February 4, 2025

Bioethanol vs Gas: Which One Will Burn a Hole in Your Wallet?

Ever wondered if bioethanol is cheaper than gas? Short answer: It depends! While bioethanol fire burns cleaner and can cost less, taxes, production, and efficiency matter. Stick around to see if swapping petrol for plant power saves your wallet—or just sets your budget up in smoke! 🔥🚗

Comparing Bioethanol and Gas Fire Running Costs

If you’re looking to cosy up by the fire, choosing between bioethanol and gas isn't just about aesthetics. It’s about running costs, maintenance, and how much hassle you’re willing to put up with.

Both options have their perks and pitfalls, but which one is lighter on your wallet? Let’s break it down so you can make an informed decision without getting burned.

Fuel Costs

One of the biggest ongoing expenses for any fireplace is the fuel. So, how do bioethanol and gas compare when it comes to keeping the flames alive?

Bioethanol Fuel Prices

Bioethanol is made from renewable sources like corn and sugarcane. That’s great for the planet, but what about your budget?

In the UK, bioethanol costs £2–£3 per litre, and most bioethanol fires burn around 0.5 litres per hour. That means running one for an evening could set you back £1–£1.50.

Government incentives sometimes help reduce costs, but availability can be patchy. If you live in a remote area, tracking down affordable bioethanol might be trickier than you think.

Gas Prices

Gas is generally the more budget-friendly option—especially if you have a mains gas supply.

Natural gas costs around £0.06 per kWh, making it significantly cheaper per unit of heat than bioethanol. However, bottled gas (LPG) can be pricier, typically costing £1–£1.50 per hour.

Of course, gas prices are subject to global market fluctuations, meaning your heating bill can spike when you least expect it.

Maintenance Costs

Owning a fire isn’t just about fuel—it’s about upkeep too. Some fireplaces require constant attention, while others practically take care of themselves.

Bioethanol Fire Maintenance

One of the biggest perks of bioethanol fires? Minimal maintenance.

There’s no chimney to sweep, no soot to clean up, and no ash to dispose of. Just wipe the burner occasionally, and you’re good to go.

That means your annual maintenance costs are practically zero—a big win if you’re looking for a hassle-free option.

Gas Fire Maintenance

Gas fires, on the other hand, need a bit more TLC.

An annual Gas Safe engineer check will set you back £60–£100. If your fire is connected to a chimney, you’ll also need a yearly sweep, costing £50–£80.

So while gas might be cheaper to run, the maintenance costs can add up over time.

Purchase Price Comparison

Buying a fire isn’t just about the running costs—you’ve got to factor in the upfront expense too.

Bioethanol fires are cheaper to buy, with prices starting at £150–£1,000, depending on size and design. The best part? No expensive installation is needed—just set it up and start burning!

Gas fires, however, can cost anywhere from £300–£2,500, plus installation fees of £500+ if you need a gas line or flue modifications. If you don’t already have a gas supply, those costs could climb even higher.

Overall Cost Analysis

So, which is the better deal in the long run?

Bioethanol fires: Higher fuel costs but lower maintenance and installation expenses.
Gas fires: Cheaper to run per hour, but higher setup and maintenance costs.

If you plan to use your fire frequently and have a mains gas connection, a gas fire could save you money over time. But if you’re after a simple, low-maintenance option with minimal upfront investment, bioethanol is a solid choice.

Pros and Cons of Each Option

Bioethanol Fire

✅ No chimney or gas line needed—easy to install
✅ Low maintenance—no soot, ash, or fumes
✅ Environmentally friendly—made from renewable sources
❌ More expensive to run per hour
❌ Fuel availability varies depending on location

Gas Fire

✅ Cheaper to run per unit of heat (with mains gas)
✅ Higher heat output for your money
✅ Fuel is easy to source and store
❌ Requires professional installation
❌ Annual servicing costs add up

Final Verdict

If you want an easy-to-install, hassle-free fire that requires little maintenance, bioethanol is a great option. However, if you're after maximum heat efficiency and long-term savings, a gas fire might be the better investment.

Ultimately, the right choice depends on your budget, fuel access, and how often you plan to use it. Either way, you’ll be enjoying a warm, inviting fire—just make sure you choose the one that suits your lifestyle best!