Empire White Mountain Hearth Slope Glaze Gas Burners
Empire White Mountain Hearth Slope Glaze Vented/Vent-Free Gas Burner – VFSE & VFSV Natural Gas or Propane Models
The Empire White Mountain Hearth Slope Glaze Gas Burner provides the burner foundation for compatible gas-log fireplace systems, with configurations designed for vent-free supplemental heating or vented decorative operation where permitted. VFSE intermittent-pilot and VFSV variable-control models are offered in dedicated Natural Gas or Propane configurations and multiple burner sizes to match different fireplaces, control preferences, and heating requirements.
Series
VFSE / VFSV
Installation
Vented / Vent-Free
Fuel Options
Natural Gas / Propane
Burner Sizes
16", 18", 24", 30"
Maximum Input
Up to 38,000 BTU/hr
Safety System
ODS Pilot
Controls
Intermittent / Variable
Installation
Qualified Professional
Important Purchase & Compatibility Notice
Select the correct fuel type, VFSE or VFSV series, burner size, fireplace dimensions, and control system before ordering. Natural Gas and Propane burners are dedicated to the gas type shown on the appliance rating plate and are not field-convertible to another gas type.
Decorative log-set note:
The supplied manufacturer resource identifies the product as a gas log grate/burner assembly and separately directs installers to the applicable log-set manual for log placement. Do not assume a specific decorative log set is included unless the selected product configuration explicitly states that it is included.
Why Choose an Empire Slope Glaze Gas Burner?
The Slope Glaze family is designed for buyers who need more than a simple burner pan. It combines multiple burner sizes, dedicated Natural Gas and Propane models, alternative control systems, vented or approved vent-free installation flexibility, and an ODS safety system for vent-free operation.
The burner may be installed in an appropriate solid-fuel-burning masonry fireplace, qualifying UL 127 factory-built fireplace, or listed ventless firebox enclosure, subject to the exact manufacturer requirements.
Do not install the appliance in a factory-built fireplace whose instructions state that it has not been tested or should not be used with unvented gas logs.
Empire Slope Glaze Burner at a Glance
Brand
Empire / White Mountain Hearth
Burner Families
VFSE Intermittent and VFSV Variable
Fuel Options
Dedicated Natural Gas or Propane Models
Installation Types
Approved Vented or Vent-Free Applications
VFSV Sizes
16", 18", 24", 30"
Vent-Free Safety
Oxygen Depletion Sensor Pilot System
Maximum Input
Up to 38,000 BTU/hr Depending on Model
Installation
Qualified Installer / Service Agency Required
VFSE vs. VFSV: Which Slope Glaze Burner Should You Choose?
VFSE and VFSV burners are different product families with different valve and control systems. Do not select by nominal burner size alone.
| Feature |
VFSE Series |
VFSV Series |
| Sizes Covered |
18", 24", 30" |
16", 18", 24", 30" |
| Valve Type |
Intermittent |
Variable |
| Fuel Options |
Natural Gas / Propane |
Natural Gas / Propane |
| Vented Application |
Yes, where permitted |
Yes, where permitted |
| Vent-Free Application |
Yes, where permitted |
Yes, where permitted |
| Control System |
Intermittent electronic ignition/control system |
Variable remote-control system |
| Flame Adjustment |
Electronic control functions vary by configuration |
Four flame levels |
Selection rule: Choose the series according to the desired control system, exact fireplace dimensions, fuel supply, intended vented or vent-free installation, and compatible decorative log system.
Is the Empire Slope Glaze Burner Right for Your Fireplace?
Best For
- Appropriately sized masonry fireplaces.
- Qualifying UL 127 factory-built fireplaces.
- Applicable listed ventless firebox enclosures.
- Natural Gas installations using the correct NG model.
- Propane installations using the correct LP model.
- Vent-free supplemental zone heating where permitted.
- Approved vented decorative gas-log installations.
- Buyers wanting electronic or variable control options.
- Projects where minimum fireplace and clearance requirements can be met.
Do Not Choose This Burner If
- Your fireplace is smaller than the required minimum dimensions.
- Your fireplace manufacturer prohibits unvented gas logs.
- You plan to purchase the wrong fuel type and convert it later.
- Your local codes prohibit the intended vent-free configuration.
- You need a vent-free installation in Canada.
- You intend to operate with glass fireplace doors closed.
- You need a primary whole-house heating appliance.
- You cannot provide required combustion and ventilation air.
- You cannot meet required combustible clearances.
Vented vs. Vent-Free Installation
Vent-Free Supplemental Heating
When installed as an unvented room heater, the burner uses air from the room for combustion.
- Adequate combustion and ventilation air is required.
- The appliance is intended for supplemental zone heating rather than primary whole-house heating.
- Gas combustion produces water vapor and can add moisture to the room.
- Vent-free use must be permitted by applicable codes.
- The ODS pilot provides an additional safety function but does not replace ventilation requirements.
Vented Decorative Operation
The burner can also operate as a vented decorative appliance where properly configured.
- The fireplace must have a working flue.
- The fireplace damper must remain open.
- A damper clamp must be installed to prevent accidental closure.
- The fireplace must have appropriate noncombustible construction.
- Do not burn wood or another solid fuel while the gas appliance is installed.
Canada Installation Notice:
The manufacturer's instructions state that these units cannot be installed as unvented appliances in Canada. Canadian installations must use the permitted vented application.
VFSE Intermittent Burner Specifications
| Model |
Fuel |
Valve Type |
Maximum Input |
Minimum Input |
| VFSE-18 |
Natural Gas |
Intermittent |
32,000 BTU/hr |
26,000 BTU/hr |
| VFSE-18 |
Propane |
Intermittent |
32,000 BTU/hr |
26,000 BTU/hr |
| VFSE-24 |
Natural Gas |
Intermittent |
36,000 BTU/hr |
28,800 BTU/hr |
| VFSE-24 |
Propane |
Intermittent |
36,000 BTU/hr |
28,800 BTU/hr |
| VFSE-30 |
Natural Gas |
Intermittent |
38,000 BTU/hr |
30,000 BTU/hr |
| VFSE-30 |
Propane |
Intermittent |
38,000 BTU/hr |
30,000 BTU/hr |
VFSV Variable Burner Specifications
| Model |
Fuel |
Valve Type |
Maximum Input |
Minimum Input |
| VFSV-16 |
Natural Gas |
Variable |
25,000 BTU/hr |
18,000 BTU/hr |
| VFSV-16 |
Propane |
Variable |
22,500 BTU/hr |
17,000 BTU/hr |
| VFSV-18 |
Natural Gas |
Variable |
32,000 BTU/hr |
21,000 BTU/hr |
| VFSV-18 |
Propane |
Variable |
32,000 BTU/hr |
21,000 BTU/hr |
| VFSV-24 |
Natural Gas |
Variable |
36,000 BTU/hr |
24,000 BTU/hr |
| VFSV-24 |
Propane |
Variable |
36,000 BTU/hr |
24,000 BTU/hr |
| VFSV-30 |
Natural Gas |
Variable |
38,000 BTU/hr |
27,000 BTU/hr |
| VFSV-30 |
Propane |
Variable |
38,000 BTU/hr |
27,000 BTU/hr |
Gas Pressure Specifications
| Specification |
VFSE Natural Gas |
VFSV Natural Gas |
VFSE Propane |
VFSV Propane |
| Regulator Pressure Setting |
3.5" W.C. |
4.0" W.C. |
10.0" W.C. |
10.0" W.C. |
| Maximum Inlet Pressure |
10.5" W.C. |
10.5" W.C. |
13.0" W.C. |
13.0" W.C. |
| Minimum Inlet Pressure |
7.0" W.C. |
7.0" W.C. |
11.0" W.C. |
11.0" W.C. |
Gas-supply planning:
Gas-line sizing, gas-line type, inlet pressure, shutoff provisions, testing, and related installation requirements must be verified for the specific installation.
Natural Gas vs. Propane: Order the Correct Fuel
Natural Gas
Choose the exact Natural Gas model that matches the selected VFSE or VFSV series and burner size.
Propane / LP
Choose the exact Propane model that matches the selected VFSE or VFSV series and burner size.
These burners are not field-convertible between Natural Gas and Propane.
Do not purchase a Natural Gas burner for a Propane installation—or vice versa—with the expectation of changing fuels later.
Minimum Fireplace Dimensions
Measure the fireplace before selecting a burner. The manufacturer identifies the required dimensions as A, B, C, and D in its fireplace-sizing diagram.
| Model |
A |
B |
C |
D |
| VFSE-18 |
17" |
14" |
28" |
17" |
| VFSE-24 |
23" |
14" |
30" |
18" |
| VFSE-30 |
26" |
14" |
34" |
20" |
| 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" |
Do not interpret nominal burner size as fireplace opening size.
Use the A/B/C/D table together with the manufacturer's fireplace-dimension diagram before ordering.
Fireplace & Clearance Requirements
Side Wall Clearance
The sides of the fireplace opening must be at least 6" from a combustible wall.
16" Ceiling Clearance
The ceiling must be at least 36" above the fireplace opening for the 16" model.
18"/24"/30" Ceiling Clearance
The ceiling must be at least 41" above the fireplace opening for the documented 18", 24", and 30" models.
Noncombustible-material and mantel-clearance requirements vary with the installation and whether an approved fireplace hood is used.
If vent-free mantel-clearance requirements cannot be met, the manufacturer identifies alternatives including vented operation with the flue damper open, raising the mantel, or removing the mantel.
The supplied manual lists a minimum floor clearance to combustibles of 0" when installed at floor level. If the fireplace floor is sunken below the opening, the appliance must be raised as described in the installation instructions.
Compatible Fireplace Types
The burner is intended for installation only in an appropriate:
- Solid-fuel-burning masonry fireplace
- UL 127 factory-built fireplace that permits the intended application
- Listed ventless firebox enclosure for an applicable vent-free installation
Factory-built fireplace restriction:
Do not install this burner in a factory-built fireplace whose instructions state that unvented gas logs have not been tested or should not be used.
VFSE Intermittent Electronic Ignition & Control System
VFSE models use an intermittent electronic ignition and control system. The manufacturer's instructions cover remote electronic operation, flame-height adjustment, temperature modes, timer functions, and automatic operating functions.
Handset Battery
1 × 9V battery
Receiver Batteries
4 × 1.5V AA batteries
Alternative Power
An approved AC mains adapter can be used instead of receiver batteries.
Thermostat limitation:
The manufacturer states that thermostat functions are for vent-free applications only. For vented VFSE applications, the manufacturer specifies use of an FRIP non-thermostat remote.
VFSV Variable Control System
VFSV models use a separate variable remote-control system providing ON/OFF operation and adjustable flame height.
Flame Levels
High, Medium High, Medium Low, Low
Transmitter Battery
12V A23 battery
Receiver Batteries
4 × AA batteries
Receiver placement:
Position the VFSV receiver according to the manufacturer's instructions in a location where ambient temperature does not exceed 130°F.
Oxygen Depletion Sensor Pilot Safety System
For vent-free operation, the appliance incorporates an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) pilot safety system.
The system is designed to shut the heater down if adequate fresh air is unavailable.
ODS does not replace ventilation.
If the heater shuts down because adequate fresh air is unavailable, correct the ventilation condition rather than repeatedly relighting the appliance.
Combustion & Ventilation Air
An unvented gas-fired heater uses oxygen from the room in which it operates.
- Adequate combustion and ventilation air must be provided.
- Do not install in a confined space without provisions for required air.
- Buildings with unusually tight construction may require additional fresh air.
- Follow the manufacturer's room-volume and ventilation requirements.
- Follow all applicable local codes.
Glass Fireplace Door Requirement
Do not operate this appliance with fireplace glass doors closed.
The manufacturer's instructions require glass doors to remain open during operation. Closed glass doors can contribute to pilot outages and severe sooting.
A fireplace screen must also be in place as required by the manufacturer's operating instructions.
What's Included With the Burner System?
The supplied manufacturer's manual identifies the packaged burner system as including:
Burner Components
- Gas log grate/burner assembly
- Two masonry anchoring screws
- Two 10 × 1/2" black sheet-metal anchoring screws
- Glowing embers / rock wool
- Lava rock
- Remote kit
Additional Referenced Component
- Damper clamp identified in the manufacturer's parts information
Verify exact package contents for the selected model before installation.
Are Decorative Gas Logs Included?
Do not automatically assume a decorative log set is included.
The supplied manufacturer resource describes a gas log grate/burner assembly and directs installers to separate log instructions for log placement. It does not establish that a specific decorative log set is included with this Flame Authority burner listing.
Vented Installation Damper Requirements
For vented decorative operation, the fireplace damper must remain open so combustion products can vent through the chimney.
A damper clamp is required.
The clamp prevents accidental closure of the fireplace damper while the appliance is operating as a vented decorative gas appliance.
Installation Requirements
Installation and service must be performed by a qualified installer, service agency, gas supplier, or qualified agency as applicable.
Before installation in an existing solid-fuel-burning fireplace, the chimney flue and firebox must be cleaned of:
- Soot
- Creosote
- Ashes
- Loose paint
The burner must also be properly secured to the fireplace floor. Movement can shift the gas logs and contribute to improper burning or sooting.
Verify These Items Before Operating
Fuel
Correct Natural Gas or Propane model.
Series
Correct VFSE or VFSV configuration.
Burner Size
Correct 16", 18", 24", or 30" model.
Fireplace Fit
Minimum A/B/C/D dimensions are satisfied.
Clearances
Sidewall, ceiling, mantel, and combustible clearances are satisfied.
Gas Supply
Required inlet pressure and gas-line provisions are verified.
Installation Mode
Vented or vent-free configuration is correctly established.
Combustion Air
Adequate air is available for vent-free operation.
Damper
Correct damper position and clamp requirements are followed.
Initial Operation & Break-In
Oils, films, and bonding agents used during manufacturing can create temporary smoke or odors during initial operation.
Manufacturer break-in guidance:
The supplied instructions identify an initial break-in period of approximately 2 to 3 hours at the highest setting, with windows or doors opened to provide maximum ventilation.
Care & Maintenance
Empire recommends annual inspection and cleaning by a dealer or qualified service technician.
- Inspect and clean burner air-intake openings.
- Inspect and clean burner ports.
- Inspect the ODS pilot.
- Check pilot air-intake openings for lint or debris.
- Verify the burner flame pattern.
- Verify correct decorative log placement.
- Check burner ignition for smooth, responsive operation.
- Check the level of ceramic burner media.
- Keep burner and control compartments clean.
Cleaning rule:
Turn the heater off and allow it to cool before cleaning. Do not use cleaning fluid on the logs or other heater components.
Important Operating & Safety Notes
- Keep furniture, draperies, clothing, and other combustible materials away from the appliance.
- Young children must be carefully supervised when in the same room as the operating appliance.
- Do not place clothing or other flammable material on or near the appliance.
- Do not allow fans to blow directly into the fireplace.
- Do not use an unapproved blower insert, heat exchanger insert, or accessory.
- Keep burner and control compartments clean.
- Do not operate the appliance if a log, burner, or control component is damaged or incorrectly positioned.
- If gas is smelled, follow the gas-safety procedures in the manufacturer's manual and do not attempt to operate the appliance.
Complete Empire Slope Glaze Buyer Specifications
| Brand |
Empire White Mountain Hearth |
| Product Type |
Vented / Vent-Free Gas Log Grate & Burner Assembly |
| Series |
VFSE Intermittent / VFSV Variable |
| VFSE Sizes |
18", 24", 30" |
| VFSV Sizes |
16", 18", 24", 30" |
| Fuel Options |
Dedicated Natural Gas or Propane Models |
| Field Convertible |
No |
| Maximum Input Range |
Up to 38,000 BTU/hr Depending on Model |
| Vent-Free Safety |
ODS Pilot Safety System |
| Installation Type |
Vented Decorative or Vent-Free Supplemental Heating Where Permitted |
| Vented Damper Requirement |
Damper Open with Damper Clamp Installed |
| Canada Vent-Free Installation |
Not Permitted |
| Glass Door Position |
Open During Operation |
| Primary Heating Use |
No — Vent-Free Application Is Supplemental Zone Heating |
| Qualified Installation |
Required |
| Recommended Inspection |
At Least Annually by Dealer or Qualified Service Technician |
Flame Authority Expert Recommendation
Choose an Empire White Mountain Hearth Slope Glaze burner when you need a flexible burner platform that can support an approved vent-free supplemental-heating installation or a properly configured vented decorative gas-log installation.
The most important purchasing decision is not simply burner size. Confirm the VFSE or VFSV series, Natural Gas or Propane fuel, control preference, minimum fireplace dimensions, gas pressure, combustible clearances, compatible decorative log set, and final vented or vent-free installation.
For vent-free use, verify room-volume and combustion-air requirements before purchase. For vented use, verify the working flue, damper position, damper clamp, and correct non-thermostatic control configuration where required.
Official Manufacturer Manual
Empire Slope Glaze Burner FAQs
Can the Empire Slope Glaze burner be installed vented or vent-free?
Yes. The covered Slope Glaze models support approved vented and vent-free applications where permitted. Vented operation requires the fireplace damper to remain open with the required damper clamp, while vent-free operation requires adequate combustion and ventilation air.
Can an Empire Slope Glaze Natural Gas burner be converted to Propane?
No. The appliance must use the gas type shown on its rating plate and is not field-convertible between Natural Gas and Propane.
Can the burner be installed vent-free in Canada?
No. The manufacturer's instructions require Canadian installations to use the appliance as an approved vented application.
What sizes are available?
The supplied manual lists VFSE models in 18", 24", and 30" sizes and VFSV models in 16", 18", 24", and 30" sizes.
What is the maximum BTU input?
Depending on burner size and series, maximum input ranges up to 38,000 BTU/hr. Refer to the exact model table before ordering.
What size fireplace is required?
The answer depends on the exact burner model. Use the manufacturer's A/B/C/D minimum-dimension table and fireplace-sizing diagram rather than nominal burner size alone.
Can fireplace glass doors remain closed?
No. Fireplace glass doors must remain open during operation. Closed glass doors can contribute to pilot outages and severe sooting.
Does a vented installation require the damper to remain open?
Yes. The fireplace damper must remain open and a damper clamp must be installed to prevent accidental closure.
Does the Empire Slope Glaze burner have an ODS?
Yes. The vent-free appliance incorporates an Oxygen Depletion Sensor pilot safety system designed to shut the heater down when adequate fresh air is unavailable.
Does an ODS eliminate the need for combustion air?
No. Proper combustion and ventilation air is still required for vent-free operation.
Can this burner be used as the home's primary heater?
No. The manufacturer identifies unvented room heaters as supplemental zone-heating appliances rather than primary whole-house heating systems.
Are VFSE and VFSV controls the same?
No. VFSE uses an intermittent electronic ignition/control system, while VFSV uses a separate variable-control system with four flame levels.
What flame settings does VFSV provide?
The supplied instructions identify High, Medium High, Medium Low, and Low.
Can a thermostat be used with a vented VFSE installation?
No for the thermostat configuration described in the supplied manual. Empire states that thermostats are for vent-free applications only and specifies an FRIP non-thermostat remote for vented VFSE applications.
Are decorative gas logs included?
The supplied manufacturer resource does not establish that a specific decorative log set is included with this Flame Authority burner listing. Confirm the exact selected package before ordering.
Can this burner be installed in any fireplace?
No. It must be installed in a qualifying masonry fireplace, compatible UL 127 factory-built fireplace, or applicable listed ventless firebox enclosure meeting the required sizing, clearance, and installation conditions.
Does a vent-free installation require outside venting?
It does not vent combustion products through a chimney, but it still requires adequate room combustion and ventilation air.
What gas pressure is required for Natural Gas?
The supplied specifications list a minimum inlet pressure of 7.0" W.C. and maximum inlet pressure of 10.5" W.C. for both documented VFSE and VFSV Natural Gas configurations. Regulator settings differ by series.
What gas pressure is required for Propane?
The supplied specifications list a minimum inlet pressure of 11.0" W.C. and maximum inlet pressure of 13.0" W.C. for the documented Propane configurations.
Does the burner require professional installation?
Yes. Installation, gas piping, pressure verification, testing, service, and repair must be handled by appropriately qualified personnel.
How often should the burner be serviced?
Empire recommends inspection and cleaning at least annually by a dealer or qualified service technician. More frequent cleaning may be required when dust, lint, or other conditions affect burner and air passages.
What should be done during the first operation?
The manufacturer identifies an initial break-in of approximately 2 to 3 hours at the highest setting with maximum ventilation provided by opening windows or doors.
Before You Order
Confirm Before Purchase
- You have selected VFSE or VFSV.
- You have selected the correct burner size.
- You have confirmed Natural Gas or Propane.
- You understand the burner cannot be field-converted to another fuel.
- Your fireplace meets the A/B/C/D minimum dimensions.
- You can meet 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 the damper must remain open for vented operation.
- You understand the damper clamp is required for vented operation.
- You will keep fireplace glass doors open during operation.
- You have confirmed the compatible decorative log system.
- You will use qualified personnel for installation and service.
Do Not Assume
- That VFSE and VFSV use identical controls.
- That any burner of the same nominal size will fit your fireplace.
- That Natural Gas and Propane models are convertible.
- That decorative gas logs are automatically included.
- That an ODS eliminates combustion-air requirements.
- That vent-free operation is allowed everywhere.
- That vent-free operation is allowed in Canada.
- That a vented installation can operate with the damper closed.
- That glass fireplace doors can remain closed.
- That thermostatic VFSE control is appropriate for vented operation.
- That the appliance is intended as primary whole-house heat.
- That a factory-built fireplace automatically permits unvented gas logs.
Final planning check:
Use the manufacturer installation manual to verify the exact VFSE or VFSV model, fuel type, burner size, BTU range, gas pressure, fireplace A/B/C/D dimensions, clearances, control configuration, vented or vent-free setup, combustion-air requirements, damper position, compatible log placement, glass-door requirements, and local installation rules before purchase or installation.
