FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

  • How do I place electronics and artwork above a Spark?

    Please realize heat is a natural bi-product of our fireplaces. We know that heat rises, however, the direction in which air flows is completely unpredictable in any given room. Each installation is unique. Placing electronics and artwork above our fireplaces will have to be at the owner’s discretion and we therefore cannot offer any advice or recommendations, as there are just too many variables.

  • What should my flame look like?

    Your Spark flame should be blue at the bottom with a yellow, active flame above it. There should not be any dark orange in the flame or any soot. Flame height will vary from installation to installation, but the range should be 4-6 inches. Please watch the following video to see what the flame should look like.


  • Can I use my own universal remote?

    Yes, as long as it is a millivolt system.

  • I’m having trouble with my remote, what do I do?

    Please visit our troubleshooting guide.

  • What is the maximum distance allowed from the fireplace to the wall switch?

    10 ft. of electricity is required for all units. A 110v is necessary for the fan in our Direct Vent products and all electronic ignition units.

  • Is electricity required for the electronic ignition?

    There is a transformer which should be plugged into a 110v outlet.

  • Why do some pictures show an air grille on the Vent-Free unit?

    An air vent is required for all vent-free fireplaces. There are different techniques to conceal an air path underneath the surround if desired. Please see each unit’s specification sheet for more details.

  • Can I remove the glass from the Direct Vent Fire Ribbon?

    The glass can be removed for cleaning purposes, but must be firmly in place when the unit is in operation.

  • What types of fuel can be used with your products?

    Our products are designed and certified to run on propane or natural gas. You will need to provide your preference when you place you order.

  • Are your fireplaces energy-efficient?

    Yes, between 80 and 95 percent depending on the model.

  • Can I replace my fake log set?

    You have several options. Our Linear Burner System easily works as a retrofit system. Most people choose the smaller Linear Burner System to fit into their existing masonry fireplace, while others create a wood-burning environment and use the linear burner system as a customization. See Linear Burner Overview for more info. And finally some customers opt to remove their existing fireplace and go with a Direct Vent or Vent-Free unit instead.

  • Can I bring the surround material to the edge of the firebox?

    Yes, Direct Vent and Vent-Free units are designed to have noncombustible surround material wrap to the opening of the firebox, (however a 1/4″ reveal must be left around the firebox opening). This maximizes its unique rectangular shape.

  • Where do I get the surround?

    We currently do not sell surrounds (although the Slim 46 includes a surround available in either Stainless Steel or Satin Black). They are a design element specified by an architect or designer.

  • What if my unit needs repair?

    In the unlikely event your needs repair, please contact us first at 203-791-2725. Our technician can diagnose most problems and recommend and appropriate solution. If the product needs an onsite technician, we will pay any reasonable cost associated with fixing the fireplace during the 2-year warranty period.

  • Can any of your products be used outdoors?

    Yes. The Linear Burner System Outdoor, the Fire Ribbon Outdoor and the CUBE can all be used in any outdoor environment. All of our other products are approved for indoor use only.

  • How safe is a Vent-Free fireplace?

    Extremely safe. Vent-Free appliances have been sold in the USA since the 1960s and have an exceptional safety record. In fact, Vent-Free fireplaces represent the fastest-growing segment of the fireplace industry due to flexibility in installation. Each product must comply with stringent National Safety Standard called ANSI Z21.11.2b. Please visit ventfree.org for more information.

  • What is the difference between a Direct Vent and Vent-Free unit?

    Vent-Free units do not require a flue while direct vents have a flue that must tunnel outside through a wall or the roof. Direct Vent units have a fixed glass panel, while on Vent-Free models, glass fronts are prohibited.

  • Who can install my Spark fireplace?

    A gas fireplace installer or licensed HVAC contractor with similar experience is required for installation. Failure to use a certified professional may void the warranty. If you are having trouble, we do have resources to help. Please contact us at 203-791-2725.

  • Where are your products approved?

    Please visit our certifications page for more information.

  • Are your products UL approved?

    All of our products are certified to industry standard ANSI and CSA codes. We use OMNI test labs, which specializes in the certification of gas products. UL is a certifying agency, equivalent to OMNI. OMNI tests our products to the same codes as UL listed products. OMNI is approved by all 50 states and all local municipalities in the US and all territories and Provinces in Canada. For additional information, visit our certifications page.

  • What kind of pipe do I need to order?

    Our Direct Vent fireplaces work with M&G Duravent DirectVent Pro, 4″x 6 5/8″ pipe except for the Slim 46, DV 48 and the DV 19 which require the 5” x 8” pipe. Please visit the Duravent dealer locator web page duravent.com for more information.

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