Frequently Asked Questions Video Library
Table of contents:
General
What is a bioethanol fireplace? A bioethanol fireplace is a ventless fireplace that burns liquid bioethanol fuel to produce a real flame without requiring a chimney, gas line, or electricity.
What is ethanol or bio-ethanol? Bioethanol is a renewable liquid fuel produced by fermenting sugar and starch components from plant by-products like sugarcane, corn, or grains.
How does an ethanol fireplace work? An ethanol fireplace works by burning bioethanol fuel in a special container with a controlled opening, producing a real flame that generates heat through combustion.
What types of ethanol fireplaces are available? Ethanol fireplaces are available as freestanding models, wall-mounted units, tabletop versions, recessed/built-in fireplaces, fireplace inserts, fire pits, and custom burners for integration into furniture or architectural features.
Are ethanol fireplaces any good? Ethanol fireplaces are excellent for providing ambience, supplemental heat, and design flexibility without the installation constraints of traditional fireplaces.
Should I get an ethanol fireplace? You should get an ethanol fireplace if you want a real flame without venting requirements, appreciate design flexibility, desire easy installation, and understand it functions as secondary rather than primary heating.
Which ethanol fireplace is right for me? The right for you depends on your space constraints, heat requirements, design preferences, and whether you need a freestanding, built-in, or burner-only solution.
What is the best ethanol fireplace? The best ethanol fireplace is one from a reputable brand that is safety certified, constructed of quality materials, and appropriately sized for your space.
Are ethanol fireplaces popular? Ethanol fireplaces have grown increasingly popular in recent years, particularly in apartments, modern homes, and commercial spaces where traditional vented fireplaces are impractical.
How versatile are ethanol fireplaces for placement? Ethanol fireplaces are extremely versatile for placement since they require no chimney, flue, or utility connections and can be installed in almost any location that meets safety clearance requirements.
Can I use my existing fireplace even though the flue is blocked off? Yes, you can convert your existing fireplace with a blocked flue by installing an ethanol burner or insert, as ethanol fireplaces don't require venting.
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Heat Output & Performance
Do ethanol fireplaces produce heat? Yes, ethanol fireplaces produce noticeable heat, though they function best as secondary rather than primary heat sources.
How much heat do ethanol fireplaces generate? Ethanol fireplaces typically generate between 5,000-20,000 BTUs depending on the model, with larger burners producing more heat.
How large of an area will my ethanol fireplace heat? An ethanol fireplace can typically heat areas ranging from 20m² for smaller models to 65m² For larger ones, depending on the burner size and room insulation.
How long do ethanol fireplaces burn? Ethanol fireplaces typically burn between 4-13 hours on a full tank depending on the burner size, flame height setting, and fuel capacity.
How long will 1 litre of bioethanol last? One litre of bioethanol typically lasts between 1-3.5 hours, depending on the fireplace model and flame height setting.
Does burning ethanol give off carbon monoxide? Burning ethanol produces minimal carbon monoxide in insignificant amounts that pose no health risk when used in properly ventilated spaces.
Does burning ethanol give off fumes? Burning ethanol gives off minimal fumes, primarily water vapour and carbon dioxide, without smoke, soot, or ash.
Does ethanol burn clean? Yes, ethanol burns very cleanly, producing primarily water vapour and carbon dioxide without particulates, ash, or smoke.
Does ethanol burn hotter or cooler than other fuel types? Ethanol burns cooler than wood and natural gas but still produces a comfortably warm flame suitable for supplementary heating.
I want a linear flame - what burners can achieve this? Linear flame effects can be achieved with rectangular burners like XL1200 or XL900 Ethanol Burner Insert.
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Cost & Efficiency
Are ethanol fireplaces expensive to run? Ethanol fireplaces cost approximately $1.50-$3.00 per hour to operate, making them more expensive than gas but less expensive than wood when considering overall costs.
How much is 1 litre of bioethanol? One litre of bioethanol fuel typically costs between $5-$10, depending on the brand, quality, and purchase location.
Are bioethanol fires worth it? Bioethanol fires are worth it if you value the convenience of a real flame without venting requirements, appreciate design flexibility, and understand they're supplementary rather than primary heating sources.
How much does it cost to run a bioethanol fireplace? Running a bioethanol fireplace costs approximately $1.50-$3.00 per hour depending on the burner size, flame setting, and local fuel prices.
Is bioethanol cheaper than wood? Bioethanol is typically more expensive than wood as a fuel source per BTU, but the overall operating cost can be comparable when factoring in the elimination of chimney maintenance and cleaning costs.
Is bioethanol cheaper than electric? Bioethanol is generally more expensive than electricity for equivalent heat output, but offers the aesthetic advantage of a real flame that electric fireplaces cannot match.
Why are bioethanol fires so expensive? Bioethanol fireplaces are relatively expensive due to their high-quality stainless steel construction, safety features, design elements, and specialized burner technology.
How much fuel do ethanol fireplaces consume? Ethanol fireplaces typically consume between 0.25-1.5 liters of fuel per hour depending on the size of the burner and the flame height setting.
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Installation & Requirements
How easy is it to install an ethanol fireplace? Ethanol fireplaces are very easy to install compared to traditional options, with freestanding models requiring no installation and built-in models needing only basic framing without complex venting or utility connections.
Do I need a chimney, vent, or flue for an ethanol fireplace? No, ethanol fireplaces do not require a chimney, vent, or flue because they burn cleanly without producing smoke or significant harmful emissions.
Do ethanol fireplaces need ventilation? While ethanol fireplaces don't need direct venting, they should be used in well-ventilated rooms with adequate air circulation as they consume oxygen and produce some water vapor and carbon dioxide.
Can you put a TV above a bioethanol fireplace? You can put a TV above a bioethanol fireplace if you maintain proper clearance (typically at least 24 inches) or install a heat-deflecting mantel between the fireplace and TV.
How do I determine the right size ethanol fireplace for my room? Always refer to the manufacturer's minimum size requirements.
Where is the best place to install an ethanol fireplace? The best place to install an ethanol fireplace is in a living area with good ventilation, away from drafts, combustible materials, and high-traffic zones where it can be safely enjoyed as a focal point.
Can I have a bioethanol fireplace in my rental apartment? Yes, you can have a bioethanol fireplace in a rental apartment, particularly a freestanding model that requires no permanent installation, though you should check your lease agreement and local regulations first.
What type of surface can I mount my wall fireplace on? Wall-mounted ethanol fireplaces can be installed on non-combustible surfaces like concrete, brick, or stone, or on reinforced drywall with proper mounting hardware and non-combustible backing material.
Can I use an ethanol fireplace in a bathroom? Using an ethanol fireplace in a bathroom is not recommended due to the small space, high humidity, and potential safety concerns.
How much space do you need around a bioethanol fire? You need to maintain minimum clearances of approximately 600mm from combustible materials and 1.5 meters from curtains or other flammable objects, and a 2-meter over-head clearance for combustibles. Though specific requirements vary by model.
Can you put a bio-ethanol fire on a plasterboard wall? You can install a bio-ethanol fire on a plasterboard wall, as long as the plasterboard is fire-rated and if you use proper mounting hardware, ensure the wall can support the weight, and provide non-combustible backing material according to the manufacturer's specifications. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions.
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Safety & Health
How safe are ethanol fireplaces? Ethanol fireplaces are very safe when properly installed, used according to manufacturer guidelines, and operated with appropriate fuel in adequately sized, ventilated rooms.
Are ethanol fireplaces safe indoors? Yes, ethanol fireplaces are safe indoors when used properly in sufficiently sized and ventilated rooms that meet the manufacturer's minimum space requirements.
Are bioethanol fires bad for your health? Bioethanol fires are not bad for your health as they produce primarily water vapour and carbon dioxide without harmful particulates, though they should be used in properly ventilated spaces.
What safety features should I look for in a good ethanol fireplace? Look for safety features including stainless steel construction, automatic shut-off systems, flame arresters, spill-proof fuel containers, clearly marked filling points, and certification to standards like UL Listed, EN16647, or ACCC.
Are there mandatory safety standards for ethanol burners? Yes, in many countries including Australia, ethanol burners must meet mandatory safety standards regarding stability, weight, warnings, and fuel container design to prevent accidents.
Do ethanol fireplaces give off carbon monoxide? Ethanol fireplaces give off minimal carbon monoxide in quantities that pose no health risk when used in properly sized and ventilated spaces.
What are the risks of ethanol? The primary risks of ethanol include flammability during refilling (never refill a hot or operating fireplace), potential for fuel spills, and oxygen consumption in inadequately ventilated spaces.
What precautions should be taken when using ethanol? Key precautions include never refilling a lit or hot fireplace, storing fuel safely away from the fireplace, keeping flammable items away from the flame, supervising children and pets, and ensuring adequate room ventilation.
Ethanol fireplace tips for beginners? Essential tips for beginners include reading the manual thoroughly, using only recommended fuel, never refilling while lit or hot, allowing proper cooling time before refueling, maintaining minimum clearances from combustibles, and ensuring adequate room ventilation.
Are ethanol burners legal in Australia? Yes, ethanol burners are legal in Australia but must comply with mandatory safety standards regarding stability, weight, fuel containers, and warning labels.
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Operation & Maintenance
How do I light an ethanol fireplace and shut it off? To light an ethanol fireplace, use the provided lighting rod or long lighter to ignite the fuel in the burner, and to shut it off, use the regulating tool to slide the burner lid closed to extinguish the flame.
How do I fill an ethanol fireplace with fuel? Fill an ethanol fireplace by ensuring it's completely cool, using a funnel or the manufacturer's filling device to pour bioethanol into the designated filling point until reaching (but not exceeding) the maximum fill line.
How do I extinguish an ethanol fireplace? Extinguish an ethanol fireplace by using the provided hook or tool to close the burner lid, cutting off oxygen to the flame.
Can I extinguish the fireplace before the fuel has burnt? Yes, you can extinguish an ethanol fireplace before the fuel has completely burned by closing the burner lid, though it's safest to wait at least 60 minutes before relighting it.
How do I clean my ethanol fireplace? Clean an ethanol fireplace by ensuring it's completely cool, wiping stainless steel surfaces with mild soap and water or a stainless steel cleaner, and removing any carbon deposits around the burner opening.
Do bioethanol fires need servicing? Bioethanol fires generally don't need professional servicing, but they do require regular cleaning after consuming approximately 50 liters of fuel or when black deposits appear.
Do I need to change the cotton on my bio ethanol fireplace? Most modern bioethanol fireplaces don't use cotton wicks, but if yours does, you should replace it when it becomes discoloured or damaged according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Do ethanol fireplaces require maintenance? Ethanol fireplaces require minimal maintenance beyond regular cleaning of the burner and surrounding surfaces to remove any carbon deposits or residues.
How do I adjust the flame? Adjust the flame on an ethanol fireplace by using the regulating tool to slide the burner opening wider for a larger flame or narrower for a smaller flame.
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Fuel Types & Considerations
What kind of fuel do ethanol fireplaces use? Ethanol fireplaces use bioethanol, a renewable liquid fuel typically made from fermented plant materials and containing 96-97% ethanol.
Where do I buy ethanol fuel for my ethanol fireplace? You can buy ethanol fuel from fireplace retailers, speciality fireplace stores, online marketplaces, or directly from manufacturers like e-NRG.
Are there different types of bioethanol fuel? Yes, there are different bioethanol fuel brands and formulations, with premium brands offering higher purity, cleaner burning, and less odor than generic options.
What is the best fuel for ethanol fireplace? The best fuel for an ethanol fireplace is a high-quality, specifically formulated bioethanol with 96-97% alcohol content, such as e-NRG, which is designed to burn cleanly with minimal odor.
Does bioethanol fuel have a smell? Bioethanol fuel has minimal smell during burning, though you may notice a slight alcohol-like odour when igniting or extinguishing the flame.
Do ethanol fireplaces smell? Properly functioning ethanol fireplaces emit little to no smell during operation, though a slight alcohol-like odour may be noticeable when lighting or extinguishing.
Can you use methylated spirits in an ethanol fireplace? Using methylated spirits in an ethanol fireplace is not recommended as it may contain additives that produce harmful fumes, leave residue, and may void the warranty.
Is bioethanol the same as methylated spirits? No, bioethanol is not the same as methylated spirits, as methylated spirits contain denaturants and additives that may produce harmful fumes and residues when burned.
Is e-NRG bioethanol the same as gel fuel? Can I use gel fuel? No, e-NRG bioethanol is a liquid fuel completely different from gel fuel, and gel fuels should never be used in fireplaces designed for liquid bioethanol.
Can I use alcohol in an ethanol fireplace? Only use bioethanol fuel specifically formulated for fireplaces, not rubbing alcohol, drinking alcohol, or other alcohol products which can be dangerous and produce harmful emissions.
Can I use isopropyl alcohol instead of bioethanol? No, isopropyl alcohol should not be used instead of bioethanol as it burns differently, may produce harmful fumes, and could damage your fireplace or void the warranty.
What is the shelf life of e-NRG fuel? The shelf life of e-NRG fuel is approximately 3 years when stored in a sealed container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Can you make your own bioethanol? While technically possible, making your own bioethanol is not recommended due to safety concerns, inconsistent quality, and the risk of contamination with harmful substances.
Can bioethanol fuel containers be recycled? Yes, bioethanol fuel containers like e-NRG bottles are typically made from recyclable HDPE plastic and can be disposed of in standard recycling systems.
Why does my bioethanol fire smell? A bioethanol fire may smell if using poor-quality fuel, if the burner needs cleaning, if there's insufficient ventilation, or if non-recommended fuel has been used.
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Environmental Impact
Are ethanol fireplaces environmentally friendly? Yes, ethanol fireplaces are environmentally friendly as they burn renewable bioethanol fuel, produce minimal emissions, and require no electricity or fossil fuels.
What are the byproducts of burning bioethanol? The byproducts of burning bioethanol are primarily heat, water vapour, and carbon dioxide in amounts similar to what humans exhale.
How can I reduce my carbon footprint with ethanol fireplaces? You can reduce your carbon footprint with ethanol fireplaces by using a renewable plant-based fuel source instead of fossil fuels like gas or coal.
Is bioethanol a renewable fuel source? Yes, bioethanol is a renewable fuel source as it's produced from fermenting plant materials like corn, sugarcane, and other crops that can be regrown.
Why is bioethanol bad for the environment? Critics argue bioethanol can be environmentally problematic due to land use for crop production, potential food competition, water consumption, and energy required for processing, though it's generally considered more eco-friendly than fossil fuels.
What is the controversy with bioethanol? The main controversy with bioethanol revolves around the "food vs. fuel" debate, land use change, agricultural impacts, and questions about the true net energy and carbon balance of production.
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Comparisons & Alternatives
What is better: electric or ethanol fireplace? The choice between electric and ethanol fireplaces depends on your priorities: electric offers convenience and lower operating costs, while ethanol provides a real flame experience and doesn't require electricity.
What are the benefits of using a bioethanol heater vs. reverse cycle AC? The benefits of using a bioethanol heater versus reverse cycle AC include the ambiance of a real flame, no electricity requirements, and complementary zone heating without drying out the air.
Ethanol vs. gas breakdown Ethanol fireplaces require no permanent installation or gas lines and offer more placement flexibility, while gas fireplaces typically provide more heat output and lower fuel costs but need professional installation and venting.
What is the difference between gel and ethanol fireplaces? Gel fireplaces use canned gel fuel that produces a smaller, less consistent flame, while ethanol fireplaces use liquid bioethanol for larger, more adjustable flames with better heat output.
Is bioethanol better than methylated spirits? Yes, bioethanol is better than methylated spirits for fireplaces as it's specifically formulated for clean burning without harmful additives or strong odors.
What can I use instead of bioethanol? There is no recommended alternative to bioethanol for fireplaces designed specifically for this fuel; using other fuels may be dangerous and void warranties.
What is the cleanest burning fuel for alcohol stove? The cleanest burning fuel for alcohol stoves is high-quality bioethanol with 96-97% alcohol content and minimal additives.
Can I use the Outdoor Collection indoors? Yes, you can use EcoSmart Fire's Outdoor Collection indoors as they use the same clean-burning fuel and safety features as indoor models.
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Advantages & Disadvantages
What are the main benefits of ethanol fireplaces? The main benefits of ethanol fireplaces include no need for chimney/venting, easy installation, design flexibility, clean burning with minimal maintenance, real flames, and eco-friendly operation.
What are the disadvantages of a bioethanol fireplace? The main disadvantages include higher fuel costs compared to gas, less heat output than traditional fireplaces, the need for regular refueling, and not being suitable as a primary heat source.
What are the pros and cons of bioethanol fireplaces? Pros include no venting required, design flexibility, clean burning, and easy installation; cons include lower heat output than traditional fireplaces, higher fuel costs, and the need for refueling.
What are 2 disadvantages of ethanol? Two main disadvantages of ethanol are its lower energy density compared to fossil fuels (resulting in more frequent refueling) and its higher cost per BTU compared to natural gas.
Why are people against bioethanol? Some people oppose bioethanol due to concerns about agricultural land use, potential food crop competition, water consumption, and debates about true carbon neutrality in production.
What are the problems with bioethanol? Problems with bioethanol include relatively expensive fuel costs, lower heat output than traditional heating methods, and the need for adequate ventilation during use.
Do bioethanol fires cause condensation? Bioethanol fires produce minimal moisture during combustion which typically adds humidity to the air rather than causing problematic condensation on surfaces.
Are there regulations for ethanol fireplaces? Yes, ethanol fireplaces are subject to regulations that vary by country and region, including safety standards for construction, stability, and fuel containers, though they generally don't require the same permits as traditional fireplaces.
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Technical Specifications
What is the difference between 1G and 2G bioethanol? First-generation (1G) bioethanol is produced from food crops like corn and sugarcane, while second-generation (2G) bioethanol is made from non-food plant materials like agricultural waste, reducing food competition.
Why is 2G ethanol important? 2G ethanol is important because it's produced from agricultural waste and non-food crops, addressing the "food vs. fuel" controversy while offering a more sustainable production method with better carbon footprint.
Does ethanol go out of date? Ethanol has a typical shelf life of 2-3 years when stored properly in a sealed container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Can you roast marshmallows over an ethanol fire pit? Roasting marshmallows over an ethanol fire pit is not recommended as food particles could contaminate the burner, and most manufacturers specifically advise against cooking over bioethanol flames.
How do bioethanol burners work in different models? Bioethanol burners work by containing the liquid fuel in a reservoir with a controlled opening, allowing for flame regulation through adjustable lids or sliders that change the surface area available for combustion.
What materials are ethanol fireplaces made from? Ethanol fireplaces are typically made from high-grade stainless steel for the burner components, with surrounding frames or housing made from materials like glass, concrete, MDF, or various metals depending on the design.
What is the actual composition of bioethanol fuel? Bioethanol fuel for fireplaces typically contains 96-97% ethanol derived from plant sources, with small amounts of denaturants to make it undrinkable and occasionally additives to enhance flame colour or reduce odour.
Do bioethanol fireplaces have automatic safety shutoffs? Most basic bioethanol fireplaces don't have automatic safety shutoffs, though premium models may feature technology that detects movement or tipping and extinguishes the flame accordingly.
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