Empire Vent-Free Infrared Room Heater
Empire SR30TW Vent-Free Infrared Heater – 30,000 BTU Thermostatic Radiant Heat
The Empire SR30TW is a 30,000 BTU/hr vent-free infrared room heater designed for supplemental heating with direct radiant warmth. Five ceramic infrared plaques glow during operation and radiate heat toward people and surrounding objects, while a built-in hydraulic thermostat cycles the full burner on and off according to heat demand.
Available in dedicated Natural Gas or Propane configurations, the SR30TW uses a standing pilot with piezo ignition and does not require household electricity for normal heater operation.
Model
SR30TW
Heat Input
30,000 BTU/hr
Heat Type
Infrared Radiant
Ceramic Plaques
5
Control
Hydraulic Thermostat
Fuel
Natural Gas / Propane
Ignition
Standing Pilot / Piezo
Electricity Required
No
Important: Order the Correct Fuel Type
Natural Gas and Propane SR30TW models are fuel-specific. Empire states that the heater is not convertible for use with another gas type.
Supplemental heating appliance:
Empire identifies vent-free room heaters as supplemental room-heating appliances rather than primary whole-house heating systems.
Why Choose the Empire SR30TW?
30,000 BTU Output
Provides a full 30,000 BTU/hr input whenever the thermostat calls for heat.
Five Infrared Plaques
Five ceramic plaques glow red-orange during normal burner operation and radiate heat directly into the room.
Hydraulic Thermostat
Automatically cycles the full burner on and off according to temperature demand.
No Chimney Required
Vent-free design eliminates the need for a conventional chimney or exhaust vent.
No Household Power Required
The heater itself operates without household electricity and can continue operating during a power outage.
ODS Safety System
An Oxygen Depletion Sensor pilot system is designed to shut the heater off when adequate fresh air is unavailable.
How Infrared Radiant Heating Works
The SR30TW is different from a heater that relies mainly on warming the surrounding air.
Its ceramic plaques emit infrared radiant heat, which transfers warmth toward people and objects in the surrounding area.
When the heater is operating normally, all five ceramic plaques glow and the burner operates at the rated 30,000 BTU/hr input.
Best use case:
The infrared design is well suited to supplemental room-heating applications where direct radiant comfort is preferred.
How the Hydraulic Thermostat Works
The SR30TW does not modulate through several partial burner outputs.
When the hydraulic thermostat senses a call for heat, the main burner turns on at the full 30,000 BTU/hr input and all five infrared plaques operate together.
When the thermostat is satisfied, the main burner turns off while the standing pilot remains lit.
Approximate LO Setting
Approximately 55°F at the hydraulic thermostat bulb.
Approximate HI Setting
Approximately 90°F at the hydraulic thermostat bulb.
Temperature-control note:
The 55°F to 90°F range refers to temperature at the thermostat bulb, not necessarily the exact room-air temperature.
If no heat is desired, place the control in the PILOT position. Even at LO, the burner may operate if the thermostat bulb temperature falls to approximately 55°F.
How Much Space Can the SR30TW Heat?
Empire does not provide one universal square-foot coverage number for the SR30TW. Its quick-reference sizing guide varies by BTU climate zone and assumes an 8-foot ceiling.
| BTU Zone |
Approximate Coverage at 8' Ceiling |
| Zone 1 |
3,750 sq. ft. |
| Zone 2 |
1,875 sq. ft. |
| Zone 3 |
1,250 sq. ft. |
| Zone 4 |
938 sq. ft. |
| Zone 5 |
750 sq. ft. |
Do not market the SR30TW with one universal square-foot claim.
Empire identifies the zone chart as a guide only. Actual heating requirements depend on climate, insulation, room dimensions, ceiling height, construction, air leakage, and other operating conditions.
Is the SR30TW Right for Your Space?
Best For
- Supplemental room heating.
- Spaces where direct radiant warmth is preferred.
- Homes where a conventional chimney is not available.
- Wall-mounted applications meeting all clearance requirements.
- Floor-mounted installations using the compatible SRS-30W stand.
- Natural Gas applications using the correct NG configuration.
- Propane applications using the correct LP configuration.
- Locations where heat during an electrical outage is valuable.
Choose Another Heating Solution If
- You need primary whole-house heating.
- You need installation in a bedroom.
- You need installation in a bathroom.
- You need installation in an alcove or closet.
- Your room cannot meet combustion-air and ventilation requirements.
- Your application requires a sealed-combustion or direct-vent appliance.
- Existing humidity or window-condensation problems make additional water vapor undesirable.
Natural Gas or Propane?
Natural Gas
Order the factory-configured Natural Gas SR30TW model for a Natural Gas installation.
Propane
Order the factory-configured Propane SR30TW model for an LP installation.
No field fuel conversion:
Empire states that the appliance must use the gas type indicated on its rating plate and is not convertible to another gas.
Does the SR30TW Need Electricity?
The heater itself does not require household electricity for normal operation.
Its standing pilot, piezo ignition, gas valve, and hydraulic thermostat allow the heater to function independently of household power.
Power-outage advantage:
Empire's literature notes that the heater can continue operating during a power outage when the gas supply remains available.
The optional SRB-30TW blower is different: it requires electrical power and must be properly installed and grounded.
Wall-Mount or Floor Installation
Wall Mount
Wall mounting is the standard installation method when the structure and clearances comply with Empire's instructions.
Floor Mount
Use the optional SRS-30W floor stand when installing the SR30TW directly on the floor.
Optional Accessories
SRS-30W Floor Stand
Provides the manufacturer-designated floor-installation configuration for the SR30TW.
SRB-30TW Automatic Blower
Adds warm-air circulation around the heater. Electrical power is required for the blower.
Accessories are optional.
Do not assume the floor stand or blower is included unless the selected product configuration specifically states otherwise.
Minimum Clearances to Combustibles
| Location |
Minimum Clearance |
| Left Side |
8" |
| Right Side |
8" |
| Rear Wall |
0" |
| Ceiling / Top |
36" |
| Projection Above Heater |
36" |
| Bottom to Floor |
2" |
Do not install the SR30TW in an alcove or closet.
Maintain the manufacturer-required air openings and provide sufficient access for operation and servicing.
Vent-Free Does Not Mean Ventilation-Free
The SR30TW does not use a conventional chimney or exhaust vent, but it does use oxygen from the room for combustion.
Adequate combustion and ventilation air must therefore be provided.
Room Volume
Room size must satisfy Empire's unconfined-space requirements or additional air must be provided.
Tight Construction
Unusually tight buildings can require additional combustion and ventilation provisions.
Local Codes
Vent-free heater regulations vary by jurisdiction and must be verified before installation.
Minimum Unconfined-Space Volume
Empire uses a calculation of 50 cubic feet of room volume per 1,000 BTU/hr when evaluating whether a space qualifies as unconfined.
SR30TW calculation:
50 cubic feet × 30 = 1,500 cubic feet minimum room volume.
Empire's example of a room measuring 16' × 12' × 8' equals 1,536 cubic feet and meets this basic volume calculation.
Important:
Room volume alone does not override unusually tight construction, local codes, adjacent-space requirements, or other combustion-air provisions in the installation manual.
Where the SR30TW Must Not Be Installed
Bedrooms
Not permitted for this 30,000 BTU/hr heater.
Bathrooms
Not permitted for this heater input level.
Alcoves or Closets
Empire specifically states not to install the SR30TW in these locations.
Why bedroom and bathroom use is prohibited:
Empire states that unvented room heaters with inputs greater than 10,000 BTU/hr must not be installed in bedrooms or bathrooms.
Oxygen Depletion Sensor Safety System
The SR30TW incorporates an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) pilot safety system with automatic shut-off.
The system is designed to shut the heater down if adequate fresh air is unavailable.
The ODS does not replace proper ventilation.
Never tamper with the pilot safety system, and correct any combustion-air or ventilation problem that causes repeated heater shutdown.
Supplemental Heating & Water Vapor
Empire identifies the SR30TW as a supplemental heating appliance.
Like other unvented gas room heaters, it releases water vapor into the room during combustion.
Manufacturer water-vapor guidance:
Empire states that an unvented room heater produces approximately 1 ounce of water for every 1,000 BTU of gas input per hour.
At a 30,000 BTU/hr input, this means the heater can add substantial moisture to the indoor environment during extended operation.
Homes that already experience high humidity or window condensation may require a different heating approach.
Complete Empire SR30TW Specifications
| Brand |
Empire |
| Model |
SR30TW |
| Product Type |
Vent-Free / Unvented Infrared Room Heater |
| Heat Type |
Infrared Radiant |
| BTU Input |
30,000 BTU/hr |
| Ceramic Plaques |
5 |
| Fuel Options |
Dedicated Natural Gas or Propane Models |
| Field Convertible |
No |
| Temperature Control |
Hydraulic Thermostat |
| Thermostat Range |
Approximately 55°F to 90°F at Thermostat Bulb |
| Burner Modulation |
No — Thermostat Cycles Full 30,000 BTU Burner On/Off |
| Ignition |
Standing Pilot / Piezo |
| Cabinet Color |
White |
| Front Panel Color |
White |
| Width |
24 1/8" |
| Height |
22" |
| Cabinet Depth |
6 1/2" |
| Shipping Weight |
35 lb |
| Gas Inlet |
3/8" |
| Standard Installation |
Wall Mount |
| Optional Floor Stand |
SRS-30W |
| Optional Blower |
SRB-30TW |
| Safety Control |
ODS Pilot with Automatic Shut-Off |
| Electricity Required for Heater |
No |
| Electricity Required for Optional Blower |
Yes |
| Venting |
Vent-Free / Unvented |
| Minimum Unconfined-Space Volume |
1,500 cu. ft. Based on Empire's 50 cu. ft. per 1,000 BTU Calculation |
| Bedroom Installation |
Not Permitted |
| Bathroom Installation |
Not Permitted |
| Alcove / Closet Installation |
Not Permitted |
99.9% Efficiency Claim: What It Means
Empire's product literature lists the vent-free heater family as 99.9% efficient.
This should not be interpreted as a claim that the heater is appropriate for every room or every application. Combustion-air requirements, moisture production, room volume, installation restrictions, and local vent-free regulations still apply.
Installation & Maintenance
Installation, gas piping, service, and repair should be performed by a qualified installer, service agency, or gas supplier.
Empire recommends inspection before use and at least annual professional inspection.
- Keep the burner clean.
- Keep the venturi clean.
- Keep control compartments clean.
- Keep circulating-air passages clear.
- Remove lint, dust, pet hair, and similar contaminants.
- Inspect more frequently in dusty or high-lint environments.
Indoor-air contaminants matter.
Empire warns that airborne contaminants such as dust, lint, pet hair, candle residue, tobacco smoke, and similar materials can contribute to soot formation.
Candles & Scented Products
Avoid scented candles and air fresheners while the heater is operating.
The supplied Empire guidance states that residues from these products can contribute to soot formation in vent-free heater applications.
Warranty Information
Combustion Chamber & Heat Exchanger
Limited Lifetime Parts Warranty with Five-Year Limited Labor Warranty, subject to Empire's full terms.
Other Components
Limited Five-Year Parts and Labor Warranty, except applicable thermostats and accessories.
Thermostats & Accessories
Limited One-Year Parts Warranty for applicable remote controls, thermostats, accessories, and parts.
Warranty eligibility is subject to Empire's complete installation, maintenance, operation, proof-of-purchase, and exclusion requirements.
Flame Authority Expert Recommendation
Choose the Empire SR30TW when you want a high-output infrared radiant supplemental heater that can operate without household electricity and does not require a conventional chimney.
The most important distinction is its hydraulic thermostat behavior: the SR30TW does not gradually modulate from low to high output. When heat is needed, the complete five-plaque burner operates at the full 30,000 BTU/hr input; when the thermostat is satisfied, the burner shuts off and the pilot remains lit.
Before ordering, verify the Natural Gas or Propane configuration, room volume, combustion-air requirements, side/top/bottom clearances, installation location, local vent-free regulations, wall or floor mounting plan, optional blower requirements, and suitability for the home's humidity conditions.
Official Manufacturer Resources
Empire Vent-Free Infrared Heater Product Brochure
Manufacturer overview covering SR-series heater specifications, BTU-zone sizing guidance, installation configurations, accessories, and operating features.
Empire SR10TW / SR18TW / SR30TW Installation Instructions & Owner's Manual
Manufacturer resource covering hydraulic thermostat operation, room-volume calculations, combustible clearances, combustion air, fuel requirements, safety systems, installation restrictions, maintenance, and warranty.
Empire SR30TW FAQs
How many BTUs does the Empire SR30TW produce?
The SR30TW has a rated input of 30,000 BTU/hr.
Is the SR30TW an infrared heater?
Yes. It uses five ceramic infrared plaques to provide radiant heat toward people and surrounding objects.
Does the Empire SR30TW require a chimney?
No. It is a vent-free room heater and does not require a conventional chimney or exhaust vent.
Does vent-free mean the heater does not need ventilation air?
No. The SR30TW uses room air for combustion, so adequate combustion and ventilation air must still be provided.
Does the SR30TW require electricity?
No household electricity is required for normal heater operation. The optional SRB-30TW blower does require electricity.
Can the SR30TW operate during a power outage?
Yes. Its standing pilot, gas controls, and hydraulic thermostat allow normal heater operation without household electrical power.
How does the hydraulic thermostat work?
The thermostat cycles the entire 30,000 BTU/hr burner on and off according to heat demand. The burner does not modulate through partial output levels.
What temperature range does the thermostat provide?
The LO-to-HI range corresponds to approximately 55°F to 90°F at the thermostat bulb.
How many square feet can the SR30TW heat?
There is no single universal coverage figure. Empire's 8-foot-ceiling guide ranges from approximately 750 to 3,750 sq. ft. depending on BTU zone and is identified as a sizing guide only.
What minimum room volume does the SR30TW require?
Empire's unconfined-space calculation is 1,500 cubic feet for a 30,000 BTU/hr heater, based on 50 cubic feet per 1,000 BTU/hr.
Can the SR30TW be installed in a bedroom?
No. Empire states that unvented room heaters exceeding 10,000 BTU/hr must not be installed in bedrooms.
Can the SR30TW be installed in a bathroom?
No. Its 30,000 BTU/hr input exceeds Empire's limit for bedroom and bathroom installations.
Can the SR30TW be installed in an alcove or closet?
No. Empire specifically states not to install the SR30TW in an alcove or closet.
Can Natural Gas and Propane models be converted?
No. The appliance is fuel-specific and not convertible to another gas type.
What clearances does the SR30TW require?
The supplied requirements are 8" on each side, 0" at the rear wall, 36" above, and 2" from the bottom to the floor.
Can the SR30TW be floor mounted?
Yes. Use the optional SRS-30W floor stand and follow Empire's installation requirements.
What blower fits the SR30TW?
The compatible optional blower is the SRB-30TW.
Does the SR30TW have an Oxygen Depletion Sensor?
Yes. It incorporates an ODS pilot safety system with automatic shut-off.
Does the ODS eliminate the need for combustion air?
No. The ODS is a safety device; proper combustion and ventilation air is still required.
Is the SR30TW intended to heat an entire house?
No. Empire identifies vent-free room heaters as supplemental room-heating appliances.
Does the SR30TW add moisture to the room?
Yes. Water vapor is a normal by-product of unvented gas combustion. Empire states that unvented room heaters produce approximately one ounce of water per 1,000 BTU of gas input per hour.
Can scented candles affect the heater?
Yes. Empire warns that candle and air-freshener residue can contribute to soot formation in vent-free heating applications.
Does the SR30TW require professional installation?
Installation, gas piping, service, and repair should be performed by a qualified installer, service agency, or gas supplier according to Empire's instructions and applicable codes.
How often should the SR30TW be serviced?
Empire recommends inspection before use and at least annual professional inspection, with more frequent cleaning where dust, lint, pet hair, or similar contaminants are present.
Before You Order
Confirm Before Purchase
- You specifically need the Empire SR30TW.
- You want 30,000 BTU/hr of infrared radiant heat.
- You have selected the correct Natural Gas or Propane model.
- You understand the fuel type cannot be converted later.
- Your room satisfies applicable combustion-air requirements.
- Your installation location is not a bedroom, bathroom, alcove, or closet.
- You can maintain 8" side clearances and 36" overhead clearance.
- You understand the thermostat cycles full burner output on and off.
- You have decided between wall mounting and the optional SRS-30W floor stand.
- You understand the optional SRB-30TW blower requires electricity.
- You have checked local vent-free heater regulations.
- You understand this is supplemental room heat rather than whole-house heat.
Do Not Assume
- That 30,000 BTU means one universal square-foot coverage number.
- That vent-free means no ventilation requirements.
- That Natural Gas and Propane models are interchangeable.
- That the thermostat provides partial burner modulation.
- That the ODS replaces proper combustion air.
- That the optional blower is included.
- That the heater may be installed in bedrooms or bathrooms.
- That a power outlet is required for the heater itself.
- That vent-free heating is permitted in every jurisdiction.
- That water vapor from unvented combustion is negligible.
Final planning check:
Use the Empire SR30TW installation manual and product brochure to verify the exact fuel type, room volume, combustion and ventilation air, wall or floor installation method, side/top/bottom clearances, gas supply, thermostat operation, ODS requirements, optional accessory installation, local vent-free restrictions, and maintenance requirements before purchase or installation.
