VFI Series User's Manual
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 fi reglass kit (contemporary sets only)
•  Two (2) anchoring screws
•  Mounting screws for canopy
Accessories required to fi nish 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 fi rebox 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
If unit is to be “built in,” fi replace 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 fi replace  framing 
following Figure 2. Refer to Figure 5 on Page 9 for fi replace 
dimensions. The framing headers may not rest directly on 
top of the fi rebox.
The fi replace may be installed directly on a combustible 
fl oor or a raised platform of an appropriate height. Do 
not place fi replace on carpeting, vinyl, tile or other soft 
fl oor coverings. It may, however, be placed on fl at wood, 
plywood, particle board or other hard surfaces. Be sure 
fi replace rests on a solid continuous fl oor or platform with 
appropriate framing for support and so that no cold air can 
enter from under the fi rebox. Your vent-free fi replace must 
be mounted to the fl oor or the fi replace 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 
attempt to install any part of the appliance unless you have 
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 fi ber logs to prevent skin irritation 
from loose fi bers. Logs are fragile — handle 
with care.
WARNING:
WARNING—Do not install the heater:
• Where curtains, furniture, clothing, or 
other fl ammable objects are less than 
42" from the front of the heater.
• In high traffi c 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 
the methods described in the National Fuel Gas 
Code, ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54, the International 
Fuel Gas Code or applicable local codes.










