Vermont Castings VFI33LNV User manual

20307670 5/15 Rev. 1
VFI Series Vent Free Gas Fireplace
Installation and Operating Instructions
Models: VFI33L(N/P)(V/I), VFI33C(N/P)(V/I)
This is an unvented gas-fired heater. It uses air
(oxygen) from the room in which it is installed.
Provisions for adequate combustion and ventil-
ation air must be provided. Refer to Page 7.
INSTALLER: Leave this manual with the appliance.
CONSUMER: Retain this manual for future
reference.
• Do not store or use gasoline or other
flammable vapors and liquids in the
vicinity of this or any other appliance.
• WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS
– Do not try to light any appliance.
– Do not touch any electrical switch; do
not use any phone in your building.
– Leave the building immediately.
– Immediately call your gas supplier from
a neighbor's phone. Follow the gas
supplier's instructions.
– If you cannot reach your gas supplier,
call the fire department.
• Installation and service must be performed
by a qualified installer, service agency or
the gas supplier.
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.

VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
220307670
CONTENTS
Important Safety Information .....................................3
Codes......................................................................4
Product Features.........................................................5
VFI33 Controls........................................................5
Operation................................................................5
Gas Pressures........................................................5
Gas Specifications and Orifice Sizes......................5
Ignition Controls......................................................5
Pilot.........................................................................5
Thermal Generator..................................................5
Cold Climate Option................................................5
Framing Dimensions...................................................6
Pre-installation Information........................................7
Getting Started........................................................7
What You Will Need for Installation.........................7
Clearances and Height Requirements.......................8
Before Installing the Fireplace Insert ......................8
Clearances ...................................................................9
Heat Resistant Material ..........................................9
Clearances and Installation......................................10
Remove Screen....................................................10
Install Canopy.......................................................10
Installation.................................................................. 11
Secure Heater to Floor.......................................... 11
Connect Gas Line......................................................12
Gas Pressure — Millivolt ..........................................13
Checking Gas Pressure: Millivolt Control..............13
Electrical Wiring — Millivolt .....................................14
Connect Optional Wall Switch or Thermostat .......14
Connect Remote Receiver....................................15
Check System Operation......................................15
Operating Instructions — Millivolt...........................16
For Your Safety Read Before Lighting ..................16
Lighting Pilot for the First Time .............................16
Lighting Pilot .........................................................17
Lighting Burner......................................................18
To Turn Off Gas.....................................................18
Gas Pressure and Electrical Installation — IPI.......19
Check Gas Pressure — IPI...................................19
Electrical Wiring....................................................19
Junction Box Wiring..............................................19
Wall Switch Installation .........................................20
IPI System Wiring Diagram...................................20
Operating Instructions — IPI....................................21
For Your Safety Read Before Lighting ..................21
What to Do If You Smell Gas ................................21
Operating Instructions...........................................21
To Turn Off Gas.....................................................21
EcoLogic Control...................................................22
Electrical Wiring — Fan ............................................23
Log Placement...........................................................24
Before You Begin..................................................24
Cast Iron Grate Installation...................................24
Rock Wool Placement...........................................25
Berkley Oak Logs..................................................25
Place the Decorative Rock....................................26
Highland Oak Logs ...............................................27
Place the Decorative Rock....................................28
Kentucky Wildwood Logs......................................29
Flame Appearance and Operating Instructions......30
Visual Flame Check..............................................30
Check the Pilot Flame...........................................30
Thermostat and Millivolt Control ...........................30
Operating Instructions...........................................30
For Your Safety Read Before Lighting ..................31
Millivolt/Thermostat Control Lighting Instructions .32
To Turn Off Gas to Heater.....................................32
Match Lighting Instructions...................................33
Blower Operation..................................................33
Cleaning and Servicing.............................................34
Annual Cleaning and Inspection...........................34
Periodic Cleaning .................................................34
Troubleshooting ........................................................35
Replacement Parts....................................................37
Firebox Assembly .................................................37
Millivolt Burner Assembly .....................................38
IPI Burner Assembly .............................................39
Berkley Oak Logs..................................................40
Highland Oak Logs ...............................................41
Kentucky Wildwood Logs......................................42
Warranty.....................................................................43
Thank you and congratulations on your purchase of a Vermont Castings Group Fireplace.
PLEASE READ THE INSTALLATION AND OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
BEFORE USING THE APPLIANCE.
IMPORTANT: Read all instructions and warnings carefully before starting installation.
Failure to follow these instructions may result in a possible fire hazard and will void the warranty.

VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
20307670 3
13. Avoidanydraftsthatalterburnerflamepatterns. Donot
allow fans to blow directly into fireplace. Do not place
a blower inside burn area of firebox. Ceiling fans may
create drafts that alter burner flame patterns. Sooting
and improper burning will occur.
14. CAUTION: Candles, incense, oil lamps, etc. produce
combustion byproducts including soot. Vent-free
appliances will not filter or clean soot produced by
these types of products. In addition, the smoke and/or
aromatics (scents) may be reburned in the vent-free
appliancewhich canproduce odors.It isrecommended
to minimize the use of candles, incense, etc. while the
vent-free appliance is in operation.
15. This is an unvented gas-fired heater. It uses air
(oxygen) from the room in which it is installed. Provi-
sionsforadequate combustionand ventilationairmust
be provided.
16. This heater shall not be installed in a room or space
unlesstherequired volume ofindoorcombustion airis
providedbythe method describedinthe NationalFuel
Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54, the International
Fuel Gas Code or applicable local codes.
17. Keep room area clear and free from combustible
materials, gasoline and other flammable vapors and
liquids.
18. Unventedgasheatersareasupplementalzoneheater.
They are not intended to be the primary heating appli-
ance.
19. Unvented gas heaters emit moisture into the living
area. In most homes of average construction, this
does not pose a problem. In houses of extremely
tight construction, additional mechanical ventilation is
recommended.
20. Duringmanufacturing, fabricatingandshipping,various
components of this appliance are treated with certain
oils, films or bonding agents. These chemicals are not
harmful but may produce annoying smoke and smells
astheyare burnedoffduringthe initialoperationof the
appliance; possibly causing headaches or eye or lung
irritation. This is a normal and temporary occurrence.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
1. Due to high temperatures, the appliance should be
located out of traffic and away from furniture and
draperies.
2. Childrenandadults shouldbealerted tothehazard
of high surface temperature and should stay away
to avoid burns or clothing ignition.
3. Young childrenshould becarefully supervisedwhen
they are in the same room with the appliance.
4. Do not place clothing or other flammable material
on or near the appliance.
5. Any safety screen or guard removed for servicing
an appliance, must be replaced prior to operating
the heater.
6. Installationandrepair shouldbedonebya qualified
service person.
7. Toprevent malfunctionand/orsooting, anunvented
gas heater should be cleaned before use and at
least annually by a professional service person.
More frequent cleaning may be required due to
excessive lint from carpeting, bedding materials,
etc. It is imperative that control compartments,
burners and circulating air passageways be kept
clean.
INSTALLER
Please leave these instructions with the appliance. OWNER
Please retain these instructions for future reference .
8. CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING: Early signs of
carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to the flu with
headaches,dizziness and/ornausea. Ifyouhavethese
signs, obtain fresh air immediately. Have the heater
serviced as it may not be operating properly.
9. The installation must conform with local codes or, in
the absence of local codes, with the National Fuel
Gas Code, ANSI Z223.l/NFPA54.
10. This unit complies with the latest edition of ANSI
Z21.11.2, Unvented Heaters.
11. Do not install the heaters in a bathroom or bedroom.
12. Correct installation of the ceramic fiber logs, proper
location of the heater, and annual cleaning are neces-
sarytoavoid potential problemswithsooting. Sooting,
resulting from improper installation or operation, can
settleonsurfaces outsidethefireplace. See logplace-
ment instructions for proper installation.
WARNING:
• Any change to this heater or its controls can be dangerous.
• Improper installation or use of the heater can cause serious injury or death from fire, burns,
explosion or carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Do not allow fans to blow directly into the fireplace. Avoid any drafts that alter burner flame
patterns.
• Do not use a blower insert, heat exchanger insert or other accessory, not approved for use with
this heater where applicable.

VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
420307670
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
The initial break-in operation should last four hours
with the burner at the highest setting. Provide maxi-
mum ventilation by opening windows or doors to allow
odorstodissipate.Any odorsremainingafter thisinitial
break-in period will be slight and will disappear with
continued use.
21. Input ratings are shown in BTU per hour and are for
elevationsupto2,000feet. Forelevations above2,000
feet,inputratingsshouldbereduced4percentforeach
1,000 feet above sea level. Refer to the National Fuel
Gas Code.
22. The appliance must be isolated from the gas supply
piping system by closing its equipment shutoff valve
during any pressure testing of the gas supply piping
system at test pressures equal to or less than 1/2 psig
(3.5 kPa).
23. Donotuse thisroomheater if anypart has beenunder
water. Immediately call a qualified service technician
to inspect the room heater and to replace any part of
thecontrolsystemandany gascontrol whichhasbeen
under water.
24. Never burn solid fuels in a fireplace where a unvented
room heater is installed.
25. Always have a fireplace screen in place when the
appliance is in operation and, unless other provisions
for combustion air are provided, the screen must have
an opening(s) for induction of combustion air.
THIS APPLIANCE MAY BE INSTALLED IN AN
AFTER-MARKET, PERMANENTLY LOCATED,
MANUFACTURED (MOBILE) HOME, WHERE
NOT PROHIBITED BY LOCAL CODES.
THISAPPLIANCE IS ONLY FOR USE WITH THE
TYPE OF GAS INDICATED ON THE RATING
PLATE. THIS APPLIANCE IS NOT CONVERT-
IBLE FOR USE WITH OTHER GASES.
CODES
Adhere to all local codes or, in their absence, the latest edition of THE NATIONAL FUEL GAS CODE ANSI Z223.1 or
NFPA54 which can be obtained from…
American National Standards Institute, Inc.
1430 Broadway
New York, NY 10018
or
National Fire Protection Association, Inc.
Batterymarch Park
Quincy, MA 02269
WARNING: Never connect unit to
private (non-utility) gas wells. This gas
is commonly known as wellhead gas.

VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
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OPERATION
This unvented gas heater requires no outside venting and
burns cleanly with high heating efficiency.
PRODUCT FEATURES
Figure 1 -
Unvented Gas Heater with Control Access Door Open
GAS PRESSURES
Control Fuel Millivolt T-stat
Regulator Pressure Natural 3.5" w.c.
Pilot Regulator Natural 3.5" w.c.
Max. Inlet Pressure Natural 10.5" w.c.
Min. Inlet Pressure Natural 5.0" w.c.
Regulator Pressure LP 10.0" w.c.
Max. Inlet Pressure LP 13.0" w.c.
Min. Inlet Pressure LP 11.0" w.c.
NOTE: For LP models an external regulator is required
to reduce supply pressure to a maximum of 13" w.c.
IGNITION CONTROLS
Piezo ignitor allows ignition of the pilot without the use of
matches or batteries.
Millivolt and EcoLogic®2.0 controls have four (4)
positions:
OFF - All gas to the gas logs is shut off at the
valve.
IGN - Valve position to light/maintain a standing
pilot.
ON - Valve position to turn ON/OFF log set with
remote switch/thermostat.
LOW/HI - Variable position to control flame height
(heat output). Both front and rear burners
are in operation to provide realistic glow
and yellow flame.
PILOT
Thegaslog heaterisfitted witha specially designedsafety
pilot light (ODS assembly) which senses the amount of
oxygen available in the room and shuts the gas log heater
off if the oxygen level begins to drop below a satisfactory
level. The pilot can only be re-lit when adequate fresh air
is available.
THERMAL GENERATOR
The millivolt gas log pilot is fitted with a millivolt generator
to provide power for remote activation.
VFI33 CONTROLS GAS SPECIFICATIONS & ORIFICE SIZE
MODEL FUEL CONTROL MAX. INPUT
(BTU/h) MIN. INPUT (BTU/h) ORIFICE SIZE
VFI33LNV NAT. Millivolt 28,000 19,000 #38
VFI33LPV LP. Millivolt 27,000 22,000 #52
VFI33CNV NAT. Millivolt 28,000 19,000 #38
VFI33CPV LP. Millivolt 27,000 22,000 #52
VFI33LNI NAT. IPI 28,000 19,000 #38
VFI33LPI LP. IPI 27,000 22,000 #52
VFI33CNI NAT. IPI 28,000 19,000 #38
VFI33CPI LP. IPI 27,000 22,000 #52
COLD CLIMATE OPTION (IPI Models Only)
NOTE: If you live in a cold climate, seal all cracks around
yourapplianceandwherevercold aircould entertheroom,
with noncombustible material. It is especially important to
insulate the outside chase cavity between the studs and
under the floor on which the appliance rests, if the floor is
above ground level.
Your fireplaceisequipped withanintermittent pilotignition
(IPI) control. An IPI control with a standing pilot option
provides the dual benefit of an economical and environ-
mentally responsible product and one which lights easily
even in the coldest climates. When in intermittent pilot
Piezo Ignitor
Control Knobs
Surround
On/Off Switch
Blower

VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
620307670
FRAMING DIMENSIONS
mode (as it comes from the factory), your pilot remains
unlit until needed, saving you fuel. Standing pilot mode,
bycomparison,is characterized byacontinuously burning
pilot. The benefit of a pilot which lights only when needed
is fuel savings. However, with no pilot burning in your fire-
place, units operating in colder climates may experience
delayed start up or lock out. Because colder air is heavier
than milder air and there is no pilot burning to maintain
a warm stable temperature in your firebox, establishing
a draft to aid ignition becomes difficult. This is perfectly
normal but can be somewhat frustrating.
To remedythis issue,your fireplacehasbeendesignedwith
a cold climate pilot option, which, when active, maintains
a warmer temperature inside your firebox to make ignition
faster and more efficient. Operating your appliance in cold
climate (aka standing) pilot mode will prohibit the need for
multiple ignition attempts and will prevent the system from
delaying start up or locking out.
To activate the cold climate option, simply move the cold
climate toggle switch located on the right side of the black
controlcentertothe “On” (left)position.(Figure 3) You can
operateyourappliancein this moderegardlessof whether
you are using a remote control, wall switch or thermostat.
Rough
Opening
Depth
1/2"
or 5/8"
Rough
Opening
Height
16"
Figure 3 -
Framing Dimensions
331⁄2" Rough Opening Width
271⁄2"
371⁄4"
371⁄4"
64
1
⁄
4
"
31
7
⁄
8
"
Cold Climate
Switch
Master Switch
Figure 2 -
Cold Climate Option

VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
20307670 7
PRE-INSTALLATION INFORMATION
GETTING STARTED
Make sure you have received all parts
Check your packing list to verify that all listed parts have
been received. You should have the following:
•Installation/Operating instructions
•33" unvented gas heater
•Canopy
•Volcanic rock and rock wool (traditional sets only)
•Stone and fireglass kit (contemporary sets only)
•Two (2) anchoring screws
•Mounting screws for canopy
Accessories required to finish the installation:
One of two surrounds:
•VFICFSS Black small surround 33"H x 43"W
•VFICFSL Black large surround 36"H x 50"W
One of three firebox liners:
•FBVFIC(M/LR) Firebrick
•BLPVFIC Black porcelain panels
•BMGVFIC Black Magic glass panels
WHAT YOU WILL NEED FOR INSTALLATION
You must have the following items available before pro-
ceeding with installation…
•External regulator (for propane / L.P.G. and 1/2 lb.
Natural Gas systems only)
•Piping which complies with local codes
•Sediment trap
•Tee joint
•Pipe wrench or appropriate size crescent wrench
set
•Phillips head screwdriver
•Drill with 5/32" bit
•Surround
•Manual shutoff valve
•Pipe sealant approved for use with liquid propane
(resistant to sulfur compounds)
FRAMING DIMENSIONS
Ifunitis tobe“built in,”fireplace framingcan bebuiltbefore
or after the appliance is set in place. BE SURE THATALL
PACKING MATERIAL HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM
THE UNDERSIDE OF THE UNIT PRIOR TO SETTING
THE FIREBOX IN PLACE. Construct fireplace framing
followingFigure2. Referto Figure5on Page9for fireplace
dimensions. The framing headers may not rest directly on
top of the firebox.
The fireplace may be installed directly on a combustible
floor or a raised platform of an appropriate height. Do
not place fireplace on carpeting, vinyl, tile or other soft
floor coverings. It may, however, be placed on flat wood,
plywood, particle board or other hard surfaces. Be sure
fireplace rests on a solid continuous floor or platform with
appropriate framing for support and so that no cold air can
enter from under the firebox. Your vent-free fireplace must
be mounted to the floor or the fireplace hearth.
The millivolt controlled version of this heater is the only
style designed to be operated with optional devices for
ON/OFF functions. The following options may be used
with the millivolt controlled heater. These options are not
packaged with the log set.
•Hand held Remote with Receiver
•Wall switch with 15' wire.
•Hand held Thermostat Remote with Receiver
Carefully inspect the contents for shipping damage. If any
parts are missing or damaged, immediately inform the
dealer from whom you purchased the appliance. Do not
attempttoinstall anypartof theapplianceunless youhave
all parts in good condition.
•Handle the gas log burner assembly by the
grate only. Do not pick the unit up by the
burners.
•Gloves are recommended when handling
ceramic fiber logs to prevent skin irritation
from loose fibers. Logs are fragile — handle
with care.
WARNING:
WARNING—Do not install the heater:
•Where curtains, furniture, clothing, or
other flammable objects are less than
42" from the front of the heater.
•In high traffic areas.
•In windy or drafty areas.
WARNING: If the area in which the heater
is operated does not meet the required
volume for indoor combustion air, combustion
and ventilation air shall be provided by one of
themethodsdescribedintheNational Fuel Gas
Code, ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54, the International
Fuel Gas Code or applicable local codes.

VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
820307670
CLEARANCE and HEIGHT REQUIREMENTS
NOTE: Clearancesarenecessary tocombustiblesurfaces
only. No clearance is necessary for noncombustible sur-
face.
Sidewall clearances: Theclearance fromthe insideofthe
appliance to any combustible adjacent wall should no be
less than 9". Figure 4
Ceiling clearance: The ceiling must be at least 42" from
the top of the firebox opening. Figure 4
Backwall clearance:Theappliancecanbeplacedagainst
the combustible back wall.
Floor clearance: The fireplace may not be installed onto
any combustible flooring material, such as carpeting, vinyl
ortile withoutthe hearthor aminimum 22GA(0.030") metal
or a minimum 1/2" wooden base covering the entire width
and depth of the base.
Mantel clearances: The canopy supplied with the unit
must be installed. If a combustible mantel is installed. It
must meet the clearance requirements shown in Figure 7.
9"
Minimum
9"
Minimum
42"
Minimum
Figure 4 -
Sidewall and Ceiling Minimum Clearances
FP2770
33"
15 1/4
22
3/4
23 7/8
B
A
Figure 5 -
Dimensions for Installing in Masonry Fireplace or UL
Listed Box
BEFORE INSTALLING THE FIREPLACE
INSERT
Havefireplacefloor andchimney professionally cleanedto
remove ashes, soot, creosote or other obstructions. Close
andsealany freshairvents or ashclean-out doors located
on floor or wall
Surround Sizes*
AB
Small 33" 43"
Large 36" 50"
*A surround is required to complete the installation.
WARNING: The dimensions shown in
Figures4and5and definedinthefireplace
manufacturer's instructions are minimum
clearances to maintain when installing this
heater. Leftandrightclearances are determined
when facing the front of the heater.
Follow these instructions carefully to ensure
safe installation. Failure to follow instructions
exactly can create a fire hazard.

VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
20307670 9
CLEARANCES
HEAT RESISTANT MATERIAL (MINIMUM
REQUIREMENTS) WITH NO WOODEN MANTEL
OR OTHER COMBUSTIBLE PROJECTION
Heat resistant material (minimum requirements) with
wooden mantel or other combustible projection:
To install the heater with a wooden mantel shelf or other
combustibleprojectionabove, firstmeasure theheatresis-
tant material shown in Figure 6.
No combustible
materials within 8"
of opening.
Hood
Grate
Figure 6 -
Measure Heat Resistant Material for Mantel
Example: A mantel may project from the wall a maximum of
21⁄2" at minimum of 8" above the opening, and a maximum of
12" at a minimum of 26" above the opening.
10"
12"
14"
26"
8"
12"
10"
8"
6"
256O”
Figure 7 -
Minimum Mantel Clearances
Figure 8 is an example of an unsafe mantel installation.
The mantel projects 4" at 8" above the opening, exceed-
ing the maximum acceptable distance of 21⁄2". The mantel
also projects 8" at 10" above the opening, exceeding the
maximum acceptable distance of 6".
If your mantel profile is unsafe, you may either:
•Raise the mantel to an acceptable height or,
•Remove the mantel.
8"
4"
2
1
/ 2 "
10"
6"
8"
Hood
No combustible
materials within 8"
of opening.
Figure 8

VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
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CLEARANCES and INSTALLATION
The gas log heater must be installed at least 5" above
any combustible flooring material, such as carpeting or
tile, which is closer than 14" to the base of the fireplace.
Figure 8
5"
1”
Combustible
Material
Noncombustible
Material
Figure 9 -
Minimum Clearance above Combustible Flooring
REMOVE SCREEN
Remove fireplace screen by pushing screen frame panel
up and out. Figure 9
NOTE: Fireplace screen must be removed to access log
box and to install canopy.
Figure 10 -
Remove Fireplace Screen
INSTALL CANOPY
1. Remove the fireplace screen as described in the previ-
ous section.
2. Align canopy with the holes in the top frame assembly.
Figure 10
3. Install the three (3) screws (in owner’s manual packag-
ing)whichattach thecanopyto thetop frameassembly.
Figure 10
4. Tighten all screws. Make sure the canopy is level and
secure. Install the fireplace screen.
Figure 11 -
Install Canopy
WARNING: Do not operate the unit without
the screen frame panel and canopy installed.