Superior VRT2500 Series Vent-Free Firebox
Superior VRT2500 VRT2536WS 36" Clean-Faced Vent-Free Firebox
The Superior VRT2536WS is a 36-inch clean-faced, heat-circulating vent-free firebox designed to house a compatible listed ANSI Z21.11.2 vent-free gas log heater. It features a 24-inch-tall opening, white stacked refractory panels on the sides and back, included mesh fire screens, a factory-supplied heat-deflection hood, and a durable textured powder-coat finish.
Model
VRT2536WS
Catalog No.
F0322
Nominal Size
36"
Opening Height
24"
Configuration
Firebox Only
Vent Type
Vent-Free
Max Heater Input
40,000 BTU/hr
Warranty
20-Year Limited
Important: Firebox Only
The Superior VRT2536WS is not a complete operating gas fireplace. A compatible listed ANSI Z21.11.2 vent-free gas log heater, applicable controls, and required gas-installation components must be selected separately.
Clean-Faced 36" Vent-Free Firebox Design
The VRT2536WS provides the enclosure, refractory interior, hood, and screens needed to build a compatible vent-free gas fireplace system while allowing the gas-log heater and controls to be selected separately.
Its 24-inch-high full-width opening provides a tall front-view presentation, while the white stacked refractory interior creates a masonry-inspired backdrop for the separately selected gas-log heater.
The VRT2500 Series is designed as a heat-circulating firebox, allowing room air to circulate around the firebox when configured with an approved vent-free heater.
Superior VRT2536WS at a Glance
Brand
Superior Fireplaces
Product Type
Vent-Free Gas Firebox
Interior Liner
White Stacked Refractory
Heat-Deflection Hood
Included & Required
Is the Superior VRT2536WS Right for Your Project?
Best For
- Projects requiring a 36" built-in vent-free firebox.
- Clean-faced front-view fireplace installations.
- Buyers wanting a tall 24" firebox opening.
- Projects using white stacked refractory on the sides and back.
- Installations where the gas-log heater will be selected separately.
- Compatible vent-free heaters rated at no more than 40,000 BTU/hr.
- Projects where optional blower capability is desired.
- Installations using an optional decorative twin-pane screen.
- Projects where an optional outside-air kit is appropriate.
Consider Another Fireplace If
- You want a complete fireplace with burner and logs already included.
- Your project requires direct-vent or conventionally vented operation.
- Vent-free appliances are not permitted or appropriate for the installation.
- Your selected gas-log heater exceeds 40,000 BTU/hr.
- The selected heater does not meet the VRT2536WS interior dimensions.
- Your framing space cannot accommodate the required dimensions.
- You need a multi-sided or different-size firebox.
White Stacked Refractory Interior
Masonry-Inspired Appearance
White stacked refractory panels line the sides and back of the VRT2536WS, forming the visible interior backdrop for the selected gas log heater.
Factory-Supplied Heat-Deflection Hood
A heat-deflection hood is included with the VRT2536WS.
The factory-supplied hood is required in all installations. It must remain installed according to Superior's instructions and should not be removed or replaced with an unapproved hood.
Included Mesh Fire Screens
The VRT2536WS includes mesh fire screens as the standard front-screen configuration.
Operating requirement: The fireplace screens must be closed before operating the installed vent-free gas heater.
What You Need to Complete the Fireplace
Included with the VRT2536WS
- 36" clean-faced heat-circulating vent-free firebox
- White stacked refractory panels on sides and back
- Factory-supplied heat-deflection hood
- Mesh fire screens
- Textured powder-coat finish
Required or Sold Separately
- Compatible listed ANSI Z21.11.2 vent-free gas log heater
- Applicable gas-log controls
- Gas-supply components required for the selected installation
Do not select a gas-log heater by nominal log size alone. Verify the heater's minimum firebox dimensions, fuel configuration, controls, input rating, and installation requirements.
Compatible Vent-Free Gas Log Families
Superior identifies multiple gas-log families for the VRT2500 Series. The exact model and size must still be verified against the VRT2536WS interior dimensions and the gas-log heater's minimum firebox requirements.
Crescent Hill
Concrete logs from Superior's Double-Flame Series. Verify size, fuel, and control configuration.
Crescent Hill HD
High-density fiber logs from the Double-Flame Series. Verify the exact model before pairing.
Golden Oak
Ceramic-fiber logs from the Double-Flame Series. Compatibility varies by size, fuel, and controls.
Boulder Mountain
Concrete logs from Superior's Glow-Ramp Series. Verify minimum firebox dimensions before ordering.
Rugged Stack
Concrete logs from Superior's Triple-Flame Series. Select only a configuration whose firebox requirements fit.
Wild Timber
Concrete logs from the Triple-Flame Series. Check dimensional, fuel, and control requirements.
VRT2536WS Interior Firebox Dimensions
Superior provides the following interior dimensions specifically to help determine whether a selected vent-free gas log heater will fit.
| Interior Front Width |
35" |
| Interior Rear Width |
23-1/4" |
| Interior Depth |
17-3/8" |
| Interior Height |
24" |
Compatibility check: Compare all four interior dimensions against the minimum requirements of the exact gas-log heater being considered.
VRT2536WS Framing Requirements
Parallel Installation
| Framing Width |
42-1/4" |
| Framing Height |
40-1/4" |
| Framing Depth |
20-1/2" |
Corner and alternate framing: Use the complete manufacturer dimensional drawings for corner installations and other framing arrangements. Finishing materials must also be accounted for as shown in Superior's instructions.
Appliance Dimension References
Superior's dimensional drawing uses letter references for installation planning. Use the manufacturer specification sheet or manual when applying these measurements.
| Reference |
VRT2536WS |
| A |
36" |
| B |
24" |
| C |
41-3/4" |
| D |
37-1/4" |
| E |
23-1/2" |
| F |
20" |
| G |
3" |
| H |
7-3/8" |
| J |
15-7/8" |
| K |
7-1/2" |
| L |
12" |
| M |
1-3/8" |
| N |
5-1/2" |
| P |
30-3/8" |
| Q |
29-5/8" |
Compatible Heater Requirements
The VRT2536WS is tested and approved for use with compatible ANSI Z21.11.2 decorative-type unvented room heaters.
40,000 BTU/hr maximum: The installed vent-free room heater must not exceed 40,000 BTU/hr.
The firebox itself does not have a standalone gas-heating output because the heating appliance is selected separately.
Vent-Free Installation Requirements
No Conventional Chimney
The VRT2536WS is designed around an approved vent-free gas-log heater configuration.
Combustion Air Required
Adequate combustion and ventilation air must still be provided.
No Solid Fuel
Do not build a wood fire or burn solid fuel inside the firebox.
Bedroom Restriction
Do not install in a sleeping room.
Bathroom Restriction
Do not install in a bathroom.
Qualified Gas Installation
Gas-supply work should follow manufacturer instructions and applicable codes.
Clearance & Finishing Requirements
| Ceiling Above Firebox Opening |
40" Minimum |
| Minimum Side-Wall Clearance |
16" |
| Noncombustible Area Above Opening |
3" Minimum for Documented Configuration |
Additional requirements apply based on mantel depth, trim, combustible projections, side-wall conditions, and the complete installation configuration.
Do not use these summary dimensions as a substitute for the manufacturer's clearance diagrams. Final mantel, trim, wall-finish, and combustible-projection locations must follow the applicable installation drawings.
Floor & Hearth Planning
The VRT2536WS can be installed on an appropriately supported combustible surface.
If it is installed directly over carpet, vinyl tile, or another combustible floor covering other than wood flooring, the manufacturer requires a metal or wood panel extending the full width and depth of the appliance.
Hearth extension: A hearth extension may be used but is not required. Raised-hearth construction must follow the limits shown in Superior's installation manual.
Optional Blower Capability
FBK-100
Standard single-speed blower.
FBK-200
Variable-speed blower with wall-mounted control.
Electrical planning: If an optional blower will be installed, Superior specifies a 3-wire, 120 VAC, 60 Hz, single-phase electrical supply. Plan the electrical connection before the firebox is framed and enclosed.
Optional Accessories
Decorative Twin-Pane Screen
Optional precision-cut decorative screen in a textured iron finish.
FBK-100 Blower
Optional standard single-speed blower.
FBK-200 Blower
Optional variable-speed blower with wall-mounted control.
OAK-UVFRC Outside-Air Kit
Optional outside-air gate and duct kit identified by Superior for this application.
Complete Superior VRT2536WS Specifications
| Manufacturer |
Superior Fireplaces |
| Series |
VRT2500 |
| Model |
VRT2536WS |
| Catalog Number |
F0322 |
| Product Type |
Vent-Free Gas Firebox |
| Configuration |
Firebox Only |
| Nominal Size |
36" |
| View Style |
Front View |
| Installation Type |
Built-In |
| Vent Type |
Vent-Free |
| Opening Height |
24" |
| Interior Front Width |
35" |
| Interior Rear Width |
23-1/4" |
| Interior Depth |
17-3/8" |
| Framing Width |
42-1/4" |
| Framing Height |
40-1/4" |
| Framing Depth |
20-1/2" |
| Interior Liner |
White Stacked Refractory - Sides and Back |
| Finish |
Textured Powder Coat |
| Heat-Deflection Hood |
Included - Required in All Installations |
| Mesh Fire Screens |
Included |
| Gas Log Heater |
Required - Sold Separately |
| Approved Heater Type |
Listed ANSI Z21.11.2 Decorative-Type Unvented Room Heater |
| Maximum Heater Input |
40,000 BTU/hr |
| Firebox Listing |
ANSI Z21.91 Ventless Firebox Enclosure |
| Report Number |
F14-168 |
| Shipping Weight |
150 lbs. |
| Optional Blower |
Available |
| Optional Blower Electrical |
3-Wire, 120 VAC, 60 Hz, Single Phase |
| Optional Outside-Air Kit |
OAK-UVFRC |
| Optional Decorative Screen |
Available |
| Hearth Extension |
Optional / Not Required |
| Bedroom Installation |
Not Permitted |
| Bathroom Installation |
Not Permitted |
| Solid-Fuel Use |
Not Permitted |
| Warranty |
20-Year Limited Warranty |
Flame Authority Expert Recommendation
Choose the Superior VRT2536WS when your project calls for a 36" clean-faced built-in vent-free firebox and you want to select the compatible gas-log heater, fuel configuration, controls, and accessories separately.
Its 24" opening height, 35" interior front width, 23-1/4" rear width, 17-3/8" interior depth, white stacked refractory panels, included mesh screens, required factory hood, optional blower capability, and 40,000 BTU/hr maximum compatible heater input make it a flexible enclosure for qualifying vent-free gas-log installations.
The most important purchasing step is verifying the gas-log heater dimensions, heater input, framing space, combustible clearances, combustion-air requirements, installation location, gas supply, and optional accessory requirements before framing or ordering the complete system.
Official Manufacturer Resources
Superior VRT2500 Series Product Brochure
Series overview covering VRT2500 fireboxes, design features, specifications, and available configurations.
Superior Vent-Free Gas Logs Brochure
Manufacturer information for compatible vent-free gas-log families and configurations.
Superior VRT2500 Series Smart Sheet
Quick-reference VRT2500 Series features and specification information.
Superior VRT2536WS / VRT2542WS Installation & Operation Manual
Manufacturer installation, framing, clearance, gas-supply, combustion-air, accessory, electrical, operating, and safety requirements.
Superior VRT2500 36"/42" Specification Sheet
Manufacturer dimensional, framing, interior, listing, and technical specifications.
Superior VRT2536WS FAQs
Is the Superior VRT2536WS a complete gas fireplace?
No. The VRT2536WS is a vent-free firebox only. A compatible listed vent-free gas log heater and applicable controls are required separately.
Does the VRT2536WS include the gas logs and burner?
No. The gas-log heater is sold separately and must meet the VRT2536WS dimensional, fuel, control, and input requirements.
What are the interior dimensions of the VRT2536WS?
The interior measures 35" wide at the front, 23-1/4" wide at the rear, 17-3/8" deep, and 24" high.
What are the framing dimensions for the VRT2536WS?
Parallel-installation framing dimensions are 42-1/4" W × 40-1/4" H × 20-1/2" D. Use Superior's complete drawings for corner and alternate framing.
What gas logs can be used with the VRT2536WS?
Superior identifies Crescent Hill, Crescent Hill HD, Golden Oak, Boulder Mountain, Rugged Stack, and Wild Timber among VRT2500-compatible families. Verify the exact heater model and dimensions before ordering.
Can I install any 36" gas-log set in the VRT2536WS?
No. Nominal size alone does not establish compatibility. The heater must fit the VRT2536WS interior and satisfy all manufacturer requirements.
What is the BTU rating of the VRT2536WS?
The firebox itself does not have a standalone heating-output rating. The separately selected vent-free heater must not exceed 40,000 BTU/hr.
Does the VRT2536WS require a chimney?
It is designed for approved vent-free operation and does not use a conventional chimney in that configuration, but adequate combustion and ventilation air are still required.
Is the heat-deflection hood optional?
No. The factory-supplied heat-deflection hood is required in all VRT2536WS installations.
Can a blower be added?
Yes. Superior identifies the optional FBK-100 single-speed and FBK-200 variable-speed blower configurations.
Does the VRT2536WS require a hearth extension?
No. A hearth extension is optional, although raised-hearth and combustible-floor installations must follow the manufacturer's construction requirements.
Can the VRT2536WS be installed in a bedroom or bathroom?
No. Superior states that the VRT2536WS must not be installed in a sleeping room or bathroom.
Can wood be burned in the VRT2536WS?
No. Do not burn wood or other solid fuel in this firebox. It is designed for an approved vent-free gas log heater.
Before You Order
Confirm Before Purchase
- You specifically need the Superior VRT2536WS.
- Your project can accommodate the 42-1/4" × 40-1/4" × 20-1/2" parallel framing requirements.
- Your selected heater is a compatible listed ANSI Z21.11.2 vent-free gas-log heater.
- The selected heater does not exceed 40,000 BTU/hr.
- The heater meets the 35" front-width, 23-1/4" rear-width, 17-3/8" depth, and 24" height limits.
- You can meet all side-wall, ceiling, mantel, trim, and finishing requirements.
- You can provide adequate combustion and ventilation air.
- The installation is not in a sleeping room or bathroom.
- You understand that the gas-log heater is sold separately.
- You will retain and install the factory-supplied hood.
- If adding a blower, the required electrical supply will be planned before enclosure.
Do Not Assume
- That the VRT2536WS includes a burner and logs.
- That any 36" gas-log heater will fit.
- That the firebox itself produces 40,000 BTU/hr.
- That the factory hood is optional.
- That vent-free means combustion air is unnecessary.
- That wood or solid fuel can be burned in the firebox.
- That a bedroom or bathroom installation is permitted.
- That the parallel framing dimensions apply to every corner installation.
- That a blower can be added later without prior electrical planning.
- That summary clearance information replaces Superior's installation diagrams.
Final planning check: Use the Superior VRT2536WS / VRT2542WS Installation & Operation Manual, Specification Sheet, VRT2500 Smart Sheet, and applicable gas-log heater documentation to verify framing, heater compatibility, BTU input, clearances, combustion air, gas supply, electrical provisions, accessories, and final installation before construction.
