Monessen VFI33L, VFI33C User Manual
VFI Series Vent Free Gas Fireplace
Installation & Operating Instructions
Models: VFI33L(N/P)(V/I), VFI33C(N/P)(V/I)
WARNING: If the information in this
manual is not followed exactly, a re or
explosion may result causing property
damage, personal injury or loss of life.
• Do not store or use gasoline or other
ammable 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 re department.
• Installation and service must be performed
by a qualied installer, service agency or
the gas supplier.
This is an unvented gas-red heater. It uses air
(oxygen) from the room in which it is installed.
Provisions for adequate combustion and ventilation air must be provided. Refer to Page 7.
INSTALLER: Leave this manual with the appliance.
CONSUMER: Retain this manual for future
reference.
Monessen • VFI33 Owner Manual • 20307670 • Rev H • 1/2020
CONTENTS
VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
Thank you and congratulations on your purchase of a Monessen vent free gas replace.
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 re hazard and will void the warranty.
Important Safety Information ...................................... 3
Codes ....................................................................... 4
Product Features .......................................................... 5
Operation ................................................................. 5
Gas Pressures ......................................................... 5
Gas Specications And Orice Size .........................5
Ignition Controls .......................................................5
Pilot ..........................................................................5
Thermal Generator ................................................... 5
Fireplace And Framing Dimensions ...........................6
Fireplace And Framing Dimensions ......................... 6
Pre-Installation Information ......................................... 7
Framing Dimensions ................................................7
Getting Started ......................................................... 7
What You Will Need For Installation .........................7
Clearances And Height Requirements .......................8
Before Installing The Fireplace Insert ...................... 9
Heat Resistant Material ............................................ 9
Installation ................................................................... 10
Remove Screen ..................................................... 10
Install Canopy ........................................................ 10
Secure Heater To Floor .......................................... 11
Connect Gas Line ....................................................... 12
Connecting The 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
What To Do If You Smell Gas .................................16
Lighting Pilot For The First Time ............................ 16
Lighting Pilot ..........................................................17
Lighting Burner ....................................................... 18
To Turn Off Gas ......................................................18
Check Gas Pressure – IPI ...................................... 19
Electrical Installation – IPI .......................................... 19
Electrical Wiring ..................................................... 19
Junction Box Wiring ............................................... 19
IPI System Wiring Diagram ....................................20
Operating Instruction – IPI .........................................21
For Your Safety Read Before Lighting ................... 21
What To Do If You Smell Gas .................................21
Operating Instructions ............................................ 21
To Turn Off Gas To The Appliance .........................21
Operating And Indications ...................................... 22
Electrical Wiring – Fan ................................................ 23
Log Placement ............................................................ 24
Before You Begin ...................................................24
Rock Wool Placement ............................................ 25
Install Berkley Oak Logs ........................................ 25
Install Highland Oak Logs ...................................... 27
Install Kentucky Wildwood Logs ............................28
Install Beachcomber and Riverwood Logs.............30
Fireglass Placement ..............................................31
Flame Appearance ................................................. 32
Visual Flame Check ............................................... 32
Check The Pilot Flame ........................................... 32
Thermostat And Millivolt Control ............................ 32
Operating Instructions ............................................ 32
Operating Instructions ............................................... 31
For Your Safety Read Before Lighting ................... 33
What To Do If You Smell Gas .................................33
Millivolt/Thermostat Control Lighting Instructions .. 34
To Turn Off Gas To Heater ..................................... 34
Match Lighting Instructions .................................... 34
Blower Operation ................................................... 34
Cleaning And Servicing .............................................36
Annual Cleaning And Inspection ............................ 36
Periodic Cleaning ................................................... 36
Troubleshooting .........................................................37
Replacement Parts ..................................................... 39
Firebox Assembly ...................................................39
Millivolt Burner Assembly ....................................... 40
IPI Burner Assembly .............................................. 41
Berkley Oak Logs ................................................... 42
Beachcomber and Riverwood Logs........................43
Highland Oak Logs ................................................44
Kentucky Wildwood Logs ....................................... 45
►
Warranty ...................................................................... 46
2
Monessen • VFI33 Owner Manual • 20307670 • Rev H • 1/2020
VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
INSTALLER
Please leave these instructions with the appliance.
OWNER
Please retain these instructions for future reference
.
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 re, burns,
explosion or carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Do not allow fans to blow directly into the replace. Avoid any drafts that alter burner ame
patterns.
• Do not use a blower insert, heat exchanger insert or other accessory, not approved for use with
this heater where applicable.
WARNING!
1. Due to high temperatures, the appliance should be
located out of trafc and away from furniture and
draperies.
2. Children and adults should be alerted to the hazard
of high surface temperature and should stay away
to avoid burns or clothing ignition.
3. Young children should be carefully supervised when
they are in the same room with the appliance.
4. Do not place clothing or other ammable 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. Installation and repair should be done by a qualied
service person.
7. To prevent malfunction and/or sooting, an unvented
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.
8. CARBON MONOXIDE POISONING: Early signs of
carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to the u with
headaches, dizziness and/or nausea. If you have these
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 ber logs, proper
location of the heater, and annual cleaning are necessary to avoid potential problems with sooting. Sooting,
resulting from improper installation or operation, can
settle on surfaces outside the replace. See log place-
ment instructions for proper installation.
13. Avoid any drafts that alter burner ame patterns. Do not
allow fans to blow directly into replace. Do not place
a blower inside burn area of rebox. Ceiling fans may
create drafts that alter burner ame patterns. Sooting
and improper burning will occur.
14. CAUTION: Candles, incense, oil lamps, etc. produce
combustion byproducts including soot. Vent-free
appliances will not lter or clean soot produced by
these types of products. In addition, the smoke and/or
aromatics (scents) may be re-burned in the vent-free
appliance which can produce odors. It is recommended
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. Provisions for adequate combustion and ventilation air must
be provided.
16. This heater shall not be installed in a room or space
unless the required volume of indoor combustion air is
provided by the method described in the National Fuel
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 ammable vapors and liquids.
18. Unvented gas heaters are a supplemental zone heater.
They are not intended to be the primary heating appliance.
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.
Monessen • VFI33 Owner Manual • 20307670 • Rev H • 1/2020
3
IMPORTANT SAFETY INFORMATION
VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
20. During manufacturing, fabricating and shipping, various
components of this appliance are treated with certain
oils, lms or bonding agents. These chemicals are not
harmful but may produce annoying smoke and smells
as they are burned off during the initial operation of the
appliance; possibly causing headaches or eye or lung
irritation. This is a normal and temporary occurrence.
The initial break-in operation should last four hours
with the burner at the highest setting. Provide maximum ventilation by opening windows or doors to allow
odors to dissipate. Any odors remaining after this initial
break-in period will be slight and will disappear with
continued use.
21. Input ratings are shown in BTU per hour and are for
elevations up to 2,000 feet. For elevations above 2,000
feet, input ratings should be reduced 4 percent for each
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. Do not use this room heater if any part has been under
water. Immediately call a qualied service technician
to inspect the room heater and to replace any part of
the control system and any gas control which has been
under water.
24. Never burn solid fuels in a replace where a unvented
room heater is installed.
25. Always have a replace 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.
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.
WARNING: Never connect unit to private
(non-utility) gas wells. This gas is commonly
known as wellhead gas.
WARNING: This product and the
fuels used to operate this product (liquid
propane or natural gas), and the products
of combustion of such fuels, can expose
you to chemicals including benzene, which
is known to the State of California to cause
cancer and reproductive harm. For more
information go to: www.P65Warnings.
ca.gov.
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
4
Monessen • VFI33 Owner Manual • 20307670 • Rev H • 1/2020
VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
PRODUCT FEATURES
VFI33 CONTROLS
Surround
On/Off Switch
Piezo Ignitor
Control Knobs
Figure 1. Unvented Gas Heater with Control Access Door Open
Blower
OPERATION
This unvented gas heater requires no outside venting and
burns cleanly with high heating efciency.
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.
GAS SPECIFICATIONS AND ORIFICE SIZE
MODEL FUEL CONTROL
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 L P. Millivolt 27,000 22,000 #52
VFI33LNI NAT. IPI 28,000 19,000 #38
VFI33LPI L P. IPI 27,000 22,000 #52
VFI33CNI NAT. IPI 28,000 19,000 #38
VFI33CPI LP. IPI 27,000 22,000 #52
MAX. INPUT
(BTU/h)
NOTE: For LP models an external regulator is required
to reduce supply pressure to a maximum of 13" w.c.
MIN. INPUT
(BTU/h)
ORIFICE
SIZE
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 ame height
(heat output). Both front and rear burners
are in operation to provide realistic glow
and yellow ame.
PILOT
The gas log heater is tted with a specially designed safety
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 tted with a millivolt generator
to provide power for remote activation.
COLD CLIMATE OPTION (IPI MODELS ONLY)
NOTE: If you live in a cold climate, seal all cracks around
your appliance and wherever cold air could enter the room,
with noncombustible material. It is especially important to
insulate the outside chase cavity between the studs and
under the oor on which the appliance rests, if the oor is
above ground level.
Your replace is equipped with an intermittent pilot ignition
(IPI) control. An IPI control with a standing pilot option
provides the dual benet of an economical and environmentally responsible product and one which lights easily
even in the coldest climates. When in intermittent pilot
Monessen • VFI33 Owner Manual • 20307670 • Rev H • 1/2020
5
FIREPLACE AND FRAMING DIMENSIONS
Figure 2. Cold Climate Option
VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
Cold Climate
Switch
Master Switch
mode (as it comes from the factory), your pilot remains
unlit until needed, saving you fuel. Standing pilot mode,
by comparison, is characterized by a continuously burning
pilot. The benet of a pilot which lights only when needed
is fuel savings. However, with no pilot burning in your replace, 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 rebox, establishing
a draft to aid ignition becomes difcult. This is perfectly
normal but can be somewhat frustrating.
FIREPLACE AND FRAMING DIMENSIONS
1
37
⁄4"
"
8
7
⁄
31
⁄4"
1
37
"
4
1
⁄
64
1/2"
or 5/8"
Rough
Opening
Height
To remedy this issue, your replace has been designed with
a cold climate pilot option, which, when active, maintains
a warmer temperature inside your rebox to make ignition
faster and more efcient. 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
control center to the “On” (left) position. (Figure 2.) You can
operate your appliance in this mode regardless of whether
you are using a remote control, wall switch or thermostat.
225⁄8 "
215⁄8 "
331⁄2" Rough Opening Width
13⁄8 "
Rough
Opening
Depth
16"
181⁄4 "
161⁄2 "
Figure 3. Fireplace and Framing Dimensions
6
Monessen • VFI33 Owner Manual • 20307670 • Rev H • 1/2020
24
333⁄8 "
31"
19"
237⁄8 "
31⁄2 "
1
⁄2"
11⁄8 "
VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
PRE-INSTALLATION INFORMATION
FRAMING DIMENSIONS
If unit is to be “built in,” 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 replace framing following
Figure 3 on page 6. The framing headers may not rest
directly on top of the rebox.
The replace may be installed directly on a combustible
oor or a raised platform of an appropriate height. Do
not place replace on carpeting, vinyl, tile or other soft
oor coverings. It may, however, be placed on at wood,
plywood, particle board or other hard surfaces. Be sure
replace rests on a solid continuous oor or platform with
appropriate framing for support and so that no cold air can
enter from under the rebox. Your vent-free replace must
be mounted to the oor or the replace hearth.
WARNING!
• 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 ber logs to prevent skin irritation
from loose bers. Logs are fragile — handle
with care.
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 reglass kit (contemporary sets only)
• Two (2) anchoring screws
• Mounting screws for canopy
Accessories required to nish the installation:
One of two surrounds:
• VFICFSS Black small surround 32"H x 43"W
• VFICFSL Black large surround 35"H x 50"W
One of three rebox liners:
• FBVFIC(M/LR) Firebrick
• BLPVFIC Black porcelain panels
• BMGVFIC Black Magic glass panels
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 unit.
• Hand held Remote with Receiver
• Wall switch with 15' wire.
• Hand held Thermostat Remote with Receiver
IPI controlled versions of this unit have the following options
that may be used but are not packaged with the unit.
• IPIFKN2: Stepper motor kit (NG)
• IPIFKP2: Stepper motor kit (LP)
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.
WARNING! Do not install the heater:
• Where curtains, furniture, clothing, or
other ammable objects are less than
42" from the front of the heater.
• In high trafc areas.
• In windy or drafty areas.
WHAT YOU WILL NEED FOR INSTALLATION
You must have the following items available before proceeding 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)
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.
Monessen • VFI33 Owner Manual • 20307670 • Rev H • 1/2020
7
CLEARANCE AND HEIGHT REQUIREMENTS
B
A
WARNING!
The dimensions shown in Figures 4 and 5
and dened in the replace 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 re hazard.
NOTE: Clearances are necessary to combustible surfaces
only. No clearance is necessary for noncombustible surface.
Sidewall clearances: The clearance from the inside of the
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 rebox opening. Figure 4.
Back wall clearance: The appliance can be placed against
the combustible back wall.
Floor clearance: The replace may not be installed onto
any combustible ooring material, such as carpeting, vinyl
or tile without the hearth or a minimum 22 GA (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 8.
VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
22
3/4
23 7/8
33"
15 1/4
Figure 5. Dimensions for Installing in Masonry Fireplace or UL Listed
Box
9"
Minimum
Figure 4. Sidewall and Ceiling Minimum Clearances
8
42"
Minimum
9"
Minimum
Surround Dimensions*
A B
FP2770
Small 32" 43"
Large 35" 50"
*A surround is required to complete the installation.
Figure 6. dimensions
Monessen • VFI33 Owner Manual • 20307670 • Rev H • 1/2020
VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
BEFORE INSTALLING THE FIREPLACE
INSERT
Have replace oor and chimney professionally cleaned to
remove ashes, soot, creosote or other obstructions. Close
and seal any fresh air vents or ash clean-out doors located
on oor or wall
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
combustible projection above, rst measure the heat resistant material shown in Figure 7.
CLEARANCE AND HEIGHT REQUIREMENTS
12"
10"
8"
6"
2¹⁄₂”
10"
8"
Figure 8. Minimum Mantel Clearances
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.
26"
14"
12"
No combustible
materials within 8"
of opening.
Hood
Grate
Figure 9. is an example of an unsafe mantel installation.
The mantel projects 4" at 8" above the opening, exceeding 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 prole is unsafe, you may either:
• Raise the mantel to an acceptable height or,
• Remove the mantel.
8"
6"
1
2
No combustible
materials within 8"
of opening.
/2"
4"
10"
8"
Figure 7. Measure Heat Resistant Material for
Mantel
Monessen • VFI33 Owner Manual • 20307670 • Rev H • 1/2020
Hood
Figure 9.
9
INSTALLATION
VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
The gas log heater must be installed at least 5" above
any combustible ooring material, such as carpeting or
tile, which is closer than 14" to the base of the replace.
Figure 10.
Combustible
5"
Noncombustible
Material
Figure 10. Minimum Clearance above Combustible Flooring
1”
Material
INSTALL CANOPY
1. Remove the replace screen as described in the previous section.
2. Align canopy with the holes in the top frame assembly.
Figure 12.
3. Install the three (3) screws (in owner’s manual packaging) which attach the canopy to the top frame assembly.
Figure 12.
4. Tighten all screws. Make sure the canopy is level and
secure. Install the replace screen.
Figure 12. Install Canopy
WARNING!
Do not operate the unit without the screen frame
panel and canopy installed.
REMOVE SCREEN
Remove replace screen by pushing screen frame panel
up and out. Figure 11.
NOTE: Fireplace screen must be removed to access log
box and to install canopy.
Figure 11. Remove Fireplace
Screen
10
Monessen • VFI33 Owner Manual • 20307670 • Rev H • 1/2020
VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
INSTALLATION
SECURE HEATER TO FLOOR
NOTE: Clearance requirements as detailed in “Clearances
and Height Requirements” section of this manual must be
met before securing heater in place.
To prevent movement, the heater must be secured to the
oor or hearth.
1. To remove the grate and base assembly, take out two
screws as shown in Figure 13. and Figure 14.
2. Lift grate and base assembly out of the rebox.
3
3. Secure the rebox with two anchoring screws (
⁄16" x 11⁄2"
length) supplied with the replace system. Figure 15.
NOTE: If the unit is mounted on carpeting, tile or combustible material without the hearth, a metal or wooden
base covering the entire width and depth of the base
must be installed.
Figure 13. Remove Grate and Base Assembly (VFI33L models)
Figure 15. Secure Firebox to Floor or Hearth
Monessen • VFI33 Owner Manual • 20307670 • Rev H • 1/2020
Figure 14. Remove Base Assembly (VFI33C models)
11
CONNECT GAS LINE
VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
CONNECTING THE GAS LINE
NOTICE: A qualied gas appliance installer must connect
the heater to the gas supply. Consult all local codes.
WARNING!
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 sulde 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 ow rate (BTU/hr). Undue
pressure loss will occur if the pipe is too small.
A manual shutoff valve must be installed
upstream of the appliance. Union tee and
plugged 1/8" NPT pressure tapping point should
be installed upstream of the appliance. Figure 16.
To Fireplace
Pipe Coupling
Pipe
Stainless
Flexible Tube
Manual Shutoff
Valve
Figure 16. Gas
Connection
IMPORTANT: Loosen the pipe adapter on the ex tube
before installing to the system piping.
Always use an external regulator for all propane/LPG heaters only, to reduce the supply tank pressure to a maximum
of 13" w.c. This is in addition to the internal regulator in the
heater valve.
Locations Pressure
Tapping Point
Installation
Gas Supply
Inlet
WARNING!
Connecting directly to an unregulated propane/
LPG tank can cause an explosion
To reach factory installed ex line, go through access door
on right or left side of rebox.
Access Door
for Gas Line
Stainless Flex Line
Figure 17. Access Holes
The stainless ex line is on the right side facing the replace and can connect to either a 3/8 NPT female or 1/2
NPT male pipe. To connect from the opposite side, route
the pipe under the rear portion of the unit.
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.
Open control access door on either side of unit to nd valve
and regulator referred to below. Figure 17.
Cord Protector
Manual Gas Shutoff
(Recommended Outlet
Positioned Vertical)
WARNING!
CHECK GAS TYPE: The gas supply must be the
same as stated on the heater’s rating plate. If the
gas supply is different, DO NOT INSTALL THE
HEATER. Contact your dealer for the correct
model. Connecting to the wrong gas type may
result in property damage or personal injury.
12
Monessen • VFI33 Owner Manual • 20307670 • Rev H • 1/2020
VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
CHECKING GAS PRESSURE: – MILLIVOLT
CONTROL
Figure 18.
The valve regulator controls the burner pressure which
should be checked at the pressure test point.
Turn captured screw counter clockwise two or three turns
and then place tubing to pressure gauge over test point
(Use test point “OUT” closest to control knob). After taking
pressure reading, be sure and turn captured screw clockwise rmly to re-seal. Do not over torque. Check for gas
leaks.
Test Port
"OUT"
GAS PRESSURE — MILLIVOLT
Figure 18. Pressure Test Point Location Millivolt Control
FP2781
Monessen • VFI33 Owner Manual • 20307670 • Rev H • 1/2020
13
ELECTRICAL WIRING — MILLIVOLT
VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
ODS Pilot
On/Off
Switch
Field Installed Optional
Wall Switch or
Remote Receiver
On/Off
Switch
ODS
Pilot
Valve
Spade
Terminal
TH = 3
TP = 1
TP/TH = 2
Switch
Figure 19. Wiring Diagram
WARNING!
Label all wires prior to disconnection when
servicing controls.
Wiring errors can cause improper and dangerous
operation. Verify proper operation after servicing.
The millivolt valve is a self-powered combination gas control THAT DOES NOT REQUIRE 110V AC TO OPERATE.
Refer to Figure 19. and installation instructions provided
with optional wall switch, thermostat or remote control for
wiring instructions. A maximum length of 15 feet of 18awg
two conductor wire is to be used for wall switch or thermostat installations.
NOTE: Thermostats and switches must be suitable for
millivolt operation.
WARNING!
Do NOT connect wall switch to 110 V circuit.
CONNECT OPTIONAL WALL SWITCH OR
THERMOSTAT
1. Use 18 awg, two-wire cable, 15 feet maximum length.
2. At one end of the cable, connect both wires to the wall
switch or thermostat. At the other end, connect one
wire to TP/TH and one wire to TH, or connect the wall
switch/thermostat to the two male (0.25") terminals on
the left side of the unit. The color of the wires does not
matter.
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Monessen • VFI33 Owner Manual • 20307670 • Rev H • 1/2020
VFI33 Vent Free Gas Fireplace System
CONNECT REMOTE RECEIVER
THESE INSTRUCTIONS SUPERCEDE THE SECTION
ENTITLED “HEARTH MOUNT” IN THE MILLIVOLT
HAND-HELD REMOTE INSTRUCTIONS SUPPLIED
WITH THE REMOTE.
Figure 20.
1. Remove bottom control door.
2. Connect the remote connector wires located in the unit
to the remote receiver.
®
3. Stick Velcro
of remote receiver and to oor of compartment behind
access panel.
4. Attach remote receiver to rebox with Velcro
Control switch must face forward.
NOTE: Do not place remote in combustion chamber,
only the remote receiver.
CHECK SYSTEM OPERATION
The millivolt system and individual components may be
checked with a millivolt meter having a 0-1000 mV range.
Conduct each check shown in chart below by connection
meter test leads to terminals as indicated.
pads with self-adhesive backing to bottom
®
pads.
ELECTRICAL WIRING — MILLIVOLT
Remote
Receiver
Figure 20. Install Remote Receiver
A. COMPLETE MILLIVOLT SYSTEM CHECK
(“A” Reading: Thermostat contacts CLOSED,
control knob “ON,” main burner should turn ON)
a. If the reading is more than 100 millivolts and the
automatic valve still does not come on, replace the
control.
b. If the closed circuit reading (“A” reading) is less than
100 millivolts, determine cause for low reading, proceed to Section B below.
Connect Meter
Check
Test
A
B
To
Test
Complete
System
Thermopile
Output
Leads to
Terminals
B. Thermopile Output Reading Check
(“B” Reading: Thermostat contacts OPEN, main
burner OFF)
1. Check gas pressure to the unit. If gas pressure is
within minimum and maximum on data plate, then
check pilot voltage, 325 millivolts minimum. If the
minimum millivolt reading is not obtainable, replace
pilot.
Switch or
Thermostat
Contacts
Meter Reading
Should Be
2 & 3 Closed Closed
1 & 2 Open Open
Monessen • VFI33 Owner Manual • 20307670 • Rev H • 1/2020
15
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