Are Ethanol Fireplaces Worth It? Here’s your answer

Wondering if ethanol fireplaces are worth it when it comes to cost, quality, sustainability and heat output? Asking these questions is a fantastic place to start.

We unpack them all below so that by the time you finish reading this article, you’ll know if an ethanol fireplace is for you.

Is A Bioethanol Fireplace Worth Getting?

Ethanol fires are an increasingly popular supplementary heat source – ideal for homes and hospitality spaces – due to a host of benefits. These range from offering simple setup and installation through to being better for the environment.

Fundamentally one of the greatest advantages is the fact that ventless ethanol fireplaces are often better for your bank balance. 

How Much Do Bioethanol Fireplaces Cost?

If you think about gas fireplaces, the cost of the fireplace itself is just the beginning. Constructing the vent and gas line, in addition to and installing the unit, will quickly blow out upfront costs. 

But then there’s the ongoing costs – gas bottles, yearly servicing, professional cleaning. They all add up. In fact, let’s add it up and compare those upfront and ongoing costs with those of an ethanol fireplace.

*Calculated based on four hours usage, four nights a week for 16 weeks per year.

As you can see, the unit you buy will affect the overall cost, regardless of whether you purchase an ethanol fireplace or not. Where you make the biggest savings is in ease of installation.

With no ventilation needed and no ongoing servicing required, you can save up to $25,000 in upfront costs and enjoy none of the hassle yearly inspections and deep cleans bring.

Are Bioethanol Fireplaces Worth it in the Long Term?

Bio ethanol fires were invented in part to address growing concerns surrounding traditional fireplaces. 

NSW Health explains that short-term exposure to emissions from wood smoke can cause eye and respiratory tract irritation of the eyes, nose and throat, while prolonged exposure may increase the risk of developing heart or lung disease.

On the other hand, air pollutants produced by gas fires can lead to carbon dioxide (CO2) poisoning, while high levels of nitrogen dioxide (NO2) can result in respiratory tract irritation or shortness of breath.

Growing awareness of these pollutants – and their effects on both our bodies and the environment – has put in motion the phasing out of these heat sources, as evidenced by Victoria’s Gas Substitution Roadmap:

“Starting January 1, 2024, new gas connections for new dwellings, apartment buildings, and residential subdivisions requiring planning permits are being phased out [...] Prohibiting new gas connections is crucial to prevent the growth of fossil gas use and emissions, as well as expensive gas infrastructure.”

As a result, the Victorian Government is taking bold steps to speed up the transition to renewable energy, which is where low carbon emission solutions like ethanol fireplaces come in.

So, if you’re looking for a fire unit that prioritises your long-term health and that of the environment – and won’t run into any future regulatory hurdles – ethanol fireplaces are certainly worth it in the long term.

Are Ethanol Fireplaces Any Good?

First and foremost, bioethanol fireplaces are a supplementary heat source that isn’t designed to provide the same harsh, radiant heat that wood-burning fireplaces do. 

Instead, they’re a no mess, low fuss, design-forward alternative that creates warmth, ambience and style. Not to mention, they’re clean burning, better for the environment and fuelled by a renewable, plant-derived biomass. (Wondering exactly how they work?)

As already mentioned, minimal maintenance, ongoing costs, and servicing – coupled with the fact that they’re built to last a lifetime – make bioethanol fireplaces a strong contender for anyone who wants to enjoy the experience of a fireplace without any of the laborious upkeep or expensive.

Is the Flame in Bioethanol Fires Real?

Bio ethanol fireplaces indeed have a very real, natural-looking flame – something you won’t find in a gas or electric fireplace – which is quite often the determining factor for purchase.

On countless occasions we’ve had customers come into the Chama Design store saying they were looking to add a fireplace feature to their living space and stumbled across ethanol in their search. Once we ignite one of our fires, they settle into the sofa in our living room-style showroom and are immediately mesmerised by the beautifully dancing flame.

However, this very real flame means safety is still a factor. As with all heat units, always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions when it comes to safely installing, using and refuelling your bio ethanol fuelled fireplace.

Speaking of manufacturers, it pays to investigate your options, as the brand will be the biggest determinant of quality.

Chama Design is proud to stock the EcoSmart Fire range, one of the most trusted in the market. Launching in 2004, they’ve seen thousands of ethanol units installed across 75 countries and have sparked a reputation for quality on both sides of the equator.

But don’t take our word for it, hear directly from customers like John:

It did exactly what we wanted it to do – provide a cosy feel to our entertainment area where we can sit and chat with friends. It just makes the place feel instantly homely and relaxed. The fuel seems to last for ages. I didn’t expect that it would provide much heat at all but in a sheltered setting, which is cool and not freezing, it provides enough warmth to make people comfortable. Very happy with it.

• John Ryan

Should I Get An Ethanol Fireplace?

There are countless factors that will likely determine whether bio ethanol fireplaces are worth it for you. These include: 

• Why you’re getting one to begin with – to replace an existing unit or introduce a new heat source to your home or commercial space?

• Where it will be installed – is there an existing flue or vent, and if not are you willing to pay to install one?

• How you’ll use it – will it be a decorative focal point or a primary heat source?

• What the essential features are – low maintenance, no odour, sustainability, contemporary design, or radiant heat?

• The potential limitations – are there any new regulations being ushered in that could prevent you from installing certain heating units altogether?

Is An Ethanol Fireplace Right For Me?

Ultimately, only you can answer that. However, we have provided the answers to a number of important questions to help you make your decision.

At the end of the day, the important thing to remember is that ethanol fires are a supplementary heat source and will not recreate the same ferocity of heat that traditional wood fireplaces provide.

They do, however, create a brilliant ambience with their very real flame, plus come in a range of bespoke designs to suit any contemporary decor. 

So if your priority is a green heating solution that looks the part, keeps you warm and doesn’t cost a bomb, ethanol fireplaces are a fantastic choice – and here are some of the best.