VENT-FREE FIREPLACE SYSTEMS INSTALLATION AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS MODELS: 32VFHNVC, 32VFHPVC 36VFHNVC, 36VFHPVC 42VFHNVC, 42VFHPVC WARNINGS WARNINGS 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 This is an unvented gas-fired heater.
CONTENTS Important Safety Information................................. 3 Product Features...................................................... 5 Operation............................................................... 5 Specifications........................................................... 7 Ignition Controls..................................................... 7 Pilot........................................................................7 Thermal Generator..............................................
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION INSTALLER Please leave these instructions with the appliance. OWNER Please retain these instructions for future reference. IMPORTANT WARNING Read these instructions carefully before installing or trying to operate this vent-free gas heater. • 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.
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION Continued from page 3 18. 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. 19. During manufacturing, fabricating and shipping, various components of this appliance are treated with certain oils, films or bonding agents.
product features Screen On/Off Switch Piezo Control Knobs Figure 1 - Access to Controls This vent-free fireplace must be mounted on the floor or on the optional fireplace hearth. Operation This unvented gas heater requires no outside venting and burns cleanly with high heating efficiency. This zero-clearance unvented gas heater can be installed against (or recessed into) any wall that is accessible to a gas line.
PRODUCT FEATURES Natural Gas Milli-Volt Pressure Regulator Pressure Setting: 3.5" w.c. Pilot Regulator: 3.5" w.c. Gas Inlet Pressure: Max. 10 1/2" w. c. Min. 5" w.c. Model Number 32VFHNVC 36VFHNVC 42VFHNVC Control MILLI-VOLT MILLI-VOLT MILLI-VOLT Gas Rate Max BTU/Hr Min BTU/Hr 38,000 38,000 38,000 26,000 26,000 26,000 Propane/LPG Note: An external regulator is required to reduce supply pressure to a maximum of 13" w.c. Milli-Volt Pressure Regulator Pressure Setting: 10" w.c.
specifications ignition controls Piezo ignitor allows ignition of the pilot without the use of matches or batteries. Milli-Volt control has 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.
getting started Make sure you have received all parts: Check your packing list to verify that all listed parts have been received.
GENERAL INSTALLATION INFORMATION In planning the installation for the fireplace it is necessary to determine where the unit is to be installed and whether optional accessories are desired. Gas supply piping should also be planned. The following steps represent the normal sequence of installation. Each installation is unique, however, and might require a different sequence. 1. Position fireplace in desired location.
GENERAL INSTALLATION INFORMATION 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: WARNING American National Standards Institute, Inc. 1430 Broadway New York, NY 10018 or National Fire Protection Association, Inc. Batterymarch Park Quincy, MA 02269 Do not install the heater: • Where curtains, furniture, clothing, or other flammable objects are less than 42" from the front of the heater.
GENERAL INSTALLATION INFORMATION Counter Fireplace H W Figure 3 - Example of a Large Room with 1/2 Wall Divider The following formula can be used to determine the maximum heater rating per the definition of unconfined space: BTU/Hr = (L1 + L2) Ft x (W) Ft x (H) Ft x 1000 50 Consider two connecting rooms with an open area between, with the following dimensions: L1 = 151/2 Ft., L2 = 12 Ft., W = 12 Ft., H = 8 Ft.
GENERAL INSTALLATION INFORMATION REMOVING SCREEN WARNING Remove fireplace screen frame panel by pushing screen frame panel up and out. See Figure 4. Do not operate the unit without the screen frame panel and canopy installed. Canopy Fireplace Screen Figure 4 - Removing Fireplace Screen Frame Panel NOTE: Fireplace screen must be removed to access log box and to install canopy. INSTALLING CANOPY 1. Remove the fireplace screen as described in the previous section. 2.
LOCATION OF FIREPLACE Carefully select the best location for installation of your unvented fireplace. The following factors should be taken into consideration. • Clearance to side wall, ceiling, woodwork and window or other combustibles. Refer to “Clearances and Height Requirements” section on page 14. Minimum clearances to combustibles must be maintained.
WARNING CLEARANCES and HEIGHT REQUIREMENTS The dimensions shown in Figures 7 and 8 and defined in the fireplace manufacturer's instructions are minimum clearances to maintain when installing this heater. Left and right clearances 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.
FIREPLACE framing If unit is to be “built in,” fireplace framing can be built before or after the appliance is set in place. BE SURE THAT ALL PACKING MATERIAL HAS BEEN REMOVED FROM THE UNDERSIDE OF THE UNIT PRIOR TO SETTING THE FIREBOX IN PLACE. Construct fireplace framing following Figures 9 through 12. Refer to Figure 2 on page 9 for fireplace dimensions. The framing headers may rest directly on top of the firebox.
FIREPLACE framing When finishing a custom cabinet, mantel, or other built-in enclosure, the opening size to accommodate the fireplace with trim installed is as follows: 32VFHNVC 32VFHPVC 36VFHNVC 36VFHPVC 42VFHNVC 42VFHPVC K J 37⅞" 35⅞" 41⅞" 35⅞" 47⅞" 35⅞" WARNING WARNING Figure 13 - Custom Cabinet The fireplace must be installed giving full consideration to the clearance and height requirements identified in this manual. 1.
CONNECTING THE GAS CAUTION NOTICE: A qualified gas appliance installer must connect the heater to the gas supply. Consult all local codes. Use new black iron or steel pipe. Internally tinned copper or copper tubing can be used per National Fuel Code, section 2.6.3, providing gas meets hydrogen sulfide limits, and where permitted by local codes. Gas piping system must be sized to provide minimum inlet pressure (Listed on Data Plate) at the maximum flow rate (BTU/Hr).
WARNING WARNING CHECKING GAS PRESSURE Connecting directly to an unregulated propane/LPG tank can cause an explosion. When tightening up the joint to the valve, hold the valve securely to prevent movement. Test all gas joints from the gas meter to the heater valve for leaks using a gas analyzer or soap and water solution after completing connection. DO NOT USE AN OPEN FLAME. Check the gas pressure with the appliance burning and the control set to HIGH.
ELECTRICAL WIRING WARNING The milli-volt valve is a self-powered combination gas control that does not require 110 Vac to operate. Label all wires prior to disconnection when servicing controls. Wiring errors can cause improper and dangerous operation. Verify proper operation after servicing.
ELECTRICAL WIRING Connecting Remote Receiver THESE INSTRUCTIONS SUPERCEDE THE SECTION ENTITLED “HEARTH MOUNT” IN THE MILLIVOLT HAND-HELD REMOTE INSTRUCTIONS SUPPLIED WITH THE REMOTE. 1. Remove cover on control panel to show opening for remote receiver. See Figure 18. 2. Connect the remote connectors located in the unit (Figure 18). Remote Receiver 3. Slide remote receiver in the opening of control panel. Use two screws provided to attach remote receiver to the control panel. See Figure 18. 4.
LOG PLACEMENT WARNING Before you begin — This unit is supplied with six (6) ceramic fiber logs. Do not handle these logs with your bare hands. Always wear gloves to prevent skin irritation from ceramic fibers. After handling the logs, wash your hands gently with soap and water to remove any traces of fibers. The positioning of the logs is critical to the safe and clean operation of this heater. Sooting and other problems may result if the logs are not properly and firmly positioned in the appliance.
LOG PLACEMENT 3. Place left base log (#3) on two pins on left side of grate. See Figure 21. Left Base Log (#3) Pins Figure 21 - Installing Left Base Log (#3) Right top log (#4) 4. Place right top log (#4) on two pins located to the left of right base log. See Figure 22.
LOG PLACEMENT 5. Place right end of left top log (#5) on bottom center grate pin. Place middle of left top log (#5) on pin just to the right of the left base log. Rest the left end of left top log (#5) on the left base log. See Figure 23.
log placement 6. Place right front log (#6) on two pins on the right front of grate. See Figure 25. Right Front Log (#6) Right Front Log Pins Figure 25 - Installing Right Front Log (#7) Placing Rock Wool After installing logs, place TPB-RW (Rock Wool) in dime-size pieces evenly across the burner surface in between the logs. Do not add additional Rock Wool. See Figure 26 warning Wash hands after placing Rock Wool. Itching may occur. . • Use only TPB-RW provided with log set.
FLAME APPEARANCE Flames from the pilot, front and rear burner should be visually checked as soon as the heater is installed. In addition, periodically check the flames visually during operation. Checking the pilot flame The pilot flame must always be present when the heater is in operation. It should just touch the top of the thermocouple tip for natural. See Figure 27 for correct pilot flame. If the pilot flame does not touch the thermocouple, then the main burner cannot function reliably.
CHECKING THE BURNER FLAME In normal operation at full rate after 15 minutes, the following flame appearances should be observed: Figure 29 - Correct Appearance of Rear Flames of Blazing Oak Burner will have a random pattern of yellow flames as shown in Figure 29. There should be glowing embers on the front burner. Note: The front flames and embers will be an opaque orange color during the burn off time.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS WARNING for your safety read before lighting If you do not follow these instructions exactly, a fire or explosion may result causing property damage, personal injury or loss of life. A. This appliance is equipped with a piezo ignition device which automatically lights the pilot. If pilot is not working see Match Lighting Instructions on page 29. B. BEFORE OPERATING smell all around the appliance area for gas.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS MILLI-VOLT CONTROL LIGHTING INSTRUCTIONS 1. STOP! Read the safety information label. 2. Make sure the manual shutoff valve is fully open. 3. This gas log set is equipped with an ignition device (piezo) which automatically lights the pilot. If piezo ignitor does not light the pilot, refer to instructions for “Match Lighting Instructions,” page 29. 4. Turn gas control knob clockwise to the OFF position, and turn ON/OFF switch to OFF position. 5. Wait (5) minutes to clear out any gas.
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS and Cleaning and Servicing match lightinG instructions 1. Remove any items necessary for easy access to the pilot (for example: logs, screens, etc.). 2. Follow appropriate lighting instructions found previously. Instead of pushing and releasing the piezo button, light a match and hold the flame to the end of the pilot and ignite the pilot. 3. After control knob has been released and pilot stays lit, reinstall any items that were removed for pilot access. 4.
BLOWER AND OTHER OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT OPTIONAL EQUIPMENT Forced Air Kit If you are installing the forced air kit, Model BLOTMC, see the installation instructions provided with the kit for electrical wiring requirements, or the blower installation section. The firebox must be connected to main power supply at time of firebox installation. The blower must be installed prior to the installation of the unvented heater.
illustrated parts breakdown REPLACEMENT PARTS ARE AVAILABLE THROUGH YOUR RETAILER.
WARNING illustrated parts breakdown Failure to position the parts in accordance with these diagrams or failure to use only parts specifically approved with this heater may result in property damage or personal injury.
REPLACEMENT PARTS list REPLACEMENT PARTS ARE AVAILABLE THROUGH YOUR RETAILER.
illustrated parts breakdown 3 54 4 7 1 56 2 8 6 3 4 76 WARNING 9 34 Failure to position the parts in accordance with these diagrams or failure to use only parts specifically approved with this appliance may result in property damage or personal injury.
REPLACEMENT PARTS list REPLACEMENT PARTS ARE AVAILABLE THROUGH YOUR RETAILER.
WARNING WARNING TROUBLESHOOTING Turn appliance OFF and allow to cool before servicing. Only a qualified service person should service and repair the heater. Note: All troubleshooting items are listed in order of operation. OBSERVED PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE REMEDY When ignitor button is pressed, there is no spark at ODS/pilot. 1. Ignitor electrode positioned wrong. 2. Ignitor electrode is broken. 3. Ignitor electrode not connected to ignitor cable. 4. Ignitor cable pinched or wet. Keep ignitor cable dry.
WARNING TROUBLESHOOTING If the gas quality is bad, your pilot may not stay lit, the burners may produce soot and the heater may backfire when lit. If the gas quality or pressure is low, contact your local gas supplier immediately. OBSERVED PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE REMEDY ODS/pilot lights, but flame goes out when control knob is released. 1. Control knob not fully pressed in. 2. Control knob not pressed in long enough. 1. Press in control knob fully. 2.
TRIM INSTALLATION 1. Remove top and bottom louver assemblies by disengaging hooks. Pull assemblies up and away from unit. See Figure 33. 2. Remove canopy by removing screws and pulling canopy away from unit. See Figure 34. 3. Set bottom trim kit piece in place on bottom of face. Bottom piece will be held in place by the side pieces. See Figure 34. Figure 33 Figure 34 4. Loosely install four supplied screws into left and right sides of unit face. Leave approximately 1/8th in.
trim installation 6. Hold trim kit together by gripping the top left and right corners. Tilt trim kit away from you and into place snugly against unit. Tighten screws installed in step 4. Figure 37 Figure 38 Figure 36 7. Secure the top trim piece to unit by installing supplied screws. See Figure 39. 8. Secure canopy back in place on unit.
for use of optional ak-4 outside air kit Combustion Air 1. Locate combustion air assembly at an exterior location which is not likely to be accidentally blocked in any manner. Locate assembly a min. of 12" above the snow line to prevent blockage by snow accumulation. 2. Never mount the combustion air inlet assembly in a garage or storage area where combustible fumes such as gasoline might be drawn into the fireplace. 3.
for use of optional ak-4 outside air kit Model AK-4 Combustion Air Assembly 1. Remove the cover plate from the 4" outlet opening location on the left or right outside of the fireplace. 2. Place the insulation ring between the AK-4 starting collar and fireplace wall. WARNING The use of outside air for combustion is optional unless required by building codes. It is only necessary to supply outside combustion air to one side of the fireplace. Use the model AK4 combustion air kit.
for use of optional ak-4 outside air kit Model AK-4 Combustion Air Assembly (continued) 7. If the duct is the insulated type, push the insulation back from one end of the duct approximately 2". See Figure 49. 8. Slip the exposed end of the duct over the starting collar on the fireplace. Approximately 2" Duct Connector 9. Using the sheet metal screws provided, secure the duct end to the collar attached to the fireplace. 10. Nail or screw the combustion air assembly to the surface of the wall.
LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY POLICY Lifetime Warranty The following components are warranted for life to the original owner, subject of proof of purchase: Firebox, Combustion Chamber, Heat Exchanger, Grate, and Stainless Steel Burners. Five Year Warranty The following components are warranted for 5 years to the original owner, subject of proof of purchase: Vent Free Ceramic Fiber Logs and Aluminized Burners.
MHSC 149 Cleveland Drive • Paris, Kentucky 40361 www.mhsc.com AUGUST 2008 71D0533 • Rev.
