EMPIRE COMFORT SYSTEMS FBB5-1 Automatic Single Speed Blower Fan Kit Installation Guide

June 17, 2024
EMPIRE COMFORT SYSTEMS

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EMPIRE COMFORT SYSTEMS FBB5-1 Automatic Single Speed Blower Fan Kit

EMPIRE-COMFORT-SYSTEMS-FBB5-1-Automatic-Single-Speed-Blower-Fan-Kit-
PRODUCT

Product Information

Specifications

  • Model: FBB5-1 Blower Kit
  • Installation: Fireplace blower assembly
  • Electrical Requirements: Must be wired by a qualified electrician
  • Compatibility: Designed for use with specific firebox models

Product Usage Instructions

Wiring Instructions

  • Ensure all wiring is done by a qualified electrician in compliance with local codes.
  • Disconnect the main power supply before the electrical connections.
  • Ground the appliance according to local codes and ANSI/NFPA 70.

Junction Box Wiring

  • Pre-wire the junction box during fireplace installation. Attach black and white wires to the receptacle as instructed.
  • The ground wire should be connected to the green screw.

Blower Installation

  1. Turn OFF the gas and electric supply to the firebox.
  2. For vent-free fireboxes, determine the type and follow specific installation instructions.
  3. Insert the blower assembly into the designated area of the firebox according to the model.
  4. Secure fan control wires and terminals as shown in Figure 6 and Connection A/B in Figure 22.
  5. Attach the ground wire securely.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Is it necessary to hire a professional for wiring installation?

  • A: Yes, all wiring should be done by a qualified electrician to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.

Q: How do I know which type of firebox I have for blower installation?

  • A: Refer to the specific figures provided in the manual to identify your firebox type before proceeding with installation.

INSTRUCTIONS MUST BE LEFT WITH THE OWNER FOR FUTURE REFERENCE AFTER INSTALLATION.

ATTENTION: It is recommended to install the blower assembly before connecting the gas inlet supply line.

CAUTION

  • All wiring should be done by a qualified electrician and shall comply with all local, city, and state building codes. Before making the electrical connection, make sure that the main power supply is disconnected.
  • The appliance, when installed, must be electrically grounded under local codes, with the National Electrical Code ANSI/ NFPA 70 (Latest Edition).
  • The appliance, when installed, must be electrically grounded under local codes or, in the absence of local codes, with the National Electrical Code, ANSI/NFPA 70, if an external electrical source is utilized.
  • This appliance is equipped with a three-prong [grounding] plug for your protection against shock hazards and should be plugged directly into a properly grounded three-prong receptacle.
  • Do not cut or remove the grounding prong from this plug.
  • For an ungrounded receptacle, an adapter, which has two prongs and a wire for grounding, can be purchased, plugged into the ungrounded receptacle, and its wire connected to the receptacle mounting screw.
  • With this wire completing the ground, the appliance cord plug can be plugged into the adapter and be electrically grounded.

CAUTION

  • Label all wires before disconnection when servicing controls. Wiring errors can cause improper and dangerous operations.
  • Verify proper operation after servicing.
  • NOTICE: The junction box must be pre-wired at the time of fireplace installation for use with blower assembly. A standard wall ON/OFF wall switch or optional SCV1 Variable Speed Control Kit should be installed to activate power to the fireplace and control the operation of the FBB5 Blower assembly. It is recommended that installation of the wiring be performed by a qualified electrician. See Figure 1.
  1. If installed, turn OFF the gas supply to the firebox/gas log.
  2. If applicable, turn OFF the electric supply to the firebox.

JUNCTION BOX CONNECTIONSEMPIRE-COMFORT-SYSTEMS-FBB5-1-Automatic-Single-
Speed-Blower-Fan-Kit-FIG-1

STANDARD FIREBOX & VFPA MODELS BLOWER INSTALLATION

  • A factory-installed junction box is located on the lower right side of the fireplace. Wiring must be fed to the junction box and attached to the receptacle that is provided.
  • From the right side of the fireplace, remove the screw securing the junction box assembly.
  • Leave approximately 6 inches of wire in the junction box for connection. Attach the black wire to one side of the receptacle and the white wire to the opposite side of the receptacle.
  • The ground wire should be attached to the green (ground) screw.
  • ATTENTION: If installed, do not damage the gas inlet supply line when the blower assembly is inserted into the firebox. In some cases, removal of the gas inlet supply line may be necessary.

FOR VENT FREE FIREBOXES AND VFPA MODELS

  1. Determine which type of firebox you have before installation.
    • See Figures 2 through 4.
    • Flush Face and Premium Models
  2. Remove the air deflector by removing the four screws securing it to the blower assembly, and discard. See Figure 5.
  3. Insert blower assembly into the interior, the bottom of the firebox for Deluxe and Premium models, and the rear for Select models.
    • Position the blower assembly so that you align the notch on the back of the blower assembly with the center screw on the firebox back, then push the blower assembly against the firebox back.
    • The blower wheel must be centered on the back wall of the firebox. The magnets on the back and bottom of the blower assembly will sufficiently hold the blower assembly in place.
  4. Once the blower assembly is in position, use a screwdriver to bend the upper right tab on the firebox away.
  5. Next, find the fan control switch and wire assembly. Feed the wires through the hole at the top of the firebox, and secure the fan control switch with the two screws provided. See Figure 6.EMPIRE-COMFORT-SYSTEMS-FBB5-1-Automatic-Single-Speed-Blower-Fan-Kit-FIG-6
  6. The fan control wires will slide down between the firebox and the outer wrap near the blower assembly. See Figure 6.
  7. One fan control wire will have a 1/4-inch female terminal that must be attached to the open terminal on the blower motor. See Figure 22, Connection A.
  8. The other fan control wire has a 1/4-inch male terminal. Attach this terminal to the open terminal on the blower power cord. See Figure 22, Connection B.
  9. Locate the ground wire attached to the blower base. Secure the opposite end with the ring tongue terminal to the outer bottom of the fireplace using the self-drilling screw located in the hardware pack.
  10. Route the wires away from moving parts of the blower assembly and retain wires together near the blower motor using the plastic purse clip provided.
  11. To complete the installation, plug the power cord into the junction box receptacle at the right rear corner of the firebox outer wrap. See Figure 7.EMPIRE-COMFORT-SYSTEMS-FBB5-1-Automatic-Single-Speed-Blower-Fan-Kit-FIG-7
  12. If room permits, the power cord can be located from the outside of the unit looking through the junction box access hole (with the junction box removed), then plugging up the power cord before reinstalling the pre-wired junction box.
  13. Once all electrical connections are made test the blower fan control operation by turning on power to the blower. Apply heat to the fan control switch inside the firebox with a lighter or match until the blower is activated. Once the blower is activated, check for proper operation.
    • WARNING Do not place hands near the blower assembly or other wiring while the power is on.
  14. Replace the blower access plate.
  15. This completes the installation of the optional FBB5 Blower kit accessory.
    • NOTICE: This blower is equipped with a heat-activated fan control switch. A blower will operate when the fireplace warms up and will turn off automatically when the firebox cools down.

VFP(SB,PB) FIREBOX BLOWER INSTALLATION

  • To install the blower kit, access the junction box, or install a light kit, remove the access cover plate and/or lower louvers or flush panels as illustrated by Figures 8 and 9.
  • A factory-included junction box is located on the lower right side of the firebox. Wiring must be fed through the 7/8 inch diameter hole provided on the lower side of the firebox, and secured to the outer wrap with the clamp provided.
  • Leave approximately 6 inches of wire in the junction box for connection.
  • NOTE: Depending on the unit, the Junction box may be installed on the outer side.
  • Attach the black wire to the brass screw on the receptacle and attach the white wire to the silver screw. Attach ground wire (bare) to the green (ground) screw.
  • Install the receptacle into the junction box as illustrated. Attach cover plate. Place the Junction Box so that it is approximately 8 to 12 inches away from the outer wrap wall. Secure wiring at the outer wrap of a fireplace with a wire clamp provided.
  • ATTENTION: If installed, do not damage the gas inlet supply line when the blower assembly is inserted into the firebox. In some cases, removal of the gas inlet supply line may be necessary.EMPIRE-COMFORT-SYSTEMS-FBB5-1-Automatic-Single-Speed-Blower-Fan-Kit-FIG-8
  1. Insert the blower assembly into the interior, and the bottom of the firebox. Position the blower assembly so that you align the notch on the back of the blower assembly with the center screw on the side/end panel, then push the blower assembly against the firebox outer panel. The blower wheel must be centered on the side/end wall of the firebox. The magnets on the back and bottom of blower assembly will sufficiently hold the blower assembly in place. See Figure 11.
  2. Once the blower assembly is in position, locate the plug button in the top corner of the firebox. Remove the plug with a standard screwdriver and discard the plug.
  3. Next, find the fan control switch and wire assembly. Feed the wires through the hole at the top of the firebox. Feed the wires over the firebox top and down between the firebox side and outer wrap then, secure the fan control switch with (2) #6 screws provided. See Figure 10.
  4. The fan control wires will slide down between the firebox and the outer wrap near the blower assembly. See Figure 11.
  5. One fan control wire will have a 1/4-inch female terminal that must be attached to the open terminal on the blower motor. See Figure 22, Connection A.
  6. The other fan control wire has a 1/4-inch male terminal. Attach this terminal to the open terminal on the blower power cord. See Figure 22, Connection B
  7. Locate the ground wire attached to the blower base. Secure the opposite end with the ring tongue terminal to the outer bottom of the fireplace using the self-drilling screw located in the hardware pack.
  8. Route the wires away from moving parts of the blower assembly and retain wires together near the blower motor using the plastic purse clip provided.
  9. To complete the installation, plug the power cord into the junction box receptacle previously installed at the bottom of the firebox. See Figure 11.
  10. Once all connections are made electrically, it is recommended that you test the blower fan control operation by turning on the power to the blower (CAUTION: 110 Volt). Then apply heat to the fan control switch inside the firebox with a lighter or match until the blower is activated. Once the blower is activated, check for proper operation. Do not place your hands near the blower assembly or other wiring while the power is on.
  11. Replace blower access plate and louvers or flush panels. See Figures 8 and 9.
  12. This completes the installation of the optional FBB5 Blower kit accessory.

NOTE: This blower is equipped with a heat-activated fan control switch. A blower will operate when the firebox warms up and will turn off automatically when the firebox cools down. The time will vary for the activation of the fan control switch depending on several factors including firebox/log set sizing, BTU input variables, and log set positioning. Generally, it may take from 5 to 20 minutes to activate the blower/fan control from a cold start.

VFP(SB,PB) FIREBOX BLOWER INSTALLATION

EMPIRE-COMFORT-SYSTEMS-FBB5-1-Automatic-Single-Speed-Blower-Fan-Kit-
FIG-9

VFP(SP,PP) FIREPLACE BLOWER INSTALLATION

  • To install the blower kit, access the junction box, or install a light kit, remove the lower louver as illustrated by Figure 13.
  • A factory-included junction box is located on the lower right side of the fireplace.
  • Wiring must be fed through the 7/8 inch diameter hole provided on the lower side of the fireplace, and secured to the outer wrap with the clamp provided.
  • Leave approximately 6 inches of wire in the junction box for connection.
  • Attach black wire to the brass screw on the receptacle and attach white wire to the silver screw. Attach ground wire (bare) to the green (ground) screw.
  • Install the receptacle into the junction box as illustrated. Attach cover plate.
  • Place the Junction Box so that it is approximately 8 to 12 inches away from the outer wrap wall. Secure wiring at the outer wrap of the fireplace with a wire clamp provided.
  • NOTE: Depending on the unit, the Junction box may be installed on the outer side.
  • ATTENTION: If installed, do not damage the gas inlet supply line when the blower assembly is inserted into a fireplace. In some cases, removal of the gas inlet supply line may be necessary.
  1. Insert blower assembly into the interior, and the bottom of the firebox.
    • NOTICE: On peninsula models, the blower must be installed at the end which has the brick panel installed. Position the blower assembly so that you align the notch on the back of blower as-sembly with the center screw on the side/end panel, then push the blower assembly against firebox outer panel. The blower wheel must be centered on the side/end wall of the firebox. The magnets on the back and bottom of blower assembly will sufficiently hold the blower assembly in place. See Figure 15.
  2. Once the blower assembly is in position, locate the plug button in the top corner of the firebox. Remove the plug with a standard screwdriver and discard the plug.
  3. Next, find the fan control switch and wire assembly. Feed the wires through the hole at the top of the firebox, and secure the fan control switch with two (2) #6 screws (provided). The fan control wires will slide down between the firebox and the outer wrap near the blower assembly. See Figure 14.
  4. Locate the ground wire attached to the blower base. Secure the opposite end with the ring tongue terminal to the outer bottom of the fireplace using the self-drilling screw located in the hardware pack.
  5. Route the wires away from moving parts of the blower assembly and retain wires together near the blower motor using the plastic purse clip provided.
  6. To complete the installation, plug the power cord into the junction box receptacle previously installed at the bottom of the fireplace. See Figure 15.
  7. Once all connections are made electrically, it is recommended that you test the blower fan control operation by turning on the power to the blower
    • (CAUTION: 110 Volt). Turn the fireplace on and let run until the blower is activated.
    • This should take approximately 10 to 20 minutes from a cold start. Once the blower is activated, check for proper operation.
    • Do not place your hands near the blower assembly or other wiring while the power is on.
  8. Replace louver(s).
  9. This completes the installation of the optional FBB5 Blower kit accessory.
  • NOTICE: This blower is equipped with a heat-activated fan control switch. A blower will operate when the fireplace warms up and will turn off automatically when the fireplace cools down.
  • The time will vary for the activation of the fan control switch depending on several factors including fireplace type, BTU input variables, and log set style. Generally, it may take from 10 to 20 minutes to activate the blower/fan control from a cold start.EMPIRE-COMFORT-SYSTEMS-FBB5-1-Automatic-Single-Speed-Blower-Fan-Kit-FIG-12

DVP(SP,PP) FIREPLACE BLOWER INSTALLATION

  • To install the blower kit or access the junction box, remove the lower louver as illustrated in Figure 18.
  • A factory-included junction box is located in the lower compartment of the fireplace. Wiring must be fed through the 7/8 inch diameter hole provided on the lower side of the fireplace, and secured to the outer wrap with the clamp provided. Leave approximately 6 inches of wire in the junction box for connection.
  • Attach black wire to the brass screw on the receptacle and attach white wire to the silver screw. Attach ground wire (bare) to the green (ground) screw.
  • Install the receptacle into the junction box as illustrated. Attach cover plate.
  • Place the Junction Box so that it is approximately 8 to 12 inches away from the outer wrap wall. Secure wiring at the outer wrap of a fireplace with a wire clamp provided.
  • NOTE: Depending on the unit, the Junction box may be installed on the outer side.
  • ATTENTION: If installed, do not damage the gas inlet supply line when the blower assembly is inserted into the fireplace. In some cases, removal of the gas inlet supply line may be necessary.
  1. Insert the blower assembly into the interior, and the bottom of the fireplace.
    • NOTICE: On peninsula models, the blower must be installed at the end which has the brick panel installed. Position blower assembly so that you align the notch on the back of blower as-sembly with the center screw on the side/end panel, then push the blower assembly against the fireplace’s outer panel. The blower wheel must be centered on the side/end wall of the fireplace. The magnets on the back and bottom of blower assembly will sufficiently hold the blower assembly in place. See Figure 18.
  2. Once the blower assembly is in position, remove the upper louver as shown and locate the switch tab (end of support channel) on top of the firebox. Install the fan control switch by first removing the two pre-installed screws in the tab, then secure the fan control switch to the tab. See Figure 19. Once the fan control has been secured, bend the tab forward so that the face of the fan control is pushed down so it contacts the firebox top.
  3. Next, find the fan control wire assembly. Feed the wires over the top of the firebox. The fan control wires will slide down between the firebox and the outer wrap near the blower assembly. See Figure 18. Attach the two 3/16 inch wire terminals to the fan control switch as shown in Figure 19. Attach the wire terminals at the blower as shown by letters “A” and “B” in Figure 19.
  4. Locate the ground wire attached to the blower base. Secure the opposite end with the ring tongue terminal to the outer bottom of the fireplace using the self-drilling screw located in the hardware pack.
  5. Route the wires away from moving parts of the blower assembly and retain wires together near the blower motor using the plastic purse clip provided.
  6. To complete the installation, plug the power cord into the junction box receptacle previously installed at the bottom of the fireplace. See Figures 17 and 18.
  7. Once all connections are made electrically, it is recommended that you test the blower fan control operation by turning on the power to the blower (CAUTION: 110 Volt). Turn the fireplace on and let run until the blower is activated. This should take approximately 10 to 20 minutes from a cold start. Once the blower is activated, check for proper operation. Do not place your hands near the blower assembly or other wiring while the power is on.
  8. Replace louver(s).
  9. This completes the installation of the optional FBB5 Blower kit accessory.
    • NOTE: This blower is equipped with a heat-activated fan control switch. The blower will operate when the fireplace warms up and will turn off automatically when the fireplace cools down. The time will vary for the activation of the fan control switch depending on several factors including fireplace type, BTU input variables, and log set style. Generally, it may take from 10 to 20 minutes to activate the blower/fan control from a cold start.EMPIRE-COMFORT-SYSTEMS-FBB5-1-Automatic-Single-Speed-Blower-Fan-Kit-FIG-15

MAINTENANCE & SERVICE PARTS

Blower Motor

  • The blower motor does not have oiling holes. Do not attempt to oil the blower motor.

Blower Wheels

  • The blower wheels will collect lint and could require periodic cleaning.
  • If the air output decreases or the noise level increases, it indicates a dirty blower wheel. Remove the fan and clean the blower wheels.

WARNING

  • Unplugging of blower accessory will not stop the heater from cycling. To turn off the gas to the heater (millivolt model): push in the gas control knob slightly and turn clockwise to “OFF.” Do not force.
  • To turn off the gas on the direct ignition model, turn the gas line valve to “OFF. EMPIRE-COMFORT-SYSTEMS-FBB5-1-Automatic-Single-Speed-Blower-Fan-Kit-FIG-17
INDEX NO. PART NO. DESCRIPTION
1 R7731 Blower Assembly
2 R9901 Fan Control Switch
3 R8147 Wire Assembly
4 R7615 Cord Set
5 R7891 Wire, Ground

HOW TO ORDER REPAIR PARTS

Parts Not Under Warranty

  • Parts can be ordered through your Service Person, Dealer, or Master Parts Distributor. See this page for the Master Parts Distributors list.
  • For best results, the service person or dealer should order parts through the distributor. Parts can be shipped directly to the service person/dealer.

Warranty Parts

  • Warranty parts will need proof of purchase and can be ordered by your Service Person or Dealer. Proof of purchase is required for warranty parts.
  • All parts listed in the Parts List have a Part Number. When ordering parts, first obtain the Model Number and Serial Number from the name plate on your equipment.
  • Then determine the Part Number (not the Index Number) and the Description of each part from the following illustration and part list. Be sure to give all this information . . .
  • Appliance Model Number Part Description————————————————-
  • Appliance Serial Number Part Number——————————————————
  • Type of Gas (Propane or Natural)
  • Do not order bolts, screws, washers, or nuts. They are standard hardware items and can be purchased at any local hardware store.
  • Shipments are contingent upon strikes, fires, and all causes beyond our control.
  • Empire Comfort Systems Inc. Belleville, IL
  • If you have a general question about our products, please e-mail us at info@empirecomfort.com.
  • If you have a service or repair question, please contact your dealer.
  • www.empirecomfort.com

Documents / Resources

| EMPIRE COMFORT SYSTEMS FBB5-1 Automatic Single Speed Blower Fan Kit [pdf] Installation Guide
FBB5, FBB5-1, FBB5-1 Automatic Single Speed Blower Fan Kit, Automatic Single Speed Blower Fan Kit, Single Speed Blower Fan Kit, Speed Blower Fan Kit, Blower Fan Kit, Fan Kit, Kit
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References

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