Adviace GFK-160 / GFK-160A Fireplace Blower Fan Kit

1. Introduction and Product Overview

The Adviace GFK-160 / GFK-160A Fireplace Blower Fan Kit is designed to enhance the heating efficiency of your fireplace by circulating warm air into your living space. This replacement kit is compatible with various fireplace models from brands such as Hearth & Home, Superior & Lennox, Heat & Glo, and Quadra-Fire. It features a durable ball bearing motor, a variable speed controller, and an automatic magnetic thermostat for optimal performance and convenience.

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of your new fireplace blower kit, ensuring safe and efficient use.

Figure 1.1: Complete Adviace GFK-160/GFK-160A Fireplace Blower Fan Kit, showing the blower assembly, power cord, thermostat, variable speed controller, and wiring harness.

2. Included Components and Features

Your Adviace GFK-160 / GFK-160A Fireplace Blower Fan Kit includes the following components:

• Replacement 180 CFM ball bearing blower assembly
• Rubber isolation feet for noise and vibration reduction
• Magnetic automatic thermostat sensor (120°F / 90°F activation/deactivation)
• Rheostat variable speed controller with on/off position
• Heavy-duty grounded 3-prong power cord
• Wire harness for connections
• Installation instructions (this manual)

The blower features a 100% ball bearing motor, ensuring quiet and efficient operation. The included rubber mounting feet further reduce noise and vibration during use.

Figure 2.1: Illustration highlighting the high-quality sealed ball bearing motor, emphasizing its balanced, energy-efficient, quiet, and durable characteristics.

3. Specifications

Refer to the table below for detailed technical specifications of the GFK-160 / GFK-160A Fireplace Blower Fan Kit.

Figure 3.1: Detailed dimensions of the blower assembly, crucial for fitment.

Figure 3.2: Visual representation of key specifications.

4. Setup and Installation

Before beginning installation, ensure your fireplace is completely cool and disconnected from any power source. It is recommended to consult your fireplace's original manual for specific access points and safety guidelines.

4.1 Safety Precautions

• Always disconnect power to the fireplace before installation or maintenance.
• Wear appropriate personal protective equipment, such as gloves, to prevent injury.
• Ensure proper grounding. The blower kit comes with a 3-prong grounded plug. If your existing power source is not grounded or is a 2-prong outlet, a qualified electrician should install an approved grounded power source box.
• Do not operate the blower if any wires are frayed or damaged.

4.2 Installation Steps

1. Prepare Fireplace: Locate the blower compartment in your fireplace. Remove any existing blower or debris. Clean the area thoroughly.
2. Position Blower: Carefully slide the new Adviace blower assembly into the designated compartment. The rubber isolation feet should be positioned to minimize vibration and noise. If space is tight, you may temporarily remove the rubber feet, position the blower, and then reattach them.
3. Install Thermostat: Attach the magnetic automatic thermostat sensor to a clean, flat metal surface on the underside of your fireplace, typically near the firebox, where it can accurately sense heat. Ensure it is securely attached and will not interfere with moving parts.
4. Connect Wiring:
   • Connect the blower assembly to the wire harness.
   • Connect the magnetic thermostat to the appropriate terminals on the wire harness.
   • Connect the rheostat variable speed controller into the circuit. This controller allows for manual speed adjustment and includes an on/off position.
   • Plug the heavy-duty grounded 3-prong power cord into the rheostat controller.
5. Secure Components: Ensure all connections are secure and wires are routed safely, away from hot surfaces or moving parts. Position the rheostat controller in an accessible location outside the fireplace compartment, typically mounted to the fireplace frame or a nearby wall.
6. Test Installation: Once all components are installed and secured, restore power to the fireplace. Test the blower by turning the rheostat to the 'on' position. The fan should operate. Allow the fireplace to heat up to verify the automatic thermostat function.

Figure 4.1: Diagram illustrating the connection points for the sealed ball bearing motor, magnetic thermostat switch, full range variable speed control, and 3-prong grounded power cord.

5. Operating Instructions

The Adviace GFK-160 / GFK-160A blower kit is designed for both automatic and manual operation.

5.1 Automatic Operation (Thermostat Controlled)

For automatic operation, ensure the rheostat variable speed controller is set to an 'on' position (not fully off). The magnetic thermostat will then control the blower's activation:

• The blower will automatically turn ON when the fireplace temperature reaches approximately 120°F (49°C).
• The blower will automatically turn OFF when the fireplace temperature cools down to approximately 90°F (32°C).

This automatic function ensures that the blower only operates when there is sufficient heat to distribute, preventing the circulation of cold air.

5.2 Manual Operation (Variable Speed Control)

The rheostat variable speed controller allows you to manually adjust the fan speed and turn the blower on or off, overriding the thermostat if desired.

• To Turn On: Rotate the knob on the rheostat controller clockwise from the 'off' position.
• To Adjust Speed: Continue rotating the knob clockwise to increase fan speed, or counter-clockwise to decrease fan speed.
• To Turn Off: Rotate the knob counter-clockwise until it clicks into the 'off' position.

Adjusting the speed allows you to control the airflow and noise level to your preference.

6. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and optimal performance of your Adviace fireplace blower kit.

• Cleaning: Periodically, and especially before the heating season, disconnect power to the fireplace and carefully remove the blower. Use a soft brush or vacuum cleaner to remove any dust, lint, or debris from the blower fan blades and motor housing. Accumulation of dust can reduce efficiency and increase noise.
• Check Connections: Inspect all electrical connections and wiring for any signs of wear, fraying, or looseness. Ensure the power cord is not pinched or exposed to excessive heat.
• Thermostat Check: Ensure the magnetic thermostat remains securely attached to the fireplace surface and is free from dust or obstructions.
• Vibration Check: If increased noise or vibration is noticed, check that the rubber isolation feet are properly seated and intact.

Do not attempt to lubricate the motor, as it is a sealed ball bearing unit designed for maintenance-free operation.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your Adviace fireplace blower kit, refer to the following troubleshooting guide:

If the problem persists after attempting these solutions, please contact Adviace customer support for further assistance.

8. Warranty and Support

Adviace is committed to providing quality products. While specific warranty details may vary, we stand behind our products. For any questions regarding installation, operation, troubleshooting, or warranty claims, please contact Adviace customer support.

Please have your product model number (GFK-160A or GFK-160) and purchase information ready when contacting support to expedite assistance.

For more information and support, visit the official Adviace store or contact us through your purchase platform.

Figure 8.1: Adviace brand logo.