Dimplex BF Series Built-In Electric Fireboxes Size Guide
Framing dimensions, electrical requirements, clearances, and installation specifications for the BF33STP/DXP, BF39STP/DXP, and BF45DXP.
Overview
What this guide covers
This size guide covers the three models in the Dimplex BF Series built-in electric firebox lineup: the BF33STP/DXP (33"), the BF39STP/DXP (39"), and the BF45DXP (45"). All three are zero clearance, direct-wire electric fireboxes designed for built-in recessed installation.
Use this guide to confirm framing dimensions, rough-in requirements, electrical specifications, and clearance rules before ordering or beginning installation. For a side-by-side comparison of all Dimplex electric fireplace series, see the Dimplex Electric Fireplace Comparison Guide.
Always use a certified electrician for installation
This requirement is stated in the Dimplex installation documentation and applies to all BF Series models regardless of voltage or installation type.
Quick Comparison
Key framing dimensions across all three models
All dimensions from the Dimplex installation documentation. Framing width and height carry a tolerance of −0 / +0.1 inches.
| Model | Framing W | Framing H | Framing D (min) | Unit W | Unit H | Unit D | Viewing W | Viewing H |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| BF33STP/DXP | 33 1/8" | 28 3/4" | 15" | 32 3/4" | 28 1/2" | 14 1/4" | 28 1/2" | 18 3/4" |
| BF39STP/DXP | 39" | 32 7/8" | 16" | 38 3/4" | 32 7/8" | 15 3/8" | 32 3/4" | 22 3/4" |
| BF45DXP | 45" | 32 7/8" | 16" | 44 3/4" | 32 7/8" | 15 3/8" | 32 3/4" | 22 3/4" |
Unit dimensions shown are overall external firebox dimensions. Framing dimensions are the rough-in opening required. See the Size-by-Size Reference section below for complete per-model data including corner framing dimensions.
Installation Types
All installation configurations documented by Dimplex
Built-In Recessed (Standard)
All BF Series models are designed for built-in recessed installation. The firebox slides into a framed rough-in opening and is secured using four mounting flanges — two on each side. From inside the unit, the tabs are bent outward and fastened to the inside of the framing using suitable hardware.
The firebox is a zero clearance design on the sides, rear, and bottom. No clearance to combustible framing is required on those faces. See the Clearances section for the single exception (top of unit) and front-of-unit requirements.
Corner Installation
Corner installation is explicitly supported. Corner framing dimensions are provided in the manufacturer documentation for all three models. Each model has a different set of corner diagonal and leg dimensions — see the Size-by-Size Reference section for the specific values per model.
Bathroom Installation
Bathroom installation is permitted with the following conditions documented by Dimplex:
- The firebox must be protected by a GFI circuit.
- If a receptacle is used, it must be readily accessible.
- The unit must be installed away from showers, tubs, and water sources.
- The unit must never be located where it could fall into a bathtub or water container.
- Keep towels and other combustible materials at least 3 feet (0.9 m) from the front of the unit.
Installation Types Not Documented
The following installation types are not documented in the Dimplex installation materials for this series: surface wall mount, freestanding, or insert into existing masonry. Do not assume compatibility with these configurations without manufacturer confirmation.
Clearances
All clearance requirements from the Dimplex installation documentation
Zero Clearance — Sides, Rear, Bottom
The BF Series is a zero clearance design. No minimum clearance distance is required between the sides, rear, or bottom of the unit and combustible framing materials.
Top of Unit — Insulation and Vapor Barrier
⚠ Top Clearance Required
Any insulation and vapor barrier must be placed a minimum of 2 inches (5.1 cm) from the top of the unit. No combustibles may be placed on the top surface of the fireplace.
The Dimplex installation documentation also states: "Ensure installation does not allow fireplace to be in direct contact with building vapor barrier or insulation and meets all local building code."
Front of Unit — Combustibles
Keep all combustible materials — including furniture, pillows, bedding, papers, clothes, and curtains — at least 3 feet (0.9 m) from the front of the unit. This requirement applies to all BF Series models in all installation locations including bathrooms.
Clearances Not Specified
The following clearance values are not specified in the Dimplex installation documentation for this series: minimum clearance above the glass opening for television mounting, and minimum clearance to ceiling. Consult a qualified installer for guidance on these distances.
Electrical Requirements
Voltage, wattage, amperage, and connection type
Direct-Wire Installation (Standard)
The BF Series is designed for direct-wire installation to a dedicated electrical circuit. No plug or outlet is required for standard installation. The firebox supports both 120V and 240V supply via an on-unit voltage selector switch. A 208V supply is also supported on the BF33DXP.
Electrical specifications are fully documented for the BF33DXP. Electrical data for the BF39STP/DXP and BF45DXP is not available in the current Dimplex documentation on file. Verify with Dimplex or your electrician before installation of those models.
BF33DXP — Electrical Specifications
Breaker size is not specified in the Dimplex installation documentation. Confirm with a certified electrician based on your local electrical code and the amperage values above. A dedicated circuit is required.
Plug-In Installation (Optional)
An optional plug kit (BFPLUGE) is available as an accessory, allowing plug-in installation at 110/120V with a 7 ft. cord. This is a separately purchased accessory — the unit ships as a direct-wire appliance by default.
For bathroom installations using a receptacle: the receptacle must be GFI-protected and readily accessible.
Size-by-Size Reference
All dimensions from the Dimplex installation documentation
Each fit-block below covers one model. All framing dimensions carry a tolerance of −0 / +0.1 inches on width and height. Corner framing dimensions are provided for each model.
BF33STP/DXP — 33" Model
Overall Unit Dimensions
Rough-In Framing Dimensions
Viewing Area
Corner Framing Dimensions
BF39STP/DXP — 39" Model
Overall Unit Dimensions
Rough-In Framing Dimensions
Viewing Area
Corner Framing Dimensions
BF45DXP — 45" Model
Overall Unit Dimensions
Rough-In Framing Dimensions
Viewing Area
Corner Framing Dimensions
Safety Requirements
Installation and operational restrictions from Dimplex documentation
- Do not burn wood or other materials in this fireplace.
- Do not use outdoors.
- Do not modify this fireplace.
- Do not strike the fireplace glass.
- Always use a certified electrician for installation.
- Disconnect all power at the main service panel before any cleaning or maintenance.
- Do not block air intake or exhaust openings in any manner.
- Do not insert foreign objects into any ventilation or exhaust opening.
- Do not use in areas where gasoline, paint, or flammable liquids are used or stored.
- No combustibles may be placed on the top surface of the fireplace.
- Ensure installation does not allow the fireplace to be in direct contact with building vapor barrier or insulation. Installation must meet all local building code.
Certifications
Standards compliance as documented by Dimplex
The Dimplex BF Series is UL or CSA listed. The applicable standards are UL 2021 and CSA C22.2 No. 46-13.
ETL / cETLus certification status is not specified in the current Dimplex documentation on file.
Frequently Asked Questions
All answers sourced from manufacturer documentation
What framing depth does the Dimplex BF Series require?
Framing depth varies by model: the BF33STP/DXP requires a minimum framing depth of 15 inches (38.1 cm); the BF39STP/DXP and BF45DXP both require 16 inches (40.5 cm). These are the minimum rough-in depths needed to accommodate the firebox and mounting flanges. All values are from the Dimplex installation documentation.
Is the Dimplex BF Series zero clearance?
Yes. The BF Series is a zero clearance design on the sides, rear, and bottom. The one exception is the top of the unit: any insulation and vapor barrier must be placed a minimum of 2 inches (5.1 cm) from the unit. No combustibles may be placed on the top surface of the fireplace. Combustible materials must be kept at least 3 feet (0.9 m) from the front of the unit.
Does the Dimplex BF Series support corner installation?
Yes. Corner framing dimensions are provided in the manufacturer documentation for all three models. For the BF33STP/DXP, the corner diagonal depth is 48 inches and each leg is 34 inches. For the BF39STP/DXP, the corner diagonal is 54 inches and each leg is 38 inches. For the BF45DXP, the corner diagonal is 60 inches and each leg is 42 inches.
Can the Dimplex BF Series be installed in a bathroom?
Yes, with conditions. Bathroom installations require a GFI circuit. If a receptacle is used, it must be readily accessible. The unit must be installed away from showers, tubs, and other water sources, and must never be located where it could fall into a bathtub or water container. Keep towels and other combustibles at least 3 feet (0.9 m) from the front of the unit.
Does the Dimplex BF Series require venting or a gas line?
No. The BF Series is a non-venting electric firebox. It requires no venting, gas line, or chimney. The firebox is hardwired directly to a dedicated electrical circuit. An optional plug kit (BFPLUGE) is available for plug-in installation. Always use a certified electrician for installation.
What certifications does the Dimplex BF Series carry?
The Dimplex BF Series is UL or CSA listed. The applicable standards referenced in manufacturer documentation are UL 2021 and CSA C22.2 No. 46-13.