Empire White Mountain Hearth Breckenridge Deluxe Firebox
Empire White Mountain Hearth Breckenridge 36" Deluxe Vent-Free Firebox VFD36FB
The Empire White Mountain Hearth Breckenridge VFD36FB is a 36-inch deluxe vent-free firebox enclosure designed to create a built-in fireplace installation around an approved vent-free gas log heater. Its universal firebox design provides a flexible foundation for a custom fireplace project without requiring the conventional chimney or venting system associated with a vented fireplace.
Model
VFD36FB
Nominal Size
36"
Product Type
Vent-Free Firebox
Max Heater Input
40,000 BTU/h
Opening
36" W × 24 1/4" H
Framing
40 1/2" W × 35 3/4" H
Gas Line
3/8"
Burner / Logs Included
No
Important: Firebox Enclosure Only
The VFD36FB does not include a gas burner, gas log heater, or decorative log set. A compatible approved vent-free gas burner/log heater and log set are required separately.
Maximum heater input:
The installed listed gas-fired unvented decorative room heater must not exceed 40,000 BTU/h and must satisfy its own fireplace-size and installation requirements.
What Is the Breckenridge VFD36FB?
The VFD36FB is the structural fireplace enclosure used to build a vent-free gas-log fireplace installation. It is not itself the gas-burning appliance.
Empire designed the firebox for use with an approved ANSI Z21.11.2 vent-free gas log heater. The burner, fuel type, controls, BTU input, and decorative log style are determined by the separately selected heater system.
This separation gives homeowners, builders, designers, and installers more flexibility when choosing the finished gas-log system and decorative accessories.
Empire VFD36FB at a Glance
Brand
Empire White Mountain Hearth
Series
Breckenridge Deluxe
Heater Standard
Approved ANSI Z21.11.2 Vent-Free Gas Log Heater
Maximum Heater Input
40,000 BTU/h
Junction Box
Factory Installed
Standard Hood
Matte Black
Is the VFD36FB Right for Your Project?
Best For
- Built-in vent-free fireplace installations.
- Projects using an approved vent-free gas log heater.
- Homeowners wanting to select the burner and log system separately.
- Custom framed fireplace walls and surrounds.
- Projects using optional brick liners or decorative trim.
- Installations planning an optional blower.
- Projects where an optional fresh-air kit will be incorporated during framing.
Choose Another Product If
- You need a complete operating fireplace with burner and logs included.
- You intend to burn wood.
- Your selected gas heater exceeds 40,000 BTU/h.
- Your selected heater does not meet its own minimum fireplace requirements inside the VFD36FB.
- You need a conventional vented wood-burning fireplace.
- Your installation cannot meet Empire's framing and clearance requirements.
What's Included?
Included With the Firebox
- Empire Breckenridge VFD36FB 36" Deluxe Vent-Free Firebox
- Factory-installed junction box assembly
- Standard black hood
- Firebox screens
- Applicable factory-installed components
Required Separately
- Compatible approved vent-free gas burner/log heater
- Compatible decorative gas log set
- Correct gas supply
- Gas piping and shutoff components
- Any optional blower, liner, frame, fresh-air, mantel, hood, or trim accessories desired
The hood is required for operation.
The supplied black hood or an approved optional hood must be installed before the firebox is operated.
Compatible Vent-Free Gas Log Heater Requirements
Empire specifies use of a listed gas-fired unvented decorative room heater conforming to the applicable ANSI Z21.11.2 standard.
Maximum Input
The installed heater must not exceed 40,000 BTU/h.
Firebox Fit
The VFD36FB must meet the minimum fireplace dimensions required by the selected burner/log heater.
Do not choose by nominal width alone.
A heater marketed as 18", 24", or 30" may still have minimum front width, rear width, depth, and height requirements that must fit inside the VFD36FB.
Framing Dimensions
Correct rough framing is essential before cabinetry, wallboard, masonry, or a finished surround is installed.
| Framing Height |
35 3/4" |
| Framing Width |
40 1/2" |
| Framing Depth |
18 3/4" |
| Firebox Opening Height |
24 1/4" |
| Firebox Opening Width |
36" |
Flush mantel base planning:
Empire specifies adding 3 3/4" to the framing-height dimension when using a flush mantel base.
Outer & Inner Firebox Dimensions
| Dimension |
Measurement |
| Outer Firebox Height |
35" |
| Outer Firebox Width |
40" |
| Outer Firebox Depth |
19" |
| Front Opening Width |
36" |
| Front Opening Height |
24 1/4" |
| Inner Width Without Brick |
36" |
| Inner Rear Width Without Brick |
29 3/16" |
| Inner Depth Without Brick |
16 1/2" |
| Inner Width With Brick |
34 5/16" |
| Inner Rear Width With Brick |
28" |
| Inner Depth With Brick |
15 3/4" |
Liners affect usable space.
Brick-liner installation reduces the internal dimensions available to the selected burner and log heater. Always verify compatibility using the configuration that will actually be installed.
Zero-Clearance: What It Really Means
The VFD36FB is often described as a zero-clearance firebox, but that does not mean combustible material may touch every part of the completed fireplace installation.
Outer Sides
The outer casing side flanges allow zero clearance to combustibles when installed according to Empire's requirements.
Outer Back
The outer casing back may also be positioned according to the manufacturer's zero-clearance provisions.
Finished Fireplace
Separate requirements still apply to the top, sidewall, mantel, ceiling, front opening, and facing materials.
Important Installation Clearances
| Area |
Requirement |
| Perpendicular Combustible Sidewall |
Minimum 6" from the inside of the firebox |
| Top Finishing Clearance |
3/4" clearance for combustible finishing material at the top of the unit |
| Front Clearance |
Minimum 36" in front of the firebox |
| Ceiling Above Hood |
Not less than 42" from the top of the hood |
| Minimum Ceiling-to-Floor Dimension |
84" per the manufacturer's clearance diagram |
| Grate to Front Edge |
Minimum 2" between the grate front legs and front edge of firebox |
Use the manufacturer diagrams for final layout.
Mantel projection and other combustible-clearance requirements depend on the exact finished installation.
Hood & Surround Requirements
The supplied black hood, or another approved hood, must be installed before operation.
If the non-combustible facing material is more than 1 inch thick, Empire provides an extended-hood option that projects approximately two inches farther into the room.
- Seal joints where facing material meets the firebox surround using suitable non-combustible material.
- Follow all mantel and facing clearances.
- Plan thicker stone, tile, or masonry finishes before ordering the hood.
- Empire recommends a hearth extension, although the supplied information states it is not required for these fireboxes.
Can the VFD36FB Be Installed on a Combustible Surface?
The firebox may be installed on an appropriate flat combustible or non-combustible surface when all installation requirements are satisfied.
Carpet, tile, or combustible material other than wood flooring:
Use a metal or wood panel extending the full width and depth of the unit as specified by the manufacturer.
Gas Line Planning
The VFD36FB is designed to accept a 3/8-inch gas line for the separately selected approved vent-free gas log heater.
- Plan gas access before finishing the enclosure.
- Install a gas shutoff in the supply line.
- Match the gas supply to the separately selected burner/heater.
- Do not use a gas heater configured for the wrong fuel.
- Gas piping and appliance connections should be completed by qualified personnel.
Propane installations:
Follow the selected heater's propane-regulator requirements. Do not connect an applicable gas-log system directly to an unregulated propane tank.
Optional FBB5 Blower
The Breckenridge Deluxe VFD36FB supports the optional FBB5 single-speed blower to provide forced airflow around the fireplace enclosure.
FBB5 Blower
Optional single-speed blower for compatible Deluxe firebox installations.
SCV-1 Control
Optional wall-mounted variable-speed control designed for use with the FBB5 blower.
Factory-Installed Junction Box
A factory-installed junction box is located on the lower right side of the firebox to support compatible electrical accessories.
Plan electrical work during installation.
If a blower will be used, Empire specifies that the junction box should be pre-wired while the firebox is being installed. Electrical work should be completed by a qualified electrician in accordance with applicable codes.
Optional VFA2 Fresh Air Kit
The optional VFA2 Fresh Air Kit can introduce outside air to compatible VFD32, VFD36, and VFD42 installations.
Fresh-air planning must happen early.
The VFA2 must be installed before or while the firebox is being installed into the framing and before wallboard or other finishing materials are installed around the unit.
Additional restrictions apply to certain liner configurations, so confirm compatibility before ordering the fresh-air kit.
Optional Accessories & Customization
Brick Liners
Optional liners can create a more traditional masonry-style interior.
3-Piece Frame Kits
Decorative frame kits are available in multiple finishes depending on configuration.
Decorative Hoods
Optional hood styles allow the upper fireplace opening to be customized.
Extended Hoods
Useful where thicker non-combustible facing materials require additional projection.
Decorative Louvers
Manufacturer-documented designs include Slat, Mission, Arch, and Leaf patterns.
Doors & Trim
Decorative door, bottom trim, and frame options can tailor the finished appearance.
Accessory compatibility varies.
Verify every accessory against the exact VFD36FB configuration and liner/finish selection before ordering.
Complete VFD36FB Specifications
| Manufacturer |
Empire Comfort Systems / White Mountain Hearth |
| Series |
Breckenridge Deluxe |
| Model |
VFD36FB |
| Nominal Size |
36" |
| Product Type |
Universal Vent-Free Firebox |
| Venting |
Vent-Free |
| Required Heater Standard |
Approved ANSI Z21.11.2 Vent-Free Gas Log Heater |
| Maximum Vent-Free Heater Input |
40,000 BTU/h |
| Framing Height |
35 3/4" |
| Framing Width |
40 1/2" |
| Framing Depth |
18 3/4" |
| Opening Height |
24 1/4" |
| Opening Width |
36" |
| Outer Firebox Height |
35" |
| Outer Firebox Width |
40" |
| Outer Firebox Depth |
19" |
| Inner Width Without Brick |
36" |
| Inner Rear Width Without Brick |
29 3/16" |
| Inner Depth Without Brick |
16 1/2" |
| Inner Width With Brick |
34 5/16" |
| Inner Rear Width With Brick |
28" |
| Inner Depth With Brick |
15 3/4" |
| Gas Line |
Designed to Accept 3/8" Gas Line |
| Optional Blower |
FBB5 |
| Optional Variable-Speed Control |
SCV-1 |
| Optional Fresh Air Kit |
VFA2 |
| Burner / Log Set Included |
No |
| Standard Hood |
Matte Black |
| Junction Box |
Factory Installed |
| Original Listed Weight |
96 lb / 150 lb With Refractory Liner |
Warranty Information
Combustion Chamber & Heat Exchanger
Limited Lifetime Parts Warranty with a Five-Year Limited Labor Warranty, subject to manufacturer terms.
Other Covered Components
Limited Five-Year Parts and Labor Warranty, excluding the separately identified categories below.
Accessories & Replacement Parts
Remote controls, thermostats, accessories, and replacement parts carry a Limited One-Year Parts Warranty, subject to manufacturer terms.
Flame Authority Expert Recommendation
Choose the Empire White Mountain Hearth Breckenridge VFD36FB when you want a built-in 36" vent-free fireplace enclosure and prefer to select the burner, gas-log heater, log style, liner, blower, mantel, and decorative accessories separately.
The most important planning step is verifying that the selected gas-log heater actually fits inside the finished VFD36FB configuration. Brick liners reduce usable internal dimensions, so compatibility should be checked using the final liner and burner combination rather than nominal firebox width alone.
Before ordering, verify the framing dimensions, heater BTU input, heater minimum fireplace size, gas supply, clearances, hood selection, liner configuration, blower wiring, fresh-air-kit planning, mantel design, and applicable local requirements.
Official Manufacturer Resources
Breckenridge Product Brochure
Manufacturer overview of Breckenridge fireboxes, configurations, options, accessories, and design choices.
Empire Mantels Brochure
Manufacturer information for compatible mantel styles, dimensions, and planning.
Full Cabinet Mantel Assembly Instructions
Manufacturer assembly reference for applicable full-cabinet mantel installations.
Deluxe Firebox Installation Instructions & Owner's Manual
Primary manufacturer resource for VFD firebox installation, framing, clearances, gas access, hood requirements, accessories, operation, and warranty.
VFA2 Fresh Air Kit Installation Instructions
Manufacturer planning and installation requirements for the optional fresh-air system.
Junction Box Installation Instructions
Manufacturer electrical preparation and junction-box installation reference.
Breckenridge Firebox Sizing Guide
Manufacturer sizing reference for Breckenridge firebox dimensions and planning.
VFD36FB Specification Sheet
Model-specific architectural drawing and dimension reference for the VFD36FB.
Empire VFD36FB FAQs
Does the Empire VFD36FB include the burner and gas logs?
No. The VFD36FB is the firebox enclosure only. A compatible approved vent-free gas burner/log heater and decorative log set are required separately.
Does the Empire VFD36FB require a chimney?
No conventional chimney or flue is used when the firebox is installed with an approved vent-free gas-log heater. The complete installation must still meet all applicable heater and code requirements.
What are the VFD36FB framing dimensions?
Empire specifies 35 3/4" H × 40 1/2" W × 18 3/4" D.
How wide is the VFD36FB opening?
The front opening is 36" wide × 24 1/4" high.
What is the maximum heater input allowed in the VFD36FB?
The installed listed gas-fired unvented decorative room heater must not exceed 40,000 BTU/h.
What heater standard is required?
Empire specifies an approved ANSI Z21.11.2 vent-free gas log heater.
Is the VFD36FB a zero-clearance firebox?
The outer casing sides and back have zero-clearance provisions when installed according to Empire's instructions, but separate sidewall, top, mantel, ceiling, front, and finishing clearances still apply.
How much combustible sidewall clearance is required?
Maintain at least 6" between the inside of the firebox and a perpendicular combustible sidewall.
Does the black hood have to be installed?
Yes. The supplied black hood or an approved optional hood must be installed before the firebox is operated.
When is an extended hood required?
An appropriate extended hood should be used when non-combustible facing material is more than 1" thick.
Can I add a blower?
Yes. Empire documents the optional FBB5 blower, with the SCV-1 variable-speed wall control available for use with it.
Does the VFD36FB include a junction box?
Yes. A factory-installed junction box is provided on the lower right side of the firebox.
Can the VFD36FB use the VFA2 Fresh Air Kit?
Yes, in compatible configurations. The VFA2 is listed for compatible VFD32, VFD36, and VFD42 firebox-series installations.
Can the VFA2 be added after the fireplace is finished?
No. Empire specifies that it must be installed before or during firebox installation and before wallboard or other finishing materials are installed.
What size gas line does the VFD36FB accept?
The firebox is designed to accept a 3/8" gas line for the approved vent-free gas-log heater.
Can the VFD36FB be installed with a mantel?
Yes. Mantel installations are supported when all framing, hood, mantel, and combustible-clearance requirements are satisfied.
How does a brick liner affect the firebox size?
A brick liner reduces the usable interior. The documented inner width changes from 36" without brick to 34 5/16" with brick, while rear width and depth are also reduced.
Can the VFD36FB be installed directly on a combustible surface?
It may be installed on an appropriate flat combustible or non-combustible surface. If installed over carpet, tile, or combustible material other than wood flooring, use the full-width and full-depth panel required by the manufacturer.
Can I burn wood in the VFD36FB?
No. The VFD36FB is designed for an approved vent-free gas-log heater and is not a wood-burning firebox.
Does the VFD36FB determine Natural Gas or Propane fuel type?
No. Fuel type is determined by the separately selected gas-log heater. Use only the gas type specified for that heater.
Does the VFD36FB require professional installation?
Yes. Firebox installation, gas piping, electrical work, and service should be completed by qualified personnel according to the manufacturer instructions and applicable codes.
What should I verify before ordering the VFD36FB?
Confirm the framing opening, gas-log heater compatibility, heater BTU input, liner configuration, gas type, required clearances, hood, mantel, blower, fresh-air kit, electrical preparation, and applicable local installation requirements.
Before You Order
Confirm Before Purchase
- You specifically need the Empire VFD36FB.
- You want a 36" Breckenridge Deluxe vent-free firebox.
- You understand this is the enclosure only.
- Your selected heater conforms to the required vent-free standard.
- Your heater does not exceed 40,000 BTU/h.
- Your selected burner/log system fits the finished internal dimensions.
- Your framing can accommodate 35 3/4" H × 40 1/2" W × 18 3/4" D.
- You have planned the liner before checking burner compatibility.
- You can maintain all sidewall, ceiling, mantel, and front clearances.
- You have selected the correct hood for the facing thickness.
- You have planned gas access before finishing.
- You have planned electrical wiring if the blower will be used.
- You have planned the VFA2 before closing the wall if it will be used.
Do Not Assume
- That the burner and logs are included.
- That the firebox itself produces 40,000 BTU/h.
- That any heater under 40,000 BTU/h will automatically fit.
- That nominal 36" width alone determines burner compatibility.
- That brick liners do not affect usable interior dimensions.
- That zero clearance applies to every part of the finished installation.
- That the hood is optional.
- That a fresh-air kit can always be added after the wall is finished.
- That the firebox determines whether the heater uses Natural Gas or Propane.
- That wood may be burned in this firebox.
Final planning check:
Use the VFD36FB installation manual, sizing guide, specification drawing, and the installation manual for the separately selected gas-log heater to verify framing, internal dimensions, liner effects, heater BTU input, heater minimum fireplace size, clearances, hood requirements, gas access, optional blower wiring, fresh-air-kit planning, mantel configuration, and applicable local codes before construction or installation.
