Empire 28" Franklin Clean-Face Direct Vent Gas Fireplace Insert with Log Set and Blower
The Empire 28" Franklin Clean-Face Direct Vent Gas Fireplace Insert offers a refined way to upgrade your traditional wood-burning fireplace. Featuring a premium Slope Glaze Burner and realistic hand-painted ceramic log set, this insert creates a vibrant and natural-looking flame display while providing efficient, zone-targeted heating.
Engineered for straightforward installation, this unit uses dual 3-inch co-linear flexible vent pipes that draw in combustion air from outside and expel exhaust safely. A safety barrier screen is included to prevent accidental contact with the hot glass without compromising visibility. With customizable options like liners, decorative fronts, and surrounds, the unit can be tailored to fit your home's style.
Choose a Millivolt ignition for continuous heat even during power outages, or opt for an Intermittent Pilot system for improved energy efficiency with the flexibility to switch modes during blackouts.
What's Included
-
Fireplace Insert
-
Slope Glaze Burner
-
Hand-Painted Ceramic Log Set
-
Fine Mesh Barrier Screen
-
Variable-Speed Blower
-
Owner’s Manual
Required Accessories
-
Surround (available in multiple sizes and finishes)
Optional Accessories
-
Propane/Natural Gas Conversion Kit
-
Decorative Front (available in multiple styles and finishes)
-
Surround Bottom Cover
-
Liners (various styles)
-
Remote Control, Wall Switch, or Thermostat
Features
-
Fuel Type: Natural Gas or Propane
-
Ignition Type: Millivolt (standing pilot) or Intermittent Pilot (switchable)
-
Clean-face design for a modern, unobstructed viewing area
-
Converts an old wood fireplace into a safer, cleaner gas heating appliance
-
Safety screen included to protect against accidental contact with hot glass
-
Optional surround bottom cover for installations without a hearth
-
Compatible with decorative fronts and liner options for full customization
-
Intermittent Pilot mode offers enhanced energy efficiency with manual override
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Empire Comfort Systems |
| SKU Number | DVC26IN31 / DVC26IN71 |
| Fuel Type | Natural Gas / Propane |
| Ignition Type | Millivolt / Intermittent Pilot |
| BTU Output (Max) | 26,000 BTU |
| Viewing Area | 18 1/2" H x 28 15/16" W |
| Venting | 3" x 3" Flex Vent (Co-linear) |
| Unit Dimensions (No Surround) | 20 1/4" H x 30 7/8" W x 16 5/8" D |
| Min. Fireplace Opening | 21 1/2" H x 31 1/4" W x 16 5/8" D |
Documents
Order Processing
Orders process in 1–2 business days. Orders placed by 5:00 PM ET are processed the same business day; orders placed after will process the next business day.
Transit & Delivery
Typical transit time is 5–7 business days after processing (total estimated delivery 6–9 business days, depending on the customer’s location). Standard delivery is curbside. We currently ship to the 48 contiguous U.S. (no AK/HI, U.S. territories, or P.O. Boxes).
Tracking
A tracking email is sent once your order ships. Tracking details may take 24–48 hours to appear after the carrier picks up your package.
Returns
We offer 30-day returns with free return shipping (prepaid label) and a 15% restocking fee (all brands). Items must be new, unused, and in original packaging. Visible or concealed shipping damage must be reported within 24 hours of delivery. See our Returns & Refunds Policy for full details.
More info: Shipping Policy · Returns & Refunds Policy
Questions?
Email: info@thelivingoutlet.com
Phone: 800-212-8846
Business Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–9:00 PM EST
Manufacturer Warranty Coverage & Registration
At The Living Outlet, most of the products in our catalog come with manufacturer warranties. The terms, coverage, and duration of these warranties vary by brand and product. It is the customer's responsibility to register the product warranty within the designated period, typically 30 days unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer, to ensure coverage.
The Living Outlet does not assume responsibility for warranty submissions or approvals, and all warranty claims, repairs, or replacements are subject to the policies and processes set by the manufacturer. While we strive to provide accurate information regarding warranties, The Living Outlet makes no guarantees, expressed or implied, regarding the coverage, performance, or duration of any manufacturer warranty. If you have any questions about the warranty of a specific product, please reach out to us at info@thelivingoutlet.com or call 800-212-8846 for assistance.
Reporting Transit Damage
If you receive a product that has been damaged during transit, you must report the damages within 24 hours of receipt to info@thelivingoutlet.com or call 800-212-8846 To process your claim, we require clear, high-quality photos of the damage, a detailed written description of the issue, and the original packaging for verification. Any damage claims made after 24 hours will not be accepted, and The Living Outlet will not be liable for damages reported outside this timeframe. All claims are assessed on a case-by-case basis and must comply with the guidelines set by the manufacturer and/or shipping provider. Damage due to installation errors, misuse, or improper handling is not covered.
Customer Responsibility
Once your product has been delivered, you assume full responsibility for its installation, handling, and use. The Living Outlet is not liable for damages, injuries, or losses resulting from improper installation, handling, or misuse of any product. Additionally, we do not cover any costs incurred due to incorrect installation, including labor, repairs, or professional service fees. If you choose to hire an installer, we strongly recommend using a licensed, insured, and reputable professional to ensure compliance with local codes and safety standards.
Description Accuracy
The Living Outlet does not guarantee that all product details are error-free or up to date. Product packaging, owner’s manuals, installation guides, and operating instructions may contain additional details not listed here. The information provided is for general reference only. Please make sure to read all included manuals and documentation carefully before installation or use. Variations in color, size, or design may occur due to manufacturer updates, natural material differences, or digital display settings.
Liability
To the fullest extent permitted by law, The Living Outlet is not responsible for any indirect, incidental, consequential, or special damages, including but not limited to lost profits, loss of use, or personal/property damages resulting from the use or misuse of any product sold. We are also not responsible for damages due to installation errors, delays in delivery, or product defects caused by the manufacturer. In any situation, our total liability is limited to the purchase price of the product in question.
Indemnification
By purchasing from The Living Outlet, you agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless our company, owners, employees, agents, and affiliates from any claims, losses, liabilities, damages, or expenses (including legal fees) that arise from the use, misuse, or installation of our products. This also includes any violations of local codes and regulations or claims made by third parties, such as installers or contractors.
General Disclaimer
We sell our products in good faith and provide them "as is," with no additional guarantees beyond those offered by the manufacturer. We do not make any implied warranties regarding product performance, merchantability, or fitness for a particular purpose. It is the customer’s responsibility to ensure that any product purchased meets their needs, complies with local codes, and is suitable for the intended application.
Voided Warranty
Manufacturer warranties may be voided under specific circumstances, including but not limited to improper installation by an unlicensed professional, unauthorized modifications, misuse, neglect, exposure to environmental damage, or unapproved repairs. To maintain warranty coverage, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer’s installation and maintenance guidelines. If you have questions about specific warranty terms, contact us at info@thelivingoutlet.com or call 800-212-8846
Policy Changes
The Living Outlet reserves the right to modify or update these terms at any time. Changes may affect warranty policies, return policies, shipping terms, and price match policy. Any updates will take effect immediately upon posting to our website. It is your responsibility to review our latest terms periodically, as continued use of our website or purchase of our products constitutes acceptance of these terms.
Agreement
By making a purchase from The Living Outlet, you acknowledge and agree to the policies outlined above. If you have any concerns or require further clarification, please reach out to us at info@thelivingoutlet.com or call 800-212-8846 for assistance.
Price Match
We are committed to providing the best prices online. If you find a lower price on another site, let us know, and we’ll match it. We want you to be confident that you’re getting the best deal possible on the product you’re ordering.
Our Price Match includes these conditions:
Please note: We review qualifying requests. Some exclusions may apply.
Have Questions?
If you have questions, please reach out:
Email: info@thelivingoutlet.com
Phone: 800-212-8846
Live Chat: Available Bottom-Right of your screen
Business Hours: Monday–Friday 9:00 AM–9:00 PM EST
Description
Empire 28" Franklin Clean-Face Direct Vent Gas Fireplace Insert with Log Set and Blower
The Empire 28" Franklin Clean-Face Direct Vent Gas Fireplace Insert offers a refined way to upgrade your traditional wood-burning fireplace. Featuring a premium Slope Glaze Burner and realistic hand-painted ceramic log set, this insert creates a vibrant and natural-looking flame display while providing efficient, zone-targeted heating.
Engineered for straightforward installation, this unit uses dual 3-inch co-linear flexible vent pipes that draw in combustion air from outside and expel exhaust safely. A safety barrier screen is included to prevent accidental contact with the hot glass without compromising visibility. With customizable options like liners, decorative fronts, and surrounds, the unit can be tailored to fit your home's style.
Choose a Millivolt ignition for continuous heat even during power outages, or opt for an Intermittent Pilot system for improved energy efficiency with the flexibility to switch modes during blackouts.
What's Included
-
Fireplace Insert
-
Slope Glaze Burner
-
Hand-Painted Ceramic Log Set
-
Fine Mesh Barrier Screen
-
Variable-Speed Blower
-
Owner’s Manual
Required Accessories
-
Surround (available in multiple sizes and finishes)
Optional Accessories
-
Propane/Natural Gas Conversion Kit
-
Decorative Front (available in multiple styles and finishes)
-
Surround Bottom Cover
-
Liners (various styles)
-
Remote Control, Wall Switch, or Thermostat
Features
-
Fuel Type: Natural Gas or Propane
-
Ignition Type: Millivolt (standing pilot) or Intermittent Pilot (switchable)
-
Clean-face design for a modern, unobstructed viewing area
-
Converts an old wood fireplace into a safer, cleaner gas heating appliance
-
Safety screen included to protect against accidental contact with hot glass
-
Optional surround bottom cover for installations without a hearth
-
Compatible with decorative fronts and liner options for full customization
-
Intermittent Pilot mode offers enhanced energy efficiency with manual override
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Empire Comfort Systems |
| SKU Number | DVC26IN31 / DVC26IN71 |
| Fuel Type | Natural Gas / Propane |
| Ignition Type | Millivolt / Intermittent Pilot |
| BTU Output (Max) | 26,000 BTU |
| Viewing Area | 18 1/2" H x 28 15/16" W |
| Venting | 3" x 3" Flex Vent (Co-linear) |
| Unit Dimensions (No Surround) | 20 1/4" H x 30 7/8" W x 16 5/8" D |
| Min. Fireplace Opening | 21 1/2" H x 31 1/4" W x 16 5/8" D |
Documents
Shipping & Returns
Order Processing
Orders process in 1–2 business days. Orders placed by 5:00 PM ET are processed the same business day; orders placed after will process the next business day.
Transit & Delivery
Typical transit time is 5–7 business days after processing (total estimated delivery 6–9 business days, depending on the customer’s location). Standard delivery is curbside. We currently ship to the 48 contiguous U.S. (no AK/HI, U.S. territories, or P.O. Boxes).
Tracking
A tracking email is sent once your order ships. Tracking details may take 24–48 hours to appear after the carrier picks up your package.
Returns
We offer 30-day returns with free return shipping (prepaid label) and a 15% restocking fee (all brands). Items must be new, unused, and in original packaging. Visible or concealed shipping damage must be reported within 24 hours of delivery. See our Returns & Refunds Policy for full details.
More info: Shipping Policy · Returns & Refunds Policy
Questions?
Email: info@thelivingoutlet.com
Phone: 800-212-8846
Business Hours: Monday–Friday, 9:00 AM–9:00 PM EST
Warranty
Manufacturer Warranty Coverage & Registration
At The Living Outlet, most of the products in our catalog come with manufacturer warranties. The terms, coverage, and duration of these warranties vary by brand and product. It is the customer's responsibility to register the product warranty within the designated period, typically 30 days unless otherwise stated by the manufacturer, to ensure coverage.
The Living Outlet does not assume responsibility for warranty submissions or approvals, and all warranty claims, repairs, or replacements are subject to the policies and processes set by the manufacturer. While we strive to provide accurate information regarding warranties, The Living Outlet makes no guarantees, expressed or implied, regarding the coverage, performance, or duration of any manufacturer warranty. If you have any questions about the warranty of a specific product, please reach out to us at info@thelivingoutlet.com or call 800-212-8846 for assistance.
Reporting Transit Damage
If you receive a product that has been damaged during transit, you must report the damages within 24 hours of receipt to info@thelivingoutlet.com or call 800-212-8846 To process your claim, we require clear, high-quality photos of the damage, a detailed written description of the issue, and the original packaging for verification. Any damage claims made after 24 hours will not be accepted, and The Living Outlet will not be liable for damages reported outside this timeframe. All claims are assessed on a case-by-case basis and must comply with the guidelines set by the manufacturer and/or shipping provider. Damage due to installation errors, misuse, or improper handling is not covered.
Customer Responsibility
Once your product has been delivered, you assume full responsibility for its installation, handling, and use. The Living Outlet is not liable for damages, injuries, or losses resulting from improper installation, handling, or misuse of any product. Additionally, we do not cover any costs incurred due to incorrect installation, including labor, repairs, or professional service fees. If you choose to hire an installer, we strongly recommend using a licensed, insured, and reputable professional to ensure compliance with local codes and safety standards.
Description Accuracy
The Living Outlet does not guarantee that all product details are error-free or up to date. Product packaging, owner’s manuals, installation guides, and operating instructions may contain additional details not listed here. The information provided is for general reference only. Please make sure to read all included manuals and documentation carefully before installation or use. Variations in color, size, or design may occur due to manufacturer updates, natural material differences, or digital display settings.
Liability
To the fullest extent permitted by law, The Living Outlet is not responsible for any indirect, incidental, consequential, or special damages, including but not limited to lost profits, loss of use, or personal/property damages resulting from the use or misuse of any product sold. We are also not responsible for damages due to installation errors, delays in delivery, or product defects caused by the manufacturer. In any situation, our total liability is limited to the purchase price of the product in question.
Indemnification
By purchasing from The Living Outlet, you agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless our company, owners, employees, agents, and affiliates from any claims, losses, liabilities, damages, or expenses (including legal fees) that arise from the use, misuse, or installation of our products. This also includes any violations of local codes and regulations or claims made by third parties, such as installers or contractors.
General Disclaimer
We sell our products in good faith and provide them "as is," with no additional guarantees beyond those offered by the manufacturer. We do not make any implied warranties regarding product performance, merchantability, or fitness for a particular purpose. It is the customer’s responsibility to ensure that any product purchased meets their needs, complies with local codes, and is suitable for the intended application.
Voided Warranty
Manufacturer warranties may be voided under specific circumstances, including but not limited to improper installation by an unlicensed professional, unauthorized modifications, misuse, neglect, exposure to environmental damage, or unapproved repairs. To maintain warranty coverage, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer’s installation and maintenance guidelines. If you have questions about specific warranty terms, contact us at info@thelivingoutlet.com or call 800-212-8846
Policy Changes
The Living Outlet reserves the right to modify or update these terms at any time. Changes may affect warranty policies, return policies, shipping terms, and price match policy. Any updates will take effect immediately upon posting to our website. It is your responsibility to review our latest terms periodically, as continued use of our website or purchase of our products constitutes acceptance of these terms.
Agreement
By making a purchase from The Living Outlet, you acknowledge and agree to the policies outlined above. If you have any concerns or require further clarification, please reach out to us at info@thelivingoutlet.com or call 800-212-8846 for assistance.
Price Match Policy
Price Match
We are committed to providing the best prices online. If you find a lower price on another site, let us know, and we’ll match it. We want you to be confident that you’re getting the best deal possible on the product you’re ordering.
Our Price Match includes these conditions:
Please note: We review qualifying requests. Some exclusions may apply.
Have Questions?
If you have questions, please reach out:
Email: info@thelivingoutlet.com
Phone: 800-212-8846
Live Chat: Available Bottom-Right of your screen
Business Hours: Monday–Friday 9:00 AM–9:00 PM EST
Reviews
Frequently Asked Questions
The 5th Generation MRCOOL DIY® Mini Split introduces several major advancements over the 4th Gen, designed for higher efficiency, smarter operation, and environmental responsibility.
Key improvements include:
• Eco-Friendly R-454B Refrigerant:
Uses a next-generation refrigerant with significantly lower global warming potential (GWP), meeting the latest environmental standards.
• Greater Energy Efficiency:
Upgraded SEER2 ratings deliver improved performance and reduced energy consumption.
• Enhanced Reliability:
Stronger internal components improve long-term durability and heating/cooling consistency.
Yes. MRCOOL DIY systems are specifically engineered for homeowner installation — no special HVAC tools or refrigerant handling required. The pre-charged Quick Connect® lines make connecting the indoor and outdoor units simple.
⚠️ Note: A licensed electrician must complete the final electrical connection to ensure safety and compliance with local codes.
Absolutely. Every MRCOOL 5th Gen model functions as a heat pump, providing efficient heating in winter and cooling in summer for year-round comfort.
Yes. The 5th Gen systems include low-ambient heating technology, allowing reliable performance even when outdoor temperatures drop to around -13°F.
A general guideline is about 20 BTU per square foot of conditioned area.
.
Use this quick reference chart:
.
6,000 BTU = 100 - 150 sq ft
9,000 BTU = 150 - 350 sq ft
12,000 BTU = 351- 500 sq ft
18,000 BTU = 501 – 750 sq ft
24,000 BTU = 751 – 1,000 sq ft
36,000 BTU = 1,001 - 1,500 sq ft
Keep in mind factors like insulation, ceiling height, sunlight exposure, and appliance heat output may affect the sizing. For personalized help, contact our Product Experts.
Yes. All 5th Gen MRCOOL DIY systems feature built-in SmartHVAC Wi-Fi control, compatible with both Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. You can adjust temperature, modes, and schedules directly from your smartphone.
MRCOOL 5th Gen DIY Mini-Splits include industry-leading warranty protection:
7-Year Compressor Replacement Warranty: If the compressor fails within seven years, MRCOOL provides a replacement.
5-Year Parts Warranty: Covers all other system components for five years from the purchase date.
We're here to help!
Send us a message through our Contact Us Page
Call our Customer Support (800) 212-8846
Email: info@thelivingoutlet.com
Live Chat: Available Bottom-Right of your screen
Business Hours: Monday-Friday 9.00 AM-9.00 PM EST