Want to buy a traditional fireplace but find the smoke and high-maintenance upkeep a hassle?

Well, why not choose an ethanol fireplace?

Experience the look and feel of a traditional fireplace without the harmful gasses, soot, or sparks, big renovations, and tiresome maintenance by opting for a bio-fireplace. In this guide, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about ethanol fireplaces.

Keep reading to learn more about their heating capabilities, cost of operation, area coverage, installation options, and more!

What is an Ethanol Fireplace?

Ethanol fireplaces represent a modern and innovative advancement in fire features. They are attracting global interest due to their ongoing and significant development, which has made them extremely popular today.

A bioethanol fireplace, commonly known as an ethanol fireplace, is an eco-friendly and ventless type of fireplace that consumes bioethanol. It is a great alternative to gas and/or traditional fireplaces due to its sustainable, smoke-free, and convenient burning operation.

Pictured: Anywhere Fireplace 19" Black SoHo Wall Mount Fireplace

The Science Behind Ethanol Fireplaces

Three things are required to start a fire: oxygen, heat, and fuel.  If you take any of the three things, your fireplace will not work.

Ethanol fireplaces use bioethanol fuel to ignite.

What is a bioethanol fuel?

Bioethanol fuel is a form of ethyl alcohol. It is created from fermented agricultural products like corn, sugarcane, and wheat. It is a type of renewable energy that produces less emissions than fossil fuels like coal, petroleum, and natural gas.

Additionally, the only byproducts produced are water vapors and minimal amounts of carbon dioxide. The picture above shows a sample of bioethanol fuel, which you may purchase alongside your chosen ethanol fireplaces at US Fireplace Store.

Pictured: EcoSmart Fire 161 Flex 158BN Bench Ethanol Fireplace Insert with Decorative Box by Mad Design Group

How is it used in a fireplace?

A standard ethanol fireplace will have a burner reservoir where the fuel goes. This fuel is then ignited with a long lighter or match.

Depending on the model of your fireplace, you may adjust the flame via a remote control, slider, or lid to suit your needs.

Pictured: Anywhere Fireplace 9" Black Tribeca II Ventless Fireplace

Different Types of Bio-Fireplaces

Different use cases call for various types of ethanol fireplaces. Each of these types has unique benefits and features that suit different settings. This is why it is important to explore your needs and options first before buying an ethanol fireplace.

Here are four different types of bio-fireplaces:

Fireplaces

Essentially, these are bio-fireplaces that mimic the look and feel of a traditional fireplace but with the use of bioethanol fuels. Their heat output is enough to warm a medium-sized room. As such, you often spot these in living rooms.

Pictured: EcoSmart Fire 57 Flex 50DB Double Sided Ethanol Fireplace Insert by Mad Design Group

Fireboxes

Fireboxes are ideal when doing simple renovations, as they are inserts that can be integrated into any fireplace. They come in various shapes and sizes, ensuring you can find the perfect fit for your area.

Pictured: The Bio Flame 96" Firebox Single Sided Built-In Ethanol Fireplace

Fire-pits

Fire pits are used outdoors, as they can often be seen as a centerpiece in gardens and patios. Some are portable and easy to move, making them ideal for spontaneous outdoor events and activities.

Pictured: EcoSmart Fire 39" Ark 40 Fire Pit Table with Ethanol Burner by Mad Design Group

Burners

Burners are standalone units/components of simple bioethanol fireplaces that can be integrated into any custom design. They are the most flexible type of bio-fireplaces because of how they are designed. Like the other fireplaces mentioned, these can also be used outdoors.

Pictured: The Bio Flame 13" Ethanol Fireplace Burner

Heating Capabilities & Cost of Operation

Heating Capabilities

Before discussing heating capabilities, remember that ethanol fireplaces are primarily designed for decorative and supplementary heating purposes. This means that you should NOT replace your primary heating with bio-flames.

That said, the heating capabilities of your bio-ethanol fireplace highly depend on its design, how it operates, and its purpose. On average, a manual ethanol fireplace generates 2,000 - 9,000 watts of heat. 

Automatic models that include assistive functions for refueling and adjusting flame size can offer 2,000 - 15,000 watts of heat. Some high-end models can output up to 50,000 watts of heat. These are typically used in large spaces.

Additionally, each model’s heating capabilities can be measured in BTUs per hour. Varying models may be able to output from 1,400 - 50,000 BTU/hr.

What are BTUs?

British Thermal Units (BTUs) is a measure of heat that indicates the energy required to heat or cool one pound (roughly 0.45 kilograms) of water. To calculate how many BTUs you need to warm up your room, simply multiply the square foot area of your space by 20 BTUs.

Below is a table that shows different types of bio-fireplaces along with their estimated heat output in watts and BTU/hr:

Type	Heat Output in Watts (W)	BTU/hr
Burner	2,900 - 9,000	10,000 - 30,000
Firebox	2,900 - 15,000	10,000 - 50,000
Fire-pit	1,400 - 9,000	5,000 - 30,000
Fireplace	2,300 - 9,000	8,000 - 30,000

Efficiency

Ethanol fireplaces are generally known for being efficient in fuel- and heat-handling, installation, and maintenance.

Since bioethanol fuel burns cleanly, it has minimal byproducts. Almost 97% of the fuel’s energy is converted into heat rather than soot, ash, or smoke. Because of this, it is very consumer-friendly as it does not require any major house renovations due to the lack of need for a chimney or venting system. Additionally, there are fewer maintenance checks due to a lack of emissions.

In contrast, wood-burning fireplaces typically have an efficiency rate of 10-30%, with a significant amount of heat lost through the chimney. Gas fireplaces, on the other hand, offer a balance between efficiency and convenience. They typically have an efficiency rate of 70-90%, with direct vent models being the most efficient, as they draw air from outside for combustion and expel exhaust outside, minimizing heat loss.

Area Coverage

Bio-fireplaces can be used both outdoors and indoors. However, they are most effective in heating smaller areas.

The size of the area it can heat up highly depends on the model and capacity of the fireplace itself. Additionally, factors like room size and layout, ambient heat, and insulation can affect how the fireplace distributes heat.

Remember to follow the recommendation of your manufacturer’s minimum room size, which may start at around 430 square feet, for adequate heat dissipation and personal safety.

Below is a table that shows the approximate size of the area that different fireplaces can cover:

Type	Area of Coverage (sq. ft.)
Burner	500 - 1,500
Firebox	500 - 2,500
Fire-pit	250 - 1,500
Fireplace	400 - 1,500

Cost of Operation

Fuel has to come from somewhere. Since we won’t make it ourselves, we need to buy it somewhere. We must purchase high-quality fuel from reputable suppliers.

But how much do bioethanol fuels cost? 

The cost of bioethanol is approximately $60.51 for 20 liters. Purchasing in bulk reduces the price by $7.44 per 20 liters.

How much do you exactly need to use?

How much fuel you need to use depends on the model of the fireplace, how frequently you use it, and how big the flames you produce. Typically, a small burner uses about 1-1.3 liters of fuel to burn up to 6 hours.

Below is a table that shows each type of fireplace, how many liters you need, its burning time, and its running cost:

Type	Fuel Needed in Liters (L)	Burning Time in Hours (h)	Cost per hour in USD ($)
Burner	1 - 1.3	3 - 6	$0.99 - $1.80
Firebox	1.5 - 3	3 - 5	$1.24 - $2.48
Fire-pit	2 - 4	4 - 7	$1.61 - $3.10
Fireplace	1.5 - 3	3 - 5	$1.24 - $2.47

Designs and Installation Options

Most ethanol fireplaces can be easily moved to accommodate small to large spaces. Because of this, choosing the perfect fireplace is as easy as pie!

Tabletop

Create the perfect indoor and outdoor setting with tabletop fireplaces. These fireplaces are portable, making them easy to use during intimate family dinners and social events. These are commonly placed on top of tables to create the perfect centerpiece.

Pictured: Anywhere Fireplace 8" Beige Lexington Tabletop Ethanol Fireplace

Freestanding

If you have a spacious room, you may opt for a freestanding fireplace. This design allows for flexibility, as they can be moved anywhere on the floor. They also provide significant heat output, which is why they can be often seen in family rooms and spaces.

Pictured: EcoSmart Fire 39" Ark 40 Fire Pit Table with Ethanol Burner by Mad Design Group

Wall-mounted

As the name suggests, these are fireplaces that can be attached to the walls. These fireplaces are great for creating that modern ambiance while maintaining functionality. They are also space-savers, making them perfect for bedrooms, offices, and other areas where space is limited.

Pictured: Anywhere Fireplace 19" Black Chelsea Wall Mount Bio-Ethanol Fireplace

Inserts

Some fireplaces can comfortably fit in a fireplace cavity or opening. You may use these inserts with your traditional fireplace, so there is no need to renovate. They are easy to install and ideal for mimicking the timeless beauty and vibe of a traditional fireplace without the smoke, soot, and ash.

Pictured: EcoSmart Fire Grate 30" Ethanol Fireplace Insert by Mad Design Group

Built-In

Built-in ethanol fireplaces are permanently integrated into the structure of your home, offering a seamless and custom installation. They cannot be easily relocated, as they are usually built together with your room or building during renovation.

Pictured: The Bio Flame 60" Firebox Double Sided Built-In Ethanol Fireplace

2-Sided

Double-sided or 2-sided bio-fireplaces can be viewed on either side. 2-sided ethanol fireplaces are usually integrated into a wall while some use them as a divider.

They are usually the focal point in open areas due to their sleek design. Additionally, you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance in two rooms with one fireplace.

Pictured: The Bio Flame 96" Firebox Double Sided Built-In Ethanol Fireplace

3-Sided

Add a centerpiece to your living space by using a 3-sided ethanol fireplace. These ethanol fireplaces offer a panoramic view of the flames due to their three open sides. This enhances the ambiance of your space while adding a modern touch.

Pictured: EcoSmart Fire 91" Flex 86PN Peninsula Ethanol Fireplace Insert by Mad Design Group

Regulations and Legal Guidelines

According to the U.S. Fire Administration and the National Fire Protection Association, ethanol fireplaces are safe for residential use. This means that they can be installed without any legal constraints, provided that they are installed correctly and are only used for supplementary heating. Bioethanol is also legal to purchase.

Additionally, people living in multi-unit residential buildings may also install bio-fireplaces as long as (1) they consult the building manager to understand any regulations about installation, and (2) they contact an insurance provider to mandate a valid safety certificate.

In Picture: EcoSmart Fire Stix 8 Portable 31" Fire Pit by Mad Design Group

The Benefits of Having an Ethanol Fireplace

There are many benefits to using an ethanol fireplace, and here are just some:

• Real Flames: They provide genuine warmth and ambiance similar to a traditional fireplace. 

• Minimal upkeep: Bio-fireplaces require less maintenance than wood-burning fireplaces due to the lack of soot or ash.

• Sustainable and Energy-Efficient: Ethanol fireplaces use bioethanol, a renewable and clean-burning fuel derived from agricultural byproducts. This fuel emits minimal carbon dioxide and water vapor, which makes it sustainable while having a 98% efficiency rate.

• Various Designs: Ethanol fireplaces come in various appealing finishes and customization options. Some of them even offer sophisticated designs that are available in different colors, shapes, and sizes.

• Easy to Use: All you need to do to use a bio-fireplace is to pour fuel into the tank and ignite it with a long lighter.

• Safe: Most models have safety features such as an automatic shut-off after 3 hours. In addition, bio-fireplaces do not produce smoke, which makes them ideal for apartments and condos.

• No Vents or Chimneys Required: Since these fireplaces do not produce smoke, there is no need for you to install a chimney or vent. 

• Simple to Install: Bio-fireplaces are easy to install, as they do not require any venting systems. Many are portable, which makes them easy to move around. Additionally, most of them are also suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

• Focal Point: Besides the warmth, ethanol fireplaces can act as stunning centerpieces for social events and gatherings.

• Other Functionalities: Some ethanol fireplaces have other functionalities like being a fireplace and a coffee table at the same time. This adds style to your living spaces, which raises its property value.

Things to Consider Before Buying

Ethanol fireplaces have a couple of drawbacks which include the following:

• Lower Heat Output: Ethanol fireplaces are designed for supplementary heating, which makes their heat output low.

• A Little More Pricier: Bio-fireplaces come with a higher initial cost. Additionally, the use of quality bioethanol can be costly over time.

• Safety Considerations: Bioethanol is highly flammable, so it is necessary to follow safety guidelines to prevent accidental burns or fires. In addition, they need to be safely kept away from children and pets.

• Ventilation Needs: Burning bioethanol emits a small amount of carbon dioxide. As such, you’ll need adequate ventilation especially if you plan on using the fireplace for an extended amount of time.

How to Use an Ethanol Fireplace

Now that you’ve bought a bio-fireplace, you’ll need to know how to use it.

There are 5 stages in using bioethanol fireplaces: Preparation, Fueling, Igniting, Adjusting, and Extinguishing.

Preparation

Since bio-fireplaces do not need any vents or chimneys, their installation is quite simple.

There are two things that you need to check before using your bio-fireplace: (1) a well-ventilated area and (2) a space free from flammable materials. 

Do not place your fireplace near plants, curtains, and other objects that can easily catch fires. Additionally, substances like bleach and pesticides should all be kept away.

Fueling and Refueling

Ethanol fireplaces produce real flames. As such, they need fuel to ignite.

Make sure to only use high-quality bioethanol fuel for safety, efficiency, and longevity. Pour the fuel into the fireplace’s burner reservoir until it reaches the fill line.

To refuel, cool down the burner first to prevent accidents such as ignition injuries. Then, you may refill the burner reservoir.

Igniting

Lighting the fireplace is incredibly easy!

But first, make sure to take precautions before lighting up the fireplace. Double-check if your space is a well-ventilated area free from flammable materials.

Make sure to keep pets and children away from the fireplace at all times, as it may cause burns or accidental fires.

Use a long lighter to light the fireplace at a safe distance. Avoid using matches as they may cause accidental burns.

Adjusting

Controlling the flame size and heat output of your bio-fireplace highly depends on the model that you're using. Usually, your fireplace will have an adjustable lid or a control/sliding mechanism that will adjust the amount of burning area exposed.

If you reduce the opening, it will decrease the flow of oxygen within the fireplace to lower the flame size and strength. The opposite will happen if you increase the oxygen.

This method helps in prolonging the flame and controlling the heat generated by the fireplace.

Extinguishing

As the saying goes: never leave fires unattended.

After using the fireplace, it is necessary to extinguish the fire before storing it. Your fireplace should come with a snuffer tool, which you can use to put out the flames.

What is a snuffer tool?

Typically consisting of a metal plate, snuffer tools are devices used to control, manage, and extinguish the flames of an ethanol fireplace. Their job is to cut off the oxygen supply, which puts out the fire.

Safety and Guidelines

Your safety should always be a priority. As such, it is important to consider the area’s ventilation, the positioning of the fireplace, the materials surrounding it, and the quality of the fuel you’re using. 

NEVER LEAVE IT UNATTENDED — especially when there are pets and children around. This way, you’ll enjoy the cozy and warm ambiance with peace of mind.

Maintenance and Care

Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to prolonging the lifespan of your fireplace. Since ethanol fireplaces burn clean fuels, clean-up and maintenance are easy and hassle-free.

Completely cool the fireplace before cleaning and/or inspection.

Occasionally wipe down dust from the model using soft cloths with a mix of warm water and mild detergent. This mixture can also be used to clean the burner reservoir regularly. Use isopropyl alcohol for hard-to-remove stains.

The exposed areas of the fireplace should also be cleaned for efficient operation. You can then polish the whole thing using a microfiber cloth, leaving the surface shiny and brand-new-looking.

How to Select the Right Ethanol Fireplace

Now that you know everything that there is to know about ethanol fireplaces, let’s talk about how to select the perfect one for your home. 

Step 1: Think About Purpose

As previously talked about, ethanol fireplaces are designed for aesthetic enjoyment and supplementary heating.

For this reason, you may want to consider how you will use the fireplace you are buying, whether it’s there just to add ambiance or to warm the room. This way, you’ll immediately avoid spending too much on something you don’t need.

Step 2: Take note of your Space

The fireplace you pick should preferably match the vibe of the room you’ll be installing it in. You can choose from various designs and installation options, as ethanol fireplaces come in modern, sleek, and even traditional designs.

Additionally, you should keep in mind your room layout and materials. Bio-fireplaces produce real flames, so you’ll need to make sure that your area is well-ventilated and free from flammable materials. 

No one wants to be barbecued, so remember the size of your room, as you do not want to buy a fireplace that outputs too much heat.

Step 3: Consider Quality and Assistive Mechanisms

Some fireplaces can be adjusted through a remote control while some use adjustable lids. Generally, you’d want a bang for your buck, so pick a fireplace with a robust build, quality safety features, and tons of functionalities. 

This should also ensure that your place won’t be swallowed by flames.

Comparisons with Other Types of Fireplaces

Wood-Burning Fireplaces

Pictured: Nectre N65 Wood Burning Stove

• Fuel: They use logs as fuel.

• Storage: The supply of logs needs to be stored in a dry place.

• Installation:  These fireplaces are complex to install, as they need a chimney or flue for proper venting. Additionally, they are fixed into position and cannot be moved as you please.

• Sustainability: They produce emissions, which may affect air quality.

• Maintenance and Cleaning: Regular cleaning of soot and ash is needed. Chimney sweeping is also recommended to prevent fire hazards.

Gas Fireplaces

Pictured: Empire 48" Boulevard Vent-Free Linear Gas Fireplace

• Fuel: They use natural gas or propane.

• Energy efficiency and control: They are more energy efficient and have better heat control due to thermostats and remote controls.

• Ventilation: Ventless models need proper ventilation to avoid poor indoor air quality, and vented models require venting systems similar to a traditional fireplace.

• Installation: They require access to a natural gas or propane line, which may not be compatible with all locations.

Electric Fireplaces

Pictured: Napoleon CLEARion Elite 60" See Through Built-In Electric Fireplace

• Fuel: These fireplaces use electricity to generate heat.

• Cost: Their cost depends on your local electricity rates, but they are generally lower.

• Efficiency: These fireplaces can efficiently heat a small space quickly. 

• Aesthetic: Simulates real flames using LED lights and mirrors. Some models use speakers to simulate crackling noises.

• Installation: Most are easy to install. They can either be hardwired or plugged into an outlet.

Gel Fireplace

Pictured: Anywhere Fireplace 13 Stainless Steel Oasis Indoor Outdoor Fireplace

• Fuel: They use gel fuel in cans that can be replaced.

• Heat Output: They produce less heat and are mostly used for ambiance.

• Maintenance: They are easy to maintain, but require the replacement of fuel cans.

• Ease of use: They are easy to use, as you only need to open a fuel can, place it in an appropriate space in the fireplace, and ignite the gel using a long lighter.

FAQs

Are ethanol fireplaces safe to use indoors?

Absolutely! They are safe to use indoors despite the real flames. They do not produce any smoke and have little to no emissions. Keep in mind though that proper ventilation is required to maintain air quality.

Do you need to maintain ethanol fireplaces frequently?

Not at all. Though we recommend regularly cleaning your bio-fireplaces, you can keep them at low maintenance as long as the combustion area remains clear. Additionally, you would want to refuel your fireplace once the bioethanol runs out.

Can bio-fireplaces warm my room?

Yes, ethanol fireplaces can indeed generate enough heat to warm a room. However, it is also important to note that while these fireplaces can increase room temperatures, they are best used as supplementary heating.

How long do ethanol fireplaces burn?

Bio-fireplaces can burn for up to 8 hours per refill depending on the model and setting of the flame.

Are bio-fireplaces expensive to use?

The cost of operation highly depends on the frequency of usage and the price of ethanol fuel in your area. Due to labor and production costs, ethanol is likely more expensive than natural gas. However, they are comparable to the prices of electricity, which vary from location to location.

On average, the cost of using ethanol ranges from $1 to $3 per hour, while natural gas typically costs between $0.20 and $0.50 per hour. Electricity, on the other hand, varies widely in cost, ranging from $0.11 to $2 per hour.

Do ethanol fireplaces require professional installation?

Most of them do not require professional installation, especially when compared to wood-burning and gas fireplaces. Additionally, most units can be set up without special tools and major home renovation. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions to ensure safe operation. 

You should consult a professional to ensure all safety and building codes are met if you plan on installing a custom ethanol fireplace or incorporating it into a renovation project.

Summary

Ethanol fireplaces are great alternatives for those seeking the warmth and ambiance of a traditional fireplace without the drawbacks of smoke and extensive maintenance.

As this guide has illustrated, bio-fireplaces provide eco-friendly and efficient heating solutions, flexibility in design and installation to suit any space, and low maintenance for hassle-free usage. 

With proper usage and maintenance, an ethanol fireplace can be a valuable addition to your home, as it combines modern technology with traditional comfort.

Our Recommendations

Want to buy an ethanol fireplace but are unsure what design to pick? Don’t worry! We got you. 

Check out US Fireplace Store’s curated list of highly quality ethanol fireplaces:

EcoSmart Fire 39" Ark 40 Fire Pit Table with Ethanol Burner by Mad Design Group

This fire pit features an ethanol burner, suitable for indoor and outdoor use.

It offers a minimalist design in three colors, with a broad lip for resting drinks. The fire pit is made of durable concrete and includes accessories like a winter cover and black glass charcoal.

It burns bioethanol fuel, providing heat without smoke or traditional refueling, combining functionality and style for any setting.

Anywhere Fireplace 19" Black SoHo Wall Mount Fireplace

This fireplace is a ventless, easy-to-install ethanol fireplace that adds ambiance to any room without a chimney or gas line. Its clean-burning feature uses liquid bio-ethanol fuel, producing a real flame that offers warmth and a luxurious atmosphere.

Designed for quick installation, this model is eco-friendly, smokeless, and leaves no soot or ash, making it a maintenance-free addition to any space. The sleek, painted metal construction enhances its modern look, suitable for various indoor settings.

Bio Flame 60" Firebox Double Sided Built-In Ethanol Fireplace

This fireplace is an innovative heating solution designed for both indoor and outdoor settings. This vent-free model is crafted from 304-grade stainless steel to resist heat and prevent corrosion.

It features a see-through design with 8mm tempered glass and a brushed stainless steel internal frame, enhancing both durability and aesthetic appeal. The fireplace operates on bio-ethanol fuel, ensuring a clean burn with no harmful gases, smoke, ashes, or soot.

Additionally, it is easy to install, it requires no chimney, venting, or flues, and comes with a 5-year warranty. This model provides an eco-friendly alternative to traditional fireplaces, producing a real flame that efficiently heats up to 1152 sq.ft.

Cannot find what you’re looking for?

🔥 Shop Now at US Fireplace Store to find the perfect ethanol fireplace that fits the aesthetic and ambiance of your room. Our team of experts is ready to assist you anytime.

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