The Outdoor Plus Low Voltage Pans & Burners: Installation and Operation Manual

Introduction

This manual provides detailed instructions for the installation, operation, and maintenance of The Outdoor Plus Low Voltage Pans & Burners. It is crucial to read and understand all safety warnings and instructions before proceeding.

Important Safety Information

General Warnings

• ⚠️ DANGER: FIRE OR EXPLOSION HAZARD: If you smell gas, immediately shut off gas, extinguish open flame, leave the area, and call your gas supplier or fire department. Failure to follow instructions can result in property damage, personal injury, or death.
• ⚠️ DANGER: Carbon Monoxide Hazard: This appliance produces odorless carbon monoxide. Never use in enclosed spaces (e.g., camper, tent, car, home).
• ⚠️ FOR OUTDOOR USE ONLY: Installation and service must be performed by qualified professionals.
• Do not store or use gasoline or other flammable vapors near the appliance.
• LP-Cylinders not connected for use must not be stored near the appliance.
• Use only with Natural or Propane gas. NO SOLID FUELS.
• Failure to follow instructions can result in fire or explosion.
• ⚠️ CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65 WARNING: This product can expose you to Carbon Monoxide, known to cause cancer and birth defects or other reproductive harm. Visit www.p65warnings.ca.gov for more information.
• ⚠️ DANGER: FLAMMABLE GAS UNDER PRESSURE: Leaking LP-gas can cause fire or explosion. Contact LP gas supplier for repairs or disposal.
• DO NOT USE OR STORE CYLINDER IN A BUILDING, GARAGE OR ENCLOSED AREA.
• LP gas is heavier than air and may settle in low places.
• Contact with liquid contents can cause freeze burns.
• Do not allow children to tamper with the cylinder.
• When not connected for use, keep cylinder valve turned off. Self-contained appliances limited to 30 lb capacity or less.
• Do not store or transport cylinder where exposed to high temperatures.
• When transporting, keep cylinder secured upright with valve turned off.
• DO NOT REMOVE, DEFACE, OR OBLITERATE LABELS.
• Do not store a spare LP cylinder under or near heat sources. NEVER fill an LP cylinder beyond 80% full.

Installation & Service Responsibility

• Installer is responsible for safe installation and educating the end user. Leave manual with end user.
• Never alter product or configuration.
• Professional installation by locally licensed professionals is suggested. Annual service by NFI Gas Specialists is suggested.
• The Outdoor Plus Company, Inc. is not responsible for installer's or user's actions.
• Product is not for starting wood fires.
• Only use specified gas/fuel type. Verify correct gas/fuel type and pressure.
• DO NOT USE if any part has been under water. Call a qualified service technician.
• Ensure transformer is plugged into a GFCI Outlet.

Code Compliance

• Installer must follow: National Fuel Gas Code (ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54), International Fuel Gas Code, National Electrical Code (ANSI/NFPA 70), Canadian Electrical Code (CSA C22.1), and Local Codes.

Supply Pressure Requirements

Components Overview

The Low Voltage Pans & Burners feature:

• Certified to ANSI Z21.97-(2017) / CSA 2.41-(2017)
• Operating temperature range: -20° to 175°F.
• Durable connections for outdoor conditions.
• TC Flame-sense system.
• Hot Surface Igniter (HSI).
• LED diagnostics.
• Electronics: Certified to relevant standards (CAN/CSA-E60730-1, ANSI Z21.20-2014, etc.). 12 or 14 VAC for installations near water. Transformer to GFCI Outlet connection. Potted control module for moisture protection. HSI provides stable ignition. Thermocouple Flame Sense is fast and resistant to elements.
• Gas Valve and Pilot Components: CSA Certified manual key valve and pilot. Encapsulated coils for moisture protection. Robust, wind-resistant pilot. Stainless steel pilot injectors. Nickel-plated thermocouple. HSI with protective cage. Waterproof HSI connection and power wire connector.

Installation Instructions

Step 1: Selecting a Location

Refer to Section 5 for detailed instructions on selecting a suitable outdoor location with proper drainage, accessibility, and safe distances from combustibles.

Step 2: Ventilation & Enclosure Construction

Refer to Sections 6 & 10 for requirements on enclosure construction, including proper ventilation (1 sq. inch per 25,000 BTUs), non-combustible materials, and minimum recess depths. For propane systems, specific ventilation openings at upper and floor levels are required.

Step 3: Gas Connection

A gas shutoff valve must be installed. Ensure fuel supply and line are adequate for the burner's BTU output. A heat shield/plate is required between the Electronic Ignition Valve and the burner ring. The Electronic Ignition Valve automatically closes if temperatures exceed 175°F. Use a Stainless Steel Whistle-Free Flex Hose. Pilot assembly connections involve connecting the pilot line, thermocouple, and igniter lead to the control box. Perform a leak test using soapy water on all gas connections.

Step 4: Ignition Options

Various ignition options are available, including hardwiring to a UL certified light switch, pool controller, smart home hub, or wireless remote switch.

Step 5: Electrical Connection & Testing

Place the transformer at least 5ft from water and 1ft above ground. DO NOT connect 110V directly to the low voltage valve box. Confirm incoming (110V) and outgoing (14V) voltage. Use appropriate wire gauge as per charts. The transformer must be connected to a GFCI Outlet.

Step 6: Applying Fire Media

Only use approved media, such as lava rock (1/2" to 2" average diameter). DO NOT use fire glass, stones, or sand. For propane applications, avoid any fire media. Media must not cover the pilot burner; leave the pilot open to air. Incorrect media placement can cause back pressure or prevent ignition.

Step 7: Operation Instructions

Refer to Section 11 for detailed operation instructions.

Gas Pressure Requirements

Wire Gauge Chart (120 VAC Primary Input - 300 W Output)

This chart details recommended wire gauge based on distance from the transformer to ensure proper voltage delivery (e.g., 5 ft. requires 12 AWG, 110 ft. requires 14 AWG for 14 VAC output).

Wiring Diagrams

Diagrams illustrate electrical connections for fire pits, including transformer wiring, control panel connections, and gas line hookups. Ensure polarity is consistent when connecting multiple units (red to red, black to black). The transformer must be connected to a GFCI outlet.

Operation Sequence

The operation sequence involves a call for heat, pre-purge time, HSI warm-up, pilot trial-for-ignition, main valve activation, and continuous flame monitoring. If flame is lost, the unit attempts to restart. If ignition fails after multiple trials, it enters a lockout state. The system includes safety features like a temperature shutoff for the Electronic Ignition Valve at 175°F.

LED Diagnostic Codes

Operation & Usage

Your fire feature can be turned on/off via a Light Switch, Dial Timer, Pool Controller, or Smart Hub/Home Automation system. For startup, a few "On/Off" cycles may be needed to purge air from gas lines. The system may lockout after 10 ignition attempts; power cycle to restart. If the fire pit is turned off and immediately back on, it may go into lockout mode; wait 5 minutes before restarting. The fire pit should never be left unattended once ignited.

Overheating Warning: The Fire Pit automatically closes the gas valve if temperatures exceed 175°F inside the valve box. Ensure adequate enclosure ventilation to prevent overheating.

Troubleshooting

This section provides a table of common faults, checks, results, and actions. Issues covered include no power/LED indication, igniter warm-up problems, trial for ignition failures (no gas flow, pilot issues, flame detection), burner shut down, and flame loss lockouts. It also details troubleshooting for the Electronic Ignition Valve when nothing happens, or when the igniter glows but gas does not ignite (air in gas line or low electrical current/amperage).

Electrical Current Issues

Low amperage is a common cause for ignition failure. Ensure correct wire gauge is used (minimum 12 AWG up to 50 ft, 10 AWG over 50 ft). Amperage should range between 1.4-1.6 amps initially, jumping to approximately 2.0 amps.

Small Flames Flickering After Shutoff

This may be due to debris in the gas line or valve. Cycling power may dislodge debris. If the issue persists, turn off gas and contact support.

Maintenance

Inspect and clean the appliance annually. Clean burners with a soft wire brush. Ensure control compartment and circulation air passageways are clean. Annually check propane hose connections for cracks. Spiders and insects can nest in burners and block gas flow, requiring periodic inspection and cleaning. Any removed guards must be replaced. Inspect fuel supply connections for leaks before each use. Do not attempt repairs yourself; use qualified technicians to avoid voiding warranty.

Storage

When not in use, turn off gas at the source. Store indoors only if disconnected from fuel supply. Store propane cylinders outdoors in a well-ventilated area, out of reach of children, with valve plugs installed. Protect the fire pit from elements with a cover after it has cooled completely.

Removal of Debris

Perform maintenance only when surfaces are cool. Remove debris with a dry brush or compressed air. Clean pilot igniter and thermocouple as needed. Visually inspect the pilot; the flame should cover 3/8 to 1/2 inch of the thermocouple. Ensure pilot orifice is clear.

Replacement Parts

Available replacement parts include:

• 12V/13V/14V Transformer (OPT-12V)
• Bluetooth Controller (TOP-500BLU)
• Pilot Igniter Cover (TOP-PIC)
• Pilot Igniter Glow Plug (TOP-PIGP)
• 24" Pilot Igniter Assembly (TOP-500PIR for Mini & Standard, TOP-500PIRHC for High Capacity)
• Pilot Orifice(s) (TOP-P123 / #23 for Mini Capacity, TOP-P139 / #39 for Standard & High Capacity)

Clearance From Combustibles

Clearance requirements vary based on BTU output and are for outdoor use only. All fire pits must be installed on non-combustible flooring. Specific clearances are required for sides, overhead, and under the valve box. Cross ventilation is essential.

Clearance for units up to 65,000 BTUs

• Under Valve Box: 2" For Drainage
• Sides Surrounding Fire Pit: 36" From Structure or Combustibles
• Overhead Clearance: Min. 96"

Clearance for units 66k to 200k BTUs

• Under Valve Box: 2" For Drainage
• Sides Surrounding Fire Pit: 48" From Structure or Combustibles
• Overhead Clearance: NO OVERHEAD CONSTRUCTION

Clearance for units 201k to 400k BTUs

• Under Valve Box: 2" For Drainage
• Sides Surrounding Fire Pit: 48" From Structure or Combustibles
• Overhead Clearance: NO OVERHEAD CONSTRUCTION

Clearance for units 401K BTUs and up

• Sides: Min. 48" Clearance
• Overhead: Min. 96" Clearance
• Minimum 12" clearance from burner to floor
• Min. 6" Floor-Level Clearance on All Sides

Diagrams illustrate these clearances for different BTU ranges, showing side, overhead, and floor clearances, as well as the need for non-combustible flooring and cross-ventilation.

Warranty Information

The Outdoor Plus Company (TOP) warrants products against manufacturing defects.

• Electronics, Gas Valves, & Pilot Assembly: Commercial - 6 Months; Residential - 1 Year.
• Stainless Steel & Aluminum Pans: Commercial - 1 year; Residential - 5 years.
• Burner Ring & Burner Bars: Lifetime Warranty.
• Electrodes & Spark Igniters: Not Warrantied (due to lifespan).

Warranty commences from the date of original sale. Claims require a Return Merchandise Authorization (RMA) from TOP. TOP is not responsible for damage caused by overheating, modification, abuse, improper storage, installation, or maintenance, nor for surface rust, installer negligence, or labor costs. Warranty does not cover incidental or consequential damages. Products cannot be altered or modified. TOP is not responsible for local code compliance or returns on unapproved products.

Product Return Policy

• No returns on made-to-order goods or custom features.

Product Testing Program

Defective components can be sent to TOP for testing. TOP covers return shipping for defective items. If found defective, it will be repaired or replaced at TOP's discretion, with TOP covering outgoing freight and replacement costs. Non-defective items will be returned to the customer without credit.