I have a problem with my Vermont Castings Radiance gas vent free fireplace sooting up the inside of the unit. I have tried adjusting the air intake but it either soots up or the flame will go out. Is there a default setting from the factory as to how much the air intake is supposed to be open as far as the collar on the intake tube ? Please reply so that I can get this alternate heating source going again safely. We've had the unit for approximately 5 years and have replaced 2 thermocouples, 1 control switch, and last season the burner assembly was showing cracks so I replaced it at the cost of over $300 at the end of the season as a safety precaution. It's allot financially but when you consider buying another unit at around $2000. It's worth making the necessary repairs or replacements to keep it going. Thank you to all of whom reply.

Vent free fireplaces are to be serviced in the same way as any other vent free heater. All the adjustments are critical and should be left to a properly trained factory service technician. The reason for this is the fact that that vent free unit can KILL YOU if improperly adjusted. Byproducts of combustion (CO) can be generated in great amounts and by breathing that CO your body system for air intake will become compromised and inturn you die in your sleep.

Here is your manual so you can figure it out yourself.

http://literature.mhsc.com/vermont_castings/manuals/20004555_Radiance_RUVSOD19.pdf

I will give you one tip. Sooting is caused by the incomplete combustion of the gas that is introduced into your unit. Usually the gas pressure is to high or the wrong gas orifice is installed in the unit. You will need to obtain a monmeter to check and set the gas pressure.

You did not mention what type of gas you use but the parts are different for the different gases (natural or Propane) and you might have the incorrect burner or burner box. On the parts list it will ususlly indicate a N for natural or P for propane gas. This letter is located in or at the end of the part number. This all I have to offer on this subject. Good luck

hvac1000 , Thanks for your help. I fooled around with the air intake adjustment and found that a half an inch opening at the air/gas inlet tube has cleared it up and the fireplace is operating smoothly now. I guess they don't set this at the factory for the replacement burner assemblies. This is the first time I've used the fireplace since replacing the burner in it. Thanks again and have a blessed 2010 my friend.

Glad you got it going and keep a copy of the link on your computer for future reference.