Empire Carol Rose Outdoor Collection
Empire White Mountain Hearth Carol Rose Coastal Collection 42" Outdoor Ventless Firebox OP42FB2MF
The Empire White Mountain Hearth Carol Rose OP42FB2MF is a 42-inch-class outdoor ventless firebox designed to create a permanent built-in gas fireplace focal point for qualifying patios, covered outdoor living areas, gazebos, exterior-wall applications, yards, and screened porches. Constructed mostly from high-grade stainless steel, it is designed for outdoor environments while allowing the compatible gas burner and decorative presentation to be selected separately.
Model
OP42FB2MF
Application
Outdoor Only
Nominal Size
42" Class
Opening
40" W × 24 1/4" H
Max Burner Input
50,000 BTU/h
Construction
Mostly Stainless Steel
Standard Framing
45" W × 36" H
Burner Included
No
Required: Compatible Gas Burner Sold Separately
The OP42FB2MF is the outdoor firebox enclosure. A compatible gas burner is required and must be selected separately. Do not assume that every outdoor burner is approved or will physically fit this firebox.
Maximum burner input:
The installed compatible gas burner must not exceed 50,000 BTU/h.
What Is the Empire Carol Rose OP42FB2MF?
The OP42FB2MF provides the structural enclosure for a built-in outdoor gas fireplace installation. It is not itself the gas-burning appliance.
Empire designed the firebox for use with an appropriate listed gas-fired unvented decorative heater in a qualifying outdoor, well-ventilated installation. Its wide opening and stainless-steel construction make it suitable for outdoor entertainment spaces where a permanent fireplace appearance is preferred over a portable fire feature.
The firebox is certified in accordance with ANSI Z21.91 for outdoor use with Z21.97 burners, according to the supplied product information.
Empire OP42FB2MF at a Glance
Brand
Empire White Mountain Hearth
Collection
Carol Rose / Outdoor Collection
Product Type
Outdoor Ventless Firebox
Construction
Mostly High-Grade Stainless Steel
Maximum Burner Input
50,000 BTU/h
Firebox Opening
40" W × 24 1/4" H
Wood Burning
Not Permitted
Why Choose the Carol Rose 42" Outdoor Firebox?
Large Outdoor Focal Point
The broad 40" opening creates a visually substantial fireplace presentation for larger patios and entertainment areas.
Outdoor Ventless Design
Designed for qualifying outdoor installations without the conventional chimney arrangement of a vented indoor fireplace.
Stainless-Steel Construction
Built mostly from high-grade stainless steel to resist rust-through in outdoor environments.
Separate Burner Selection
Allows the compatible burner, fuel type, controls, logs, or media system to be matched to the project separately.
Screened-Porch Capability
Can be used in qualifying screened-porch installations when all manufacturer requirements are met.
Outdoor Accessory Options
Empire documents compatible drain tray, weather door, glass door, and extended-hood accessories.
Is the OP42FB2MF Right for Your Outdoor Project?
Best For
- Outdoor patio fireplace installations.
- Covered patios meeting manufacturer requirements.
- Gazebos with qualifying ventilation.
- Exterior-wall fireplace projects.
- Large outdoor entertaining areas.
- Qualifying screened porches.
- Projects where the burner and decorative presentation will be selected separately.
- Installations needing weather-management accessories.
Choose Another Product If
- You need an indoor fireplace.
- You need a complete operating fireplace with burner included.
- You intend to burn wood or another solid fuel.
- Your selected burner exceeds 50,000 BTU/h.
- The space is a garage, building interior, or other enclosed area.
- Your outdoor enclosure cannot meet Empire's ventilation requirements.
- You cannot provide appropriate drainage or moisture management.
What's Included?
Included With the Firebox
- Empire Carol Rose OP42 outdoor firebox enclosure
- Stainless steel hood
- Curtain rods
- Curtain screens
- Manufacturer-supplied hood hardware
Required Separately
- Compatible approved gas burner
- Correct burner fuel configuration
- Compatible log set or approved decorative media
- Gas supply and required connection components
- Any optional weather or drainage accessories needed for the project
The hood is required for operation.
The supplied hood—or an approved optional extension hood—must be installed before operating the completed fireplace.
Gas Burner Compatibility
Empire specifies use of an appropriate ANSI Z21.97 burner in the OP42FB2MF and identifies a maximum firebox-approved burner input of 50,000 BTU/h.
Before ordering the burner, verify:
- Exact burner compatibility
- Fuel type
- Maximum 50,000 BTU/h input
- Minimum fireplace dimensions required by the burner
- Burner clearances
- Combustion and ventilation requirements
- Log-set or decorative-media requirements
- Gas supply requirements
- Applicable outdoor installation requirements
- Local building and fuel-gas codes
Do not select by burner width alone.
A burner that appears physically smaller than the firebox opening may still have dimensional, ventilation, certification, or clearance requirements that make it unsuitable.
Complete OP42FB2MF Dimensions
| Maximum Firebox Face Width |
44" |
| Maximum Firebox Face Height |
35 1/16" |
| Maximum Firebox Depth |
19" |
| Firebox Opening Width |
40" |
| Firebox Opening Height |
24 1/4" |
| Interior Depth |
15 9/16" |
| Interior Front Height |
24 3/16" |
| Interior Rear Height |
19 1/4" |
| Interior Front Width |
38 5/16" |
| Interior Rear Width |
32" |
| Rear Exterior Width |
35 7/8" |
| Floor to Firebox Opening |
6 3/16" |
| Overall Height to Header |
35 13/16" |
Framing Dimensions
Standard Installation
45" W × 36" H × 19 1/4" D
With Optional Drain Tray
45" W × 37" H × 19 1/4" D
Empire specifies framing constructed from 2 × 4 lumber or heavier and provides additional requirements for framing, facing, wall covering, hearth construction, and combustible materials.
Always verify current framing documentation before construction.
Where Can the OP42FB2MF Be Installed?
The OP42FB2MF is designed for outdoor use only in a well-ventilated space.
Patios
Suitable for qualifying open outdoor patio installations.
Covered Patios
Permitted when enclosure and ventilation requirements are satisfied.
Gazebos
Possible when the structure meets the applicable outdoor-ventilation criteria.
Exterior Walls
Can be incorporated into qualifying exterior-wall fireplace projects.
Yards
Suitable for permanent outdoor entertainment features.
Screened Porches
Permitted only when all specified minimums and ventilation conditions are satisfied.
Not for indoor enclosed areas.
Do not install the firebox in a building, garage, or other enclosed area.
Screened Porch Requirements
| Minimum Porch Area |
96 sq. ft. |
| Minimum Ceiling Height |
84" |
These are not the only screened-porch requirements.
All manufacturer enclosure, ventilation, clearance, burner, and local-code requirements must also be satisfied.
Important Clearance Information
| Clearance Area |
Requirement |
| Minimum Ceiling Height |
84" |
| Minimum Front Clearance |
36" |
| Perpendicular Combustible Sidewall |
6" minimum from the firebox |
| Top Framing Clearance |
3/4" where specified |
| Grate to Front Edge |
2" minimum |
Mantel clearances vary with mantel projection and must follow the manufacturer's clearance chart.
Do not use this summary as the only installation reference.
Always use Empire's full clearance, enclosure, ventilation, facing, and framing diagrams.
Outdoor Moisture & Drainage Planning
The OP42FB2MF is designed for outdoor environments, but it is not waterproof.
Empire states that the firebox can shed moderate amounts of water, but water and condensed water vapor can still enter the fireplace chase under certain conditions.
Drainage
Plan how water will leave the installation, especially over moisture-sensitive surfaces.
Chase Protection
Exterior-wall installations should account for water and condensation entering the chase.
Weather Protection
Consider compatible weather-door or glass-door accessories when additional protection is appropriate.
Outdoor Stainless Steel Care
The firebox uses mostly high-grade stainless steel to help resist rust-through.
Outdoor stainless steel can naturally develop:
- A duller patina over time
- Surface discoloration
- Minor surface oxidation depending on environmental conditions
The supplied information states that this does not necessarily affect firebox performance.
Appearance maintenance:
Use an appropriate stainless-steel cleaner when maintaining a brighter factory-style finish.
Compatible 42" Accessories
| Model |
Accessory |
| BD42SS |
42" Bifold Glass Door |
| DT42SS |
42" Stainless Steel Drain Tray |
| WD42SS |
42" Stainless Steel Weather Door |
| VB4H42SS |
42" Stainless Steel Extended Hood |
Accessory compatibility should be confirmed before ordering.
Availability and suitability can depend on the exact planned installation.
When Is the Extended Hood Recommended?
Empire recommends the VB4H42SS extended hood when the noncombustible facing material surrounding the firebox is more than 1 inch thick.
The extended hood projects farther into the room to accommodate the increased facing thickness.
Optional Drain Tray
The DT42SS stainless steel drain tray is designed to assist with outdoor moisture management in compatible installations.
Framing difference:
Standard framing height is 36". With the optional drain tray, Empire specifies a 37" framing height.
Glass & Weather Door Operating Rule
Do not operate the burner with the glass doors or weather door closed.
Applicable doors are for weather protection or other approved purposes and must not remain closed during burner operation.
Gas Access & Installation
Gas-access openings are provided on both sides of the firebox.
- Plan the gas line before finishing the enclosure.
- Gas installation must be performed by a qualified service person.
- Confirm fuel type with the separately selected burner.
- Consult local codes when sizing the gas supply.
- Do not install a burner exceeding 50,000 BTU/h.
- Follow the burner manufacturer's gas-pressure requirements.
No Wood or Solid-Fuel Burning
Solid fuels are prohibited.
Do not burn wood, charcoal, manufactured logs, or other solid fuels in the OP42FB2MF.
Firebox Screen Requirement
A firebox screen must remain in place while the burner is operating.
The supplied product information identifies curtain rods and curtain screens as part of the OP42 firebox assembly.
Television Installation Above the Firebox
A television installation above the OP42FB2MF requires additional heat-management planning.
- The space above the firebox becomes hot.
- Many television manufacturers recommend against placing a TV near a heat source.
- Follow the TV manufacturer's heat-clearance requirements.
- Allow the fireplace area to cool before servicing or touching television controls.
- Do not assume the firebox warranty covers heat-related damage to electronics installed above it.
Safety & Maintenance
- Install the firebox outdoors only.
- Maintain required ventilation in partial enclosures.
- Keep children and at-risk individuals away from hot surfaces.
- Keep combustible materials away from the firebox.
- Keep gasoline and flammable vapors or liquids away from the appliance.
- Keep the required firebox screen in place during burner operation.
- Do not operate with glass or weather doors closed.
- Do not burn wood or other solid fuels.
- Have installation and repairs performed by qualified personnel.
- Have the firebox inspected before use and at least annually by a qualified service person.
- Maintain the separately installed burner according to its own instructions.
Complete Empire OP42FB2MF Specifications
| Brand |
Empire White Mountain Hearth |
| Collection |
Carol Rose / Outdoor Collection |
| Model |
OP42FB2MF |
| Product Type |
Outdoor Ventless Firebox |
| Nominal Size |
42" Class |
| Installation |
Outdoor Only |
| Construction |
Mostly High-Grade Stainless Steel |
| Maximum Burner Input |
50,000 BTU/h |
| Burner Included |
No |
| Wood / Solid-Fuel Burning |
Not Permitted |
| Maximum Firebox Face Width |
44" |
| Maximum Firebox Face Height |
35 1/16" |
| Maximum Firebox Depth |
19" |
| Opening Width |
40" |
| Opening Height |
24 1/4" |
| Interior Depth |
15 9/16" |
| Interior Front Height |
24 3/16" |
| Interior Rear Height |
19 1/4" |
| Interior Front Width |
38 5/16" |
| Interior Rear Width |
32" |
| Rear Exterior Width |
35 7/8" |
| Floor to Opening |
6 3/16" |
| Overall Height to Header |
35 13/16" |
| Standard Framing |
45" W × 36" H × 19 1/4" D |
| Framing with Drain Tray |
45" W × 37" H × 19 1/4" D |
| Minimum Screened Porch Area |
96 sq. ft. |
| Minimum Screened Porch Ceiling Height |
84" |
| Minimum Front Clearance |
36" |
| Minimum Sidewall Clearance |
6" |
| Certification |
ANSI Z21.91 for Outdoor Use with Z21.97 Burners |
Flame Authority Expert Recommendation
Choose the Empire White Mountain Hearth Carol Rose OP42FB2MF when you want a large built-in outdoor fireplace enclosure and prefer to select the gas burner, fuel type, log or media presentation, and weather-management accessories separately.
The most important planning factors are outdoor ventilation, burner compatibility, maximum 50,000 BTU/h input, framing dimensions, enclosure type, clearances, drainage, moisture protection, gas access, and local code requirements.
For screened porches, covered patios, gazebos, and other partially enclosed outdoor spaces, verify Empire's enclosure and ventilation diagrams rather than assuming that an outdoor roofed area automatically qualifies.
Official Manufacturer Resources
Empire Carol Rose OP42FB2MF FAQs
Does the Empire Carol Rose OP42FB2MF include a gas burner?
No. The gas burner is sold separately. Use only an appropriate compatible burner that meets Empire's requirements and does not exceed 50,000 BTU/h.
What is the maximum burner input for the OP42FB2MF?
The maximum approved burner input is 50,000 BTU/h.
Can you burn wood in the OP42FB2MF?
No. Solid fuels such as wood are not permitted in this firebox.
Is the OP42FB2MF for indoor or outdoor use?
It is intended for outdoor use only in an appropriately ventilated outdoor installation.
Can the OP42FB2MF be installed on a screened porch?
Yes, when all manufacturer requirements are met. Empire specifies a minimum porch area of 96 sq. ft. and a minimum ceiling height of 84", in addition to other enclosure and ventilation requirements.
What are the standard framing dimensions?
Standard framing is 45" W × 36" H × 19 1/4" D.
What framing dimensions are required with the optional drain tray?
With the optional drain tray, Empire specifies 45" W × 37" H × 19 1/4" D.
What size is the firebox opening?
The opening is approximately 40" wide × 24 1/4" high.
What is the interior depth?
The documented interior depth is 15 9/16".
Does the OP42FB2MF require a chimney?
No conventional chimney or flue is used for the ventless outdoor configuration, but all outdoor-placement, ventilation, enclosure, burner, and clearance requirements still apply.
Can it be installed under a covered patio?
Yes, a covered patio can be an appropriate application when Empire's ventilation, enclosure, clearance, and installation requirements are satisfied.
Can it be installed in a gazebo?
Yes, qualifying gazebos are among the outdoor applications identified in the supplied information, subject to all ventilation and enclosure requirements.
Can it be installed in a garage?
No. The firebox is not intended for a garage, building interior, or other enclosed area.
Is the OP42FB2MF waterproof?
No. The firebox can shed moderate amounts of water but is not waterproof. Drainage and moisture management should be incorporated into the installation.
Can stainless steel develop surface oxidation outdoors?
Yes. Outdoor stainless steel may develop a dull patina or some surface oxidation depending on environmental conditions. The supplied information states that this does not necessarily affect firebox performance.
What optional accessories are documented for the 42" firebox?
Empire documents the BD42SS bifold glass door, DT42SS stainless steel drain tray, WD42SS weather door, and VB4H42SS extended hood.
When should I use the extended hood?
Empire recommends the extended hood when the surrounding noncombustible facing material is more than 1" thick.
Can the bifold glass door remain closed while the burner is operating?
No. Applicable glass doors or weather doors must not remain closed during burner operation.
Does the firebox screen need to remain in place?
Yes. The firebox screen must be in place while the burner is operating.
What minimum front clearance is required?
The supplied installation information identifies a minimum 36" front clearance.
What minimum sidewall clearance is required?
Maintain at least 6" from the firebox to a perpendicular combustible sidewall.
Can a television be installed above the firebox?
It may be considered only with careful heat-management planning. Follow the television manufacturer's instructions and heat-source clearance recommendations because the area above the firebox becomes hot.
Does the OP42FB2MF require professional installation?
Empire recommends that installation and repair be performed by qualified personnel. Gas-line installation must be completed by a qualified service person in accordance with applicable codes.
Before You Order
Confirm Before Purchase
- You specifically need the Empire OP42FB2MF.
- Your project is outdoors.
- You understand the gas burner is sold separately.
- Your selected burner does not exceed 50,000 BTU/h.
- Your selected burner meets the applicable certification and fit requirements.
- You have confirmed the fuel type.
- You have verified the final enclosure ventilation requirements.
- You can meet the minimum 84" ceiling height where applicable.
- You can maintain the required front and side clearances.
- You have planned outdoor drainage and moisture management.
- You have selected any drain tray, weather door, glass door, or extended hood before final construction.
- You will keep the screen in place during operation.
- You understand doors must not remain closed while the burner operates.
- You have confirmed local outdoor gas-fireplace requirements.
Do Not Assume
- That the burner is included.
- That any outdoor burner is compatible.
- That the firebox itself produces 50,000 BTU/h.
- That wood can be burned in the firebox.
- That "outdoor" means any enclosed or roofed space automatically qualifies.
- That screened-porch installation requires only 96 sq. ft. of area.
- That the firebox is waterproof.
- That outdoor stainless steel will never develop a patina.
- That standard and drain-tray framing heights are the same.
- That glass or weather doors can remain closed during operation.
- That TV placement above the firebox is automatically safe.
Final planning check:
Use the OP42FB2MF installation manual and specification sheet together with the installation instructions for the separately selected burner to verify burner compatibility, maximum input, fuel type, firebox dimensions, framing, outdoor enclosure type, ventilation, screened-porch requirements, clearances, gas access, drainage, moisture management, hood selection, accessory compatibility, and applicable local codes before construction or installation.
