Empire Tahoe 32" Direct Vent Fireplace Deluxe, Zero Clearance

The Empire Tahoe Deluxe 32-inch direct vent fireplace opens with a concrete credential: a 27.5" x 20" tempered glass viewing area that gives you a genuinely generous flame picture without requiring a masonry chase or a contractor who charges by the sigh. Zero clearance installation means this unit is built to sit flush within framed walls — framing dimensions run 35 3/4" high by 34 3/8" wide by 16 3/8" deep — making it a practical choice for new builds and remodels alike.

At the heart of this fireplace is the Empire Contour burner system, which delivers a natural gas output range of 14,000 to 18,000 BTU. That modulation range matters: low-end heat for shoulder-season evenings, higher output when the temperature actually means business. Ignition is handled by an intermittent pilot (IP) electronic ignition system, so there's no standing pilot burning fuel around the clock. Power runs on standard 120V AC, with battery backup included should the lights go out along with the weather.

The 4" x 6-5/8" direct vent system draws combustion air from outside and exhausts directly back out, keeping indoor air quality intact and eliminating the need for a traditional chimney. At 96 lbs, this is a unit that earns its footprint — substantial enough to anchor a room, manageable enough to install without an engineering consultation.

A blower is available as an optional upgrade to circulate heated air more efficiently throughout the space. Optional liner packages are also available if you want to dress the firebox interior. For mantel coordination, the Tahoe Deluxe is compatible with Empire's EMBF, UMC, and UMF Series Full Mantels — a genuine convenience if you're furnishing the surround at the same time.

One compatibility note worth keeping front of mind: installation requires either the Fireplace Barrier Screen (DVFB32SBL) or one of the Door Set and Frame with Barrier Screen options (DVDB1CBL, DVDB1MBL, DVRB1CBL, DVRB1MBL, or DVWB1BL). These are sold separately and are not optional from a safety standpoint — factor them into your order from the start.

Overall dimensions are 35 5/8" high by 34" wide by 16 3/8" deep. If you're speccing this into a space, those numbers, paired with the framing dimensions above, give you everything you need to plan accurately.

• 32-inch direct vent fireplace with 27.5" x 20" tempered glass viewing area
• Empire Contour burner system, 14,000–18,000 BTU (natural gas)
• Intermittent pilot (IP) electronic ignition — no standing pilot
• Zero clearance installation; framing dimensions 35 3/4" H x 34 3/8" W x 16 3/8" D
• 4" x 6-5/8" direct vent — sealed combustion, no chimney required
• 120V AC power with battery backup included
• Optional variable speed blower available for improved heat circulation
• Optional fireplace liner packages available
• Compatible with Empire EMBF, UMC, and UMF Series Full Mantels
• Barrier screen or door set with barrier screen required (sold separately)
• Unit weight: 96 lbs