Empire White Mountain Hearth Breckenridge Select
Empire White Mountain Hearth Breckenridge Select 42" Vent-Free Firebox VFS42FB0F
The Empire White Mountain Hearth Breckenridge Select VFS42FB0F is a 42-inch single-sided vent-free firebox enclosure designed to create a spacious built-in indoor fireplace presentation without a conventional chimney or vent system. Its Select-series design combines a tall, deep firebox stage with a low-profile face and no lower louvers, helping create the appearance of a site-built fireplace while allowing installation at or near floor level when all manufacturer requirements are satisfied.
Model
VFS42FB0F
Series
Breckenridge Select
Nominal Size
42"
Application
Indoor
Max Heater Input
40,000 BTU/h
Framing
44 3/8" W × 38 7/8" H
Gas Connection
3/8"
Burner / Logs Included
No
Important: Firebox Enclosure Only
The VFS42FB0F does not include the gas burner or decorative log set required to create an operating fireplace. A compatible certified vent-free burner and log set must be purchased separately.
Maximum compatible heater input:
Empire specifies a listed gas-fired unvented decorative room heater not exceeding 40,000 BTU/h.
What Is the Breckenridge Select VFS42FB0F?
The VFS42FB0F is the structural enclosure that creates the finished fireplace opening and houses a separately selected certified vent-free burner and log set.
The Select design distinguishes this model from more traditional louvered fireboxes. Its low-profile upper and lower face, absence of lower louvers, and deeper interior allow the burner and logs to become the visual focus.
Because the heat source is selected separately, buyers can match the firebox with an appropriate burner system based on fuel type, BTU input, control system, log appearance, and required fireplace dimensions.
Empire VFS42FB0F at a Glance
Brand
Empire White Mountain Hearth
Series
Breckenridge Select
Firebox Type
Universal Vent-Free Firebox
Configuration
Single-Sided
Installation
Zero-Clearance Certified
Maximum Heater Input
40,000 BTU/h
Why Choose the Breckenridge Select 42" Firebox?
Large 42" Presentation
Creates a broad fireplace opening suited to larger rooms and feature-wall installations.
Tall, Deep Firebox Stage
Provides substantial interior space for a properly sized compatible burner and log presentation.
No Lower Louvers
The Select design minimizes visible mechanical styling and supports a cleaner built-in appearance.
Floor-Level Potential
The no-louver design allows installation at or near floor level when the complete installation meets Empire's requirements.
Recirculating Design
Supports an optional blower to help circulate warm air back into the room.
Customizable Interior
Compatible liners, frames, hoods, accent lighting, blower options, and finishing accessories allow a tailored appearance.
Is the VFS42FB0F Right for Your Project?
Best For
- Large 42" indoor vent-free fireplace projects.
- Single-sided built-in fireplace installations.
- Projects using a separately selected vent-free burner and log set.
- Homeowners wanting the low-profile Breckenridge Select appearance.
- Fireplace designs without lower louvers.
- Installations at or near floor level where manufacturer requirements permit.
- Projects using optional decorative liners or finishing accessories.
- Installations planning an optional FBB5 blower.
Choose Another Fireplace Solution If
- You need the burner and log set included in one complete appliance.
- You need a direct-vent or B-vent fireplace.
- You intend to burn wood.
- Your selected vent-free heater exceeds 40,000 BTU/h.
- Your selected burner requires more interior space than this firebox provides.
- Your framing cannot accommodate the required opening.
- Your installation cannot satisfy combustion-air, clearance, or code requirements.
What's Included?
Included With the Firebox
- Empire Breckenridge Select VFS42FB0F firebox enclosure
- Factory-installed junction box assembly
- Receptacle and junction box cover
- Standard hood
- Screen curtains
- Hearth ledge components
- Firebox face assembly
Required Separately
- Compatible certified vent-free gas burner
- Compatible log set or approved burner/media configuration
- Correct gas supply
- Gas connection components
- Installation materials required for the specific application
Burner & Log Set Compatibility
Empire specifies use of an approved ANSI Z21.11.2 vent-free burner and log set in the VFS42FB0F.
Maximum Heater Input
The installed gas-fired unvented decorative room heater must not exceed 40,000 BTU/h.
Minimum Fireplace Size
The selected burner and log system must fit within the VFS42FB0F's usable internal dimensions and meet its own minimum fireplace requirements.
Do not choose a burner or log set by nominal width alone.
A product marketed as a 30" or 42" system can still have specific front-width, rear-width, height, depth, clearance, and installation requirements.
VFS42FB0F Framing Dimensions
| Framing Height |
38 7/8" |
| Framing Width |
44 3/8" |
| Framing Depth |
23 3/8" |
Flush mantel base:
When using a flush mantel base, Empire instructs installers to add 3 3/4" to the framing-height dimension.
Outer Firebox Dimensions
| Outer Height |
38 1/16" |
| Outer Width |
43 1/4" |
| Outer Depth |
23 3/16" |
Usable Interior Dimensions Without Brick Liner
| Inner Front Width |
40" |
| Inner Rear Width |
32 1/2" |
| Inner Depth |
18 1/8" |
| Inner Front Height |
31 1/2" |
| Inner Rear Height |
29 1/8" |
Compatibility planning:
Use these usable interior dimensions when evaluating the separately selected burner and log system.
Complete VFS42FB0F Specifications
| Brand |
Empire White Mountain Hearth |
| Series |
Breckenridge Select |
| Model |
VFS42FB0F |
| Product Type |
Universal Vent-Free Firebox |
| Nominal Size |
42" |
| Configuration |
Single-Sided |
| Vent Type |
Vent-Free |
| Application |
Indoor |
| Burner Included |
No |
| Log Set Included |
No |
| Maximum Heater Input |
40,000 BTU/h |
| Gas Connection |
3/8" |
| Framing Height |
38 7/8" |
| Framing Width |
44 3/8" |
| Framing Depth |
23 3/8" |
| Inner Front Width Without Brick |
40" |
| Inner Rear Width Without Brick |
32 1/2" |
| Inner Depth Without Brick |
18 1/8" |
| Inner Rear Height Without Brick |
29 1/8" |
| Inner Front Height |
31 1/2" |
| Outer Firebox Height |
38 1/16" |
| Outer Firebox Width |
43 1/4" |
| Outer Firebox Depth |
23 3/16" |
| Zero-Clearance Certified |
Yes |
| Standard Hood |
Included |
| Junction Box |
Factory Installed |
| Optional Blower |
FBB5 |
| Country of Manufacture |
Made in USA |
Dimension Note: Manufacturer literature states that dimensions may be approximate and specifications may change. Always follow the current owner's manual and architectural drawing for final installation.
Installation Surface Options
The VFS42FB0F may be installed according to Empire's instructions on:
- A flat hard combustible surface
- A noncombustible surface
- An appropriately constructed raised platform
- A recessed floor installation where shown by the manufacturer
- Another manufacturer-approved supporting configuration
Carpet, tile, or combustible material other than wood flooring:
Empire requires installation on a metal or wood panel extending the full width and depth of the firebox.
Installation & Clearance Requirements
| Area |
Requirement |
| Front Clearance |
36" minimum |
| Perpendicular Combustible Sidewall |
6" minimum from the inside of the firebox |
| Minimum Ceiling Height |
84" from the bottom of the firebox |
| Gas Connection |
3/8" |
| Gas Access |
Provided on both sides of the firebox |
| Hood |
Supplied or approved optional hood required before operation |
| Screen |
Firebox screen must be in place during operation |
Do not obstruct airflow.
The front opening, combustion-air passages, and ventilation airflow must remain unobstructed.
Hood & Surround Requirements
The standard hood supplied with the VFS42FB0F must be installed before operation.
Standard Facing
Use the supplied hood according to Empire's installation instructions.
Facing Over 1" Thick
An appropriate extended hood should be used. Empire states that the extended design projects approximately 2" farther into the room.
All joints between wall or decorative facing material and the firebox surround should be sealed according to the installation instructions.
Empire recommends a hearth extension, although the supplied content states that it is not required for these fireboxes.
Gas Line Planning
The VFS42FB0F is designed to accept a 3/8-inch gas line for the separately installed vent-free burner system.
- Gas-access openings are provided on both sides of the firebox.
- Plan the gas supply before the surrounding wall is finished.
- Match the gas supply to the exact burner selected.
- Gas piping and appliance connection should be completed by qualified personnel.
- Follow applicable gas codes and the burner manufacturer's pressure requirements.
Optional FBB5 Blower
The VFS42FB0F supports the optional FBB5 single-speed blower to help circulate heated air back into the room.
FBB5 Blower
Optional forced-air circulation accessory for compatible Breckenridge Select installations.
SCV-1 Control
Optional wall-mounted variable-speed control for use with the FBB5 blower.
The FBB5 uses a heat-activated control so the blower begins operating as the firebox warms and shuts off as the firebox cools.
Factory-Installed Junction Box
A factory-installed junction box assembly and receptacle are included with the VFS42FB0F.
Electrical preparation for the blower, accent-light kit, or other approved electrical accessories must follow Empire's wiring instructions and applicable electrical requirements.
Optional LK3 Accent Light Kit
The supplied LK3 documentation identifies Empire's LK3 Accent Light Kit for designated Premium and Select vent-free firebox models, including specified 42" VFS configurations.
Interior Illumination
The light mounts at the top of the firebox and can illuminate the interior and log presentation.
Burner-Off Ambiance
The lighting can provide visual interest even when the burner itself is not operating.
Verify exact model revision.
Confirm the VFS42FB0F model revision and required electrical configuration against the LK3 installation instructions before ordering.
Fresh Air Kit Compatibility Caution
Do not assume the supplied VFA2 Fresh Air Kit manual applies to the VFS42FB0F.
The supplied Fresh Air Kit documentation specifically identifies VFD and VFP series applications. Confirm current manufacturer documentation before specifying a fresh-air kit for this VFS Select firebox.
Decorative Liner Options
Breckenridge manufacturer literature shows decorative liner styles including:
Traditional Brick
Classic masonry-inspired fireplace appearance.
Banded Brick
Decorative brick pattern with additional visual detailing.
Stacked Limestone
Stone-inspired interior for a more textured appearance.
Aged Brick
Weathered brick styling for a traditional fireplace look.
Herringbone Brick
Patterned masonry look for a more decorative firebox interior.
Compatibility varies by model.
Confirm that the exact liner is approved for the VFS42FB0F before ordering.
About Vent-Free Heating Efficiency
The VFS42FB0F itself does not have a heating-efficiency rating because it is an enclosure rather than the heating appliance.
Empire's Breckenridge literature states that compatible vent-free burners can be 99.9% efficient. That efficiency claim applies to the appropriate burner—not to the empty VFS42FB0F firebox.
Heating performance depends on the burner.
BTU input, fuel type, ignition, remote-control capability, thermostat functions, and operating efficiency are determined by the separately installed burner system.
No Wood Burning
Do not build a wood fire inside the VFS42FB0F.
This firebox is designed specifically for an approved vent-free gas heating installation.
Safety & Maintenance
- Follow both the firebox manual and the instructions for the selected burner and log set.
- Do not exceed the 40,000 BTU/h maximum heater input.
- Maintain required combustion and ventilation airflow.
- Do not obstruct the front fireplace opening.
- Keep the firebox screen in place during operation.
- Keep the burner, logs, control compartment, and circulating-air passages clean.
- Keep combustible materials away from hot fireplace surfaces.
- Young children should be carefully supervised near the operating fireplace.
- Gas piping, appliance connection, service, and repair should be performed by qualified personnel.
- Follow applicable local gas, building, and electrical requirements.
Warranty Information
Combustion Chamber & Heat Exchanger
Limited Lifetime Parts Warranty with Five-Year Limited Labor Warranty, where applicable and subject to manufacturer terms.
Other Covered Components
Limited Five-Year Parts and Labor Warranty, excluding remote controls, thermostats, accessories, and replacement parts.
Accessories & Replacement Parts
Limited One-Year Parts Warranty, subject to complete manufacturer warranty conditions.
Flame Authority Expert Recommendation
Choose the Empire White Mountain Hearth Breckenridge Select VFS42FB0F when you want a large 42" built-in vent-free fireplace enclosure with a cleaner low-profile face and no lower louvers.
Its biggest design advantage is the tall, deep Select-series interior, which gives the compatible log set and flame presentation more visual emphasis while allowing the firebox to sit at or near floor level when installed according to Empire's requirements.
Before ordering, verify the framing dimensions, selected burner BTU input, minimum fireplace-size requirements, fuel type, gas supply, combustion-air provisions, clearances, liner selection, hood requirements, blower wiring, accent-light compatibility, and applicable local vent-free regulations.
Official Manufacturer Resources
Breckenridge Product Brochure
Manufacturer overview of Breckenridge firebox designs, vent-free burner compatibility, features, liner options, and accessories.
Breckenridge Select Firebox Installation Instructions & Owner's Manual
Primary manufacturer reference for VFS installation, framing, clearances, gas connection, hood requirements, optional blower, safety, and warranty information.
Fresh Air Kit Manual
Supplied Empire resource for VFA2 applications. This document identifies VFD and VFP series installations; verify compatibility before applying it to the VFS42FB0F.
LK3 Accent Light Installation Instructions
Manufacturer reference for compatible LK3 accent-light installations on designated Premium and Select fireboxes.
FBJB1 Junction Box Installation Instructions
Manufacturer electrical installation reference for compatible junction-box applications.
Breckenridge Firebox Sizing Guide
Manufacturer sizing reference for comparing Breckenridge firebox models and planning fireplace dimensions.
VFS42FB0F Architectural Drawing & Specification Sheet
Model-specific architectural and dimensional planning reference for the 42" Breckenridge Select firebox.
Empire VFS42FB0F FAQs
Does the Empire Breckenridge VFS42FB0F include a burner and log set?
No. The VFS42FB0F is the firebox enclosure only. A compatible certified vent-free burner and log set are required separately.
What are the framing dimensions for the VFS42FB0F?
The required framing dimensions are 38 7/8" H × 44 3/8" W × 23 3/8" D.
How much framing height should be added for a flush mantel base?
Empire instructs installers to add 3 3/4" to the framing-height dimension when using a flush mantel base.
Does the VFS42FB0F require a chimney?
No. It is a vent-free firebox designed for an approved vent-free gas burner and log-set installation.
What is the maximum heater input?
The installed listed gas-fired unvented decorative room heater must not exceed 40,000 BTU/h.
Does the VFS42FB0F itself produce 40,000 BTU/h?
No. It is only the firebox enclosure. Heating output comes from the separately installed burner system.
Does the VFS42FB0F have a 99.9% efficiency rating?
No. Empire's 99.9% efficiency statement applies to compatible vent-free burners, not to the firebox enclosure itself.
Can the Breckenridge Select 42" firebox be installed at floor level?
Yes. Its no-louver Select design allows installation at or near floor level when all manufacturer framing, clearance, finishing, and installation requirements are satisfied.
Why does the Breckenridge Select have no lower louvers?
The louver-free lower face helps create a cleaner site-built fireplace appearance and supports lower-profile installation designs.
What are the usable interior dimensions?
The supplied dimensions without brick are approximately 40" front width, 32 1/2" rear width, 18 1/8" depth, 31 1/2" front height, and 29 1/8" rear height.
Can any 42" vent-free burner or log set be installed?
No. The exact burner and log set must meet the firebox's usable internal dimensions and all manufacturer compatibility and installation requirements.
What standard does Empire specify for the burner and log set?
The supplied content specifies an approved ANSI Z21.11.2 vent-free burner and log set.
What size gas connection does the firebox accept?
The VFS42FB0F is designed to accept a 3/8" gas line.
Is the hood required?
Yes. The supplied black hood or an approved optional hood must be installed before operating the completed fireplace.
When should an extended hood be used?
Use the appropriate extended hood when the noncombustible facing material exceeds 1" in thickness.
How much front clearance is required?
Maintain at least 36" of clearance in front of the firebox.
How much sidewall clearance is required?
Maintain at least 6" between the inside of the firebox and a perpendicular combustible sidewall.
What minimum ceiling height is required?
Empire specifies a minimum ceiling height of 84" from the bottom of the firebox.
Does the firebox screen need to remain in place?
Yes. The firebox screen must be in place during operation.
Can I add a blower?
Yes. Empire identifies the optional FBB5 blower for compatible installations.
Is a variable-speed blower control available?
Yes. The SCV-1 Variable Speed Control Kit is available for use with the FBB5 blower.
Can the VFS42FB0F use the LK3 Accent Light Kit?
The supplied LK3 documentation identifies designated Premium and Select VFS fireboxes. Verify the exact VFS42FB0F revision and electrical configuration before ordering.
Can I automatically use the supplied VFA2 Fresh Air Kit with this firebox?
No. The supplied VFA2 manual specifically identifies VFD and VFP series applications. Confirm current manufacturer compatibility before specifying it for the VFS42FB0F.
Can the firebox be installed over carpet?
When installed directly over carpet, tile, or another combustible material other than wood flooring, Empire requires a metal or wood panel extending the full width and depth of the firebox.
Can wood be burned in the VFS42FB0F?
No. The VFS42FB0F is intended only for an approved vent-free gas heating installation.
Does the VFS42FB0F require professional installation?
Gas piping, appliance connection, service, and repair must be completed by appropriately qualified personnel according to Empire's instructions and applicable codes.
Before You Order
Confirm Before Purchase
- You specifically need the Empire VFS42FB0F.
- You want the 42" Breckenridge Select vent-free design.
- You understand this is the firebox enclosure only.
- Your selected heater does not exceed 40,000 BTU/h.
- Your selected burner and log set meet the internal size requirements.
- Your framing can accommodate 38 7/8" H × 44 3/8" W × 23 3/8" D.
- You have planned for the additional framing height if using a flush mantel base.
- You can maintain the required front, sidewall, ceiling, and finishing clearances.
- You have planned the 3/8" gas connection.
- You have selected the proper hood for the facing thickness.
- You have planned electrical work if using the FBB5 blower or LK3 accent light.
- You have confirmed liner compatibility.
- You have confirmed applicable local vent-free requirements.
Do Not Assume
- That the burner and logs are included.
- That the firebox itself produces heat.
- That the firebox itself is 99.9% efficient.
- That any 42" burner or log set will automatically fit.
- That zero-clearance eliminates every combustible clearance requirement.
- That the hood is optional.
- That all Breckenridge accessories fit every Select model.
- That the supplied VFA2 Fresh Air Kit manual confirms VFS42FB0F compatibility.
- That wood can be burned in the firebox.
- That vent-free installations are permitted everywhere.
Final planning check:
Use the Breckenridge Select installation manual, architectural drawing, firebox sizing guide, LK3 instructions where applicable, and the separate installation manual for the selected vent-free burner and log set to verify framing, internal dimensions, heater input, burner fit, gas connection, clearances, hood requirements, electrical preparation, liner compatibility, accent-light compatibility, combustion-air requirements, and applicable local codes before construction or installation.
