NOTE: DIAGRAMS & ILLUSTRATIONS NOT TO SCALE.
5
PRE-INSTALLATION
Before You Start
Check appliance for any concealed damage.
Detailed Installation Steps
1. Complete the framing opening to the dimen-
sions specified in
Figure 2
or assemble mantel.
2. A dedicated circuit is not required. Use an
outlet that is protected by a ground fault circuit
interrupter where required by electrical code.
3. Plug the fireplace into receptacle.
4. Slide the fireplace into place in framed/
finished opening or into mantel.
5. Perform a function test. See Operating
Instructions and Remote Control Operation
on Page 6.
Fireplace Specifications
Cat. No. H3428
Model: MPE-27
Description: Merit Plus Electric Fireplace - 27”
Shipping Weight: 78 lb.'s (35 KG)
Packaging:
34 1/2” x 14” x 34”
(876 mm x 356 mm x 864 mm)
14.1 cu. ft.
Power Requirements:
(120 Volt, 60 Hz.)
Rated Wattage - 1600 Watts
Amperage - 15 Amps
Blower CFM: 83 CFM
(120 V): 5,461 BTU/HR
Minimum Clearances to Combustibles
Mantel Clearance: Combustible and Non-com-
bustible mantels may be installed at any height
above the top of the face of fireplace.
Hearth Protection: A hearth is not manda-
tory, but may be used for aesthetic pur-
poses. Secure the hearth extension to the
floor to prevent possible shifting. Do no
block the airflow beneath the appliance (read
the following WARNING).
Sides: 25.5 mm - 1 inch
Floor: 25.5 mm - 1 inch
Top: 25.5 mm - 1 inch
IMPORTANT: Cold climate installation recom-
mendation: when installing this fireplace
against a non-insulated exterior wall or chase,
it is mandatory that the outer walls be insu-
lated to conform to applicable insulation codes.
WARNING: THIS APPLIANCE IS
MOUNTED ON RUBBER FEET TO EN-
SURE ADEQUATE AIR CIRCULATION
BENEATH FIREPLACE. DO NOT
BLOCK AIRFLOW AT THE BOTTOM
AIR INTAKES.
WARNING: TO PREVENT CONTACT
WITH SAGGING OR LOOSE INSULA-
TION, THE APPLIANCE MUST NOT
BE INSTALLED AGAINST VAPOR
BARRIERS OR EXPOSED INSULA-
TION. LOCALIZED OVERHEATING
COULD OCCUR AND A FIRE COULD
RESULT. INSULATION AND A VA-
POR BARRIER SHOULD BE PLACED
A MINIMUM OF 1 INCH FROM THE
APPLIANCE.
WARNING: ELECTRICAL WIRING
MUST COMPLY WITH LOCAL BUILD-
ING CODES AND OTHER APPLICABLE
REGULATIONS TO REDUCE THE RISK
OF FIRE, ELECTRICAL SHOCK AND
INJURY TO INDIVIDUALS.
WARNING: DO NOT USE THIS FIRE-
PLACE IF ANY PART OF IT HAS BEEN
UNDERWATER. IMMEDIATELY CALL
A QUALIFIED SERVICE TECHNICIAN
TO INSPECT THE FIREPLACE AND
REPLACE ANY PART OF THE ELEC-
TRICAL SYSTEM WHICH HAS BEEN
UNDER WATER.
FINAL FINISHING
Materials such as brick and tile can be extended
down to the top of the fireplace. Do not extend
down, covering the outlet or glass enclosure
panel (optional kit).
There are a wide variety of “finished looks” for
these fireplaces, from formal wall decor with
elaborate mantels to rustic wood paneling or
warm brick facings.
Mantel Cabinet
An optional mantel cabinet kit is available from
your dealer (see Page 9). This option gives the
appliance an attractive finished look.
Hearth
An aesthetically pleasing fireplace hearth can
be installed, if desired.
BREAK-IN PERIOD:
During the first few initial uses of this heater,
there may be a release of a slight, harmless
odor. This odor is a normal occurrence caused
by the initial heating of the internal heating
elements and should not reoccur.
EXISTING FIREPLACE INSTALLATION
Thoroughly clean out the existing fireplace
and hearth area.
Plan the power supply. If an existing grounded
outlet is near the fireplace, the cord can run
along the front of the fireplace. If the cord is not
long enough to reach the outlet, a grounded
extension cord minimum AWG No. 14 and rated
to a minimum of 1875 watts, may be used.
If you plan to cut or drill a hole in the existing
fireplace for wiring, it is best to hire a profes-
sional to do this step in order to prevent personal
injury. To reduce the risk of fire, do not run the
power cord under rugs, carpets, etc. Arrange the
power supply cord away from high traffic areas
where it may pose a tripping hazard.