Empire Comfort Systems Comprehensive Troubleshooting Guide for VFSM-24-3 Electric Heaters
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TROUBLESHOOTING

SYMPTOMS - POSSIBLE CAUSES AND CORRECTIONS

Turn appliance OFF and allow to cool before servicing. Only a qualified service person should service and repair the heater.

1.When ignitor button is pressed, there is no spark at ODS/ pilot.

a.Ignitor electrode positioned wrong - Replace pilot.

b.Ignitor electrode is broken - Replace pilot.

c.Ignitor electrode not connected to ignitor cable - Reconnect ignitor cable.

d.Ignitor cable pinched or wet. Keep ignitor cable dry - Free ignitor cable if pinched by any metal or tubing.

e.Broken ignitor cable - Replace ignitor cable.

f.Bad piezo ignitor - Replace piezo ignitor.

2.Appliance produces unwanted odors.

a.Appliance burning vapors from paint, hair spray, glues, etc. - Ventilate room. Stop using odor causing products while heater is running.

b.Gas leak - Locate and correct all leaks.

3.Appliance shuts off during use. (Pilot and main burner are off.)

a.Not enough fresh air is available for ODS/pilot to operate

-Open window and/or door for ventilation.

b.Low line pressure - Contact local gas company.

c.ODS/pilot is partially clogged - Clean ODS/pilot.

d.Defective thermocouple - Replace pilot.

4.Appliance shuts off during use. (Pilot stays on.)

a.Low line pressure - Check line pressure to the valve.

b.Defective thermopile - Check pilot flame, check wire connections, output should be a minimum of 325 millivolts across. TH/TP and TP terminals with ON/OFF switch off.

5.Gas odor even when control knob is in OFF position.

a.Gas leak - Locate and correct all leaks.

b.Control valve defective - Replace control valve.

6.When ignitor button is pressed, there is spark at ODS/pilot, but no ignition.

a.Gas supply turned off or manual shutoff valve closed

-Turn on gas supply or open manual shutoff valve.

b.Control knob not in PILOT position - Turn control knob to PILOT position.

c.Control knob not pressed in while in PILOT position

-Press in control knob while in PILOT position.

d.Air in gas lines when installed - Continue holding down control knob. Repeat igniting operation until air is removed.

e.ODS/pilot is clogged - Replace ODS/pilot assembly or get it serviced.

g. Gas regulator setting is not correct - Replace gas regulator.

7.ODS/pilot lights but flame goes out when control knob is released.

a.Control knob not fully pressed in - Press in control knob fully.

b.Control knob not pressed in long enough -After ODS/pilot lights, keep control knob pressed in 30 seconds.

c.Manual Shutoff valve not fully open - Fully open manual shutoff valve.

d.Thermocouple connection loose at control valve - Hand tighten until snug, then tighten 1/4 turn more.

e.Pilot flame not touching thermocouple, which allows thermocouple to cool, causing pilot flame to go out. This problem could be caused by either low gas pressure or dirty or partially clogged ODS/pilot - Contact local gas company.

f.Thermocouple damaged - Replace thermocouple.

h.Control valve damaged - Replace control valve.

8.Burner does not light after ODS/pilot is lit.

a.Burner orifice clogged - Clean burner or replace main burner orifice.

b.Burner orifice diameter is too small - Replace burner orifice.

c.Inlet gas pressure is too low - Contact qualified service person.

9.If burning at main burner orifice occurs (a loud, roaring blow torch noise).

a.You must turn off burner assembly and contact a qualified service person.

b.Manifold pressure is too low - Contact local gas company.

c.Burner orifice clogged - Clean burner or replace burner orifice.

10.Logs appear to smoke after initial operation.

a.Vapors from paint or curing process of logs - Problem will stop after a few hours of operation. Run the heater with the damper open if you have one, or open a window for the first few hours.

Log heater is intended to be smokeless. Turn OFF heater and call qualified service person.

11.Heater produces a whistling noise when main burner is lit.

a.Turning control knob to HIGH position when main burner is cold - Turn control knob to LOW position and let warm up for a minute.

b.Air in gas line - Operate burner until air is removed from line. Have gas line checked by local gas company.

c.Dirty or partially clogged burner orifice - Clean burner or replace burner orifice.

12.No gas to pilot.

a.LP-regulator shut down due to inlet pressure too high - Verify LP tank regulator is installed and set at 11" to 13" w.c. Replace regulator on heater.

13.New Installation.

a.On VFSV Model variable does not operate-On is OFF/OFF is ON-wires into the back of receiver are reversed.

If the gas quality is bad, your pilot may not stay lit, the burners may produce soot and the heater may backfire when lit. If the gas quality or pressure is low, contact your local gas supplier immediately.

18954-0-0705

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Contents Installation Instructions Table of Contents Death Important Safety InformationDo not Tamper with Pilot Light Safety Carbon Monoxide Poisoning MAY Lead toLP-GAS Warning Odor Safety Information for Users of LP-GASIntroduction AccessoriesWater Vapor a BY-PRODUCT of Unvented Room Heaters General InformationVFSV-16 ClearancesVFSR-16 Material Heat Resistant MaterialHood Heater in Fireplace Or Firebox Heat ResistantFireplace Preparation Combustible MaterialBefore Fully Installing the Appliance Installing AS a Vented ApplianceGAS Supply Operation INSTRUCTIONS/FLAME Appearance Placement of Glowing Embers and Lava RockWhat to do if YOU Smell GAS VFSR-16, 18, 24, 30 Lighting InstructionsPiezo Ignitor HI/LO Regulator Control Knob VFSV-16, 18, 24, 30 Lighting Instructions VFSM-18, 24, 30 Lighting Instructions Vfsr Pilot Pilot Flame CharacteristicsVfsv and Vfsm Pilot Turn OFF Heater and Allow to Cool Before Cleaning Cleaning and ServicingVfsr WiringVfsv Troubleshooting Index Part Description Number Parts ListParts View HOW to Order Repair Parts Service Notes Service Notes FAX

VFSV-30-3, VFSM -30-3, VFSR-30-3, VFSV-24-3, VFSR-24-3 specifications

Empire Comfort Systems offers a range of high-performance gas-fired vent-free space heaters, including the VFSM-24-3, VFSV-24-3, VFSM-30-3, VFSV-16-3, and VFSM-18-3 models. These heaters are designed to provide effective, efficient, and environmentally friendly heating solutions for homes and businesses.

One of the key features of these models is their vent-free technology, which allows them to operate without the need for external venting. This design not only simplifies installation but also maximizes heat output in enclosed spaces, making them ideal for areas where traditional heating methods are impractical. The units are equipped with a safety pilot system that automatically shuts off the gas flow in case of a malfunction, ensuring safety for users.

The VFSM and VFSV series offer a variety of heating capacities, ranging from 16,000 to 30,000 BTUs, catering to different room sizes and heating requirements. The adjustable heat settings allow users to customize their heating experience based on their comfort needs. Additionally, the units feature a thermostat control option, which provides even greater ease of use and energy efficiency.

Energy efficiency is another hallmark of Empire’s vent-free heaters, as they utilize 99% of the gas consumed for heating. This high efficiency translates into lower energy bills for consumers. Furthermore, these heaters produce minimal emissions, making them an environmentally conscious choice for heating.

The VFSM and VFSV models are available in a range of stylish designs and finishes, allowing them to blend seamlessly with various home decors. Their compact sizes mean they can be installed in tight spaces or mounted on walls, optimizing room layouts without sacrificing heating performance.

Another notable characteristic is the option for remote control operation. This feature provides added convenience, allowing users to adjust settings from across the room. With their robust construction and user-friendly features, the VFSM-24-3, VFSV-24-3, VFSM-30-3, VFSV-16-3, and VFSM-18-3 models stand out as reliable solutions for efficient heating needs, ensuring comfort during the cold months while prioritizing safety and environmental considerations.
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