American Hearth Gas Burner
American Hearth Vent Free/Vented Slope Glaze Millivolt Gas Burner VFSR
The American Hearth Vent Free/Vented Slope Glaze Gas Burner VFSR is designed for flexible gas fireplace installations where either vent-free heating or vented decorative operation is appropriate. The Slope Glaze burner creates an attractive flame presentation while concealed controls help maintain a clean fireplace appearance.
Installation Vent-Free or Vented
Fuel Options Natural Gas or Propane
Available Sizes 16", 18", 24" and 30"
Burner Style Slope Glaze
Controls Concealed Controls
Application Compatible Firebox or Fireplace
A Flexible Slope Glaze Burner for Vented or Vent-Free Fireplace Installations
The American Hearth Vent Free/Vented Slope Glaze Gas Burner VFSR combines flexible installation with dependable gas-fired operation. It is intended for applications where a burner may be installed in an approved vent-free firebox or in a suitable existing solid-fuel-burning fireplace when configured according to the manufacturer's installation requirements.
In a vent-free application, combustion products remain in the room and adequate combustion and ventilation air must be provided. When configured as a vented decorative appliance, the fireplace damper must remain open as specified by the manufacturer.
The burner design uses concealed controls and is intended to create natural-looking flame movement around a compatible gas log arrangement. Natural Gas and Propane configurations are listed in the supplied product information.
Important model verification: The product information supplied for this page identifies the burner as VFSR. The supplied manufacturer manual documents VFSE and VFSV Slope Glaze burner models. Verify the complete model number and fuel type shown on the appliance rating plate before ordering, installing, or servicing the burner.
American Hearth VFSR at a Glance
Product Type
Slope Glaze Gas Burner
Store-Provided Model
VFSR
Installation Type
Vent-Free or Vented, subject to installation requirements and local codes
Fuel Options
Natural Gas or Propane
Available Sizes
16", 18", 24", and 30" according to the supplied product data
Pilot Type
Standing pilot according to the supplied product description
Control Location
Concealed controls
Application
Compatible certified vent-free firebox or qualifying solid-fuel-burning fireplace
Remote/thermostat inclusion note: The supplied product information contains conflicting statements regarding whether a thermostat remote is included. Confirm the exact control package included with the selected SKU before purchase.
Is the American Hearth VFSR Right for Your Fireplace?
Best For
- Vented or vent-free fireplace installations where permitted
- Compatible certified vent-free fireboxes
- Qualifying solid-fuel-burning fireplaces
- Natural Gas or Propane installations
- Traditional gas-log fireplace projects
- Buyers who want concealed burner controls
- Projects requiring one of the sizes identified in the supplied product information
Do Not Choose This Burner If
- Your fireplace does not meet the manufacturer's minimum dimensional or clearance requirements.
- Your installation cannot provide adequate combustion and ventilation air for vent-free operation.
- You need to convert a Natural Gas burner to Propane or vice versa after purchase.
- Your local code prohibits the intended installation configuration.
- Your fireplace manufacturer specifically prohibits unvented gas logs.
- You have not confirmed the exact model, fuel type, controls, and accessories for the selected SKU.
Key Features and Benefits
Vented or Vent-Free Installation
The burner is positioned for applications where either vent-free operation or vented decorative use is appropriate, subject to the fireplace, manufacturer instructions, and local codes.
Slope Glaze Flame Presentation
The Slope Glaze burner configuration is designed to create an attractive flame pattern around a compatible gas-log arrangement.
Natural Gas or Propane Options
The supplied product information identifies both Natural Gas and Propane configurations so the burner can be matched to the available fuel supply.
Concealed Controls
Controls are positioned to reduce their visual impact inside the fireplace and preserve a more traditional gas-log appearance.
Multiple Burner Sizes
The supplied listing identifies 16-inch, 18-inch, 24-inch, and 30-inch size options for different fireplace applications.
Existing Fireplace Applications
The supplied manufacturer documentation allows the documented Slope Glaze systems in qualifying masonry, factory-built, or listed ventless enclosures.
Vented vs. Vent-Free Installation
Vent-Free Operation
For vent-free operation, the burner must be installed in a suitable fireplace or listed ventless firebox enclosure and the room must provide adequate combustion and ventilation air.
The manufacturer manual states that an unvented heater uses air from the room in which it is installed. Installation must follow the manufacturer's ventilation requirements and all applicable local codes.
Vented Operation
When the system is installed as a vented decorative appliance, the fireplace flue must remain open as required by the manufacturer.
The supplied manual requires a damper clamp for vented installation so the fireplace damper cannot accidentally close during operation.
Canada installation limitation: The supplied manufacturer manual states that the documented burner system cannot be installed as an unvented appliance in Canada. Canadian installations are limited to vented applications and must meet applicable installation requirements.
Fireplace Compatibility
According to the supplied manufacturer documentation, the documented Slope Glaze burner systems are intended for installation in a solid-fuel-burning masonry fireplace, a suitable UL 127 factory-built fireplace, or a listed ventless firebox enclosure where permitted.
Before installation in an existing solid-fuel-burning fireplace, the fireplace floor and chimney must be properly prepared and the burner must be installed and secured according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Do not install an unvented gas log system in a factory-built fireplace whose instructions specifically state that the fireplace has not been tested or must not be used with unvented gas logs.
Minimum Fireplace Dimensions in the Supplied Manufacturer Manual
The manufacturer manual provides the following minimum fireplace dimensions for the documented VFSE and VFSV models. Because the store-provided product name is VFSR, verify the exact model number on the rating plate before using these dimensions for installation planning.
| Documented Model |
A |
B |
C |
D |
| VFSE-18 |
17" |
14" |
28" |
17" |
| VFSE-24 |
23" |
14" |
30" |
18" |
| VFSE-30 |
26" |
14" |
34" |
20" |
| VFSV-16 |
18" |
11 1/2" |
24" |
18" |
| VFSV-18 |
17" |
14" |
28" |
17" |
| VFSV-24 |
23" |
14" |
30" |
18" |
| VFSV-30 |
26" |
14" |
34" |
20" |
Supplied VFSR Size, Fuel & BTU Information
The following BTU information is reproduced from the product details supplied for this VFSR listing. Because the model codes and some performance figures in the supplied product copy do not match the VFSE/VFSV model table in the manufacturer manual, confirm the exact rating plate information for the selected SKU before purchase or installation.
| Size |
Fuel |
Supplied Model Reference |
Supplied BTU Range |
| 16" |
Natural Gas |
VFSE18N |
15,750 to 22,500 BTU |
| 16" |
Propane |
VFSE18P |
17,500 to 25,000 BTU |
| 18" |
Natural Gas |
VFSE18N |
22,000 to 32,000 BTU |
| 18" |
Propane |
VFSE18P |
22,000 to 32,000 BTU |
| 24" |
Natural Gas |
VFSE24N |
25,000 to 36,000 BTU |
| 24" |
Propane |
VFSE24P |
25,000 to 36,000 BTU |
| 30" |
Natural Gas |
VFSE30N |
26,000 to 38,000 BTU |
| 30" |
Propane |
VFSE30P |
26,000 to 38,000 BTU |
Verify before ordering: The supplied VFSR product information contains model references and output figures that differ from the supplied manufacturer manual. Use the appliance rating plate and documentation for the exact SKU as the final specification source.
Manufacturer-Documented VFSE/VFSV Specifications
The supplied Installation Instructions & Owner's Manual lists the following performance specifications for the VFSE and VFSV Slope Glaze burner families. These specifications are provided for reference and should not be assumed to apply to a VFSR-labeled burner without confirming the model number.
| Documented Model |
Fuel |
Valve Type |
Maximum Input |
Minimum Input |
| VFSE-18 |
Natural Gas |
Intermittent |
32,000 BTU |
26,000 BTU |
| VFSE-18 |
Propane |
Intermittent |
32,000 BTU |
26,000 BTU |
| VFSE-24 |
Natural Gas |
Intermittent |
36,000 BTU |
28,800 BTU |
| VFSE-24 |
Propane |
Intermittent |
36,000 BTU |
28,800 BTU |
| VFSE-30 |
Natural Gas |
Intermittent |
38,000 BTU |
30,000 BTU |
| VFSE-30 |
Propane |
Intermittent |
38,000 BTU |
30,000 BTU |
| VFSV-16 |
Natural Gas |
Variable |
25,000 BTU |
18,000 BTU |
| VFSV-16 |
Propane |
Variable |
22,500 BTU |
17,000 BTU |
| VFSV-18 |
Natural Gas |
Variable |
32,000 BTU |
21,000 BTU |
| VFSV-18 |
Propane |
Variable |
32,000 BTU |
21,000 BTU |
| VFSV-24 |
Natural Gas |
Variable |
36,000 BTU |
24,000 BTU |
| VFSV-24 |
Propane |
Variable |
36,000 BTU |
24,000 BTU |
| VFSV-30 |
Natural Gas |
Variable |
38,000 BTU |
27,000 BTU |
| VFSV-30 |
Propane |
Variable |
38,000 BTU |
27,000 BTU |
Natural Gas & Propane Requirements
Select the burner configuration that matches the fuel supply at the installation location. The manufacturer manual states that the appliance is only for use with the type of gas indicated on its rating plate and is not convertible for use with another gas.
| Fuel |
Documented Inlet Pressure – Minimum |
Documented Inlet Pressure – Maximum |
| Natural Gas |
7.0" W.C. |
10.5" W.C. |
| Propane |
11.0" W.C. |
13.0" W.C. |
Do not attempt to convert fuel types. Choose the correct Natural Gas or Propane configuration before installation.
Vent-Free Combustion & Ventilation Requirements
Vent-free gas heaters use oxygen from the room in which they are installed. Adequate combustion and ventilation air must therefore be available before the system is operated in an unvented configuration.
The manufacturer manual defines a confined space as an area with less than 50 cubic feet of volume per 1,000 BTU/hour of the combined input ratings of appliances drawing combustion air from that space. Installations in confined spaces require additional provisions for combustion and ventilation air.
Buildings with unusually tight construction can also require additional fresh air. Follow the manufacturer's instructions, applicable local requirements, and the National Fuel Gas Code provisions referenced in the manual.
Carbon monoxide safety: Do not operate an unvented gas heater without the required combustion and ventilation air. The documented burner systems use an oxygen depletion sensor pilot safety system designed to shut the heater down when sufficient fresh air is unavailable.
Clearance & Fireplace Operation Requirements
- The sides of the fireplace opening must maintain the clearances specified in the manufacturer manual.
- The manufacturer manual specifies ceiling clearances based on log size.
- Required non-combustible material and mantel clearances depend on the installation configuration.
- Glass fireplace doors must remain open while the documented gas log system is operating.
- A fireplace screen must be in place during operation.
- Do not allow fans to blow directly into the fireplace because drafts can alter the flame pattern.
Clearance planning: Always use the complete manufacturer installation instructions to determine the required dimensions and clearances for the exact burner, log set, fireplace, and mantel configuration.
Installation Requirements
Gas burner installation involves fuel-supply connections, combustion-air requirements, clearances, fireplace preparation, burner positioning, log placement, and gas leak testing. Installation and service must be performed according to the manufacturer's instructions and applicable codes.
- Confirm the complete model number and fuel type before installation.
- Verify that the fireplace meets the applicable minimum dimensions.
- Prepare and clean an existing solid-fuel-burning fireplace as required.
- Secure the burner assembly to prevent movement.
- Use the damper clamp when installed as a vented decorative appliance.
- Provide adequate combustion and ventilation air for vent-free operation.
- Verify gas supply pressure and line sizing.
- Check gas connections for leaks using the procedure described in the manual.
- Install logs and ember material only in the positions specified for the compatible log set.
Professional installation required: Installation and service must be performed by a qualified installer, service agency, or gas supplier. Improper installation or modification can create fire, explosion, burn, or carbon monoxide hazards.
Flame Appearance & Ember Placement
The manufacturer documentation states that normal full-rate operation should produce groups of yellow flames after approximately 10 to 15 minutes of operation. Flame movement is intentionally random, so flame height will naturally rise and fall.
Glowing ember material should be applied lightly. Excess ember material can cause an undesirable orange or stringy flame. Lava rock is intended for decorative placement on the fireplace floor and must not be placed on the burner, logs, or rock wool.
Correct media placement matters: Do not rearrange logs, embers, or decorative media outside the positions specified for the compatible burner and log-set configuration.
Cleaning & Maintenance
The manufacturer recommends annual inspection and cleaning by a dealer or qualified service technician to help prevent malfunction and sooting.
- Turn the heater off and allow it to cool before cleaning.
- Use a soft-bristle brush or vacuum brush attachment on compatible logs.
- Remove dust and loose particles from burner areas and controls.
- Keep burner air intake openings clean.
- Inspect burner ports and the oxygen depletion sensor pilot.
- Verify correct flame pattern and log placement.
- Verify smooth ignition of the main burner.
What's Included
The original product information identifies this item as an American Hearth Slope Glaze gas burner assembly. A flue damper clamp is documented for vented installation.
| Slope Glaze Burner |
American Hearth burner assembly for the selected configuration |
| Flue Damper Clamp |
Documented for vented installation |
| Remote / Thermostat |
Requires verification because the supplied product information contains conflicting statements |
| Gas Logs |
Do not assume included unless specifically listed with the exact SKU |
| Additional Accessories |
Confirm switches, remotes, thermostats, fireplace components, and accessories before ordering |
Control package requires verification: The supplied source copy states both that a thermostat remote is included and that a remote or thermostat is not included. Confirm the exact included control package for the selected SKU before purchase.
Important Safety Information
- Keep combustible materials, gasoline, and flammable vapors away from the appliance.
- Do not place clothing, decorations, stockings, or other combustible materials on or near the fireplace.
- Children and adults should be alerted to hot surface temperatures.
- Young children must be carefully supervised when in the same room as the appliance.
- Do not operate the appliance if any part has been under water.
- Do not operate with broken or improperly positioned logs or components.
- Do not use unapproved blower inserts, heat exchanger inserts, or accessories.
- If the appliance repeatedly shuts down, provide fresh air and have the system inspected rather than repeatedly relighting it.
Gas-fireplace safety: Do not operate the burner when the required fuel supply, ventilation, clearances, log placement, fireplace preparation, or installation conditions have not been verified.
Flame Authority Expert Recommendation
Choose the American Hearth VFSR when your project requires a traditional Slope Glaze gas burner with Natural Gas or Propane options and the flexibility to support a vented or vent-free installation where permitted. It is best suited to a properly sized and approved fireplace or firebox where fuel type, combustion air, clearances, log compatibility, and installation requirements can be verified before operation.
Because the supplied store information identifies this product as VFSR while the provided manufacturer manual documents VFSE and VFSV models, confirm the exact appliance model number, rating plate, fuel configuration, control package, and applicable manufacturer specifications before purchasing or installing the burner.
Official Product Resource
Review the complete manufacturer documentation before installation, operation, troubleshooting, cleaning, or servicing.
American Hearth VFSR Gas Burner FAQs
Can the American Hearth VFSR burner be installed as both vented and vent-free?
The supplied product information identifies the VFSR as a vented/vent-free burner. Only use the configuration permitted by the exact appliance rating, fireplace, manufacturer instructions, and local code.
Can I install this gas burner in an existing wood-burning fireplace?
The supplied manufacturer documentation permits the documented Slope Glaze systems in qualifying solid-fuel-burning masonry or approved factory-built fireplaces. Do not install it where the fireplace manufacturer prohibits unvented gas logs.
Does the American Hearth VFSR include a remote control?
The supplied product copy contains conflicting statements about remote and thermostat inclusion. Confirm the exact control package for the selected SKU before ordering.
Can I convert a Natural Gas VFSR burner to Propane?
Do not convert the fuel type unless the exact manufacturer documentation specifically permits it. The supplied manual states that its documented appliances are only for the gas type shown on the rating plate and are not convertible to another gas.
Can this burner be installed vent-free in Canada?
No for the burner systems documented in the supplied manufacturer manual. The manual states that Canadian installations must be vented applications.
Does a vent-free installation require combustion and ventilation air?
Yes. Vent-free operation requires adequate combustion and ventilation air as defined by the manufacturer and applicable codes. Do not operate the heater in a space that cannot provide the required air.
Does the fireplace damper stay open when the burner is used as a vented appliance?
Yes. The supplied manual requires a damper clamp during vented installation to prevent the damper from accidentally closing.
How often should the gas burner be inspected and cleaned?
The manufacturer recommends inspection and cleaning at least annually by a qualified service technician. More frequent cleaning can be required when lint, dust, or other contaminants accumulate.
Before You Order
Confirm Before Purchase
- Complete burner model number
- Required burner size
- Natural Gas or Propane fuel type
- Vented or vent-free installation eligibility
- Fireplace dimensions and clearances
- Compatible gas-log configuration
- Controls and accessories included with the exact SKU
Do Not Assume
- That VFSE or VFSV specifications automatically apply to a VFSR-labeled burner
- That the selected fuel type can be converted later
- That every fireplace permits vent-free gas logs
- That the remote or thermostat is included
- That gas logs or additional fireplace components are included
- That vent-free operation is permitted in every jurisdiction
Final specification verification: Product specifications and installation requirements must be verified against the appliance rating plate and current manufacturer instructions. The supplied store information identifies this product as VFSR, while the provided manufacturer manual documents VFSE and VFSV Slope Glaze burner models; this page therefore preserves that distinction rather than treating the model families as interchangeable.
