
By Mike from California on January 27, 2013
What's rear vent? Is it adaptable to an existing vertical piping system?
By Collin C. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on January 28, 2013
Answer:
Rear vent systems are designed with venting horizontally through an outside wall in mind. While they can be used in a top vent setup, it is generally better to purchase a fireplace that is already configured as a top vent model. Depending on the pipe that is existing, you may be able to adapt the unit to work with the current chimney. By Toby Wiik from Carlsbad, CA on July 18, 2012
Is this fireplace legal in California?
By Tyler M. - Fireplace Specialist on July 18, 2012
Answer:
Depending on your jurisdiction, it may or may not be suitable for use. In some areas of California, there is a restriction against using millivolt systems that utilize a standing pilot light, which this model has. You may need to look for a direct vent fireplace with an electronic ignition, which eliminates the standing pilot. A similar model to this with an electronic ignition would be the
Vantage Hearth 36 Inch Upgradable VersaFire Direct Vent Natural Gas Fireplace.
We have several other options for 36 inch direct vent fireplaces with electronic ignitions. Please let us know if you are interested in other models.
By sam from Chicago on February 8, 2013
I need the vent to exit the top of the unit. Do you have a model similar to this that is vented from the top?
By Collin C. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on February 11, 2013
Answer:
This exact unit is available in a top vent model. The top vent version can be
seen here.
By Barbara from Millbury, MA on January 21, 2013
Does this unit come with remote thermostat and blower?
By Tyler M. - Fireplace Specialist on January 21, 2013
By Patrick from phoenix, az on December 7, 2011
The fireplace shown looks like a b vent with the glass front. Is this just a different picture?
By Collin C. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on December 8, 2011
Answer:
You are correct. At one time, FMI offered this unit as a B-vent/Direct Vent convertible model. It is shown in the photo as a B-vent conversion.
The direct vent model that we currently offer would have the sealed glass window and coaxial vent system that is characteristic of a direct vent model.By Ted from Day, NY on March 22, 2013
How much does this unit weigh? Can I get a drawing with the exact dimensions shown?
By Tyler M. - NFI Certified Specialist on March 22, 2013
Answer:
This fireplace weighs 105 lbs. You can see the illustrated, detailed dimensions of the unit on page 8 of
the owner's manual.
By Lynn from Iowa on November 13, 2012
This unit is called a rear vent yet the picture shows a top vent. Am I missing something?
By Collin C. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on November 14, 2012
Answer:
This unit is available in both top and rear vent versions. The default photo provided to us from the manufacturer only depicts the top vent version. However, if the item title states that the unit is a rear vent, this is the vent configuration that will be shipped.By Celeste from Garland, Texas on November 23, 2012
We have an old fireplace with a rusted fire box. It does have a gas line. Could we use this to replace it? We have done several large home remodeling projects on our own (an entire gutting & redo of the kitchen), but are just starting our research on fireplaces.
By Collin C. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on November 23, 2012
Answer:
By your description, it sounds as if you have a prefabricated fireplace currently installed, so a manufactured unit such as the FMI Cottage could certainly be used to replace it. By karen delbeck from Burlington, VT on November 24, 2012
Is it child friendly? Is it hot to the touch, and will it heat a 500-ft room easily? Does it have a blower?
By Collin C. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on November 26, 2012
Answer:
Being that the unit uses a tempered glass pane, I would definitely recommend using a screen or barrier around the unit, as the glass will be significantly hotter than a ceramic glass unit.
The unit is indeed suitable to heat a 500 square foot area.
A blower is available and can be located in the "Accessories" tab above.By dave from Amarillo, Texas on October 27, 2012
With moderate use, how much should I expect my gas bill to increase?
By Collin C. - NFI Master Hearth Professional on October 29, 2012
Answer:
Based on current national average gas prices, this unit would cost approximately 25 cents per hour of operation. If you were to use this unit for an average of 15 hours of time per week, that would add approximately $15 a month to your gas bill. Local cost of fuel will vary, so the final number will be dependent on your gas supplier's rates.