The Bio Flame 38-Inch Firebox DS Built-in See-Through Ethanol FireplaceStainless Steel / 16" Burner (2024)

FAQs

What are the pros and cons of bio ethanol fires? ›

Efficiency: Biofuel fires tend not to get as hot as their wood-burning alternatives. They are, however, much more environmentally friendly and often much more attractive. Cost: Biofuel is often a little more expensive than other fuels.

Typically, 1 litre of bioethanol fuel burns for around 3.5 to 4 hours (with the shutter fully open). Closing the fuel box lid halfway increases the burn duration, but reduces the heat output and the flame size.

Bioethanol burns cleanly, leaving no soot, ash, or any other residue, so bioethanol fuels are generally considered much safer in the long run.

On average, a bioethanol fireplace produce around 2-5 kW of heat output.

There are concerns about the effects on the environment, on food security and prices, and on the human rights of workers and communities in countries where biofuels crops are grown. such as palm, soybean, oilseed rape, or sunflower. The USA is the world's largest bioethanol producer.

However, the cost of running your bioethanol fire depends on three factors including the size of your flame, the level of natural or other ventilation in your home and the quality of the fuel you use. Indeed, bioethanol fires can be adjusted using a special slider gauge that changes the intensity of the flame.

While bioethanol fires offer advantages in terms of convenience, sustainability, and energy efficiency, it's important to consider some drawbacks as well. Bioethanol can be more expensive than wood, and ongoing fuel costs should be factored into your decision.

Bioethanol fireplaces do not require a venting system with a chimney or flue as they do not emit harmful emissions, unlike a traditional wood burner. We suggest you refresh the air if using regularly by opening a small window in between refills. Whether wood, coal, gas, or bioethanol, all fires produce carbon dioxide.

No. Bioethanol fireplaces don't give off fumes or smoke, so you don't need a flue or a chimney. However, you can install a false flue to contribute to the traditional aesthetic of your fireplace.

We recommend leaving at least 45cm between the television and the fireplace if you're installing a TV above a bioethanol fireplace. And while bioethanol fireplaces don't get as hot as traditional wood or coal burners, they still give off plenty of heat, which could damage a TV if hung too close.

What are the cons of bioethanol fuel? ›

For example, the production of ethanol requires large amounts of water and energy, which can contribute to water and air pollution. In addition, the crops that are used to produce ethanol require fertilizers and pesticides, which can harm the soil and nearby waterways.

Ethanol fireplaces do, in fact, provide heat. However, the energy source doesn't produce as much as a woodburning or gas fireplace. So, if you're looking for a major difference in warmth, an ethanol fireplace is probably not worth it.

High-quality bioethanol fuel emits very little-to-no odour while it's burning, but you may notice a slight chemical tang to the air when the flames go out. This is normal and nothing to worry about. You may detect the same smell when you close the fuel box slider to snuff out the flame.

Because bio ethanol fireplace fuel is liquid, should it escape the confines of the ethanol burner while lit, the fire will escape as well. Known as a runaway flame, this may lead to a house fire or injury.

While biofires are not intended as a primary heat source for your home, your bioethanol fireplace gives off plenty of heat, with much better fuel efficiency than a wood-burning stove (which loses around 40% of its heat up the chimney).

Drawbacks of bioethanol include: The amount of arable land needed to grow the crops in order to produce a large amount of fuel is immense. This could greatly impact the biodiversity of our environment as we could see natural habitats being overrun, including forests.

Ethanol has both pros and cons as a renewable fuel source. While it is renewable, domestically produced, and produces fewer greenhouse gas emissions than non-renewable sources of energy, it is less energy-dense, expensive to produce, and can have negative impacts on the environment.

Environmental credentials: Bioethanol (methylated spirits) is a compelling alternative to fossil fuelled fires; it's both environmentally friendly and energy efficient, without the harmful greenhouse gas emissions associated with gas or wood fires.

If you are looking for a realistic flame, versatility in design and placement, and an eco-friendly option, a bio ethanol fireplace may be the way to go. However, if you are looking for a low maintenance and cost-effective option, an electric fireplace may be a better choice.