Empire Comfort Systems Elite Burner, 18-Inch, Ceramic Fiber, Millivolt

At 33,000 BTU and 18 inches of ceramic fiber construction, Empire Comfort Systems' Elite Burner (BFR18MTN) is a serious piece of hardware for anyone building or upgrading a vented gas fireplace. The millivolt valve system means no 120V outlet required — a standing pilot keeps the burner ready, and the whole assembly is remote capable, so you can dial up the fire without leaving your chair. As priorities go, that one ranks fairly high.

The ceramic fiber material isn't just a spec to check off. It holds and radiates heat efficiently, contributes to a realistic ember bed appearance, and stands up to the thermal cycling that comes with regular use. This isn't a burner that's going to surprise you after two seasons.

On the fuel side, the BFR18MTN is available for both natural gas and propane installations, giving installers and homeowners flexibility depending on what's running to the firebox. Vented operation is required — this burner is designed to work within a properly vented system, not a ventless setup.

Fitting this burner into your firebox requires a minimum opening of 20 inches wide and 16 inches deep. If your firebox meets those dimensions, you're in good shape. Pair it with a compatible 18-inch log set — Empire's own Pioneer Refractory Vented Log Set and Kensington Forest Ceramic Fiber Vented Log Set are both confirmed fits, as are other 18-inch log sets designed for Elite Radiant Vented Burners — and you have a complete, cohesive system rather than a collection of parts hoping for the best.

The millivolt ignition system is worth a second mention for anyone in a region where power outages are a seasonal tradition. Because it operates independently of household current, your fireplace keeps working when the lights don't. That's a practical advantage that tends to matter most precisely when you want a fire the most.

At $1,045.00, the BFR18MTN is priced for buyers who want a burner built to perform consistently over time, not one that's going to require a troubleshooting call every other winter. Empire Comfort Systems has a long track record in hearth products, and this burner reflects that heritage in its engineering and compatibility ecosystem.

• 33,000 BTU output — substantial heat for a vented gas fireplace
• 18-inch ceramic fiber construction for efficient heat radiation and realistic aesthetics
• Millivolt (standing pilot) ignition — operates independently of household electrical power
• Remote capable for convenient on/off and flame control
• Available in natural gas and propane configurations
• Vented operation — designed for properly vented fireplace systems
• Requires minimum firebox width of 20 inches and depth of 16 inches
• Compatible with Pioneer Refractory Vented Log Set (18-inch)
• Compatible with Kensington Forest Ceramic Fiber Vented Log Set (18-inch)
• Works with other 18-inch log sets designed for Elite Radiant Vented Burners