Desa FBPS User Manual

®

UNVENTED (VENT-FREE)

LogMate® UNIVERSAL FIREBOX

OWNER’S OPERATION AND INSTALLATION MANUAL

®

Model FBPS

36" Peninsula Heat-Circulating Firebox

WARNING: If the information in this manual is not
followed exactly, a fire or explosion may result
causing property damage, personal injury, or loss
of life.

— Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable
vapors and liquids in the vicinity of this or any other
appliance.

— WHAT TO DO IF YOU SMELL GAS

• Do not try to light any appliance.

• 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.

• 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: Improper installa­tion, adjustment, alteration,
service, or maintenance can
cause injury or property dam­age. Refer to this manual for
correct installation and opera­tional procedures. For assis­tance or additional informa­tion consult a qualified in­staller, service agency, or the
gas supplier.

WARNING: For use only with
decorative type unvented room
heaters. Do not build a wood fire.

This firebox has been tested and
approved by I.A.S. under their
REQ. 2-97 for use with any ANS
Z21.11.2 approved gas logs.

This firebox may be installed in an aftermarket* manufactured (mobile) home, where not prohibited by
state or local codes.

* Aftermarket: Completion of sale, not for purpose of resale, from the manufacturer (i.e. Installation of this product is permit­ted after the manufactured (mobile) home is sited).

Save this manual for future reference.

®

UNVENTED (VENT-FREE) LOGMATE® FIREBOX

SAFETY
INFORMA TION

WARNINGS

IMPORTANT: Read this owner’s
manual carefully and completely
before trying to assemble, oper­ate, or service this firebox. Im­proper use of this firebox can cause
serious injury or death from burns,
fire, explosion, electrical shock, or
carbon monoxide poisoning.

CAUTION: Carefully review
the instructions supplied with the
decorative type unvented room
heater for the minimum firebox
size requirement. Do not install
the appliance in this firebox un­less this firebox meets the mini­mum dimensions required for the
installation.

WARNING: Any change to
this firebox or its controls can be
dangerous.

1. This firebox shall not be installed in a
bedroom or bathroom.

2. Never install the firebox

• in a recreational vehicle

• where curtains, furniture, clothing, or

other flammable objects are less
than 36 inches from the front, top, or
sides of the firebox

• in high traffic areas

• in windy or drafty areas

3. Do not use this firebox as a wood-burn­ing fireplace. Use only decorative
unvented room heaters (log sets).

4. Do not add extra logs or ornaments
such as pine cones, vermiculite, or rock
wool. Using these added items can
cause sooting.

5. Y ou must operate this fireplace with the
provided fireplace screens, hoods, and
brick liners in place. Make sure these
parts are in place and screens are closed
before running firebox. The supplied
hoods may not be replaced with hoods
which may be provided with a log heater .

6. Do not allow fans to blow directly into
the firebox. Avoid any drafts that alter
burner flame patterns. Ceiling fans can
create drafts that alter burner flame
patterns. Altered burner patterns can
cause sooting.

7. Do not use a blower insert, heat ex­changer insert or other accessory not
approved for use with this firebox. Use
only the provided hoods, or appropri­ate polished brass hood accessories. See
Accessories on page 15.

8. V ent-free gas log heaters installed in this
firebox require fresh air ventilation to
run properly. See Air for Combustion
and Ventilation, pages 4 through 6.

9. Do not run firebox

• where flammable liquids or vapors

are used or stored

• under dusty conditions

10. Do not use this firebox to cook food or
burn paper or other objects.

11. Never place any objects in the firebox
or on logs.

12. Firebox fronts and screens becomes
very hot when running firebox. Keep
children and adults away from hot sur­faces to avoid burns or clothing igni­tion. Firebox will remain hot for a time
after shutdown. Allo w surfaces to cool
before touching.

13. Carefully supervise young children
when they are in the room with firebox.

14. Turn firebox off and let cool before
servicing. Only a qualified service per­son should service and repair firebox.

15. Operating vent-free logs above eleva­tions of 4,500 feet could cause pilot
outage.

16. Do not use the firebox if it has been
under water due to the shock hazard
that could result with the blower acces­sary (if installed) in place.

LOCAL CODES

Install and use firebox with care. Follow all
local codes. In the absence of local codes, use
the latest edition of The National Fuel Gas
Code ANS Z223.1, also known as NFPA 54*.
Firebox must be electrically grounded in
accordance with the National Electrical Code,
ANS/NFPA70 (latest edition).

*Available from:
American National Standards Institute, Inc.

1430 Broadway

New York, NY 10018

National Fire Protection Association, Inc.

Batterymarch Park

Quincy, MA 02269

UNPACKING

1. Remove all protective packaging from
inside firebox. Carefully lift the fire­box off the bottom corrugated tray.

2. Carton should contain 3 deflective
hoods and hardware packet in addition
to firebox assembly. If items are miss­ing, inform dealer where you bought
firebox.

3. Check all items for any shipping dam­age. If damaged, promptly inform
dealer where you bought firebox.

NOTICE: The firebox identifica­tion label (including model num­ber, serial number, clearances,
etc.) is located directly above the
brick liner and under the heat
shield. See Figure 20, page 14.

2

105163

OWNER’S MANUAL

PRODUCT
FEATURES

OPERATION

This firebox is designed for use with ap­proved ANS Z21.11.2 decorative type
unvented multisided room heaters. (Physi­cal size limitations apply. Refer to mini­mum firebox requirements supplied with
log heater.) The maximum size log this
firebox will accept is: width of 32", depth of
19", and height of 17".

This firebox requires no outside venting or
chimney making installation easy and inex­pensive. When used without the blower, the
firebox requires no electricity making it
ideal for emergency backup heat.

BLOWER ACCESSORY

The FBPS firebox will accept the GA3500A
accessory. The variable blower allows you
to select the fan speed you desire. The blower
circulates heated air from the firebox into
the room. Use of blower is optional.

BRICK LINER

PRODUCT
SPECIFICATIONS

1 1/4"

1/2"

24"

5/8"

3

/4"

1

4"

36 1/4"

(Edge of
Brick Liner)

3" TYP.

18 1/2"

4 1/2"

4 3/4"33 3/4"

4"

5

3

/8"

4"

19 1/2"

40"

This firebox features a concrete brick liner.
As with all concrete liners, this liner may
develop slight cracks when exposed to heat.
These cracks will not affect the perfor­mance of the firebox or vent-free gas logs.

1

9

/8"

36 1/2"

42 1/2"

Figure 1 - Peninsula (Three-Sided) Firebox

1 1/2"

105163

3

®

UNVENTED (VENT-FREE) LOGMATE® FIREBOX

LOCATING
FIREBOX

Planning

Plan where you will install the firebox. This
will save time and money later when you
install the firebox. Before installation, con­sider the following:

1. Where the firebox will be located. Al­low for wall and ceiling clearances (see
Installation Clearances, page 7).

2. Everything needed to complete instal­lation.

3. These models CANNOT be installed
in a bedroom or bathroom.

4. Proper air for combustion and ventila­tion.

5. Consider a location where heat output
would not be affected by drafts, air con­dition ducts, windows or doors.

6. A location that minimizes modifica­tions on existing framing will make
installation easier.

Projected installations can extend
any distance into the room. A projection
may be ideal as a partition between two
otherwise common areas when added to
an existing, finished wall (see Figure 2).
Optional GT109U firebox top is avail­able (see Accessories, page 15).

Internal wall installation provides
a discreet viewing option between two
adjacent rooms or within an added wall
to subdivide an oversize room.

Figure 2 - Projected Installation

AIR FOR
COMBUSTION AND
VENTILATION

WARNING: This firebox shall
not be installed in a confined space
or unusually tight construction
unless provisions are provided
for adequate combustion and ven­tilation air. Read the following in­structions to insure proper fresh
air for this and other fuel-burning
appliances in your home.

Today’s homes are built more energy effi­cient than ever. New materials, increased
insulation, and new construction methods
help reduce heat loss in homes. Home owners
weather strip and caulk around windows and
doors to keep the cold air out and the warm air
in. During heating months, home owners
want their homes as airtight as possible.

While it is good to make your home energy
efficient, your home needs to breathe. Fresh
air must enter your home. All fuel-burning
appliances need fresh air for proper com­bustion and ventilation.

Exhaust fans, fireboxes, clothes dryers, and
fuel burning appliances draw air from the
house to operate. You must provide ad­equate fresh air for these appliances. This
will insure proper venting of vented fuel­burning appliances.

PROVIDING ADEQUATE
VENTILATION

The following are excerpts from National
Fuel Gas Code. NFPA 54/ANS Z223.1, Sec­tion 5.3, Air for Combustion and Ventilation.

All spaces in homes fall into one of the three
following ventilation classifications:

1. Unusually Tight Construction

2. Unconfined Space

3. Confined Space
The information on pages 4 through 6 will

help you classify your space and provide
adequate ventilation.

Unusually Tight Construction

The air that leaks around doors and win­dows may provide enough fresh air for
combustion and ventilation. However, in
buildings of unusually tight construction,
you must provide additional fresh air.

4

Unusually tight construction is de­fined as construction where:

a. walls and ceilings exposed to the

outside atmosphere have a con­tinuous water vapor retarder with
a rating of one perm (6 x 10
per pa-sec-m2) or less with open­ings gasketed or sealed

b. weather stripping has been

added on openable windows and
doors

c. caulking or sealants are applied

to areas such as joints around
window and door frames, be­tween sole plates and floors, be­tween wall-ceiling joints, be­tween wall panels, at penetra­tions for plumbing, electrical, and
gas lines, and at other openings.

If your home meets all of the three
criteria above, you must provide ad­ditional fresh air. See

From Outdoors

If your home does not meet all of the
three criteria above, proceed to

and

Ventilation Air

, page 6.

-11

and

Deter-

kg

mining Fresh-Air Flow for Firebox
Location,

page 5.

Confined and Unconfined Space

The National Fuel Gas Code (ANS Z223.1,
1992 Section 5.3) defines a confined space

as a space whose volume is less than 50
cubic feet per 1,000 Btu per hour (4.8 m3 per
kw) of the aggregate input rating of all
appliances installed in that space and an
unconfined space as a space whose volume
is not less than 50 cubic feet per 1,000 Btu
per hour (4.8 m3 per kw) of the aggregate
input rating of all appliances installed in that
space. Rooms communicating directly with
the space in which the appliances are in­stalled*, through openings not furnished
with doors, are considered a part of the
unconfined space.

This heater shall not be installed in a con­fined space or unusually tight construction
unless provisions are provided for adequate
combustion and ventilation air.

* Adjoining rooms are communicating only
if there are doorless passageways or ventila­tion grills between them.

105163

OWNER’S MANUAL

AIR FOR
COMBUSTION AND
VENTILATION

Continued

DETERMINING FRESH-AIR FLOW FOR FIREBOX LOCATION

Determining if You Have a Confined or Unconfined Space

Use this work sheet to determine if you have a confined or unconfined space.
Space: Includes the room in which you will install firebox 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:

If additional ventilation to adjoining room is supplied with grills or openings, add the volume of these rooms to the total volume of
the space.

2. Divide the space volume by 50 cubic feet to determine the maximum Btu/Hr the space can support.

_____________ (volume of space) ÷ 50 cu. ft. = (Maximum Btu/Hr the space can support)

Example:

3. Add the Btu/Hr of all fuel burning appliances in the space.
Gas water heater* _______________ Btu/Hr
Gas furnace _______________ Btu/Hr
Vented gas heater _______________ Btu/Hr
Gas firebox 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:

The space in the above example is a confined space because the actual Btu/Hr used is more than the maximum Btu/Hr the space can support.
You must provide additional fresh air. Your options are as follows:

A. Rework work sheet, adding the space of an adjoining room. If the extra space provides an unconfined space, remove door to adjoin-

ing room or add ventilation grills between rooms. See Ventilation Air from Inside Building, page 6.

B. Vent room directly to the outdoors. See Ventilation Air from Outdoors, page 6.
C. Install a lower Btu/Hr gas log heater, if lower Btu/Hr size makes room unconfined.

If the actual Btu/Hr used is less than the maximum Btu/Hr the space can support, the space is an unconfined space. You will need no
additional fresh air ventilation.

Space size 22 ft. (length) x 18 ft. (width) x 8 ft. (ceiling height) = 3168 cu. ft. (volume of space)

3168 cu. ft. (volume of space) ÷ 50 cu. ft. = 63.3 or 63,300 (maximum Btu/Hr the space can support)

Example:

Gas water heater 40,000 Btu/Hr
Gas firebox logs + 39,000 Btu/Hr

Total = 79,000 Btu/Hr

63,300 Btu/Hr (maximum the space can support)
79,000 Btu/Hr (actual amount of Btu/Hr used)

WARNING: If the area in which the firebox and gas log heater may be operated is smaller than that defined as
an unconfined space or if the building is of unusually tight construction, provide adequate combustion and
ventilation air by one of the methods described in the
applicable local codes.

105163

National Fuel Gas Code, ANS Z223.1, 1992, Section 5.3

Continued

5

or

®

UNVENTED (VENT-FREE) LOGMATE® FIREBOX

AIR FOR
COMBUSTION AND
VENTILATION

Continued

VENTILATION AIR

Ventilation Air From Inside
Building

This fresh air would come from an adjoining
unconfined space. When ventilating to an
adjoining unconfined space, you must pro­vide two permanent openings: one within
12" of the ceiling and one within 12" of the
floor on the wall connecting the two spaces
(see option 1, Figure 3). You can also re­move door into adjoining room (see option
2, Figure 3). Follow the National Fuel Gas

Code NFPA 54/ANS Z223.1, Section 5.3,
Air for Combustion and Ventilation for re-

quired size of ventilation grills or ducts.

WARNING: Rework work­sheet, adding the space of the
adjoining unconfined space. The
combined spaces must have
enough fresh air to supply all
appliances in both spaces.

Ventilation

Grills

Into Adjoining

Room,

Option 1

Figure 3 - Ventilation Air from Inside Building

Or

Remove
Door into
Adjoining

Room,
Option

2

Outlet
Air

Ventilated
Attic

4"

Ventilation Air From Outdoors

Provide extra fresh air by using ventilation
grills or ducts. You must provide two per­manent openings: one within 12" of the
ceiling and one within 12" of the floor.
Connect these items directly to the outdoors
or spaces open to the outdoors. These spaces
include attics and crawl spaces.

IMPORTANT:

inlet or outlet air into attic if attic has a
thermostat-controlled power vent. Heated air
entering the attic will activate the power vent.

Do not provide openings for

Outlet
Air

Inlet
Air

Inlet Air

Figure 4 - Ventilation Air from Outdoors

Crawl Space

To Attic

To

Crawl

Space

Ventilated

6

105163

OWNER’S MANUAL

INSTALLATION

NOTICE: This firebox in combi­nation with unvented logsets are
intended for use as supplemen­tal heat. Use along with your pri­mary heating system. Do not in­stall them as your primary heat
source. If you have a central heat­ing system, you may run system’s
circulating blower while using
heater. This will help circulate
the heat throughout the house. In
the event of a power outage, you
can use unvented logs as your
primary heat source.

WARNING: A qualified ser­vice person must install firebox.
Follow all local codes.

WARNING: Never install the
firebox

• in a bedroom or bathroom

• in a recreational vehicle

• where curtains, furniture, cloth-

ing, or other flammable objects
are less than 42 inches from the
front, top, or sides of the firebox

• in high traffic areas

• in windy or drafty areas

exterior surface on the rear or top of your
firebox, except where standoff spacers are inte­grally attached. If standoff spacers are attached
to your firebox, these spacers can be placed
directly against wall or framing materials.

Use dimensions shown for rough openings to
create the easiest installation (see Built-In or
Internal Wall Firebox Installation, page 8).

INSTALLATION
CLEARANCES

WARNING: Maintain the mini­mum clearances. If you can, pro­vide greater clearances from
floor, ceiling, and adjoining wall.

Carefully follow the instructions below. This
will ensure safe installation.

Minimum Wall and Ceiling
Clearances (see Figures 5 and 6)

A. Clearances from the edge of brick liner

to any combustible wall should not be
less than 8 inches (see Figure 5).

B. Clearances from the top of the firebox

hoods to the ceiling should not be less
than 42 inches.

C. When the firebox is installed on car-

peting or other combustible material,

0" Min. Clearance to
Upper Frame/Wallboard

other than wood flooring, the firebox
should be installed on a metal or wood
panel extending the full width and
depth of the enclosure.

D. Clearances from the bottom of firebox

to the floor is 0 inches.

E. Clearances from the open end of the

firebox to the facing wall should not
be less than 36 inches.

CAUTION: Do not install the

firebox directly on carpet or vinyl.

CAUTION: Use only the clear­ances specified in this manual or
on the firebox rating plate.

Minimum clearances to combustibles are:

• Back of outer casing 0" min.

• Drywall to sides and 0" min.
top of front face

• Ceiling to opening 42" min.

• Floor (see Minimum 0" min.

Wall and Ceiling
Clearances, note C.)

• Perpendicular walls, 4" min.
Right and Left

• Distance to Facing 36" min.
Walls on Sides and
End of Firebox

CAUTION: Log heaters in­stalled in this firebox create warm
air currents. These currents move
heat to wall surfaces next to fire­box. Installing firebox next to vi­nyl or cloth wall coverings or
operating firebox where impuri­ties (such as tobacco smoke, aro­matic candles, cleaning fluids,
oil or kerosene lamps, etc.) in the
air exist, may discolor walls.

IMPORTANT:

Vent-free gas log heaters add
moisture to the air. Although this is beneficial,
installing firebox in rooms without enough
ventilation air may cause mildew to form from
too much moisture. See Air for Combustion
and Ventilation, pages 4 through 6.

IMPORTANT:

Make sure the firebox is
level. If firebox is not level, log set will not
work properly.

Note:

Your Vanguard firebox is designed to be
used in zero clearance installations. Wall or
framing material can be placed against any

105163

Ceiling

8" Min.

4"

Min.

Edge of
Brick Liner

Figure 5 - Minimum Clearance - Front View

1/2" Min. Clearance
to Combustibles

43 3/4"

4" Min. from the Perpendicular
Side Wall to the Edge of Facia

Figure 6 - Minimum Clearance - Top View

7

42" Min.

0" to Wood Floor

36" Min. from
Edge of Facial
to Facing Wall
on Open End
of Firebox

24"

Continued

®

UNVENTED (VENT-FREE) LOGMATE® FIREBOX

INSTALLATION

Continued

Mantel Clearances for Projected
Built-In Installation

If placing custom mantel above built-in
firebox, you must meet the minimum allow­able clearance between mantel shelf and top
of firebox hood shown in Figure 7. These
are the minimum allowable mantel clear­ances for a safe installation. Use larger clear­ances wherever possible to minimize the
heating of objects and materials placed on
the mantel.

CAUTION: Do not allow the
vent-free gas log heater to touch
or extend beyond the firebox
screen.

If your installation does not meet the mini­mum clearances shown in Figure 7, you must:

• raise the mantel to an acceptable height,
OR

• remove the mantel.

BUILT-IN OR INTERNAL WALL
FIREBOX INSTALLATION

Built-in installation of this firebox involves
installing firebox into a framed-in enclo­sure. This makes the front of firebox flush
with wall. If installing a mantel above the
firebox, you must follow the clearances
shown in Figure 7. Follow the instructions
below to install the firebox in this manner.

1. Frame in rough opening. The firebox
framing should be constructed of 2 x 4
lumber or heavier. Construct framing
using dimensions shown in Figure 8 and
Figure 9, page 9. It is recommended that
the framing be constructed first and the
unit be placed in position. After sliding
the unit into place, the flanges may be
nailed to the framing before applying the
wallboard to the exterior framing.

2. If the vent-free firebox is to be installed
directly on carpeting, tile (other than
ceramic), or any combustible material
other than wood flooring; the vent-free
firebox must be installed upon a metal
or wood panel extending the full width
and depth of the vent-free firebox.

Wall board or facing material
(above firebox) may be of
combustible material, including
decorative mantel ornaments
or other similar projections
off of the facing material.

Mantel Shelf

1

/4"

9

6"

3"

Combustible
Material 1
Max Thicknes

Supplied Firebox
Hoods Must Be
Used at All Times

1

/2"

s

Note:

measurements are
minimum distances
from top of fireplace
hood to bottom of mantel
shelf. These minimum
clearances replace any
other recommended
clearances supplied with
your ANS Z21.11.2
approved gas logs.

15"

12"

All vertical

Note:

Fireplace
shown as cross­section for clarity.
Mantel material
may not be less
than 7" from top of
hood. Do not cover
louver openings.

7" Min.

Top Frame
(Combustible Material)

Firebox Top

Wire-mesh

Screen

Figure 7 - Minimum Mantel Clearances for Projected or Built-In Installation

22 3/4" Min.

Wallboard

Gas Line

Facing
Wall

Facing Wall
(Base line)

4" Min.

36" Min. to
Facing Wall

43 3/4" Min.

40 1/4" Min.

Board
Base

18"

Figure 8 - Framing for Built-In or Internal Wall Firebox Installation

8

105163

INSTALLATION

11/2" Max.

3/8" Max.

4"

8" Min. to
Adjacent Wal

l

SAFE
ZONE

Combustible material
must not overlap more than
3/8" onto black metal front face.

Nailing Flange

Drywall

Continued

3. If a raised platform is to be constructed.
ceiling clearances must be maintained.

4. Install gas piping to firebox location.
See Installing Gas Line on page 10 and
Connecting to Gas Supply in log set
owner’s manual.

IMPORTANT:

sory. See Hard-Wiring Firebox, page 11.

5. Carefully set firebox in front of rough
opening.

6. Carefully insert firebox into rough
opening.

7. Attach firebox to wall studs using nails
or wood screws through holes in nail­ing flange (see Figure 10). Attach f ire­box to board base through holes in fire­box bottom (see Figure 10).

IMPORTANT:

box, combustible materials such as wall
board, gypsum board, sheet rock, drywall,
plywood, etc. may be butted up next to the
side and top of the firebox. Combustible
materials should never overlap the firebox
front facing more than 3/8".

If installing blower acces-

When finishing your fire-

OWNER’S MANUAL

Minimum from
firebox opening

8" Min. to
Perpendicular
Wall

Figure 9 - Framing for Built-In Firebox Installation: Top View

Nails or Wood
Screws

edge to
combustible
material

Edge of side
firebox opening

WARNING: Do not allow any
combustible materials to overlap
the firebox front facing (see Fig­ure 9).

IMPORTANT:

Noncombustible materials
such as brick, tile, etc. may overlap the front
facing, but should never cover any neces­sary openings like louvered slots.

WARNING: Never modify or
cover the louvered slots on the
front of the firebox.

WARNING: Use only noncom­bustible mortar or adhesives
when overlapping the front fac­ing with noncombustible facing
material.

Nailing Flanges

Figure 10 - Attaching Firebox to Wall Studs and Floor

Screws
Supplied in
Hardware
Pack

105163

Continued

9

®

UNVENTED (VENT-FREE) LOGMATE® FIREBOX

INSTALLATION

Continued

INSTALLING GAS LINE

WARNING: A qualified service
person must connect heater to
gas supply. Follow all local codes.

IMPORTANT:

ply in your log set owner’s manual for
details on gas hookup.

Figure 11 shows the typical installation for
the gas line. When you have determined
how the gas line will run, locate the recessed
knockout in the firebrick floor (see Figure

12). Firmly tap the center of the knockout
with a chisel until it is released. Carefully
chisel the rough edges of the hole you have
made to smooth edges. This hole will line up
with the hole in the metal floor.

CAUTION: Do not use exces­sive force to remove the knock­out. Too much force may dam­age the firebrick concrete insert.

See Connecting to Gas Sup-

A manual shutoff valve, AGA certified and
complying with the National Fuel Gas code,
ANS Z223.1-latest edition, must be included
within (6') six feet of the vent-free firebox
gas supply system. It may be convenient to
install the gas shutoff outside the vent-free
firebox enclosure where it can be accessed
with a key through a wall as shown in Figure

13. Depending on the type of installation,
some local codes may require you to install
two (2) manual shutoff valves independently
accessible from both rooms. Check your
local codes for applicable installation re­quirements.

Firebrick Floor

Remove Knockout

3/4" Thick Liner

Figure 12 - Location of Knockout for
Gas Line

A 36" long 1/2" NPT SCHD 40 flexible gas
connector line complying with the National

Fuel Gas code ANS Z223.1-latest edition,

may be run from the regulator to the incom­ing 1/2" NPT black iron gas line. You may
also route the incoming 1/2" NPT black iron
gas line directly to the appliance regulator.

Remove the gas line cover plate from the
vent-free firebox’s outer surround and route
the gas line into the rear of the firebox (see
Figure 11).

If a sediment trap is not incorporated as a
part of the gas utilization equipment, one
shall be installed as close to the inlet of the
equipment as practical at the time of instal­lation, as per ANS Z223.1-latest edition.
See Figure 14, page 11.

Prepare incoming black iron gas line with
Teflon tape or pipe joint compound (check
with local codes as to the use of Teflon tape).
Compounds used on threaded joints of gas
piping shall be resistant to the action of pro­pane/LP and should be applied lightly to en­sure excess sealant does not enter the gas line.

Complete your gas installation by connect­ing the incoming gas line to the appliance
regulator. Secure all joints tightly with
wrench but do not overtighten. If a flexible
gas line is used, take care not to kink the
connector.

Gas Line
Installed
Through
Access
Hole on
One Side
of Firebox

Manual Shutoff Valve
is Located Under
Firebox Floor on
Either Side

Figure 11 - Installing Gas Line and Manual Shutoff Valve

10

Shut-Off Valve

Extension

Key

Figure 13 - Typical Exterior Wall Gas
Shut-Off Installation

105163

OWNER’S MANUAL

INSTALLATION

Continued

WARNING: All gas piping and
connections must be tested for
leaks after the installation is com­pleted. After ensuring that the
manual shutoff gas valve is open,
apply a soap and water solution to
all connections and joints. If bubbles
appear, leaks can be detected and
corrected. DO NOT USE OPEN
FLAME FOR LEAK TESTING AND
DO NOT OPERATE ANY APPLI­ANCE IF A LEAK IS DETECTED.

Incoming 1/2"
Gas Line
Permitted by
Local Codes

3" Min.

Sediment Trap
(Not Supplied)

Figure 14 - Sediment Trap Installation

GAS SUPPLY TESTING

Note:

This section is intended as a guide for
qualified technicians installing gas to this
vent-free firebox.

CAUTION: Do not connect
vent-free heater before pressure
testing gas piping. Damage to
gas valve may result and an un­safe condition may be caused.

The appliance and its shutoff valve must be
disconnected from the gas supply piping
system during any pressure testing of that
system at test pressures in excess of 1/2 psig
(3.5 kPa).

The appliance must be isolated from the gas
supply piping system by closing manual
shutoff valve during any pressure testing of
the gas supply piping system at test pres­sures equal to or less than 1/2 psig (3.5kPa).

HARD-WIRING FIREBOX

Model FBPS can be hard-wired to the du­plex outlet located inside the firebox bottom
if desired. This allows the blower accessory
to be plugged into the duplex outlet.

NOTICE: A qualified electrician
must connect electrical wiring
to duplex outlet for built-in in­stallation. Follow all local codes.
In absence of local codes follow

The National Electric Code ANS/
NFPA 70.

ELECTRICAL INSTALLATION

A model GA3500A blower system assembly
is available for use with the FBPS vent-free
firebox as an optional accessory. This blower
is designed to be installed on the wall side of
the FBPS firebox, when provisions for a 120
VAC supply connection are made at the end
of the cabinet. Use of a blower system other
than those manufactured by DESA Interna­tional voids the warranty.

Electrical connections are made within the
receptacle with wires that are routed through
the bushing provided (see Figure 15). The
receptacle may be relocated to either side,
when necessary. However, the cover plate
must be replaced over the unused access
point. Be certain to properly ground the
vent-free firebox using the green grounding
wire (see Figure 17 on page 12).

Note:

A 120V supply connection to the
leads to the receptacle must be provided for
use with the optional blower kit whether
installed during or after initial firebox in­stallation. You may not be able to install a
supply connection after the final installation
is completed. Refer to Optional Blower As-
sembly Installation on page 12 for specifics.

Gas Connection
Access Hole

105163

11

Electrical
Connection
Access Hole

Figure 15 - Locating Electrical Connection
and Gas Connection on Wall Side of
Fireplace

Cover
Plate

Continued

®

UNVENTED (VENT-FREE) LOGMATE® FIREBOX

INSTALLATION

Continued

OPTIONAL BLOWER
ASSEMBLY INSTALLATION

Proper installation of the blower system is
required to insure that the maximum dis­charge of air can be delivered through the
louvers on each side of the fireplace.

Note:

You may perform this installation
from either side of the fireplace. The lower
door panels are removable from both sides
of the firebox for better access.

1. Remove the blower assembly from the

packaging and inspect the fan and wir­ing for damage. If any wiring is loose
or damaged, return the assembly for
exchange to your dealer or distributor.

2. Remove the 2 screws located at the top

of the lower door panel. Slide door
panel forward and up to remove tabs
on panel from locating slots in firebox
(see Figure 16).

Locating
Slot

Locating Holes

3. Locate the two strips of hook & loop
mounting strips on one side of the base
of the lower compartment. Align the
mounting strips on blower with mount­ing strips on base of firebox.

4. Install blower housing with exhaust out­let ports directed upwards along inner
side wall of lower compartment. The
blower outlets must be installed flush to
the outer cabinet for air to flow properly .

5. Apply gentle force between hook &
loop mounting strips to seat blower.

6. Remove control knob and lock nut from
blower speed control shaft.

7. Place speed control shaft through 3/8"
hole provided in right side of lower door
panel removed in step 2.

8. While supporting speed control hous­ing, secure shaft in panel hole with lock
nut. Place control knob on shaft.

9. Plug blower power cord into receptacle
located in lower firebox compartment.
Check to make sure there are no for­eign objects in blower wheel.

10. Turn blower on and check for proper
operation.

WARNING: Never touch the

blower wheel while in operation.

Operating Optional Blower
GA3500A

Light your gas appliance with the blower
off. After about 10 minutes, turn the blower
on to deliver heated air out the top louvers.
The blower features a variable control which
allows you to select the blower speed you
desire.

Note:

Periodically check the louvers of the
firebox and remove any dust, dirt, or ob­structions.

Receptacle

Speed
Control
Shaft

Lock Nut

Control Knob

Figure 18 - Installing Optional Blower
GA3500A

Blower

Hook & Loop
Mounting Strips

Door
Panel

Locating
Slot

Figure 16 - Removing Lower Door Panel

11. Turn blower off before continuing.

12. Replace lower door panel by inserting
tabs on bottom of panel into locating
slots on firebox. Push door panel into
an upright position and secure with
screws removed in step 2.

BLK

BLOWER

RECEPTACLE

VARIABLE

SPEED

CONTROL

Note:

If any of the original wire must be replaced, it must be

replaced with type TEW minimum 16GA copper wire rated at 105°C

Figure 17 - Optional Blower Wiring Diagram

12

ELECTRICAL RATING:

120v, 60Hz, 0.9A

GRN

WHT WHT

GND

FIELD WIRE

BLK

GRN

CONNECTORS
(NOT SUPPLIED)

INCOMING

120V AC

(FUSE BOX

OR

BREAKER)

105163

OWNER’S MANUAL

INSTALLATION

Continued

HEAT DEFLECTIVE HOOD
INSTALLATION

The factory supplied heat deflective hoods
must be installed inside the fireplace open­ings on all three sides for the safe operation
of the unit as shown in Figure 19.

1. Remove protective covering from
hoods.

2. Position deflective hood into opening on
one side of the firebox and secure to the
top of the opening using screws provided.

3. Secure the ends of the hood to the fire­box using two screws (provided) for
each side.

4. Repeat steps 2 and 3 to install hoods on
the remaining side and end of firebox.

CAUTION: Do not clean hood
with abrasive cleanser. Use only
regular household cleaners and
a smooth cloth.

Front Hood
(Typical Each Side)

Corner Post

3 Screws

2 Screws
Each End of
Hood

(Top)

OPERATING
GUIDELINES &
MAINTENANCE
INSTRUCTIONS

When lit for the first time, a vent-free log
heater will emit a slight odor for about an
hour or two. This is a normal occurrence
which is due to the "curing" of the logs and
the "burn-in" of internal paints and lubri­cants used in the manufacturing process.

Keep control compartments, logs, burners,
and areas surrounding the logs clean by vacu­uming or brushing at least twice a year.
Temporary removal of the log set may ease
the cleaning of the burner and pilot assembly.
In cleaning, take care not to alter the settings
on the pilot assembly. See the operating
instructions supplied with your vent-free log
heater for additional cleaning instructions.

WARNING: Logs can be very
hot! Allow logs to cool before
handling.

IMPORTANT:

the external shutoff valve before servicing
appliance. Any safety screen or guard re­moved for servicing must be replaced prior
to operating the appliance.

Installation and repair should be done by a
qualified person. The appliance should be
inspected before use and at least annually by
a professional service person. More fre­quent cleaning may be required due to ex­cessive lint from carpeting, pet hair, etc. It is
imperative that the control compartments,
burners and circulating air passageways of
the appliance be kept clean.

Turn off the gas supply at

WARNING: Children and
adults should be alerted to the
hazards of high surface tempera­tures and to stay away to avoid
burns or clothing ignition. Young
children should be carefully su­pervised when they are in the
same room as the appliance.

For lighting and operating this vent-free
firebox, please refer to the vent-free gas logs
manufacturer’s instruction manual.

Figure 19- Typical Hood Installation
(Both Sides)

105163

13

®

UNVENTED (VENT-FREE) LOGMATE® FIREBOX

REPLACEMENT
PARTS

Note

: Use only original replacement parts.
This will protect your warranty coverage for
parts replaced under warranty.

PARTS UNDER WARRANTY

Contact authorized dealers of this product.
If they can’t supply original replacement
part(s), call DESA International’s Techni­cal Service Department at

1-800-DESA LOG (1-800-337-2564).
When calling DESA International, have

ready

• your name

• your address

• model and serial numbers of your firebox

• how firebox was malfunctioning

• type of gas used (propane or natural gas)

• purchase date
Usually, we will ask you to return the defec-

tive part to the factory.

PARTS NOT UNDER
WARRANTY

Contact authorized dealers of this product.
If they can’t supply original replacement
part(s), call DESA International’s Parts
Department at 1-800-972-7879 for referral
information.

When calling DESA International, have
ready

• model number of your firebox

• the replacement part number

Note

: The firebox identification label (in­cluding model number, serial number, clear­ances, etc.) is located above the brick liner
and under the heat shield. See Figure 20.

Air Deflector

Identification Label

Heat Shield

TECHNICAL
SERVICE

You may have further questions about in­stallation, operation, or troubleshooting.

If so, contact DESA International’s Techni­cal Service Department at 1-800-DESA
LOG (1-800-337-2564).

You can also visit DESA International’s
Technical Service web site at

www.desatech.com.

Brick Liner

Figure 20 - Location of Firebox Identifi­cation Label

14

105163

ACCESSORIES

Purchase these firebox accessories from your
local dealer. If they can not supply these
accessories, call DESA International’s Sales
Department at 1-800-432-2382 for infor­mation. You can also write to the address
listed on the back page of this manual.

OWNER’S MANUAL

BLOWER GA3500A

An optional blower is available for use with
the FBPS fireboxes for bidirectional heat
circulation and may be installed during or
after firebox installation.

POLISHED BRASS HOOD
GA6017 (For Firebox End)

GA6054 (For Firebox Sides)

Replaces the standard black hoods to pro­vide a more formal appearance.
kit contains only one hood. Two GA6054
kits and are required to do both sides of
firebox.

Note:

Each

POLISHED BRASS LOUVER
GBL17 (For Firebox End)

GBL41 (For Firebox Side)

Replaces the standard black louvers to pro­vide a more formal appearance.
kit contains only one louver. Two GBL41
kits are required to do both sides of firebox.

Note:

Each

FIREBOX TOP
GT109U (Unfinished)

Easily installs on top of the peninsula fire­box for projected installation. Unfinished
oak veneer is ready to paint or stain.

105163

15

®

UNVENTED (VENT-FREE) LOGMATE® FIREBOX

ILLUSTRATED
PARTS
BREAKDOWN

Model FBPS

10**

17**

17

18

17**

15

17

Typ.

16

16

Typ.

6

4

16

15

3

16

1

8**

17**

14

17**

5**

9**

17**

7-3

7-2

17**

17**

17**

7-1

11**

8**

17

17**

12

15

16

6

13

16

Typ.

2

16

**These items are used on both sides of fireplace.

105163

OWNER’S MANUAL

PARTS LIST

Model FBPS

This list contains replaceable parts used in your firebox. When ordering parts, follow the instructions
listed under Replacement Parts on page 14 of this manual.

KEY PART NUMBER
NO. FBPS DESCRIPTION QTY.

1 26767 Firebox Assembly 1
2 26750 Firebox Bottom 1
3 23966 Firebox Top 1
4 23982 Top Spacer 4
5 26731 Deflector Hood 2
6 26740 Nailing Flange 12
7 02012 3 Piece Brick Liner Kit 1
7-1 02013 Side Refractory Brick Liner 1
7-2 02014 Bottom Refractory Brick Liner 1
7-3 02036 Bottom Refractory Brick Liner 1

(Open End of Firebox)
8 24007 Side Refractory Retainer 2
9 12125 Screen 4
10 102455-07 Extruded Louver 2
11 26733 Lower Door Panel 2
12 14200 Receptacle 1
13 21171 Access Hole Cover 3
14 12126 Screen 1
15 26771 Extruded Louver (End) 1
16 11164 Screw, #10 x 1/2, zinc PH 24
17 11165 Screw, #10 x 5/8, zinc PH 67
18 26762 Deflector Hood (End) 1

PARTS AVAILABLE - NOT SHOWN

55525 Installation Instructions 1
55524 Rating Plate Label 1

105163

17

WARRANTY INFORMATION

KEEP THIS WARRANTY

Model
Serial No.
Date Purchased

Always specify model and serial numbers when communicating with the factory.
We reserve the right to amend these specifications at any time without notice. The only warranty applicable is our standard written warranty. We

make no other warranty, expressed or implied.

LIMITED WARRANTY

VENT-FREE FIREBOX

DESA International warrants this product to be free from defects in materials and components for four (4) years from the date of first
purchase, provided that the product has been properly installed, operated and maintained in accordance with all applicable instructions. To
make a claim under this warranty the Bill of Sale or cancelled check must be presented.

This warranty is extended only to the original retail purchaser. This warranty covers the cost of part(s) required to restore this heater to proper
operating condition and an allowance for labor when provided by a DESA Authorized Service Center. Warranty part(s) MUST be obtained
through authorized dealers of this product and/or DESA International who will provide original factory replacement parts. Failure to use
original factory replacement parts voids this warranty. The heater MUST be installed by a qualified installer in accordance with all local
codes and instructions furnished with the unit.

This warranty does not apply to parts that are not in original condition because of normal wear and tear, or parts that fail or become damaged
as a result of misuse, accidents, lack of proper maintenance or defects caused by improper installation. As with all concrete liners, this liner
may develop slight cracks when exposed to heat. This cracking is considered normal. Travel, diagnostic cost, labor, transportation and any
and all such other costs related to repairing a defective heater will be the responsibility of the owner.

TO THE FULL EXTENT ALLOWED BY THE LAW OF THE JURISDICTION THAT GOVERNS THE SALE OF THE PRODUCT;
THIS EXPRESS WARRANTY EXCLUDES ANY AND ALL OTHER EXPRESSED WARRANTIES AND LIMITS THE DURATION
OF ANY AND ALL IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY AND FITNESS FOR A
PARTICULAR PURPOSE TO FOUR (4) YEARS ON ALL COMPONENTS FROM THE DATE OF FIRST PURCHASE; AND DESA
INTERNATIONAL’S LIABILITY IS HEREBY LIMITED TO THE PURCHASE PRICE OF THE PRODUCT AND DESA INTERNA­TIONAL SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY OTHER DAMAGES WHATSOEVER INCLUDING INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL OR
CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.

Some states do not allow a limitation on how long an implied warranty lasts or an exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential
damages, so the above limitation on implied warranties, or exclusion or limitation on damages may not apply to you.

This warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights that vary from state to state.
For information about this warranty write:

INTERNATIONAL

2701 Industrial Drive
P.O. Box 90004
Bowling Green, KY 42102-9004

www.desatech.com

105163 01

NOT A UPC

105163-01
55525
Rev. B
04/99