joint
WARNING: This appliance re-
quiresa45°maleflarefitting 5/8"-
18 UNF (Unified National Fine
Thread) inlet connection and the
flexible gas line provided.

15
107030
OWNER’S MANUAL
INSTALLATION
Continued
CONNECTING EQUIPMENT
SHUTOFF VALVE TO
HEATER CONTROL
Installation Items Needed
• Phillips screwdriver
• sealant (resistant to propane/LP gas, not
provided)
1. Remove fireplace screen. Remove two
screws that hold fireplace screen in
place for shipping. These screws are
located near top of screen. Discard
screws.Liftfireplace screen up and pull
out to remove.
2. Remove screws that attach branch sup-
port to fireplace (see Figure 25). Care-
fully lift up branch support and remove
from fireplace (see Figure 25).
3. Route flexible gas line included from
fireplace control to equipment shutoff
valve through side or rear access holes
in outer casing.
NOTICE: Most building codes do
not permit concealed gas con-
nections. A flexible gas line is
provided to allow accessibility
fromthefireplace(seeFigure25).
The flexible gas supply line con-
nection to the equipment shutoff
valve should be accessible.
4. Apply pipe joint sealant lightly to male
threads of gas connector attached to
flexible gas line/equipment shutoff
valve (see Figure 26).
Figure 25 - Removing Branch Support From Fireplace
Figure 26 - Attaching Flexible Gas Line to Equipment Shutoff Valve
Branch
Support
Shoulder
Screw
Flexible
Gas
Line
Screen
Continued
➞
➞
Flexible Gas Line from
Fireplace Gas Regulator
To Fireplace
Gas Regulator Equipment Shutoff Valve
Provided by Installer
To External
Regulator
CAUTION: Avoid damage to
regulator.Holdgasregulatorwith
wrenchwhenconnectingittogas
piping and/or fittings.
5. Check allgasconnectionsfor leaks. See
Checking Gas Connections, page 16.
6. Replace branch support back into fire-
place. Feed flexible gas line into fire-
place base area while replacing branch
support. Make sure the entire flexible
gas line is in fireplace base area. Reat-
tach branch support to fireplace with
screws removed in step 2.

16
107030
COMPACT CLASSIC HEARTH
®
FIREPLACE
VMH26TPB
®
ON
POSITION
OFF
POSITION
Pressure Testing Gas Supply
Piping System
Test Pressures In Excess Of 1/2 PSIG
(3.5 kPa)
1. Disconnect appliance with its appliance
main gas valve (control valve) and
equipment shutoff valve from gas sup-
plypiping.Pressuresinexcessof1/2psig
will damage fireplace regulator.
2. Cap off open end of gas pipe where
equipment shutoff valve was con-
nected.
3. Pressurize supply piping system by ei-
ther using compressed air or opening
propane/LP supply tank valve.
4. Check all joints of gas supply piping
system. Apply a noncorrosive leak de-
tection fluid to gas joints. Bubbles
forming 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.
Open
Closed
Equipment
Shutoff
Valve
Figure 28 - Checking Gas Joints Shown with Optional Mantel
INSTALLATION
Continued
CHECKING GAS
CONNECTIONS
Figure 27 - Equipment Shutoff Valve
Equipment
Shutoff
Valve
Propane/LP
Supply Tank
WARNING: Test all gas pip-
ing and connections for leaks
after installing or servicing. Cor-
rect all leaks at once.
WARNING:Neveruseanopen
flame to check for a leak. Apply a
noncorrosiveleakdetectionfluid
toalljoints.Bubblesformingshow
a leak. Correct all leaks at once.
CAUTION:Makesureexternal
regulator has been installed be-
tweenpropane/LPsupplyandfire-
place. See guidelines under Con-
necting to Gas Supply , page 14.
Test Pressures Equal To or Less Than
1/2 PSIG (3.5 kPa)
1. Close equipmentshutoffvalve (seeFig-
ure 27).
2. Pressurize supply piping system by ei-
ther using compressed air or opening
propane/LP supply tank valve.
3. Check all joints from propane/LP sup-
plytankto equipment shutoffvalve (see
Figure 28). Apply a noncorrosive leak
detection fluid to gas joints. Bubbles
forming show a leak.
4. Correct all leaks at once.
Pressure Testing Fireplace Gas
Connections
1. Open equipment shutoffvalve (see Fig-
ure 27).
2. Open propane/LP supply tank valve.
3. Make sure control knob of fireplace is
in the OFF position.
4. Check alljointsfromequipment shutoff
valve to thermostat gas valve (see Fig-
ure 28).Apply a noncorrosive leak de-
tection fluid to gas joints. Bubbles
forming show a leak.
5. Correct all leaks at once.
6. Light fireplace (see Operating Fire-
place,pages17 and 18). Check allother
internal joints for leaks.
7. Turn off fireplace (see To Turn Off Gas
to Appliance, page 18).
8. Replace front panel.

17
107030
OWNER’S MANUAL
LIGHTING
INSTRUCTIONS
Ignitor Button
Figure 29 - Control Knob In The OFF
Position
Control Knob
WARNING:Youmustoperate
this fireplace with the fireplace
screen in place. Make sure fire-
place screen is installed before
running fireplace.
NOTICE: During initial operation
of new fireplace, burning logs
will give off a paper-burning
smell. Orange flame will also be
present. Open window to vent
smell. Operate fireplace on HI
position to burn off odor. This
will only last a few hours.
OPERATING
FIREPLACE
1. STOP! Read the safety information,
column 1.
2. Make sure equipment shutoff valve
is fully open.
3. Turncontrol knobclockwise
Clockwise
to the OFF position.
4. Wait five (5) minutes to clear out any
gas.Thensmellforgas,includingnear
thefloor. If yousmellgas,STOP!Fol-
low “B” in the safety information,
column 1. If you don’t smell gas, go
to the next step.
5. Turn control knob counterclockwise
C-clockwise
tothe PILOTposition.Press
in control knob for five (5) seconds
(see Figure 29).
Note: You may be running this fire-
place for the first time after hooking
up to gas supply. If so, the control
knob may need to be pressed in for
30 seconds or more. This will allow
air to bleed from the gas system.
• If control knob does not pop up
when released, contact a qualified
service person or gas supplier 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 20 through
22. Also contact a qualified service
person or gas supplier for repairs.
Untilrepairsaremade,lightpilotwith
match. To light pilot with match, see
Manual Lighting Procedure, page 18.
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 fireplace has a
safety interlock system.Wait one (1)
minute before lighting pilot again.
8. Turn control knob counterclockwise
C-clockwise
todesiredheating level.The
mainburnershouldlight.Setcontrol
knob to any heat level between HI
and LO.
Thermocouple
Pilot Burner
Figure 30 - Pilot
Ignitor Electrode
FOR YOUR SAFETY
READ BEFORE
LIGHTING
WARNING: If you do not fol-
low these instructions exactly, a
fireorexplosionmayresultcaus-
ing property damage, personal
injury or loss of life.
A. Thisappliancehasa pilot whichmust
belightedby hand.Whenlightingthe
pilot,followtheseinstructions exactly.
B. BEFORE LIGHTING smell all
aroundthe applianceareaforgas. Be
suretosmellnexttothefloorbecause
some gas is heavier than air and will
settle on the floor.
WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL
GAS
• Do not try to light any appliance.
• Donot touchanyelectricswitch;do
notuseanyphoneinyourbuilding.
• Immediatelycallyourgassupplier
from a neighbor’s phone. Follow
the gas supplier’s instructions.
• If you cannot reach your gas sup-
plier, call the fire department.
C. Useonlyyourhand to push in orturn
thegascontrolknob.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 replace
any part of the control system and
any gas control which has been un-
der water.
CAUTION:Donottrytoadjust
heatinglevelsbyusingtheequip-
ment shutoff valve.
Continued

18
107030
COMPACT CLASSIC HEARTH
®
FIREPLACE
VMH26TPB
®
TO TURN OFF GAS TO
APPLIANCE
Thethermostaticcontrolusedonthisfire-
place differs from standard thermostats.
Standardthermostatssimply turn on and
off the burner. The thermostat used on
this fireplace senses the room tempera-
ture. The thermostat adjusts the amount
ofgasflowtotheburner.Thisincreasesor
decreasestheburnerflameheight.Attimes
theroommayexceedthesettemperature.
If so, the burner will shut off. The burner
willcyclebackonwhenroomtemperature
drops below the set temperature.
The control knob can be set to any heat
level between HI and LO.
Note: The thermostat sensing bulb mea-
sures the temperature of air near the fire-
place cabinet. This may not always agree
with room temperature (depending on
housingconstruction,installationlocation,
room size, open air temperatures, etc.).
Frequentuse of yourfireplace will let you
determine your own comfort levels.
Shutting Off Fireplace
1. Turncontrolknobclockwise
Clockwise
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
Clockwise
to
the PILOT position.
THERMOSTAT
CONTROL OPERATION
1. Followsteps1through5underLight-
ing Instructions, page 17.
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, page 17.
MANUAL LIGHTING
PROCEDURE
OPERATING
FIREPLACE
Continued
OPERATING BLOWER
OFF
ON
Auto/Off/On Switch
Thisblowerhasthreesettings:ON,OFF,
andAUTO.IntheONposition,theblower
will operate constantly. In the OFF posi-
tion, the blower will not operate. In the
AUTOposition,theblowerwillstartwhen
thethermostatsensesasufficientincrease
in firebox temperature.
Note: Your fireplace and thermostat
blower will not turn on and off at the
same time. The fireplace may run for
several minutes before the blower turns
on.Aftertheheatermodulatestothepilot
position, the blower will continue to run.
The blower will shut off after the firebox
temperature decreases.
Note: Itissafetooperatefireplacewith
blowerturnedoff.However,theblower
helps distribute heated air from the
fireplace.
Figure 31 - Auto/Off/On Switch
INSPECTING
BURNER
Thermocouple Pilot Burner
Figure 32 - Correct Pilot Flame Pattern
Thermocouple Pilot Burner
Figure 33 - Incorrect Pilot Flame Pattern
Check pilot flame pattern and burner flame
pattern often.
PILOT FLAME PATTERN
Figure32showsacorrectpilotflamepattern.
Figure 33 shows an incorrect pilot flame
pattern.Theincorrectpilotflameisnotprop-
erlyheatingthethermocouple.Thiswillcause
the thermocouple to cool. When the thermo-
couple cools, the fireplace will shut down.
If pilot flame pattern is incorrect, as shown
in Figure 33
• turn fireplace off (see To Turn Off Gas to
Appliance)
• seeTroubleshooting,pages 20 through 22

19
107030
OWNER’S MANUAL
BURNER FLAME PATTERN
Figure 34 shows a correct burner flame
pattern.Figure35showsanincorrectburner
flame pattern. The incorrect burner flame
pattern shows sporadic, irregular flame tip-
ping. It also shows the flame consistently
higher than one inch above the log.
Note: When using the fireplace the first
time, the flame will be orange for approxi-
mately one hour until the log cures.
Ifburnerflamepatternisincorrect,asshown
in Figure 35
• turn fireplace off (see To Turn Off Gas to
Appliance, page 18)
• seeTroubleshooting, pages 20 through 22
Figure 34 - Correct Burner Flame Pattern
Figure35-IncorrectBurnerFlamePattern
Top of Flame About
One Inch Above Log
INSPECTING
BURNER
Continued
CLEANING AND
MAINTENANCE
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.
WARNING: Turn off fireplace
and let cool before cleaning.
CAUTION:Youmustkeepcon-
trolareas, burner, andcirculating
air passageways of fireplace
clean. Inspect these areas of fire-
place before each use. Have fire-
place inspected yearly by a quali-
fiedserviceperson.Fireplacemay
need more frequent cleaning due
to excessive lint from carpeting,
bedding material, pet hair, etc.
CLEANING BURNER
INJECTOR HOLDER AND
PILOT AIR INLET HOLE
The primary air inlet holes allow the proper
amount of air to mix with the gas. This
provides a clean burning flame. Keep these
holes clear of dust, dirt, lint, and pet hair.
Clean these air inlet holes prior to each
heating season. Blocked air holes will cre-
ate soot. We recommend that you clean the
unit every three months during operation
andhave heater inspectedyearlyby a quali-
fied service person.
Wealsorecommendthatyoukeeptheburner
tube and pilot assembly clean and free of
dustanddirt.Tocleanthesepartswerecom-
mend using compressed air no greater than
30 PSI. Your local computer store, hard-
ware store, or home center may carry com-
pressed air in a can. You can use a vacuum
cleaner in the blow position. If using com-
pressed air in a can, please follow the direc-
tions on the can. If you don't follow direc-
tionsonthecan, youcoulddamagethepilot
assembly.
1. Shut off the unit, including the pilot.
Allow the unit to cool for at least thirty
minutes.
2. Inspect burner, pilot, and primary air
inlet holes on injector holder for dust
and dirt (see Figure 36).
3. Blow air through the ports/slots and
holes in the burner.
Figure 36 - Injector Holder On Outlet
Burner Tube
4. Check the injector holder located at the
end of the burner tube again. Remove
any large particles of dust, dirt, lint, or
pet hair with a soft cloth or vacuum
cleaner nozzle.
5. Blow air into the primary air holes on
the injector holder.
6. In case any large clumps of dust have
now been pushed into the burner repeat
steps 3 and 4.
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 37). With the unit off, lightly
blowairthrough the air inlethole.You may
blowthroughadrinkingstrawifcompressed
air is not available.
Burner
Tube
Injector Holder
Primary Air Inlet
Holes
Figure 37 - Pilot Inlet Air Hole
Pilot Assembly
Ports/Slots
Pilot Air Inlet
Hole

20
107030
COMPACT CLASSIC HEARTH
®
FIREPLACE
VMH26TPB
®
TROUBLESHOOTING WARNING: Turn off and un-
plugfireplace and letcool before
servicing. Only a qualified ser-
vice person should service and
repair fireplace.
CAUTION: Never use a wire,
needle, or similar object to clean
ODS/pilot.ThiscandamageODS/
pilot unit.
POSSIBLE CAUSE
1. Ignitor cable pinched or wet
2. Ignitor electrode not connected to igni-
tor cable
3. Broken ignitor cable
4. Bad piezo ignitor
5. Ignitor electrode broken
6. Ignitor electrode positioned wrong
1. Gas supply turned off or equipment
shutoff valve closed
2. Control knob not in PILOT position
3. Control knob not pressed in while in
PILOT position
4. Air in gas lines when installed
5. Depleted gas supply
6. ODS/pilot is clogged
7. Gas regulator setting is not correct
1. Control knob not fully pressed in
2. Control knob not pressed in long enough
3. Safety interlocksystem hasbeen triggered
4. Equipment shutoff valve not fully open
5. Thermocouple connection loose at con-
trol valve
6. 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
7. Thermocouple damaged
8. Control valve damaged
REMEDY
1. Free ignitor cable if pinched by any
metal or tubing. Keep ignitor cable dry
2. Reconnect ignitor cable
3. Replace ignitor cable
4. Replace piezo ignitor
5. Replace piezo ignitor
6. Replace piezo ignitor
1. Turn on gas supply or open equipment
shutoff valve
2. Turn control knob to PILOT position
3. Press in control knob while in PILOT
position
4. Continue holding down controlknob.Re-
peatignitingoperationuntilair isremoved
5. Contact local propane/LP gas company
6. Clean ODS/pilot (see Cleaning and
Maintenance, page 19) or replace ODS/
pilot assembly
7. Replace gas regulator
1. Press in control knob fully
2. After ODS/pilot lights, keep control
knob pressed in 30 seconds
3. Wait one minute for safety interlock sys-
tem to reset. Repeat ignition operation
4. Fully open equipment shutoff valve
5. Hand tighten until snug, then tighten 1/4
turn more
6. A) Contactlocalpropane/LP gascompany
B) Clean ODS/pilot (see Cleaning and
Maintenance, page 19) or replace ODS/
pilot assembly
7. Replace thermocouple
8. Replace control valve
OBSERVED PROBLEM
When ignitor button is pressed, there is no
spark at ODS/pilot
When ignitor button is pressed, there is
spark at ODS/pilot but no ignition
ODS/pilot lights but flame goes out when
control knob is released
Note: For additional help, visit DESA
International’stechnicalservicewebsite
at www.desatech.com.
Note: Alltroubleshootingitemsarelistedin
order of operation.
www.desatech.com