A Beginner’s Guide to Bioethanol Fireplaces

Online searches for bioethanol fireplaces are up 200%, and it’s not hard to see why. Stylish, versatile, clean-burning and energy-efficient, there are so many reasons why you should consider a bioethanol fireplace for your home.

For those who are not overly familiar with this type of fireplace, we have put together the below beginner’s guide that tells you everything you need to know about bioethanol fireplaces, including:

  • What exactly is a bioethanol fireplace?
  • What are the benefits of bioethanol fireplaces?
  • How to choose a bioethanol fireplace for your home

What exactly is a bioethanol fireplace?

A bioethanol fireplace, sometimes referred to as an ethanol fireplace, is a ventless fireplace that uses alcohol-based ethanol as its fuel source. Bio-ethanol is distilled from plant by-products and it produces a clean and smokeless form of heat that leaves no carbon footprint whatsoever.

There are lots of different styles of bio ethanol fireplaces on the market, with options to suit most budgets. Whether you’re looking for a free-standing unit, an inset fireplace or to transform an antique cast iron insert into a working fireplace that does not require a chimney, there are many options to choose from. 

What are the benefits of bioethanol fireplaces?

There are so many benefits to getting a bioethanol fireplace for your home, including:

They are highly energy-efficient 

Bioethanol fireplaces use a renewable fuel source and they are incredibly energy efficient. Furthermore, they produce far less carbon emissions than traditional fossil fuels. As it burns, bioethanol releases only carbon dioxide and a small amount of water vapour. There is no soot, ash or harmful emissions that need to be extracted through a flue – meaning all the heat stays in your room. 

They are easy to use

Most bioethanol fireplaces come with a fire-lighting wand that enables you to easily and safely ignite the bioethanol fuel. Depending on the size of the burner, the fuel reservoir holds several hours worth of burn and can be refilled using a non-drip jerry can which is usually included in the burner accessories. To turn the fire off you simply close the lid of the burner which extinguishes the flame. 

There are also automatic remote-controlled burners for an even more convenient operation of the fire; allowing users to light, adjust the flame height and shut the fire off using a remote control hand set or even using a mobile phone app.  

Providing you use fuel from a reliable source, bioethanol fireplaces are also low maintenance, not requiring any regular servicing.

They are simple to install

This type of fireplace does not require a chimney and comes with low installation costs. Manual bioethanol burners can be simply inserted into an existing cast iron insert or a free-standing basket with a nesting base and ready to be lit in under half an hour. 

They also provide supplemental heat into a living space and can be used inside or outside for even greater flexibility of design possibilities. 

They look realistic and visually appealing

If you love the look of a real fire, you will be pleased to hear that bioethanol fireplaces look extremely realistic. Their dancing flames are guaranteed to add ambience in any interior, whether you are looking for a traditional fireplace look or a modern sleek contemporary design. Acting as a stunning focal point, they can be dressed with various fuel beds such as realistic-looking HD ceramic coals, hand-painted ceramic logs, pebbles or glass beads.  

They do not produce any smoke or fumes

As mentioned briefly above, bioethanol fireplaces do not produce any smoke or fumes, which means no noxious emissions being released in your home. This is particularly beneficial for anyone who suffers from respiratory problems.

They are portable

Many bioethanol fireplaces are portable, meaning they can be moved from one room to another. You can even move them to your garden for summer evenings that have turned chilly and tuck them away when they are not in use. 

How to choose a bioethanol fireplace for your home

When it comes to choosing a bioethanol fireplace for your home, there are several factors that you need to consider, including;

  • How much do you want to spend?
  • How much heat do you need?
  • What style of fireplace do you want?
  • Do you want a manual or automatic fireplace?
  • Do you want a freestanding or wall-mounted fireplace?

Whatever bioethanol fireplace you might consider, there will be an option suitable for your interior. Visit our showroom in Wandsworth to see many models we have on display and we will be happy to give you any advice you need.