Media Placement Matters:

Every piece of HPC Fire Inspired appliances are engineered to play a critical role in performance and the role of media is no different. In this Tech Talk, our Certified NFI Tech team would like to highlight the importance of proper media selection as well as application to our signature standard and torpedo burners. We will also highlight how to select proper media as well as maintenance.

HPC offers a wide selection of media that will appeal to your desired aesthetic. Gaining a better understanding of the role media plays will empower our customers to think of media beyond just its’ visual aesthetics.

Application Matters:
When adding approved media, be sure to refer to HPC’s installation instructions as application differs from standard to torpedo burners. Competitor burners require for their nozzles to be completely exposed, this is due to the fact that their air mixing takes place on the end of their nozzles. In contrast, HPC’s air mixing takes place under the pan which yields a more quiet and clean burn and gives a more finished aesthetic .

• Applying Media to HPC Standard Burners: HPC standard burners create a natural flame. To achieve this look, media should be added ensuring that there is full coverage of the burner with the ports being completely covered. When using our fire glass, HPC recommends applying a ¼ to ½ inch layer on top of the burner and the ports. In addition, you should avoid piling media on the blow out box. Media can be placed around the box, but be sure to keep the perforated holes of the blow out box clear of media. It is imperative to avoid piling too much media on the burner as this will cause potential safety issues or lead to overheating your unit.
• Applying Media to HPC’s Torpedo Burners: HPC’s Torpedo burner yields the largest flame on the market. However, proper placement of media is key to achieving peak performance. When applying media to HPC’s Torpedo Burner, one must cover the pan as well as the burner. However, the port nozzles must be exposed. HPC’s fire glass is a perfect match and creates a finished look to the design. Use of larger media such as lava rock is not recommended for the Torpedo burner, as this will lead to pockets and gapping. Over applying media can impact performance and flame pattern. Check our HPC’s Fire Inspired YouTube video regarding media application https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=-re-EQHAjVM.

Selection of Media:

It is crucial to select media that is certified to be used with fire appliances. Not all media is created equal. HPC’s offers a wide selection of media that is safe and will appeal to your desired aesthetic. HPC’s Fire Glass comes in ten different color variations and is certified to use in any of our appliances. Unsure of how much fire glass to purchase? Check out HPC’s Glass Calculator at www.HPCFIRE.COM. HPC’s Lava Rock is procured from natural settings and provides a base that increases combustion efficiency. Lava Rock is a great choice for any of our standard burners as it vents easily and creates a low maintenance elevated look. Once Lava Rock is installed HPC recommends seasoning the rock. To do so, set a burn time for approximately 30 minutes. This will allow the naturally occurring moisture to burn away. Our Rolled Lava Rock line is made from basalt material, it is more dense but is smooth and creates a nice contrast. HPC’s Outdoor logs are formed from high performing refractory materials and are cast from actual pieces of wood. This yields a long lasting realistic look. The Log Line can be paired with our Linear or H-burners which creates a classic natural look. When using the fire logs the burner must be covered. Utilizing HPC’s black lava rock is a great pairing to achieve proper functioning while giving it a finished look. An added factor to consider when using logs is determining the correct log set based on the size of your unit. Using too many logs on the unit can cause overheating issues triggering the unit to shut down.

Maintenance:

Over the course of time, soot will build a residue on the media. Therefore it is important to cleanse the media occasionally. Our fire logs can simply be brushed off or can be cleansed with soapy water. HPC’s fire glass can be easily removed using a shop vac or by carefully scooping the media in a bucket. Next, gently cleanse the media with soapy water.

Customer Satisfaction:

HPC values quality and safety ensuring that all our of our appliances have been tested to guarantee their reliability and security. Remember, there is more to media than meets the eye. Proper selection and application of media play a crucial role in the performance of your fire appliance. Conduct proper maintenance checks to ensure the functionality and longevity of your fire appliance. If you have any further questions or concerns, reach out to HPC’s Certified NFI Tech Team at 937-436-9800. Our team is ready to support your every need.