Empire White Mountain Hearth Sassafras Gas Logs
Empire LS18RS 18" Sassafras Refractory Gas Log Set
The Empire LS18RS is an 18-inch, six-piece Sassafras refractory gas log set designed for compatible Empire Slope Glaze burner systems. Its hand-painted refractory construction creates a traditional wood-log appearance while allowing the burner, Natural Gas or Propane fuel configuration, ignition, controls, and vented or vent-free operating setup to be selected separately.
Model
LS18RS
Nominal Size
18"
Log Count
6 Pieces
Material
Refractory
Style
Sassafras
Burner Family
Empire Slope Glaze
Fuel
NG / LP via Burner
Burner Included
No
Important: Log Set Only — Burner Not Included
The LS18RS includes the six-piece decorative refractory log set only. A compatible 18" Empire Slope Glaze burner is required for operation and must be purchased separately.
System compatibility matters: Verify the exact burner model, Natural Gas or Propane configuration, controls, fireplace dimensions, intended vented or vent-free installation, and local requirements before ordering.
Traditional 18" Sassafras Refractory Log Presentation
The Empire LS18RS is designed for buyers who want a smaller traditional gas-log presentation while retaining flexibility over the final burner, fuel, control system, and installation type.
The set uses six individual refractory logs with hand-painted Sassafras detailing for a realistic wood-inspired appearance.
Because the LS18RS is the decorative portion of the system rather than the gas-burning appliance, it does not determine BTU output, ignition type, fuel type, gas pressure, or remote capability.
Empire LS18RS at a Glance
Brand
Empire / White Mountain Hearth
Product Type
Refractory Gas Fireplace Log Set
Finish
Hand-Painted Brown
Is the Empire LS18RS Right for Your Fireplace?
Best For
- Buyers wanting an 18" traditional Sassafras log appearance.
- Compatible 18" Empire Slope Glaze burner installations.
- Natural Gas systems using the correct NG burner.
- Propane systems using the correct LP burner.
- Manual-control burner configurations.
- Millivolt remote-ready burner configurations.
- Intermittent-pilot burner configurations.
- Variable-flame burner configurations.
- Approved vented or vent-free installations where permitted.
Do Not Choose This Log Set If
- You need a complete burner-and-log package.
- You expect the burner or controls to be included.
- Your burner is not approved for the LS18RS.
- Your fireplace cannot meet the selected burner's minimum dimensions.
- You need a different nominal log size.
- Your intended vent-free installation is prohibited locally.
- You need an unvented installation in Canada.
- You intend to rearrange or substitute the logs.
What's Included?
Included
- 1 × Empire LS18RS 18" Sassafras refractory log set
- Six manufacturer-positioned decorative logs
Required Separately
- Compatible 18" Empire Slope Glaze burner
- Correct Natural Gas or Propane burner configuration
- Applicable ignition and control components
- Gas-supply components
- Fireplace or firebox meeting the selected burner's requirements
- Installation components required for the final configuration
Compatible Empire 18" Slope Glaze Burners
The supplied product information identifies the following Empire Slope Glaze burner families for 18" installations.
| Compatible Burner |
Control / Ignition Type |
Fuel Configurations |
| VFSE18N / VFSE18P |
Intermittent Pilot with Thermostat Variable Remote Control |
Natural Gas / Propane |
| VFSM18NAT / VFSM18LP |
Manual Hi-Med-Low Control with Standing Pilot / Piezo |
Natural Gas / Propane |
| VFSR18NAT / VFSR18LP |
Millivolt, Remote Ready with Standing Pilot / Piezo |
Natural Gas / Propane |
| VFSV18NAT / VFSV18LP |
Variable Flame-Height Control |
Natural Gas / Propane |
| VSR18NAT / VSR18LP |
Vented Millivolt with On/Off Switch |
Natural Gas / Propane |
Do not treat the LS18RS as a universal 18" replacement log set. Confirm the exact burner model and installation configuration before ordering.
Natural Gas or Propane?
The LS18RS logs themselves are not fuel-specific.
Fuel type is determined by the compatible burner selected for the installation.
Natural Gas
Select the corresponding Natural Gas version of the compatible Empire Slope Glaze burner.
Propane / LP
Select the corresponding Propane version of the compatible Empire Slope Glaze burner.
Do not assume fuel conversion is permitted. The supplied burner documentation states that the appliance is for use only with the gas type indicated on its rating plate and is not convertible for other gases.
Compatible Burner Heat Output
The LS18RS logs do not have an independent BTU rating.
Heat input is determined by the selected 18" Slope Glaze burner.
| 18" Burner |
Fuel |
Maximum Input |
Minimum Input |
| VFSE-18 |
Natural Gas |
32,000 BTU/hr |
26,000 BTU/hr |
| VFSE-18 |
Propane |
32,000 BTU/hr |
26,000 BTU/hr |
| VFSV-18 |
Natural Gas |
32,000 BTU/hr |
21,000 BTU/hr |
| VFSV-18 |
Propane |
32,000 BTU/hr |
21,000 BTU/hr |
| VFSR-18 |
Natural Gas |
32,000 BTU/hr |
22,000 BTU/hr |
| VFSR-18 |
Propane |
32,000 BTU/hr |
22,000 BTU/hr |
| VFSM-18 |
Natural Gas |
32,000 BTU/hr |
22,000 BTU/hr |
| VFSM-18 |
Propane |
32,000 BTU/hr |
22,000 BTU/hr |
Manual VFSM-18 setting: The supplied information also identifies a 27,000 BTU/hr medium setting between the manual burner's maximum and minimum rates.
Vented vs. Vent-Free Installation
Vent-Free Configuration
- Use a compatible vent-free Empire Slope Glaze burner.
- Provide adequate combustion and ventilation air.
- Meet all fireplace, mantel, wall, ceiling, and floor clearances.
- Follow the prescribed log arrangement.
- Confirm local vent-free requirements before installation.
Vented Configuration
- Use a compatible vented burner such as the applicable VSR configuration.
- Maintain an operating fireplace flue.
- Follow required damper-position instructions.
- Install a damper clamp where specified.
- Follow the applicable vented burner manual.
Installation type depends on the burner. The decorative LS18RS logs alone do not determine whether the completed system is vented or vent-free.
Canadian Installation Restriction
Vent-free installation is not permitted in Canada for this Sassafras configuration.
The supplied manufacturer Sassafras documentation states that Canadian installations are limited to an approved vented application.
Fireplace & Firebox Compatibility
Do not determine compatibility from the 18-inch nominal log length alone.
Minimum fireplace dimensions depend on the exact burner installed with the LS18RS.
For example, manufacturer documentation lists the following minimum firebox dimensions for the 18" VFSE-18 and VFSV-18 burner configurations:
| Minimum Front Width |
28" |
| Minimum Rear Width |
17" |
| Minimum Depth |
14" |
| Minimum Height |
17" |
These are burner-specific examples. They do not automatically apply to every burner that may be used with the LS18RS.
Example Clearance Requirements for VFSE-18 / VFSV-18
Combustible Side Walls
At least 6" from the sides of the fireplace opening for the documented configurations.
Ceiling Clearance
At least 41" above the fireplace opening for the documented 18", 24", and 30" log installations.
Additional Clearances
Mantel, floor, firebox, and other combustible clearances also apply according to the exact burner manual.
Do not use these as universal LS18RS clearances. Always follow the clearance diagrams for the exact burner being installed.
Correct LS18RS Log Placement
Correct log positioning is essential to the intended burner flame pattern and cleaner operation.
- Place the left rear log on the designated left rear support pin.
- Place the right rear log on the designated right rear support pin.
- Install the left front log on the designated front burner pins.
- Install the right front log on its designated burner pins.
- Position the left top log in the prescribed recess between the left rear and left front logs.
- Position the right top log in its designated location.
- Compare the completed arrangement with the manufacturer illustration before operation.
Do not rearrange the logs for appearance. Incorrect log positioning can contribute to poor flame characteristics, improper combustion, and sooting.
Important Installation & Operating Requirements
Qualified Installation
Gas piping, connection, testing, repair, and servicing should be completed by qualified personnel.
Combustion Air
Vent-free burners require adequate combustion and ventilation air.
Glass Doors
Manufacturer instructions require fireplace glass doors to remain open during operation.
Avoid Direct Drafts
Do not allow fans to blow directly into the fireplace or disturb the flame pattern.
Do Not Alter Logs
Do not add unauthorized logs or reposition the manufacturer-specified pieces.
Prepare Existing Fireplaces
Existing wood-burning fireplaces and chimney flues should be cleaned of soot, creosote, ashes, and loose paint before installation.
Maintenance & Inspection
A completed gas-log system using the LS18RS should not be considered maintenance-free.
- Keep burner openings free of dust and debris.
- Keep controls and air passages clean.
- Inspect the log arrangement periodically.
- Correct any shifted logs before operating the burner.
- Follow the maintenance requirements for the exact burner model.
- Use qualified service personnel for gas-system repairs or servicing.
Complete Empire LS18RS Specifications
| Brand |
Empire / White Mountain Hearth |
| Model |
LS18RS |
| Product Type |
Refractory Gas Fireplace Log Set |
| Collection / Log Style |
Sassafras |
| Nominal Size |
18" |
| Number of Logs |
6 Pieces |
| Construction |
Refractory |
| Finish |
Hand-Painted |
| Color |
Brown |
| Compatible Burner System |
Empire 18" Slope Glaze Burner System |
| Fuel Compatibility |
Natural Gas or Propane, Depending on Selected Burner |
| Burner Included |
No |
| Burner Required |
Yes |
| Controls |
Determined by Selected Burner |
| Ignition |
Determined by Selected Burner |
| BTU Input |
Determined by Selected Burner |
| Documented Maximum 18" Burner Input |
Up to 32,000 BTU/hr |
| Installation Type |
Vented or Vent-Free Depending on Burner, Installation, and Applicable Codes |
| Log Placement |
Manufacturer-Prescribed Six-Piece Arrangement |
| Example VFSE/VFSV Minimum Front Width |
28" |
| Example VFSE/VFSV Minimum Rear Width |
17" |
| Example VFSE/VFSV Minimum Depth |
14" |
| Example VFSE/VFSV Minimum Height |
17" |
| Example Side-Wall Clearance |
6" for Documented VFSE/VFSV Configuration |
| Example Ceiling Clearance |
41" Above Fireplace Opening for Documented Configuration |
| Canadian Vent-Free Installation |
Not Permitted |
Flame Authority Expert Recommendation
Choose the Empire LS18RS when you specifically want an 18" six-piece Sassafras refractory log presentation and already have or plan to purchase a compatible 18" Empire Slope Glaze burner.
The most important purchasing decision is the complete system configuration. Confirm the exact burner model, Natural Gas or Propane fuel, control and ignition type, BTU range, fireplace dimensions, required clearances, and vented or vent-free installation before ordering.
For vent-free installations, verify combustion-air requirements and local code acceptance. For Canadian installations, use only an approved vented configuration.
Official Manufacturer Resources
Empire LS18RS FAQs
What is included with the Empire LS18RS?
The LS18RS includes the 18-inch six-piece Sassafras refractory log set only. A compatible gas burner is required and is not included.
Does the Empire LS18RS include a burner?
No. The LS18RS is a log-set-only product and must be paired with a compatible 18" Empire Slope Glaze burner.
How many logs are included?
The LS18RS uses a six-piece refractory log configuration.
Which burners are compatible with the LS18RS?
The supplied information identifies compatible 18" burner families including VFSE18, VFSM18, VFSR18, VFSV18, and VSR18. Verify the exact burner model and fuel before ordering.
Can the LS18RS be used with Natural Gas?
Yes, when paired with a compatible Natural Gas burner. The logs themselves are not fuel-specific.
Can the LS18RS be used with Propane?
Yes, when paired with a compatible Propane burner.
Can an Empire Slope Glaze burner be converted between Natural Gas and Propane?
Do not assume conversion is permitted. The supplied burner documentation states that the appliance is for use only with the gas type shown on its rating plate and is not convertible for other gases.
How many BTUs does the LS18RS produce?
The LS18RS does not have an independent BTU rating. Compatible 18" burner configurations documented in the supplied information can be rated up to 32,000 BTU/hr.
Can the LS18RS be installed vent-free?
Yes, where permitted, when used with a compatible vent-free burner and installed with the required combustion air, clearances, and manufacturer requirements.
Can the LS18RS be used as a vented gas log set?
Yes, when paired with appropriate vented burner equipment and installed according to the applicable vented instructions.
Can the LS18RS be installed vent-free in Canada?
No. The manufacturer's Sassafras documentation limits Canadian installations to an approved vented application.
Will the LS18RS fit any fireplace that is at least 18" wide?
No. The 18" designation is the nominal log size. Firebox requirements depend on the selected burner.
What example firebox size is required for VFSE-18 and VFSV-18 burners?
The supplied manufacturer information lists 28" front width × 17" rear width × 14" depth × 17" height as the minimum for those documented configurations.
Can the LS18RS be used in any vent-free firebox?
No. The fireplace or firebox must meet the requirements of the selected burner and the fireplace manufacturer.
Can I rearrange the Sassafras logs?
No. Use the manufacturer-prescribed log arrangement because incorrect positioning can affect burner operation and contribute to sooting.
Should fireplace glass doors stay open?
Yes. The supplied manufacturer instructions require fireplace glass doors to remain open during operation.
Can I run a ceiling fan while the gas logs are burning?
Do not allow a fan to blow directly into the fireplace or disturb the burner flame pattern. Redirect or turn off a fan that causes flame disturbance.
Does the LS18RS system require maintenance?
Yes. Burner, control, and air-passage areas should be inspected and kept clean according to the applicable burner instructions.
Does the LS18RS require professional installation?
Gas piping, installation, testing, repair, and servicing should be completed by a qualified installer or service agency according to the manufacturer instructions and applicable codes.
What should I confirm before ordering?
Confirm the compatible 18" burner, correct Natural Gas or Propane configuration, fireplace dimensions, control type, and permitted vented or vent-free installation. Remember that the burner is not included.
Before You Order
Confirm Before Purchase
- You specifically need the Empire LS18RS.
- You want the 18" six-piece Sassafras refractory configuration.
- You have identified a compatible 18" Empire Slope Glaze burner.
- You have confirmed Natural Gas or Propane fuel.
- You have selected the correct ignition and control configuration.
- You have confirmed vented or vent-free installation requirements.
- Your fireplace meets the selected burner's minimum dimensions.
- You can meet all required combustible clearances.
- You can provide adequate combustion and ventilation air for vent-free use.
- You will follow the manufacturer-prescribed six-log arrangement.
- You understand that the burner and controls are sold separately.
Do Not Assume
- That the burner is included.
- That every 18" burner is compatible.
- That the logs determine fuel type.
- That the LS18RS has its own BTU rating.
- That Natural Gas and Propane burner versions are interchangeable.
- That vented and vent-free installation requirements are identical.
- That an 18" nominal log size guarantees fireplace fit.
- That vent-free installation is allowed in every jurisdiction.
- That vent-free installation is permitted in Canada.
- That logs can be rearranged without affecting operation.
Final planning check: Use the Sassafras installation manual and the installation manual for the exact selected Empire Slope Glaze burner to verify burner compatibility, fuel type, control system, BTU input, fireplace dimensions, combustion air, clearances, log placement, vented or vent-free configuration, and applicable local requirements before installation.
