Empire White Mountain Hearth VFSV Slope Glaze Burner
Empire White Mountain Hearth VFSV Slope Glaze Gas Burner – 16", 18", 24" & 30"
The Empire White Mountain Hearth VFSV Slope Glaze Gas Burner is a variable-control burner system available in 16", 18", 24", and 30" sizes for compatible fireplace installations. Dedicated Natural Gas and Propane models are available, with inputs ranging from 17,000 to 38,000 BTU/hr depending on burner size and fuel.
The Slope Glaze design uses internal ceramic media to create randomized flame movement, while the included remote provides ON/OFF control and four flame-height settings: High, Medium High, Medium Low, and Low.
Series
VFSV Slope Glaze
Available Sizes
16", 18", 24", 30"
Fuel Options
Natural Gas / Propane
Valve Type
Variable
Input Range
17,000–38,000 BTU/hr
Remote Control
Included
Flame Settings
4 Levels
Installation
Vented / Vent-Free
Important: Burner System Listing
This listing is for the VFSV Slope Glaze burner system. Select the exact burner size and fuel-specific model before ordering. Natural Gas and Propane versions are dedicated to their specified fuel and are not field-convertible.
Decorative log-set compatibility must be verified separately.
Do not assume a decorative log set is included based on product imagery or general gas-log terminology. Confirm the compatible log set for the selected VFSV size before ordering.
Why Choose the Empire VFSV Slope Glaze Burner?
The VFSV is designed for buyers who want adjustable flame control with the flexibility of multiple burner sizes, Natural Gas or Propane configurations, and approved vented or vent-free installation options.
Four Flame Levels
Choose High, Medium High, Medium Low, or Low using the included remote-control system.
Remote ON/OFF
The VFSV remote provides direct burner ON/OFF operation in addition to flame-height adjustment.
Slope Glaze Media
Internal ceramic media helps produce randomized flame movement for a less uniform appearance.
Four Burner Sizes
Choose 16", 18", 24", or 30" after confirming the fireplace dimensions.
Two Fuel Options
Dedicated Natural Gas and Propane models are available.
ODS Safety System
The vent-free configuration uses an Oxygen Depletion Sensor pilot safety system.
VFSV Model & BTU Comparison
| Size |
Model |
Fuel Type |
Minimum Input |
Maximum Input |
| 16" |
VFSV16NAT |
Natural Gas |
18,000 BTU/hr |
25,000 BTU/hr |
| 16" |
VFSV16LP |
Propane |
17,000 BTU/hr |
22,500 BTU/hr |
| 18" |
VFSV18NAT |
Natural Gas |
21,000 BTU/hr |
32,000 BTU/hr |
| 18" |
VFSV18LP |
Propane |
21,000 BTU/hr |
32,000 BTU/hr |
| 24" |
VFSV24NAT |
Natural Gas |
24,000 BTU/hr |
36,000 BTU/hr |
| 24" |
VFSV24LP |
Propane |
24,000 BTU/hr |
36,000 BTU/hr |
| 30" |
VFSV30NAT |
Natural Gas |
27,000 BTU/hr |
38,000 BTU/hr |
| 30" |
VFSV30LP |
Propane |
27,000 BTU/hr |
38,000 BTU/hr |
Choose by more than BTU.
The correct model also depends on fireplace dimensions, fuel supply, compatible log set, vented or vent-free configuration, gas pressure, and required clearances.
Natural Gas vs. Propane
Natural Gas Models
- VFSV16NAT
- VFSV18NAT
- VFSV24NAT
- VFSV30NAT
Propane Models
- VFSV16LP
- VFSV18LP
- VFSV24LP
- VFSV30LP
No field fuel conversion.
Use only the gas type specified for the selected VFSV model. Do not order Natural Gas for a Propane installation or Propane for a Natural Gas installation with the expectation of converting the appliance later.
Gas Pressure Specifications
| Specification |
Natural Gas |
Propane |
| Regulator Pressure Setting |
4.0" W.C. |
10.0" W.C. |
| Maximum Gas Inlet Pressure |
10.5" W.C. |
13.0" W.C. |
| Minimum Gas Inlet Pressure |
7.0" W.C. |
11.0" W.C. |
| Valve Type |
Variable |
Variable |
Gas-supply planning matters.
Gas-line sizing, inlet pressure, regulator requirements, shutoff provisions, connection, and pressure testing must follow the manufacturer instructions and applicable codes.
Which VFSV Size Fits Your Fireplace?
Do not select a burner based only on its nominal 16", 18", 24", or 30" designation. Empire specifies minimum fireplace dimensions for each model.
| Model |
A |
B |
C |
D |
| VFSV-16 |
18" |
11 1/2" |
24" |
18" |
| VFSV-18 |
17" |
14" |
28" |
17" |
| VFSV-24 |
23" |
14" |
30" |
18" |
| VFSV-30 |
26" |
14" |
34" |
20" |
Use the manufacturer's fireplace-sizing diagram.
Dimensions A, B, C, and D must be interpreted using the supplied manufacturer diagram before ordering. Left and right clearances are determined while facing the front of the heater.
Compatible Fireplace Installations
Empire specifies installation only in an appropriate:
- Solid-fuel-burning masonry fireplace
- UL 127 factory-built fireplace that permits the intended application
- Listed ventless firebox enclosure
Factory-built fireplace restriction:
Do not install the VFSV in a factory-built fireplace whose manufacturer instructions state that unvented gas logs have not been tested or should not be used.
Vent-Free vs. Vented Installation
Vent-Free Supplemental Heating
- Uses room air for combustion.
- Requires adequate combustion and ventilation air.
- Functions as a supplemental zone heater.
- Must not be treated as a primary whole-house heating system.
- Produces water vapor as a normal combustion by-product.
- Requires compliance with applicable vent-free regulations.
Vented Decorative Operation
- May be installed in a qualifying solid-fuel-burning fireplace.
- Requires proper fireplace venting.
- Requires the damper clamp to prevent accidental damper closure.
- Requires chimney and firebox cleaning before installation in an existing wood-burning fireplace.
- Must follow all applicable vented-installation requirements.
Canadian Installation Restriction
The VFSV cannot be installed as an unvented appliance in Canada.
The manufacturer states that applicable Canadian installations must use the approved vented configuration.
VFSV Remote Control & Flame Settings
The VFSV includes a dedicated remote-control system for burner operation and flame-height adjustment.
High
Highest available flame setting.
Medium High
Intermediate-high flame level.
Medium Low
Intermediate-low flame level.
Low
Lowest available flame setting.
The remote also provides ON/OFF operation. The H/L control changes flame height but does not independently switch the burner on or off.
Receiver temperature limit:
Position the remote receiver where ambient temperature does not exceed 130°F.
VFSV vs. VFSE: Do Not Confuse the Two Series
| Feature |
VFSV |
VFSE |
| Series Type |
Variable |
Intermittent Pilot |
| VFSV Sizes |
16", 18", 24", 30" |
Not Applicable |
| VFSV Flame Control |
Four flame-height settings |
Different electronic control system |
| Intermittent-Pilot Identification |
No |
Yes |
Model distinction:
Empire identifies the VFSV-(16,18,24,30)-4 family as the Variable series. The VFSE family is the separate intermittent-pilot series.
Combustion & Ventilation Air
Vent-free operation uses oxygen from the room in which the appliance is installed.
- Provide adequate combustion and ventilation air.
- Do not install in a confined space without appropriate provisions for additional air.
- Unusually tight buildings may require additional fresh air.
- Follow the manufacturer's room-volume requirements.
- Follow applicable local requirements.
Vent-free does not mean air-free.
The ODS pilot is a safety device and does not eliminate the requirement for adequate room air.
Oxygen Depletion Sensor Pilot
For vent-free operation, the VFSV incorporates an Oxygen Depletion Sensor pilot safety system.
The ODS is designed to shut the appliance down when adequate fresh air is unavailable.
If the heater shuts down:
Correct the fresh-air or ventilation condition rather than repeatedly relighting the burner without addressing the cause.
Clearance Requirements
Side Walls
The sides of the fireplace opening must be at least 6" from combustible walls.
16" Ceiling Clearance
For the 16" model, the ceiling must be at least 36" from the fireplace opening.
18"/24"/30" Ceiling Clearance
For 18", 24", and 30" configurations, the ceiling must be at least 41" from the fireplace opening.
Mantel requirements depend on the amount of non-combustible material above the fireplace opening and whether a compatible fireplace hood is installed.
Use the full clearance diagrams.
Do not determine mantel or combustible clearance from these summary measurements alone.
Glass Doors, Screens & Drafts
Glass Doors
Fireplace glass doors must remain open during operation.
Fireplace Screen
The required fireplace screen must remain in place while the heater is operating.
Fans & Drafts
Do not allow fans or strong drafts to blow directly into the fireplace and alter the flame pattern.
Existing Wood-Burning Fireplace Preparation
Before installation in an existing solid-fuel-burning fireplace, Empire requires the chimney flue and firebox to be properly cleaned.
- Remove soot.
- Remove creosote.
- Remove ashes.
- Remove loose paint.
- Use a qualified chimney cleaner.
- Secure the burner assembly to the fireplace or firebox floor as directed.
Do not burn wood or another solid fuel in the fireplace while the VFSV gas-log appliance is installed.
Flame Appearance
After approximately 10 to 15 minutes at full rate, the manufacturer describes the expected flame presentation as sets of yellow flames.
Flame movement is randomized by design, so flame height naturally changes during operation.
Correct flame appearance depends on:
- Correct ceramic-media level
- Proper compatible log placement
- Correct gas pressure
- Clean burner ports
- Clean air-intake openings
- Proper fireplace airflow
Initial Break-In
Manufacturing oils, paint, films, and bonding agents can create temporary smoke or odors during first use.
Manufacturer break-in recommendation:
Operate the burner for approximately 2 to 3 hours at the highest setting while providing maximum room ventilation by opening windows or doors.
What's Included?
Included Burner-System Components
- Gas log grate/burner assembly
- Anchoring screws
- Glowing embers / rock wool
- Lava rock
- Remote-control kit
- Damper clamp
Verify Separately
- Compatible decorative log set
- Correct Natural Gas or Propane configuration
- Fireplace compatibility
- Gas-supply components not included with the packaged system
Installation & Safety Requirements
- Use only the gas type specified for the selected VFSV model.
- Installation and service must be performed by qualified personnel.
- Verify fireplace dimensions before ordering.
- Verify all combustible clearances.
- Provide adequate combustion and ventilation air for vent-free operation.
- Keep fireplace glass doors open during operation.
- Keep the required fireplace screen in place.
- Do not allow fans or drafts to alter the burner flame pattern.
- Secure the burner assembly as directed.
- Keep combustible materials, furniture, draperies, gasoline, and flammable vapors away from the appliance.
- Do not burn wood while the gas appliance is installed.
- Follow all manufacturer instructions and applicable local requirements.
Care & Maintenance
Empire recommends inspection before use and at least annual inspection and cleaning by a dealer or qualified service technician.
- Inspect burner air-intake openings.
- Inspect burner ports.
- Inspect ODS pilot operation.
- Verify flame pattern.
- Verify proper log placement.
- Verify main-burner ignition.
- Check the ceramic-media level inside the burner.
- Clean dust, lint, and debris from required air passages.
Before cleaning:
Turn the heater off and allow it to cool completely before cleaning or servicing.
Complete Empire VFSV Specifications
| Brand |
Empire White Mountain Hearth |
| Series |
Slope Glaze VFSV |
| Product Type |
Variable-Control Gas Burner System |
| Available Sizes |
16", 18", 24", 30" |
| Fuel Types |
Dedicated Natural Gas or Propane Models |
| Field Convertible |
No |
| Valve Type |
Variable |
| Remote Control |
Included |
| Remote Functions |
ON/OFF plus High, Medium High, Medium Low, and Low Flame Settings |
| 16" NG Input |
18,000–25,000 BTU/hr |
| 16" LP Input |
17,000–22,500 BTU/hr |
| 18" Input |
21,000–32,000 BTU/hr |
| 24" Input |
24,000–36,000 BTU/hr |
| 30" Input |
27,000–38,000 BTU/hr |
| Natural Gas Regulator Setting |
4.0" W.C. |
| Natural Gas Inlet Pressure |
7.0" W.C. Minimum / 10.5" W.C. Maximum |
| Propane Regulator Setting |
10.0" W.C. |
| Propane Inlet Pressure |
11.0" W.C. Minimum / 13.0" W.C. Maximum |
| Vent-Free Application |
Supplemental Zone Heating Where Permitted |
| Vented Application |
Qualifying Decorative Fireplace Installation |
| Vented Damper Requirement |
Damper Clamp Required |
| ODS Pilot |
Yes |
| Canada Vent-Free Installation |
Not Permitted |
| Glass Door Position |
Open During Operation |
| Remote Receiver Maximum Ambient Temperature |
130°F |
| Recommended Service |
At Least Annual Inspection and Cleaning |
Warranty Information
Covered Components
The supplied manufacturer information states that applicable components are covered by a Limited Five-Year Parts & Labor Warranty, excluding remote controls, thermostats, accessories, and replacement parts.
Remote Controls & Accessories
Remote controls, thermostats, accessories, and replacement parts are covered by a Limited One-Year Parts Warranty, subject to the manufacturer's complete warranty terms.
Warranty coverage applies to the original purchaser and requires qualified installation plus operation and maintenance according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Flame Authority Expert Recommendation
Choose the Empire White Mountain Hearth VFSV Slope Glaze Burner when adjustable remote-controlled flame height is a priority and you need a burner platform available across multiple fireplace sizes.
The most important ordering decisions are the 16", 18", 24", or 30" size, Natural Gas or Propane model, fireplace A/B/C/D dimensions, compatible log set, required clearances, gas pressure, and vented or vent-free installation.
For vent-free installations, verify room volume and combustion-air provisions before ordering. For vented applications, confirm the working fireplace, damper requirements, damper clamp, and all manufacturer venting requirements.
Official Manufacturer Manual
Empire White Mountain Hearth Slope Glaze Installation Instructions & Owner's Manual
Manufacturer resource covering VFSV specifications, model sizing, gas pressure, fireplace dimensions, remote operation, vented and vent-free installation, combustion air, ODS operation, clearances, maintenance, safety, and warranty information.
Empire VFSV Slope Glaze FAQs
Can the Empire VFSV be installed vent-free or vented?
Yes. The VFSV supports qualifying vent-free supplemental-heating installations and approved vented decorative installations when all manufacturer requirements are met.
What VFSV sizes are available?
The VFSV is available in 16", 18", 24", and 30" sizes.
How do I know which VFSV size fits my fireplace?
Measure the fireplace and compare it with Empire's minimum A/B/C/D dimensions for VFSV-16, VFSV-18, VFSV-24, or VFSV-30. Use the manufacturer sizing diagram to interpret each measurement correctly.
What is the BTU range of the VFSV16 Natural Gas model?
The VFSV16NAT operates from 18,000 to 25,000 BTU/hr.
What is the BTU range of the VFSV16 Propane model?
The VFSV16LP operates from 17,000 to 22,500 BTU/hr.
What is the BTU range of the VFSV18?
Both documented Natural Gas and Propane 18" models operate from 21,000 to 32,000 BTU/hr.
What is the BTU range of the VFSV24?
Both documented 24" fuel configurations operate from 24,000 to 36,000 BTU/hr.
What is the BTU range of the VFSV30?
Both documented 30" configurations operate from 27,000 to 38,000 BTU/hr.
Can a Natural Gas VFSV burner be converted to Propane?
No. VFSV burners are fuel-specific and not field-convertible.
Does the VFSV include a remote control?
Yes. The supplied information identifies an included remote system with ON/OFF control and four flame settings.
What flame settings does the VFSV remote provide?
The four flame settings are High, Medium High, Medium Low, and Low.
Does the VFSV use an intermittent pilot?
No. The VFSV is Empire's Variable series. VFSE is the separate intermittent-pilot series.
Can the VFSV be installed vent-free in Canada?
No. The manufacturer states that Canadian installations must use an approved vented configuration.
Does a vent-free VFSV require combustion and ventilation air?
Yes. Vent-free operation uses room air for combustion, so adequate combustion and ventilation air must be provided.
Can the VFSV be the primary heating system for a house?
No. Empire identifies vent-free operation as supplemental zone heating, not primary whole-house heating.
Does the VFSV have an Oxygen Depletion Sensor?
Yes. The vent-free configuration incorporates an ODS pilot safety system.
Can fireplace glass doors remain closed during operation?
No. Fireplace glass doors must remain open during operation.
Does the fireplace screen need to remain in place?
Yes. The required fireplace screen should remain in place while the appliance is operating.
Can fans affect VFSV flame performance?
Yes. Do not allow fans or strong drafts to blow directly into the fireplace because they can alter flame patterns and contribute to improper burning or sooting.
Does a vented VFSV installation require a damper clamp?
Yes. The manufacturer requires the damper clamp to prevent accidental fireplace-damper closure.
Can I burn wood while the VFSV is installed?
No. Do not burn wood or other solid fuel while the gas-log appliance is installed in the fireplace.
What temperature limit applies to the remote receiver?
The receiver must be positioned where ambient temperature does not exceed 130°F.
Why might there be an odor during first use?
Temporary odors or smoke can occur while manufacturing oils, paint, films, and bonding agents burn off. Empire recommends approximately 2 to 3 hours at the highest setting with maximum room ventilation during initial break-in.
How often should the VFSV be serviced?
Empire recommends inspection before use and at least annual inspection and cleaning by qualified service personnel.
Are decorative gas logs included?
The supplied content presents this product as a burner system and does not establish that a specific decorative log set is included. Confirm the compatible log set for the selected VFSV model before ordering.
Does the VFSV require professional installation?
Yes. Installation and service must be performed by a qualified professional in accordance with the manufacturer's instructions and applicable requirements.
Before You Order
Confirm Before Purchase
- You specifically need the Empire VFSV variable-control burner family.
- You have selected 16", 18", 24", or 30".
- You have confirmed Natural Gas or Propane.
- You understand the fuel cannot be field-converted.
- Your fireplace meets the exact A/B/C/D minimum dimensions.
- You can meet the required sidewall, ceiling, mantel, and combustible clearances.
- Your fireplace type permits the intended installation.
- You have confirmed vented or vent-free operation.
- You can provide adequate combustion and ventilation air for vent-free use.
- You understand vented operation requires the damper clamp.
- You will keep fireplace glass doors open during operation.
- You will operate with the required fireplace screen in place.
- You have verified the compatible decorative log set.
- You will use qualified personnel for installation and service.
Do Not Assume
- That any nominally matching fireplace is large enough.
- That Natural Gas and Propane models are interchangeable.
- That the VFSV is the same as the VFSE intermittent-pilot series.
- That decorative gas logs are automatically included.
- That an ODS removes the need for combustion air.
- That vent-free installation is permitted everywhere.
- That vent-free installation is permitted in Canada.
- That glass fireplace doors can remain closed.
- That a vented installation does not require the damper clamp.
- That the appliance can serve as primary whole-house heat.
- That wood can still be burned while the gas-log appliance is installed.
- That annual maintenance can be skipped because the burner appears to operate normally.
Final planning check:
Use the manufacturer installation manual to verify the exact VFSV model, burner size, fuel type, BTU range, gas pressure, fireplace A/B/C/D dimensions, clearances, compatible log set, remote-control configuration, vented or vent-free installation, combustion-air requirements, damper requirements, glass-door position, and applicable local rules before purchase or installation.
Need Help Choosing the Correct VFSV Model?
Choosing the correct VFSV burner requires matching the fireplace dimensions, burner size, fuel type, installation configuration, gas requirements, compatible log set, and clearance requirements.
Need assistance?
Talk to an Expert at +1-800-923-4556 or email support@flameauthority.com for help determining which Empire White Mountain Hearth VFSV burner is appropriate for your fireplace.
