Vermont Castings BFC36 Homeowner's Installation And Operating Manual

BFC

Balanced Flue
(Closed Combustion)
Heat-Circulating Fireplace

Model:

BFC36

Homeowner’s Installation and

Operating Manual

For use in the U.S. / Canada
Underwriter’s Laboratories
Report No. MH7603

DO NOT DISCARD THIS MANUAL: Retain for future use.

7412647 1/13 Rev. 21

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

Table of Contents

Safety Information ......................................................................................3

Specications and Framing .......................................................................4

Parts Identication ....................................................................................5

Chimney Requirements ............................................................................6

Planning Information .................................................................................. 7

Installation .................................................................................................8

Replacement Parts ..................................................................................18

Accessories .............................................................................................20

Warranty...................................................................................................23

2

BFC36

Listed

UL127 / ULC-S610

Standard for Factory Built Fireplaces

7412647

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

Safety Information

Please Read This Manual Before Installing and Using Fireplace

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.

Description

The BFC36 replace is a solid fuel, woodburning replace.
The BFC36 is a balanced ue (closed combustion) heat­circulating replace which receives outside combustion air
through the chimney system. This unique system results
in much higher efciency since valuable room air is not
used for combustion.

The BFC36 is a decorative replace which provides ef­cient supplemental heat compared to other wood burning
replaces. It should not be used as a primary source of
heat.

CAUTION: Overloading the rebox with wood may result
in overring and damage to refractory components, the
grate and doors.

Any such action may possibly cause a re hazard.

Consult local building codes to ensure that you are in
compliance before installing the replace.

This replace and chimney system must be vented to the
out-of-doors.

Do not obstruct or modify air inlets/outlets in any
manner.

Do not install combustible materials on any of the black
replace surround.

Burn only solid wood fuel or gas logs.
The BFC36 is intended for operation only with the

doors closed.
Do not install a solid fuel burning insert or other prod-

ucts not specied for use with this replace.

Precautions

Vermont Castings Group replaces and component parts
have been thoroughly tested and will operate safely when
installed in accordance with instructions provided in this
manual. Carefully read and understand all instructions
before beginning installation.

If you notice any damage to replace or component parts,
immediately report damage to your Vermont Castings
Group dealer.

Only use Vermont Castings Group components or the war­ranty will be voided and a re hazard may be created.

Vermont Castings Group warranty will be voided by and
Vermont Castings Group disclaims any responsibility for
the following actions:

• Installation by any other than a qualied installer,

preferably NFI or WETT (Canada) certied.

• Installation of any damaged replace or chimney

component;

• Modication of replace, chimney assembly or

any component parts thereof; (except for chase
ashings as detailed in Vermont Castings Group
Chimney Top installation instructions).

• Installation other than as instructed by Vermont

Castings Group; or

• Installation and/or use of any component part

not manufactured or approved by Vermont Cast­ings Group in combination or assembly with a
Vermont Castings Group replace system, not­withstanding any independent testing laboratory
or other third party approval of such component
parts or accessory.

Proposition 65 Warning: Fuels used in gas, wood-

burning or oil red appliances, and the products of
combustion of such fuels, contain chemicals known to
the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects
and other reproductive harm.

California Health & Safety Code Sec. 25249.6

WARNING: Check with your electronics manufacturer
before installing a television or other electronic de­vice above this replace.

Drafts

The replace should not be located in areas that create
drafts (ie: frequently opened doors and central heating
air inlets/outlets) that hamper the normal ow of air into

the re.

Gas Logs

If you plan to install a gas log, the gas line should be in­stalled before framing the replace. The gas line must be
installed by a certied gas line installer.

7412647

3

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

6

" (16mm)

56O" (13mm)

56O"

326"

(829mm)

41(6" (1064mm)

6"

(16mm)

56QE"

(49mm)

" (914mm)

"

(533mm)

56QE" (176mm)

56QE" (179mm)

Recessed
Nailing
Flange

1356O" Dia.
(343mm)

Rough Opening Width 43"

Rough
Opening
Height

Rough
Opening
Depth

Gas Line
Access

5156QE" (1297mm)

5156QE"

(1297mm)



6QE

" (1834mm)

6M"

(197mm)

23"

(584mm)

"

(610mm)

6QE"

(624mm)

3956M"

(997mm)

556QE"

(246mm)

35"

(889mm)

"

(279mm)

Gas Line
Access

56O"

(902mm)

36"

(914mm)

(1092mm)

11" Dia.
(179mm)
8" Dia.
(203mm)

56

" (918mm)

A

B

C

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

Fig. 1 BFC36 specications and framing.

Fig. 1a Hearth dimensions.

Front Width Back Width Depth
A B C

BFC36 32Z\x" 20M\zn" 17C\v"
(826 mm) (519 mm) (451 mm)

FP1531

4

7412647

Batt Insulation
(Cut out around
restop)

Firestop

Ceiling Level

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

Termination Cap

Storm Collar

Pan Flashing

Draftstop

Gas Line Ac­cess Hole
(Each Side)

Top Grille and Air Outlet

Standoff

Trim Ledge
Standoff

Surround

Glass Door

Romex Pigtail

Gas Line Access Knock­out (Each Side)

Air Inlet

Basket Grate

Bottom Grille

Metal Safety Strip(s)
Shown not inplace
(1,2 or 3 pieces)

Nailing Flange

Fig. 2 Fireplace and chase parts identication.

7412647

FP554c

5

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

D

Rise

B

G

H

B

Offset

C

E

6 FT.

G

H

A

Hearth
Floor

Chimney
Section

CHIMNEY FLUE EXIT

Elbow

TCS8A
Support

Example 1 Example 2 Example 3

Offset

Rise

Chimney Requirements - Offset Installations

Notes: G + H cannot exceed 20 feet.

Air Space Clearances: = 2” Min. to Combustibles

Illustration Key

The following safety rules apply to
offset installations (letters correspond
with illustration above):

A. Height of the chimney is measured
from the hearth to the chimney exit.

BFC36
Maximum: 50’0”
Minimum:
Without Elbows 14’6”
With 2 Elbows* 14’6”
With 4 Elbows* 21’0”

B. Do not use more than 4 elbows per
chimney.

Attach the straps of the return (top)
elbow to a structural framing member.

The offset (rst) elbow of any pair does
not have straps.

Offset

IWF282

Rise

30°

Return

Elbow

30°
Offset
Elbow

30°

Return

Elbow

30°

Offset

Elbow

FP269

C. The chimney cannot be more than 30˚
(45˚ in Canada) from the vertical plane in
any installation*.

D. The maximum length of the angled run
of the total chimney system is 20 feet. (G
plus H cannot exceed 20 feet.)

E. A chimney support (Model TCS8A)
is required every 6 feet of angled run of
chimney. Chimney supports are required
for every 30 feet and 60 feet of vertical
chimney height above the hearth.

Determine the offset distance of your
chimney arrangement from the centerline
of the replace to the centerline of the
chimney where it is to pass through the
rst ceiling.

NOTE: This offset distance may not be
your full offset distance. See Examples 2
and 3.

30˚ Elbow Offsets

1’

0 0 0 0 0 3” 11”
1 0 0 0 0 8Z\v" 20"
0 1 0 0 0 11Z\v" 25Z\v"
2 0 0 0 0 13Z\x" 29Z\v"
1 1 0 0 0 16Z\x" 34Z\v"
0 0 1 0 0 20Z\v" 40C\v"
2 1 0 0 0 21C\v" 43Z\x"
0 0 0 1 0 26Z\v" 51Z\v"
0 1 1 0 0 28Z\x" 55Z\v"
1 0 0 1 0 31Z\x" 60Z\v”
0 1 0 1 0 34Z\x" 65Z\x"
0 0 2 0 0 37Z\x" 70C\v"
1 1 0 1 1 41Z\x" 77C\v"
0 0 1 1 1 45" 83C\v"
0 1 2 0 1 47Z\v" 87Z\x"
0 0 0 2 1 51" 94"
0 1 1 1 1 53Z\v" 98"
0 0 3 0 1 56Z\v" 103Z\v"
0 1 0 2 1 59Z\v" 108Z\x"
0 0 2 1 1 62Z\v" 113Z\x"
0 1 3 0 1 64Z\x" 117Z\x"
0 0 1 2 1 68Z\v" 124"
0 1 2 1 1 70Z\x" 128"
0 0 0 3 1 74Z\v" 134Z\x"
0 1 1 2 2 78" 140C\v"
0 0 3 1 2 81" 146"
0 1 0 3 2 84" 151Z\v"
0 0 2 2 2 87" 156Z\x"
0 1 3 1 2 89Z\v" 160Z\v"
0 0 1 3 2 93" 166C\v"
0 1 2 2 2 95Z\v" 170C\v"
0 0 0 4 2 99Z\v" 177C\v"
0 1 1 3 2 101Z\v" 181C\v"
0 0 3 2 2 104Z\v" 186Z\v"
0 1 0 4 2 107Z\v" 191Z\x"
0 0 2 3 2 110Z\v" 196C\v"
0 1 3 2 3 114" 203Z\v"
0 0 1 4 3 117C\v" 209C\v"
0 1 2 3 3 120" 213Z\x"
0 0 0 5 3 123C\v" 220"

1¹⁄₂'

3’ 4’

Chimney

Support

Fig. 3 Chimney system requirements.

6

7412647

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

L

1

L

1

L

T

TOTAL

LENGTH

(LT)

INSTALLED

LENGTH

(L1)

56O

"

56O

"

56O

"

56O

"

56O

"

56O

"

56O

"

56O

"

TRIPLE

WALL

81
818
83
84

2' Min.

2' Min.

3'

Min.

0 To 10'

3'

Min.

0 To 10'

Reference
Point

Planning Information

Preplanning an installation is very important to ensure
safety and to save time and money. An installer must
predetermine where a replace will be set and how the
chimney system will be run.

Mounting the Fireplace

A replace may only be mounted on the following sur­faces:

1. A at combustible surface.

2. A raised wooden platform.

3. A concrete block or other solid object placed beneath
each of the four (4) corners of the replace.

The replace must be spaced 1” (25 mm) from a combus-
tible back wall and 1/2” (13 mm) from a combustible side
wall or support. (Page 13, Fig. 17)

Planning the Chimney Run

Determine how the chimney will be run, length of run and
chimney components required to complete the job. (Fig. 4)

Never install a chimney below minimum heights.

The Ten Foot Rule

Major U.S. building codes specify a minimum chimney
height above the roof top. The “Ten Foot Rule” is a re
safety rule and not a draft rule. To ensure proper draft, it
is recommended that you always meet or exceed the “Ten
Foot Rule,” especially when installing a termination on a
high pitch roof. (Fig. 5)

The key points of the “Ten Foot Rule” are:

1. If the horizontal distance from the chimney to the peak of
the roof is 10’ (3m) or less, the top of the chimney must
be at least 2’ (610mm) above the peak of the roof, but
never less than 3’ (914mm) in height above the highest
point where it passes through the roof.

2. If a horizontal distance from the chimney to the peak of
the roof is more than 10’ (3 m), a chimney height refer­ence point is established on the surface of the roof a
distance of 10’ (3m) from the chimney in a horizontal
plane. The top of the chimney must be at least 2’ (610
mm) above the reference point, but never less than 3’
(914 mm) in height above the highest point where it
passes through the roof.

Fig. 4 Installed lengths of chimney sections.

In planning a chimney system, it is important to know:

1. The height of a chimney is measured from the hearth
to the exit point on the termination.

2. A chimney cannot be offset more than 30° from a vertical
plane.

3. A chimney may run straight up or it may be necessary
to offset it to avoid obstructions.

4. The maximum length of an angled run (total chimney
system) is 20’ (6 m).

5. No more than 2 offsets (4 total 30° elbows in U.S./or
2 total 45° elbows in Canada) per replace may be
used.

6. A guy wire stabilizer is required for chimneys extending
more than 6’ (1.8 m) above a roof line.

7412647

FP288a

AC246

Fig. 5 Ten Foot Rule illustration.

Chimney Supports

The chimney system is supported by the replace for verti­cal chimney heights less than 30’ (9m) above the hearth.
Chimney supports are required if the vertical height ex­ceeds 30’ (9m). Locate chimney supports at ceiling holes
or other structural framing at 30’ (9m) heights. Spacing
between chimney supports must not exceed 30’ (9m).
Use Chimney Support Model TCS8A. (NOTE: The TCS8A
cannot be mounted directly to the replace.) Support
provided by elbow straps fullls the support requirement
only if they are spaced as previously described. (A chimney
support is 2Z\x" (64mm) long when installed.)

Angled chimney runs require a support every 6’ 1.8m) in
addition to the elbow straps. Chimney supports are used
for this function. (Fig. 6)

7

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

Chimney Sup­port Strap

Chase Installation

A chase is a vertical box-like structure which encloses the
replace and/or chimney. Chases are typically built on the
outside of the house with replace opening cut into the
outer wall of a room. (Page 4, Fig. 2)

If you need help in determining replace location or how
the chimney system should be run, contact your Vermont
Castings Group dealer for assistance.

TCS8A

Fig. 6 Chimney support installation.

FP284a

Installation

Insulating Fireplace Enclosure

for Cold Climates

If you live in a cold climate, it is not required but highly
recommended that you insulate replace enclosure to

eliminate cold air penetration as much as possible.

Insulate base of replace with a noncombustible insula­tion rated for a minimum of 300°F. Insulating is very
important for outside wall installations over a concrete
slab. If replace is installed on a platform, insulation
should be placed on top of the platform before replace
is set. (Fig. 7)

When a replace is installed in a chase or on a outside
wall, enclosure should be treated like any outside wall
in a home. Insulation should be installed on the inside
wall as well as the outside wall(s). In a chase, it is also
a good idea to install a restop at the rst ceiling level
above the replace and enclose the chase with sheeting
material. Insulation may then be installed above sheet­ing material to assure the space around the replace is
totally protected. (Fig. 2)

When installing the chimney, DO NOT caulk between
outer pipe and restop. It is vital that some air be allowed
to ow through this very thin gap.

CAUTION: When installing a replace in an insu­lated enclosure, be sure all required air spaces are
maintained. (Page 13, Fig. 17)

Hard Flat
Surface

Insulation

Platform

FPC555a

Fig. 7 Insulating between platform and replace.

Framing

Framing can be constructed before or after the replace
is set in place, however, most installers build the frame
before setting the replace.

Frame replace with 2 x 4 lumber or heavier materials.
Refer to framing dimensions in Figure 1 for basic replace
specications.

NOTE: Framing should be positioned to accommodate
wall covering and replace facing material.

8

7412647

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

86M"

(222mm)

Electrical Wire Installation

The fan requires 120V AC, 60 Hz power which may be
connected from the right side of the replace. This power
connection must be completed before the replace is se­cured and nish material applied.

NOTE: Refer to instruction sheet for Model SCVS Variable
Speed Fan control for speed control wiring schematic.

The lower cavity of the replace may be accessed by
removing the lower grille. Lift grille and pull lower side out
to remove.

1. If using romex type power supply wiring, install a strain
relief tting into the small access hole in the lower right
side of the replace outer wrapper.

2. Route house power wires into the replace through the
tting.

3. Extend these wires through large front hole of right side
oor support.

4. Using supplied junction box assembly, connect and
secure house romex wiring to duplex outlet. Ensure
correct polarity and that the ground wire is securely
connected.

5. Secure romex wiring using supplied strain relief tting
at rear of junction box. Re-assemble junction box.

6. Secure romex wiring at strain relief tting in replace
outer wrapper.

7. Mount junction box mounting plate to inside face of right
side oor support using two self-tapping sheet metal
screws.

8. Plug blower cord into duplex outlet.

9. Replace lower grille.

Chimney Set-up

Since you have already preplanned the chimney run,
you should know exactly how the installation is to be ac­complished — how much pipe is required, the number of
elbows, if any, and type of termination to be used.

CAUTION: REPORT TO YOUR DEALERS ANY PARTS
DAMAGED IN SHIPMENT, SPECIFICALLY CHECK THE
END CONNECTION OF CHIMNEY SECTIONS AND
ELBOWS.

NOTE: The BFC36 replace must use Vermont Castings
Group Model triple wall 8” chimney components only. The
installation procedure described in this manual applies
only to this system.

Straight-Up Chimney Installation

To mark the centerline of the ue, put the replace in nal
position and measure out from the wall: 8C\v" (222 mm).
Mark a spot on the ceiling directly above the replace. Draw
a line parallel to the back wall through this mark. (Fig. 8)

Using a plumb bob positioned directly over center point
of replace ue collar, mark the ceiling to establish the
chimney center point. (Fig. 8)

Chimney Centerline

Actual Center­point

Plumb Line

Plumb Bob

Imaginary Center­point

FPC556a

Fig. 8 Locate centerline of chimney with plumb line.

Offset Installation

In order to clear an obstruction, it may be necessary to
offset chimney from vertical. This is accomplished by us­ing elbows. Use the 30° Offset Elbow table on Page 5 to
determine proper offset and parts required.

Each offset requires two (2) elbows. The second elbow is
equipped with support straps. It is very important to install
the second elbow in each offset as close to the ceiling
or support as possible so that the elbow straps can be
secured to framing members to help support the weight
of the chimney.

Determine offset distance of your chimney arrangement
from centerline of replace to centerline of chimney where
it is to pass through ceiling.

Locate center point of the chimney on ceiling as though a
straight up chimney arrangement is to be used. Measure
your offset dimension from straight up chimney center
point on ceiling.

7412647

9

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

Ceiling Chimney Hole/

Possible Obstructions

The size of the hole in ceiling will vary with the angle at
which the chimney passes through ceiling.

Drive a nail up through ceiling at marked chimney center
point. Go to oor above and see where hole will be cut.
Check to see where existing ceiling joists and other pos­sible obstructions are located...i.e. wiring, plumbing etc...
If necessary, re-position chimney and/or replace to avoid
obstructions.

Cutting the Hole

Cover replace collar opening and cut proper sized chim­ney hole in chimney.

Framing the Ceiling Hole

Frame the ceiling chimney hole as shown in Figure 9. It is
good practice to use framing lumber that is the same size
as the ceiling joists; this is a requirement at attic level.

Existing
Ceiling
Joists

17Z\x”

(445mm)

17Z\x”

(445mm)

Chimney
Hole

Positioning, Safety Strips,

Securing the Fireplace

Slide replace into position.

Lift the replace front slightly and slide the metal safety
strips under front bottom edge about 1Z\x” (38 mm), allowing
the remainder to extend in front of rebox. Overlap strips
at least 1/2” (13 mm) to provide a positive joint. (Flat safety
strips are packed with replace.) (Fig. 11)

Metal Safety Strips
(1,2 or 3 pcs.)

“Z” Safety
Strip
(not sup­plied)

Hearth Ext.

FP557b

1Z\x”

(38mm)

Z\x” (13mm)

Min. Overlap

Fire­place

Plat­form

New
Framing
Members

Fig. 9 Typical frame for ceiling chimney hole.

Ceiling

FP551b

The following table gives restop spacer model num­bers:

Chimney Hole Size

Angle of Chimney
at Ceiling
Size of Chimney Vertical 30°
FS2A FS6A
8” Flue 17Z\x” x 17Z\x” 17M\₈” x 29⁵\₈”
(445 x 445mm) (454 x 753mm)

Fig. 10 Ceiling chimney hole sizes necessary for installing
restop spacer.

The inside dimension of the frame must be the same as
the hole size selected from Figure 10 in order to provide
required the 2” (51 mm) air space between the outside
diameter of the chimney and the edges of the framed

ceiling hole.

Fig. 11 Safety strip installation.

Safety strips are used to ensure that any combustible ma­terials in front of the replace are protected even though a
non-combustible hearth extension is required.

If replace is to be elevated above the oor, a “Z” shaped
metal safety strip must be fabricated and used to protect
combustible surfaces in front of the replace. This “Z”
shaped safety strip is not provided but must be fabricated
of metal with each horizontal leg at least 1Z\x” (38mm) wide
and equal in length to the metals strips provided with the
replace.

NOTE: Safety strips are not required over non-combustible
oors where all supports at the base of the replace are
noncombustible.

Four (4) nailing anges are supplied with the replace
(found on the replace hearth). To level the box and se­cure it rmly in place, remove the nailing anges from the
hearth and install at the sides of the replace as shown
in Figure 12.

10

7412647

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

UP

Nail Top
Standoffs

Nail Side­Nailing
Flanges

FPC549a

Fig. 12 Fasten replace in position.

Installing the

Chimney System

Start by attaching the rst chimney section to the collar on
top of the replace.

Install the pipe as pictured in Figure 13. When you get
a good lock, you will hear the pipe clearly snap together.
Once sections are snap-locked in place, it is extremely
difcult to get them apart. Make sure the pipe is rmly

snapped and locked together as each pipe section is
mounted.

Pipe Section

Pipe
Rim

Hem

Lance

Pipe
Hem

Elbow Strap

Angled Strap

FP270/271

Fig. 14 Attach straps to a structural framing member.

Support Structure

Elbow Strap
(must be tight)

Ceiling Hole
Framing

Angled Firestop

Chimney Support Strap
(must be tight)

Installing the Firestop Spacer

in the Ceiling Hole

A restop spacer is used to keep pipe spaced properly and
required for safety.

Nail the restop spacer (at each corner) to the framing
members of the ceiling hole. NOTE: A restop spacer is
not required at the roof.

Hole sizes listed in Figure 10 for angled restop spacers
provide minimum required air space to chimney pipe for
ceiling thickness up to 8” (203 mm). When combined
thickness of ceiling material, ceiling joists and ooring
material exceeds 8” (203 mm), adjustments must be made
in framing to assure that minimum air spaces to chimney
are maintained.

Proper Firestop Spacer Installation

Fig. 13 Install pipe, listening for the snap-lock to fasten.

When installing elbows, only outer pipe will snap- lock.
Middle pipes simply slide into position. Be sure to always
attach straps on upper elbow to a structural framing mem­ber. (Fig. 14)

Continue installing the pipe as required until pipe is installed
up through the ceiling. At this point, you must install a
restop spacer.

7412647

FPC558a

Figure 15 shows different installation procedures for both
an area that is an attic and an area that is not an attic.

If the area above the ceiling is not an attic, position the
restop spacer with the ange on the ceiling side and the
angled portion extending up into the hole.

If the area above the ceiling is an attic, position the restop
spacer with the ange on the top of the framed hole and
the angled portion extending down into the hole.

Firestop spacers are not available for, nor are they required
on vertical walls.

DO NOT put any sealant around the area where the outer
pipe slides through the restop spacer. If you seal this
area, it may cause a re hazard.

11

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

Attic Installation

Nails (4)

Ceiling Installation

Firestop

Spacer

Joist

NOTE: If the attic insulation shield is used, the
restop is not required in the attic installation.

Fig. 15 Installing restop spacer.

Canadian Requirements

for Insulation Shield

In Canada, an attic insulation shield is required to pre­vent attic insulation from contacting the chimney section.
NOTE: If the attic insulation shield is used, the restop is
not required in the attic installation. Framing dimensions
for the chimney hole should measure 17Z\x” x 17Z\x” (445 x
445 mm). An attic shield MUST be installed on top of attic
joists (above the oor level). (Fig. 16)

Attic Insula­tion Shield

Nails
(4 required)

Joist

Firestop

Spacer

Nails (4)

FP593

Continue Installing

Pipe to Complete Run

Continue attaching pipe sections to complete system to
next level always being careful that the pipe is rmly snap­locked in place before proceeding to next pipe section.

Chimney Supports

If chimney supports are required, they are installed the
same as elbows. Nail chimney support straps to adjacent
structural framing, as shown on Page 8, Figure 8. Bend
straps as necessary and make sure they are secure so
they will support the weight of the chimney. A chimney
support is 2Z\x" (64 mm) long when installed. Consider this
dimension when determining how many straight chimney
sections are needed.

NOTE: Chimney supports are generally used in long runs
in a chase installation.

Attic Joist

Base Flanges

Ceiling

FP263

Fig. 16 Attic shield installation (Canadian requirement).

NOTE: In the U.S., it is a good idea, although not always

required, to install an attic insulation shield where blown-in
insulation is planned to be used in the attic.

Install the attic insulation shield with the anges on its base
extending down into the framing hole. Nail each corner
of attic insulation shield to the framing members of the
ceiling hole using 8d nails. Attic shields are not required
at the roof.

12

Additional Ceilings

If you encounter additional ceilings, repeat same steps
required for rst ceiling installation. See restop illustration
in Page 11, Figure 15.

Penetrating the Roof

Run pipe to rooine. Since chimney system must be vented
to the out-of-doors, you must use an approved Vermont
Castings Group termination.

If a chase is used, refer to the installation manual provided
with the termination cap.

Locate Chimney Centerpoint On Roof

Use same procedure detailed in locating center point of
the ue system.

Drive a nail up through roof at the center point. This will
determine center point on outside of the roof.

Cut and Frame Roof Hole

Size of roof hole varies with the type of chimney termina­tion installed. Refer to installation instructions provided

7412647

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

FRONT VIEW

SIDE VIEW

Air Space Clearances

with Vermont Castings Group chimney termination to nd
correct size of roof hole.

There must be a 1Z\x” (38 mm) air space between outermost
portion of chimney sections and any adjacent combustible
surfaces. (Combustible surfaces include burnable materi­als such as: ceiling members, joists, ooring, combustible
insulation and roof structures.)

WARNING: Do not pack required air spaces with in­sulation or other materials.

Mark an outline of the roof hole around the center of the
point nail. NOTE: Hole dimensions given in the chimney
top installation instructions are horizontal dimensions;
therefore, the hole size must be marked on the roof ac­cordingly.

Cover the opening of the installed chimney so debris can­not get into the system.

Cut and frame the hole. It is good practice to use framing
lumber that is the same size as the rafters. Install the frame
securely because the chimney top and ashing anchored
to the frame must be able to withstand heavy winds.

Install Remainder of Chimney Sections

Since you have already preplanned the height of your
termination according to the Ten Foot Rule, continue to
install pipe to the predetermined height.

Check the chimney top installation instructions for details
on how high above the roof top the chimney sections (all
pipes) should extend.

Finish Wall

Finish the wall with material of your choice. Do not install a
combustible mantel shelf less than 12” (305 mm) above
the grille opening. Do not install a mantel face plate less
than 6” (159 mm) from top of grille opening. (Fig. 20)

If a combustible material is used below a at mantel shelf,
consult your local building codes for minimum clearance
from top of replace opening to bottom of mantel shelf.

All joints (top, bottom and sides) where wall or decorative
facing material meets replace surround must be com­pletely sealed with a noncombustible material. (Figures
18 and 19)

NOTE: No side wall protection is required for replaces
installed at 45° to two (2) side walls (corner installation).

Combustible framing material MUST NOT
penetrate AIR SPACE (shaded areas).

2”

Standoff

Z\x” air space to

sides

Installing Top Housing

or Termination

Follow the installation instructions provided with the
Vermont Castings Group chimney termination you have
selected.

Installing Chimney in a Chase

Refer to Page 4, Figure 2 for an illustration of a typical
chase installation.

CAUTION: Treatment of restop spacers and construction
of chase may vary with type of building. These instructions
are not a substitute for local building codes. You must
check your local building codes to determine specic re­quirements for your city or state. NOTE: Other building
materials may be required in addition to restop spacers.

Finishing

CAUTION: All joints between the nished wall and the

replace surround (top/sides) must be sealed with non­combustible material to prevent cold air leakage into the
room. Only noncombustible material may be applied to
the facing of the replace surround. (Black painted area)
(Fig. 17)

Wall
Shield

Only noncom­bustible material
may be applied as
facing to the black
replace surround.

Fig. 17 Minimum clearances to combustibles.

Hearth Extension

Firestop

1” Air
Space to
Back

Z\x” Air
Space to
Sides

0” Clearance to
Floor

FPC559a

7412647

13

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

1Z\x"
Ref.

B

C

Combustible materials are
permitted within a shaded area
shown in Figure 21 titled
Minimum Wall Clearances.

*

* *

Z\x"

12"

(305mm)

Max.

12" (305mm)

Min.

1Z\x"

(38mm)

6"

(159mm)

Min.

Combustible
Mantel Shelf
and Trim

Side View

2 x 4 Stud

Finished Wall

Finished Wall

Stud

Standoff

Noncombustible
Material

Circulating
Front

Fireplace Opening

Fireplace
Front

Must be sealed with noncom­bustible material

Fig. 18 Mantel clearance.

* 12” from top of grille opening.

** 6” from top of grille opening.

FP531b

Face Plate

Fig. 19 Combustible mantel clearances.

14

MA81

7412647

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

Minimum Wall Clearances

WITH
Noncombustible
Surround Facing

WITHOUT
Noncombustible
Surround Facing

Minimum Hearth Extension Dimensions

(for On-Site Construction)

G

H

G

J

Seal cracks
between the
fireplace
and hearth
extension with
noncombustible
material

Safety strips
must overlap
56O" minimum

May install
noncombustible
decorative
covering
OR .018" min.
sheet metal

Fireplace
Hearth

Combustible
Floor

1/2” Min.
EH2416 or
equal “R”
value

4" MIN.

Firebox

Opening

A - Min. clearance
to combustible
perpendicular wall

B - Min. clearance
to combustible
perpendicular wall when
using noncombustible wall shield*

Side
Wall

Side
Wall

F**

C**

E

E

D

4" Brick
(Example material)

Combustible material permitted within shaded area.

*

Noncombustible wall shield requires 1" EH2416
insulation (minimum R Value = 1.85) between decorative
noncombustible rigid covering and combustible wall.
Minimum height and width is 40" x 40".

**

Dimension/degree of angle will vary depending on thickness

of noncombustible surround facing.

Shaded area
starts 1/2" from
away from edge
of unit

4"

Side Wall Protection

Adjacent combustible side walls that are within minimum
dimensions shown in Figure 23 of the replace opening
must be protected with a specically built wall shield as
described in Figure 17.

The special wall shield design described in Figure 18 is
an alternate method of adding protection to side walls. Rt
must =1.09 minimum.

Examples of wall shield insulation:

1. Manville - CERAFORM 126, K=.27,
1/2 inches thick

2. EH2416, K = .458,
1 inch thick required.

Hearth Installation

A hearth extension is required to protect a combustible oor
in front of the replace. Refer to Figure 20 for minimum
dimensions and mounting detail.

Note: Hearth Extension must not cover the air inlet
opening of a replace.

The hearth extension described in Figure 20 must be a
durable non-combustible material with a minimum (total)
Rt value of 1.09; refer to Figure 21 for examples. The
overall height (above a combustible oor), depth and width
must be as indicated, with the extension centered to the
replace opening.

The top of insulation must be covered with a non-combus­tible decorative covering or a piece of .018” minimum sheet

metal, to protect hearth extension material. (Fig. 20)

Secure the hearth extension to the oor to prevent shift­ing, using trim molding or other similar means at three (3)
outer edges. Seal crack between the replace hearth and
hearth extension with a non-combustible material. (Figs.

20 and 22)

WARNING: Hearth extension must be installed in ac-

Fig. 20 Combustible side wall protection and hearth extension dimensions.

7412647

A B C D E F G H J

BFC36 26” 12” 17° 25° 12” 8” 8” 18” 47Z\v”
660 mm 305 mm 305 mm 203 mm 203 mm 457 mm 1200 mm

FP594b

15

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

COMMON MATERIALS AND FACTORS

MATERIAL K*

R

MINIMUM

THICKNESS

EH2416
Micor 300

Common Brick

0.458

5.0

1.09 0.50 in.**

0.10 5.46 in.**

R Value is for 1/2 inch.
* Units of K = BTU/SQ FT/HR/˚F/IN
** Thickness of Listed Material

cordance with Figure 22 and must not cover the bottom
front opening of the circulating model.

Alternate noncombustible materials may be used providing
the (total) thermal resistance (Rt value) of the alternate
material employed is greater than or equal to R = 1.09
Thermal resistance (R) or thermal conductivity (K), may be
obtained from manufacturer of the material. Factors are
related by the formula K = 1/R. (Fig. 21)

T = given thickness
R = thermal resistance for a given thickness (T)
K = thermal conductivity

Noncombustible material with a lower R value may be
used, provided thickness of material is sufciently greater

to maintain an equivalent (total) thermal resistance (Rt).

Wall Covering

Noncombustible
Decorative Fac­ing

Seal all cracks
between replace
surround and wall ma­terials with noncom­bustible material.

Noncombus­tible Decorative
Covering

Hearth Exten­sion Insulation

FP550

Fig. 22 Sealing gaps.

Side View

2 x 4” Header

- Do not notch at
standoffs

Seal crack between
replace and hearth
extension with noncom­bustible material

Safety Strips ­Must be overlapped 1/2”
minimum

Fig. 21 Hearth extension material factors.

Example of Determining Hearth Extension Equiva­lents

To determine the thickness required for any new mate­rial:

NEW K of new material (per inch) thickness
required = --------------------------------------- X of listed

thickness K of listed material (per inch) material

Example for Common Brick

T (new) = 5.0/0.458 x 0.50 in. = 5.46 in. (new required

thickness).

16

FP533ADD

Glass Door Operation

The BFC36 is intended for use only with the doors fully
closed. (Fig. 23)

Correct Wrong

Fig. 23 Correct door position.

KT108b

7412647

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

1"

Min.

1/2"

Operation

Before the rst re, the location of the upper refractory
bafe (ceiling panel) should be checked. This part oats
intentionally and may move out of place during shipping
or installation of the replace. If the bafe is out of place,
the resulting improper air ow will cause dirty glass and
improper combustion. The bafe should be centered side­to-side between the refractory sidewalls and be pulled for­ward (toward the glass doors) until it rests on the front
sheet metal ledge.

Refer to the publication “How to Enjoy Your Woodburning
Fireplace” for starting and maintaining a wood re.

Note that the BFC36 does not have a damper to open or
close. This is a tremendous efciency increasing advan­tage since there is no damper to potentially leave open
after a re dies down. House air will not escape up the
chimney. Note also that the doors should remain closed at
all times except when starting or reloading a re.

Burn only seasoned rewood. Typically, only two or three
burning logs are needed to provide efcient supplemental
heat and a bright decorative re. In general, fresh wood
should not be loaded higher than about 2/3 the height of
the rebox.

Installing Line for Gas Logs

Vermont Castings Group replaces are designed to accept
a 1/2” (13 mm) gas line for installation of an approved gas
appliance. (Vermont Castings Group manufactures a wide
variety of gas logs for use in Vermont Castings Group
replaces.)

Be sure to have the appliance installed in accordance with
building codes.

Gas connection may enter from either left or right side of
the replace.

Locate appropriate gas line in the outer casing of replace
and remove insulation from gas line tube. (Fig. 24)

From inside the replace, locate the knockout on the re­brick -- be sure you are on the appropriate or “gas line” side
of the replace. Using a at bladed screwdriver or small
chisel and hammer, carefully tap around the knockout until
it loosens and falls out.

Install 1/2” (13 mm) certied gas pipe through opening.
After gas pipe installation is complete, use insulation that
was removed from gas line tube to repack space around
the pipe. Material should be inserted from outside of the
replace and packed tightly to totally seal between the
pipe and tube.

NOTE: Gas pipe should not come in contact with any
wood structures until it has reached a point at least 1”
(25 mm) away from replace side.

Hole in Outer Casing

Gas Line
Tube

Ceramic
Knockout

Hole in
Outer Cas­ing

Fig. 24 Gas line access.

Fireplace Top View

Supply
Line

Repack Insu­lation

Ceramic Knockout
(both sides)

FP560a

BTU input of a gas appliance installed in replace should
be rated less than 100,000 BTU/Hr.

Gas pipe installation is intended for connection to a deco­rative gas appliance only when (1.) incorporating an auto­matic shutoff device and (2.) complying with the Standard
for Decorative Gas Appliances for Installation in Vented
Fireplaces (ANSI Z21.60) or CSA draft requirements for
Gas-Fired Log Lighters for Woodburning Fireplaces (Draft
No. 4, August 1993).

Decorative gas appliance should be installed in accordance
with the National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54
(latest edition).

CAUTION: When using decorative gas appli­ance, ue damper must be set in fully open
position. Glass doors on the replace must
also be fully opened.

WARNING: Do not operate an unvented gas
log set in this replace with the chimney re­moved.

WARNING: When installing an unvented gas
log set, the model CABL or CABR 4” adjust­able hood must be used.

7412647

17

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

1

2

3

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

16

15

19

18

17

4

24

20

22

21

25

23

23

26

27

28

29

Vermont Castings Group reserves the right to make changes in design, materials, specications, prices and discontinue colors and products at any
time, without notice.

BFC Balanced Flue Fireplace

Ref. Description BFC36

1. Top Grille - Painted 3126160

2. Bottom Grille - Painted 3126160

3. Grate Assembly 7579218

4. Left Door Assembly Complete 30004361

5. Right Door Assembly Complete 30004362

6. Rear Firebrick 2353145

7. Side Firebrick (two per replace) 2353146

8. Hearth Firebrick 2353140

9. Nailing Flange (four per replace) 2422198

10. Fiberglas Rope Gasket (Outer Collar) 7547137

11. Top Refractory 2353147

12. Front Brick Retainer 2353163

13. Cable Clip (For Blower Assembly) 7522241

14. Plug Button (two per replace) 7522239

15. Left Door Gasket 20013999

16. Right Door Gasket 20013998

18

7412647

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

BFC Balanced Flue Fireplace (continued)

Ref. Description BFC36

17. Blower Assembly - FKSX-A 20000620

18. Grate Retainer 2353179

19. Junction Box Assembly 3126161

20. Ceramic Glass Panel (two per replace) 30004352

21. Flat Gasket 3/4” Wide (two per replace) 20013997

22. Knob (two per replace) 1600657

23. Bushing (four per replace) 1201895

24. Pan Hd, PH 1/4-20 x 1 Black (two per replace) 1200907

25. Spacer (two per replace) 1600070

26. Spring Clip 30004450

27. #8-18 x 1/2” Decorative Screw 7521180

28. Hinge Spacer (two per replace) 30004360

29. BFC Door Assembly 20014006

7412647

19

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

Accessories

The following accessories for this appliance are available from your local Vermont Castings Group distributor. Should you
need additional information beyond what your distributor can furnish, contact: Vermont Castings Group, 149 Cleveland
Drive, Paris, KY 40361, Attn: Technical Services.

CAUTION: This replace and chimney assembly is a highly engineered system, and, as such, must be operated
only with Vermont Castings Group approved components. If you use an unapproved component to make any
modications, you may create a possible re hazard and will void the Vermont Castings Group warranty. In
addition, such action may void the coverage provided by the owner’s insurance.

Model NumberDescriptionAccessory

Hearth Extension Insulation Provides hearth extension oor protection EH2416
Grate for BR/BC36/42 Holds rewood in rebox RBG-BFC36
Hearth Patch Compound Patch cracks in hearth HPC-1

See your Vermont Castings Group Fireplaces
distributor or dealer for nishing Marble and
Mantels, available in a wide selection of styles.

20

7412647

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

Chimney Components

Component Description Model Number
Chimney Support Used to support chimney for each of TCS8A

30’ vertical height and 6’ of angled chimney run (8” ue)
Firestop Required at each oor level and attic on FS2A (8” straight ue)

multi-story installation FS6A (8” 30° inclined ue)
Attic Insulation Shield Required in Canada FS2100HT
Traditional Top Housing Top housing of simulated brick pattern T20B

available in red, tan or white. Appropriate (single ue)
adapter is required (8CA). Flashing included. TL20B
(extra tall single ue)

Housing Extension Extends Traditional Top Housing on 202036
steep pitched roofs (single ue)

Contemporary Chase Top Used to terminate chimney at the top of a
Termination chase. Flashing is not included. TT200C
Adapter Kit (TT8CB) is required.

Chase Top Housing Used with chase terminations to prevent rain entry. FL88
(8” ue)

Contemporary Flashing 8-6-12 with 8” ue
Required for Contemporary Round Top 0 to 6/12 pitch
termination to prevent rain entry. 8-12-12 with 8” ue
(6/12 to 12/12 pitch)

Chimney Sections 8” ue
81 (1’ long)
Used to build chimney systems. 818 (1Z\x’ long)
83 (3’ long)
84 (4’ long)

Chimney Elbows Used to develop offset chimney systems.
Only 30° elbows are available. (Elbows 830A-2
packed 2 per carton - upper and lower (8” 30° ue)
elbow set.)

Round Top Termination Used to terminate chimney on the roof. RT8C
Flashing not included. (8” ue)

Extended Round Top Chase Used to terminate chimney at the top of a RT8CL
Termination chase. Adapter Kit included. Flashing not (8” ue)
included.

Adapter Kit Required to connect triple-wall chimney 8CA
with Traditional Top Housing (T20B or TL20B) (8” ue)

Adapter Kit Required to unite chimney with TT8CB
Contemporary Chase Top. (TT200C)

7412647

21

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

22

7412647

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

LIMITED WARRANTY

Factory-Build Fireplace and Components

(Except Blowers)

What is Covered and For How Long

Five-Year Coverage: For ve years from the date this replace and components are rst purchased for use, Vermont

Castings Group will, at its option, repair or replace any defective part of this replace or components, or refund to you a
sum not to exceed the factory retail price in effect at the time of purchase.

Ten-Year Coverage: From the sixth through the tenth year following the date this replace or accessory is rst pur­chased for use, Vermont Castings Group will make available to you, at our factory, a free replacement for any defective
part in this replace or accessory.

Twenty-Five-Year Availability of Replacement Parts: From the eleventh through the twenty-fth year following the
date this replace or accessory is rst purchased for use, Vermont Castings Group will make available at our factory
replacement parts for this replace or accessory, which you may purchase for the list price current at the time your
purchase order is received.

What is Not Covered

• This limited warranty does not cover:

• Transportation or shipping cost.

• The cost of a service call to diagnose trouble.

• Painted surfaces.

• Damage or defect caused by improper installation, accident, misuse, abuse or alteration.

• Poor ventilation of smoke or gases caused by air-conditioning and heating systems, exhaust fans, or pressure dif­ferentials produced by wind.

• Broken glass components.

• Cracks in ceramic and castable parts that do not affect safe operation.

• We do not warrant this replace to be in compliance with your local building code. Building codes vary greatly
throughout the country, and you should determine whether your local building code contains restrictions on the use
of this replace before you purchase it.

• Blowers or fans, which are warranted separately.

• Heat loss due to the passage of heat or air through or around the replace.

Also, under our ve year coverage, we do not pay the cost of removal and replacement of any portion of the structure in
which the replace is situated, made necessary by the repair, removal or re-installation of the replace.

And under our twenty-ve year warranty of availability of replacement parts, we only promise to maintain a supply of
replacement parts at our factory for you to purchase.

Limitations and Exclusions

1. No one has authority to add to or vary this limited warranty, or to create for Vermont Castings Group any other obliga­tions of liability in connection with this replace and accessory.

2. Vermont Castings Group shall not be liable for incidental, consequential, special or contingent damages you might
suffer as a result of its breach of this written warranty or any implied warranty. Some states do not allow the exclusion
of limitation of incidental or consequential damages, so the above limitations may not apply to you.

3. This warranty applies only to a replace sold and used in the United States.

For information about this warranty, contact:
Vermont Castings Group

149 Cleveland Drive
Paris, Kentucky 40361

7412647

23

BFC36 Balanced Flue Heat-Circulating Fireplace

24

Vermont Castings Group

149 Cleveland Drive • Paris, Kentucky 40361

www.Vermont Castings Group.com

7412647