Owner`s manual
19
PoSitive fLue connection Without a fuLL ReLine - fiRePLace inSeRt (uSa onLy):
This unit does not require a full reline (in USA only) when installing into a masonry fireplace, however, it 
is recommended to ensure proper drafting of the appliance. 
IMPORTANT: Ensure the chimney and firebox are cleaned and free of all debris, including soot and ashes, 
before proceeding with this installation. If it is not clean soot maybe blown into the room through the 
unit’s blower. Ensure the fireplace and chimney have not deteriorated in any way. If there is any sign of 
corrosion or damage in the chimney the unit can not be installed. This unit can be installing in a masonry 
fireplace built to (UBC 37 or ULC S628 standards) or a factory built fireplace (built to UL 127 or ULC S610 
standards).
1. If installing the Empress with a skirt, the skirt must be installed before the installation.
2. Install the hearth pad. The floor 9” in front of the unit and 6” to each side of the unit must be protected 
with a non-combustible hearth pad.
3. The vent connector from the insert must extend a minimum of 18” above the chimney seal plate. The 
chimney seal plate area must be sealed to prevent the exhaust from the chimney from coming back 
Figure 22: Masonry fireplace positive flue installation. 
into  the  fireplace  and  prevent  air 
from  the  fireplace  from  entering 
the  chimney  which  will  affect 
proper drafting of appliance. 
A qualified installer should evaluate 
the existing fireplace to determine 
the  best  method  for  achieving  a 
positive  flue  connection  between 
the  vent  pipe  or  liner  and  the 
chimney.  Whatever  method  used 
must  effectively  seal  the  area  to 
prevent  room  air  passage  to  the 
chimney  cavity  of  the  fireplace. 
A couple examples  of Approved 
Methods of Achieving a Positive 
Flue Connection are:
a)  Secure  a  seal-off  plate  (i.e. 
22-gage  sheet  steel)  in  the 
masonry  fireplace  throat  using 
masonry screws. 
b) Pack  non-combustible  material 
(i.e. rockwool) around the vent 
pipe or using a flue adapter. 
4. Set  leveling  leg  to  approximate 
height. 
5. Connect the Exhaust Starter Quick 
Connect, straight or elbow, to the 
exhaust pipe.
IMPORTANT: The chimney seal plate must be removed for the annually chimney cleaning as ash will 
build up on top of the plate.
Floor Protection
Combustible Floor
Masonry Fireplace
Min 9" 
8" (203mm) Mantle
Minimum 8" (203mm)
from body of the heater.
Chimney must be completely 
sealed with a non-combustible
material and maybe removed
annually for cleaning.
Surround Panel
Top of vent pipe 
must be 18" 
(45.7cm) minimum 
above the chimney 
seal plate.
Optional 
Exhaust Starter 
Elbow (or Exhaust 
Starter with 
Clean-out Tee).
The existing chimney can 
not be corroded or 
damaged in any way.










