Can I add a fan to my wood-burning fireplace?

You can if you have a heat circulating model, which means there are louvers in the top and bottom facing of the fireplace, and if there is electrical power to the junction box behind the lower louver, then you can easily install a fan kit.

Can I get glass doors for my wood-burning fireplace?

Glass doors are available for current model fireplaces. Check with your local dealer on availability of doors for older models. It is important that you purchase glass doors that the manufacturer of your fireplace sells for your particular model. Using a non-approved door can block off cooling air into the firebox chassis and cause a potential fire hazard.

Can I partially close the damper on my wood-burning fireplace so less air goes up the chimney?

No. The damper must be in the fully open position when using a wood-burning fireplace. Partially closing the flue (chimney) damper can cause smoke to spill into the room when burning wood, or cause carbon monoxide (CO) to come into the room when using gas logs.

How efficient is a wood-burning fireplace?

While they produce some radiant heat, most wood-burning fireplaces are primarily decorative. Even heat circulating models still pull a tremendous amount of air from the home. There are several wood-burning models that are efficient and clean burning. We also have several wood-burning stoves and inserts that are very efficient.

How should I use the glass doors on my wood-burning fireplace?

The doors should always be fully open or fully closed. Glass doors should be fully open when starting a fire and when the fire is burning strongly. The glass doors should be closed as the fire dies down to minimize the amount of room air going up the fireplace chimney. When burning gas logs in a wood-burning fireplace, the glass doors should always be fully open when the gas logs are burning. ALWAYS keep the screen mesh on your fireplace closed when using the fireplace to guard against sparks popping out of the firebox area. If you have a see-through wood-burning fireplace, the doors should be either closed or open on both sides when burning.

If I want to convert my wood-burning fireplace to gas, is a set of gas logs or a gas insert going to be my best option?

Your decision really comes down to how much a priority heating efficiency is for you. If you want a lot of heat from your fireplace, you should consider a direct vent gas insert. From a cost standpoint, an insert will cost approximately five times the cost of a nice gas log set. However, since the insert is very efficient, it will pay for itself over a period of a few years in gas bill savings. We offer both a full line of inserts and vented gas logs to choose from. Installing room-vented or vent free log sets in our wood-burning fireplaces is unacceptable. Doing so will void your warranty on the fireplace and possibly your homeowners insurance.

Can I install a blower or fan kit on my fireplace after the fireplace has been installed?

• Many of our gas fireplace models that have louvers or grills on the front can have a fan kit added. You will want to make sure that electricity is run to the junction box underneath the fireplace first, before ordering & installing a fan kit. You can test the junction box by plugging a lamp into the junction box and switching it on and off. Also make sure the circuit breaker is not tripped. If there is no electricity to the junction box you would have to run electric to the fireplace first before the fan kit could be installed. You can order a fan kit through your local dealer; installation instructions are packed with it.

Can I install a fireplace or insert myself?

• Installation of our hearth products must be done in strict accordance with local or national building codes, and the unit's installation manual. We recommend that our products be installed by a factory-trained professional. You can find a factory-trained professional on this website under the Dealer Locator section.

Can I install a traditional or plasma TV above a gas fireplace?

• You need to check with the manufacturer of your television. We follow the recommendations of the TV manufacturer. NOTE: we take no responsibility of any damage caused by the heat of the fireplace.

Does the cost of the fireplace/stove/insert include everything I will need for the installation?

• No. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) shown on the website includes the fireplace or appliance only. Fronts, piping, surrounds, gas or electric connections, and installation will be in addition to this suggested price.

Can I adjust the flame height on my fireplace?

• Flame height adjustments are available on many gas units. Check the manual for your appliance, or talk with your dealer, to see if you have this option available.

Can I burn unvented logs in my wood-burning fireplace?

• No. Doing so will void the warranty on your fireplace and possibly void your homeowners insurance. An unvented gas log set that complies with the ANSI Z21.60 standard as a vented gas log set can be used as long as the damper is removed from the unit, but any other type of unvented log set will cause hazardous conditions.

Can I cover the louvers on my fireplace or insert face?

• No. The louvers allow room air to move around the heat exchanger. Blocking this air flow can cause fires and will void your manufacturer's warranty and possibly your homeowner's warranty.

Can I position my gas logs in a different fashion or use a different log set?

• Not on a direct vent or B vent model. A gas fireplace is an engineered system that includes the firebox, burner, logs, venting and options which are tested and listed by AGA or UL. Changing any of the specifications or placement of the logs could void your manufacturer's warranty, and possibly even your homeowner's warranty.

Can I shut the pilot off in the summer?

• It's not recommended in climates that are high in humidity. Otherwise, you can turn the pilot off when you won’t be using your appliance for an extended period of time, and then use our on-line instructions to relight the pilot when needed.

How does the hand-held transmitter operate the functions of the fireplace?

• Hearth & Home Technologies’ remote controls work by radio frequency, which offers the unlikelihood of another remote control activating your individual gas fireplace product.
  Infrared (light signals) is often used with television and stereo remotes and requires there be no interference between the hand-held and the receiver. Fireplace facings, louvers and different installation options make infrared an unreliable option for fireplaces. Also, the brightness of the flame interferes with infrared control systems.
  Sonic or Sound is the third technology used with remote controls. The early sonic technology was used on television, but quickly abandoned due to limitation in channels and choices. Most Sonic technology is used in the pest control industry today.

I have a fan kit on my gas fireplace, but it doesn't seem to blow much air.

• Your fan kit has a rheostat control (like a light dimmer). You can get more air from your fan by making sure the fan control is turned up to the desired level. The fan control can be found in the control area behind the lower louver of the fireplace, or on a wall switch with rheostat. We also provide optional remote controls which can control your fan speed from your favorite chair! Your dealer can help you with adding a remote control.

I have an odor in my gas fireplace.

• On gas fireplaces that are not brand new and are emitting some odor, try cleaning behind the upper and lower louvers. Dust can cause odor. Another source of odor can be the items you have on your mantel. Remove all objects from your mantel and then replace the objects one at a time. A third source of odor can be from the adhesives used in surround materials. This will need to be investigated by your installer. If these suggested sources don’t correctly identify the odor, contact your dealer where the fireplace was purchased and have your fireplace inspected.

Should I leave the batteries in my IPI system?

• If your system is controlled from an IntelliSwitch wall control, the batteries may be left in the unit. If not, install the batteries only when there is a power outage.

The fireplace flame does not turn on and off at the exact desired temperature. Why?

• When the remote is in the thermostat mode (SMART-STAT and RCT-MLT models) and the temperature of the room has not exceeded the desired temperature setting by 2 degrees Fahrenheit or 1 degree Celsius the fireplace will not turn on and off. The thermostat is set with a 2 degree F (1 degree C) range to avoid continuous cycling of the fireplace.

The glass on my fireplace is unusually hot.

• The glass on a gas fireplace WILL reach very high temperatures. USE CAUTION: Carefully SUPERVISE children in the same room as your appliance; alert everyone to the hazards of high temperatures; do NOT operate with protective barriers removed; keep clothing, furniture, draperies and other combustibles away. Barriers such as screens over our direct vent glass help reduce the risk of burn from touching the glass. These screens are available through your local dealer.

The mantel on my fireplace is unusually hot.

• While direct vent gas fireplaces are designed principally for their aesthetic value, we try to get as much heat output as possible to provide added value to the homeowner. It should be noted that while we are getting a lot of heat, we are passing the ANSI and UL standards for combustible temperatures. The allowable is 117°F above room temperature for combustibles. Average room temperature is 70-75°F; therefore a 187-192°F surface temperature can be expected. On a solid surface, 150°F is very hot to the touch (to put this in perspective, water boils at 212°F and the average bath water temperature is 110°F).

What is an IPI ignition system?

• Intermittent Pilot Ignition is an electronic system, which uses an electrode to ignite the pilot gas. In turn, the pilot flame lights the main burner gas. The term Intermittent is used because the pilot burner flame is only present when the main burner is operating. When the main burner is off the pilot is also off. The IPI system ensures the pilot flame extends over the burner for immediate ignition and secondly conserves energy when the appliance is not in operation.
  Intellifire, an ignition system exclusively featured in Heatilator, Heat & Glo & Quadra-Fire products, is an energy-saving pilot ignition system for gas fireplaces and inserts. It provides an ignition flame only when needed and has a battery backup system that supplies power to spark the ignition flame in the event of a power outage.

What’s the best way to start a fire in my fireplace?

• If your fireplace does not have a gas starter, arrange kindling (small diameter sticks) in a crisscross pattern on top of crumpled newspaper under the grate before arranging the logs. Arrange logs in a safe way to ensure that logs don’t roll out during burning. Note that the first few fires you build in your wood-burning fireplace should be small to help avoid excess cracking or spidering in the refractory. NOTE: Do not over fill your fireplace, as this will cause unsafe operation.

Why am I feeling a cold draft from my fireplace?

• There are several possible causes of feeling cold air from a wood fireplace. You will want to make sure the damper is closed. Also check the installation manual for any other potential openings that may need to be shut. If the fireplace is mounted on cement versus plywood, that can also transfer cold into your home. If the chase area or doghouse is not insulated adequately, that is another possibility. Please check with your builder or installer on the insulation of the chase.

Why do I have blue flames?

• This is normal in the first few minutes of operation. If after the first 30 minutes of full burn you still have blue flames, an adjustment may be needed on your unit. For assistance with this, contact your dealer.

Why will the blower not turn on right away?

• Most fans are wired into the fireplace with a fan sensor switch. This switch will activate the blower when the firebox heats up to a certain temperature. It will also automatically turn the blower off when the fireplace is turned off and the unit cools to a certain temperature. This sensor is provided so that you will not be circulating cold air in your home. The amount of time needed to heat up the fan sensor will differ depending on the model of your fireplace. It is common that blowers installed in Firebrick products will take longer to sense the heat and turn on your blower. Firebrick has greater insulating characteristics and holds the heat inside your firebox resulting in higher radiant heat and greater efficiencies

Will my gas hearth product still burn if I lose electricity to my home?

• If your model has a standing pilot light, it does not require house current at any time to operate; or if your appliance has our patented IPI or IPI+ System, which works on a battery back up of 2 "D" or 4 "AA" batteries (depending on the particular ignition system), it will work in event of a power outage. You will need to install batteries for operation. If you have a fan or a remote control option, they will not work without power, but the appliance itself will burn and provide heat. (If you have a remote control, you may need to operate the appliance with the ON/Off switch in the control area of the appliance).

Can I use my gas or wood appliance if the power is out to my home?

• Yes, you can still use your Heatilator Fireplace. If you have a gas fireplace or stove with a standing pilot, it will light during a power outage since it doesn’t require electricity to activate the pilot flame. Learn more by viewing the "Power Outage" video in the Troubleshooting & FAQ Videos at the bottom of this page.

How do gas fireplaces vent?

• The majority of our gas fireplaces and inserts are direct vent (DV). This means they have a fixed glass front which seals the gas burner and combustion firebox off from your home. 100% of the combustion air used by the fireplace comes from outside the home through a coaxial pipe. A smaller pipe inside the larger pipe eliminates all combustible gases, maintaining indoor air quality. The vent can be run horizontally through an outside wall, or vertically through the roof, depending on your preference.

How do I clean my glass?

• It is very important to clean your glass after the initial 3 hours of burn time. Failure to do so can cause permanent etching of your glass.

1. Make sure your glass is completely cooled. It is also recommended to turn the gas off when servicing your appliance.
2. Remove the front face or louvers of your fireplace; carefully remove the glass assembly of your fireplace (following the instructions in your manual) and lay it on a soft surface.
3. Wipe both sides with household glass cleaner (do not use a product with ammonia), using a soft cloth.
4. For heavy deposits, use Stove Bright Glass Cleaner , Rutland White Off Glass Cleaner, or other hard water deposit glass cleaner recommended by your servicing dealer.
5. Carefully replace glass on front of fireplace (following the instructions in your manual), making sure glass assembly and front are secured.
6. After this initial cleaning, clean your glass as often as necessary, particularly if adding new ember material. Never use any abrasive cleaners or cloths to clean your glass. Scratching can cause the glass to shatter.

How do I light my pilot?

CAUTION: ALWAYS REMOVE YOUR FIREPLACE GLASS PRIOR TO LIGHTING YOUR PILOT
STEP 1: Locate gas supply valve (typically behind louvers, below glass opening - may be red or blue).
STEP 2: Open valve by pivoting handle to be parallel to gas line.
STEP 3: Locate pilot assembly with spark igniter (located behind and below logs in the firebox - typically in the bottom center).
STEP 4: Then locate red or black igniter button.* Push igniter to verify spark at pilot area.
STEP 5: Locate the black or green valve control knob (knob with the words "ON", "OFF" and "PILOT" on it). Push in and rotate counter-clockwise until the word "pilot" is in the 6 o'clock position.**
STEP 6: While pressing and holding in the valve knob (in "PILOT" position - it should press in about 1/4"), press the red piezo button repeatedly (once per second) until the pilot ignites. If the pilot does not light, wait 5 minutes and try again. Once the pilot is lit, continue to hold the valve knob in for 30 seconds, then slowly release.
STEP 7: If the pilot light goes out, contact your nearest dealer for service. Remember to shut the gas supply valve off (picture #1). If it remains lit, press the valve knob in slightly and rotate counter-clockwise until the word "ON" is in the 6 o'clock position.
STEP 8: Finally, turn the unit's ON/OFF switch (or wall switch or remote control) to the "ON" position to start your fire. Make sure you put the glass front back on the fireplace prior to burning your fireplace. Make sure the glass is securely clamped on, at all points, prior to replacing the front.
STEP 9: Enjoy your fireplace!
* If you do not see a red or black spark igniter button, you do not have a manual ignition system. If power is actively supplied to your fireplace, simply turn the on/off button, wall switch or remote control to "on" to ignite your main burner.
** Note: Some valve assemblies may be inverted in their brackets. If yours appears to be the mirror image of picture #4, then the word "PILOT" will be in the 12 o'clock position to light the pilot, and "ON" will be set to the 12 o'clock position to turn on your main burner.
CAUTION: ALWAYS REMOVE YOUR FIREPLACE GLASS PRIOR TO LIGHTING YOUR PILOT

How do I remove the glass from my fireplace?

• Please refer to the installation manual or users guide for your fireplace to see how the glass is attached to your specific model and instructions for removal.

My fan kit is too noisy. What can I do?

• Our fan kits come with a rheostat control (like a light dimmer). You can turn the control down to reduce the air noise from your fan. The fan control can be found in the control area behind the lower louver of the fireplace. We also provide optional remote controls which can control your fan speed and flame height from your favorite chair! Your dealer can help you with adding a remote control.

Should I have any type of inspection done to my fireplace or insert?

• Yes. We recommend annual service of your fireplace by a qualified serviceperson. This will ensure that your appliance is functioning properly.

Should I leave the batteries in my IPI system?

• If your system is controlled from an IntelliSwitch wall control, the batteries may be left in the unit. If not, install the batteries only when there is a power outage.

Where can I get help if my appliance is not working correctly?

• Your local dealer can provide the proper diagnosis, equipment and resources to provide the necessary corrective actions. We ask that your dealer contact us if further assistance is needed to resolve your service issue.

Can I have a hand-held remote control and a wall switch?

• Yes! However, there is an operational priority (Pecking order) of the various ways to turn your fireplace ON or OFF. Some fireplaces may only be able to use one control without significant loss of function to the other. The highest priority goes to the ON/OFF switch located near the valve assembly. For example, if you have the fireplace is turned “ON” via this switch, it will negate the wall switch and ON/OFF feature of your remote control.
  Next, the wall switch takes priority over the remote control. In other words, if the wall switch is in the “ON” position and the units switch is in the “OFF” position, the remote control will not be able to turn the fireplace on or off. In either case, the RCT-MLT functions will work unless the "on- off" feature of the wall switch or fireplace switch is in the “ON” position.

Can the frequency of the remote be changed if I have something else activating the fireplace?

• No. The frequency of the remote control cannot be changed without special equipment, which is not readily available to homeowners and/or service companies. Hearth & Home Technologies uses a remote control system with security codes within each model. These security codes are burned into the transmitter of each model and cannot be changed. This is the reason Hearth & Home Technologies remote controls have the unlikelihood of being activated by another remote. If there is more than one Hearth & Home Technologies remote control at a home it is important that each hand-held transmitter has had the “learn” function activated to its designated receiver. If one hand-held transmitter was used in the “learn” activation for both receivers only one hand-held will function.

How can I avoid accidental operation of the remote control while I am away from home for an extended period of time?

• Hearth & Home Technologies remote controls have a manual switch on the receiver that can be turned to the OFF position. This switch is manual and will break the contact with the power source, whether it is battery or 120V power. This switch is just like the main power switch that controls any electrical appliance. It is completely unnecessary to unplug or remove batteries from the receiver.
  Taking the batteries out of the hand held transmitter will not guarantee against accidental activation. Remember that each remote is equipped with a safety feature, which turns the fireplace off after 9 hours of continuous usage, when operated in the “manual mode”.
  Operating the fireplace for longer than a continuous 9 hours is not a safety issue, but can cause the temperature in the room of the fireplace to reach higher than normal temperatures. It is always required to maintain the necessary clearance to combustibles as prescribed in the fireplace installation instructions.

How long will the batteries last?

• Under normal operating conditions the batteries should last 6 – 12 months. Each of the batteries used in the hand-held transmitters should be producing 1.5V to 1.6V to operate. If the batteries are generating 1.3V to 1.35V or less the batteries should be replaced and can cause intermittent operation.

My remote control is not working. Why?

• The following are the top reasons why remotes do not function:

1) Batteries do not have enough power or are installed incorrectly.
2) Misunderstanding on how the remote features operate the fireplace.
3) The slide switch on the receiver is not in the correct position.
4) The remote hand-held transmitter has not had the “learn” function activated to the receiver.
5) For standing pilot units, the thermopile must generate a minimum of 200 Millivolts. The fireplace requires more millivolts to operate via the remote control because it adds resistance to the system.
6) Defective component, for which replacement parts can be purchased or replaced under warranty within 1 year of the purchase of the remote.

My remote will not turn my fireplace off. Why?

1) The on/off switch on the fireplace and/or wall may be in the on position. This will over ride the remote control feature.
2) The remote is in the thermostat mode (SMART-STAT and RCT-MLT models) and the temperature of the room has not exceeded the desired temperature setting by 2 degrees Fahrenheit or 1 degree Celsius.
3) Batteries in the hand-held transmitter are old and underpowered. May work up close and will not work a few feet away.
4) Hand-held transmitter is outside of the 25’ of operation.
5) Hand-held transmitter has been dropped and the frequency has been moved off the frequency of the receiver.

My WSK-MLT appears to be locked and will not turn on my fireplace. Why?

• Your wall switch may be in child proof mode. When this is set, only the arrows will have functionality. The appliance can enter child proof mode when the fireplace is on or off.
  To exit child proof mode: Press the Up Arrow Button twice and Down Arrow Button once. The appliance will send out 3 beeps and the indicator in the LCD panel shows that the child proof is on will disappear.
  To enter child proof mode: Press the Up Arrow Button twice and Down Arrow Button once. The unit will send out 3 beeps and an indicator in the LCD panel will show that the child proof is on.

What are the main components of the remote control?

1) A hand-held transmitter. This is like a TV remote with which a person operates various features of the fireplace.
2) A receiver. This is located inside or near the fireplace and receives the radio frequency from the hand-held transmitter.
3) A Solenoid (for remote model RCT-MLT). This provides the option of a remote controlled variable flame. The solenoid is installed onto the regulator (located on the gas valve) of the fireplace to vary the gas pressure to the burner.

What can interfere with the operation of the remote control?

• Excessive metal will deflect radio frequency in a direction that may not be in line with the receiver of your remote control. Interference of your radio frequency can cause the remote control to not respond properly to the hand-held transmitter. Hearth & Home Technologies has many built in safety functions to ensure that your remote control and fireplace operate in harmony. For this reason the receiver of the remote should not be installed to the very back of the fireplace. Large metal artwork can interfere with radio frequency.

What is required to use a remote control? And what is required to use a wall switch?

• A remote control and/or wall switch requires a Millivolt valve system. The wall switch requires low voltage electrical wiring.

What powers the remote control?

• Both the transmitter and receiver in model SMART-BATT are powered by batteries. Models SMART-STAT, RCT-MLT, RC-100, RC-200, and RC-300 are powered by batteries in the hand-held transmitters. The receiver is plugged into the junction box located in the bottom of the fireplace (Note: this requires an electrical hookup by qualified electrician at time of fireplace installation).

Hearth & Home Technologies offers several remote options with different features and functions to fit the different needs of today homeowners. They are all compact in size to fit the palm of your hand and come with a wall mounting bracket for easy storage.

• SMART-BATT - This remote is perfect for you if your fireplace was previous installed without power and it would be too costly or impossible to wire electricity to it. This remote offers the feature of turning the flame on and off manually or by thermostatic temperature control. Count down timer system (15 min to 9 hours). 24 hour clock. Low battery indicator icon. Safety Feature: child proof setting to disable the on/off button and manual shutdown after 9 hours of continuous operation.
• SMART-STAT –120 volts must be wired to the fireplace. This remote is ideal for the homeowner who wants the functions of a wall thermostat and the convenience of a remote control. Use manual or thermostatic settings to operate the fireplace at desired temperature between 45 to 99 degrees. Count down timer system (15 min to 9 hours). 24 hour clock. Low battery indicator icon. Safety Features: A child proof setting to disable the on/off button is also standard and manual shutdown after 9 hours of continuous operation.
• RCT-MLT – If you enjoy having the best, then this remote is ideally suited for you. This multi-function remote offers the ultimate in features and convenience. It can conveniently do the following with just the touch of a button:

- Turns the flame on and off manually.
- Functions as a remote thermostat.
- Has an automatic timer function that allows you to turn the fireplace on for a desired amount of time between 1 to 90 minutes.
- Easily adjusts your fan setting (High, Medium, Low).
- An LED/LCD digital read out of the room’s temperature.
- Safety features; If the fireplace is turned on manually or by the thermostat and is on constantly for 9 hours the remote will turn the fireplace off.
- Child Proof setting to disable the on/off button is also standard.
Note: If you are not comfortable operating your television, cable or VCR remote, this may not be the remote for you.

Why should I buy a remote control?

• Remote Controls are a consumer convenience. They are great for the busy lifestyles of today and will enhance the relaxing mood created by our gas fireplace by allowing the user to relax in their favorite chair and operate their fireplace while reclining in comfort. They are especially convenient in large rooms where a switch on the fireplace or on the wall is not always easily accessed. It is also an extremely popular option for bed/bath sitting rooms.

Are the flames on my gas logs adjustable?

• The flames are not adjustable.

Can I position my gas logs in a different fashion or use a different log set?

• Not on a direct vent or B vent model. A gas fireplace is an engineered system that includes the firebox, burner, logs, venting and options which are tested and listed by AGA or UL. Changing any of the specifications or placement of the logs could void your manufacturer's warranty, and possibly even your homeowner's warranty.

Can I remove my gas logs and burn wood on the hearth kit?

• No. The hearth kit is designed to work with only the appropriate gas logs. Attempting this could result in injury, damage or worse. Additionally, burning wood voids the warranty of the hearth kit. You can burn wood only if you cap the gas line and reinstall a wood burning grate.

Can the glass doors on my fireplace be closed when my gas logs are burning?

• No. You must leave the doors open when you are operating RealWood Elite gas logs to avoid damaging the controls.

How can I install gas logs if my gas line comes in from the left side?

• The Hearth Kit can easily work with a left side gas line. Consult the installation manual for instructions.

How do I clean my gas logs?

• Never, ever wash your logs. Remove the logs carefully from the fireplace in a box, take them outside and use a soft brush or vacuum to clean them. Make sure you replace the logs exactly as they were originally placed.

How do I know where I can place the gas logs?

• The installation manual includes detailed diagrams showing where the logs must be placed to operate at the product's optimum level.

With gas logs, do I need the damper open all the time?

• A damper clamp will come standard with your gas log set and MUST be installed to maintain a small opening at all times. This allows for the escape of any pilot exhaust. When the logs are in use the damper must be fully open.

Can I change the look of my fireplace?

• In many cases a gas fireplace has several facing and trim options. Fireplaces can be given a "face lift" by changing the stone facing or surrounds, and wood mantel options. Your local dealer can give you more details on the options for your particular fireplace.

Can I convert my gas fireplace to a wood burning fireplace?

• No.

Can I convert my standing pilot fireplace to an IPI system?

• Check with your local dealer to see if this is possible on your specific model fireplace.

Can I shut the pilot off in the summer?

• It's not recommended in climates that are high in humidity. Otherwise, you can turn the pilot off when you won’t be using your appliance for an extended period of time, and then use our on-line instructions to relight the pilot when needed.

Does a direct vent need to be on an outside wall?

• No, with today’s venting options, direct vents can go literally anywhere in the home. The vent can terminate vertically through the roof or horizontally through an exterior wall. Your local dealer will be happy to assist you in determining the best venting option for your particular layout.

How can I find the model or serial number?

• Each fireplace has a rating plate either inside the operating door or in the lower controls cavity. On that rating plate is your model number and serial number. Wood-burning fireplaces have a metal serial/model plate in the upper left side or right side of the firebox, or riveted on the smoke shield behind the screen. Gas burning fireplaces and inserts have a serial/model/rating plate in the lower cavity controls area. Gas stoves have a serial/model/rating plate attached to the back of the stove or inside the pedestal base.

How much gas does the pilot light use?

• A pilot light will burn 800 to 1500 BTUs/hr. Your monthly gas bill should include your exact cost per "therm" (100,000 BTUs). Based on this rate you can calculate the cost for your area to operate a pilot light.

Is direct vent the same thing as ventless?

• No, absolutely not. A direct vent uses a high temperature glass panel to seal off the burn area of the fireplace from the interior of the home. It pulls 100% combustion air to feed the fire from outside the home. Because of its design, a direct vent gas fireplace will not affect the indoor air quality of your home. Since no air from your home is going up the chimney, a direct vent model is very efficient. Vent free should actually be called room vented since the by-products of gas combustion all spill back into the room. The single largest by-product of the gas combustion process is water vapor. Over sizing or overuse of a vent free hearth product can lead to excess moisture in a well built, tightly constructed home. Excess moisture inside the home can contribute to odors, mold and mildew inside the home.

What does an outside air kit do and do I need one?

• An outside air kit provides additional combustion air to the fireplace that feeds the fire with oxygen from outside your home. This will help the performance on any fireplace installed in tightly-constructed or well-insulated home. If you are installing a wood burning or B-Vent gas fireplace, you should consider installation of an outside air kit.

What does the term zero clearance mean?

• Zero clearance has two meanings. The first is whether or not the fireplace can be placed on a floor without footings. All of our fireplaces are classified as zero clearance, meaning they do not need special footings. The second meaning of zero clearance is if you are able to finish up to the face of the fireplace, so that no metal shows after installation is complete. There are several models on our website that are capable of this clean-faced, zero clearance finish. Check with your local dealer on which models are suitable for this type of installation.

What is a flue?

• A flue is another name for the fireplace chimney or venting system.

What is an IPI ignition system?

• Intermittent Pilot Ignition is an electronic system, which uses an electrode to ignite the pilot gas. In turn, the pilot flame lights the main burner gas. The term Intermittent is used because the pilot burner flame is only present when the main burner is operating. When the main burner is off the pilot is also off. The IPI system ensures the pilot flame extends over the burner for immediate ignition and secondly conserves energy when the appliance is not in operation.
  Intellifire, an ignition system exclusively featured in Heatilator, Heat & Glo & Quadra-Fire products, is an energy-saving pilot ignition system for gas fireplaces and inserts. It provides an ignition flame only when needed and has a battery backup system that supplies power to spark the ignition flame in the event of a power outage.

What is a safety pilot?

• A safety pilot prevents the flow of gas when the appliance is not in use.

What is the difference between "steady state" efficiency and AFUE?

• Steady State: An efficiency rating is testing only the efficiency of the fireplace when it is burning. AFUE (Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency): Both the on cycle and off cycle are calculated in this rating. By including the off cycles (when the fireplace is turned off) a more accurate yearly operational cost can be estimated.