April 4, 2025

Do You Need a Carbon Monoxide Detector with a Bioethanol Fire?

You love the cosy glow of your bioethanol fire, but do you need a carbon monoxide detector? Short answer: Yes, it’s a smart idea! While these fires burn cleaner than gas or wood, poor ventilation can still cause CO buildup. Stay safe—let’s dive into why a detector is your best ally!

Carbon Monoxide Detectors and Bioethanol Fires

A bioethanol fire is a sleek, modern way to add warmth to your home. No chimney, no ash, and no hassle—just clean flames dancing away. But does that mean it’s completely risk-free? Not quite.

Carbon monoxide (CO) is an invisible, odourless gas that can be deadly in high concentrations. It’s a byproduct of fuel burning, and while bioethanol fires produce much less CO than wood or gas fireplaces, they still create some.

That’s why a carbon monoxide detector is a smart safety addition. You may never need it—but if something goes wrong, it could be a lifesaver.

Do Bioethanol Fires Produce Carbon Monoxide?

Yes, but only in small amounts. Bioethanol burns much cleaner than traditional fuels, but no combustion process is ever 100% perfect. If there isn’t enough oxygen in the room, the fire may burn inefficiently, producing more CO than usual.

Several factors affect CO levels:

Ventilation: A well-ventilated room allows fresh oxygen to feed the flames and carry away any gases.
Fuel Quality: Cheap or impure bioethanol can burn less cleanly, increasing emissions.
Burner Efficiency: A well-designed bioethanol burner optimises combustion and minimises CO output.

Under normal circumstances, the levels of CO produced by a bioethanol fire are too low to be dangerous. But in a small, enclosed space with poor airflow? That’s where things could get risky. A CO detector adds an extra layer of protection.

Importance of Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Think of a carbon monoxide detector as a silent bodyguard for your home. It doesn’t make a fuss—just sits there, watching, ready to alert you if something isn’t right.

Here’s why it’s worth having one:

CO is undetectable by human senses – You can’t see or smell it, so without a detector, you won’t know it’s there.
Ventilation isn’t always perfect – Even if you think a room is well-ventilated, airflow can change.
It’s an extra layer of safety – A detector ensures you’re warned before CO levels become a problem.
Legal & insurance compliance – Some areas require CO detectors in homes with fuel-burning appliances.

Would you drive a car without a seatbelt, just because you’re a careful driver? Probably not. A carbon monoxide detector is the same—a simple precaution that could save your life.

Where to Place Detectors

Installing a carbon monoxide detector is only useful if you put it in the right place. Too close to the fire, and it might trigger false alarms. Too far away, and it might not pick up rising CO levels in time.

Here’s where to place them for the best protection:

Near your bioethanol fire – About 1-3 metres away, at chest height for an accurate reading.
In bedrooms – CO poisoning can happen in your sleep, so place one near where you rest.
On every floor of your home – If CO leaks, it can spread, so don’t rely on just one detector.
Away from windows or vents – Airflow can affect readings, so place them in undisturbed areas.

Make sure to test your detector regularly and replace batteries as needed. It’s a small effort for a huge safety benefit.

Final Thoughts

A bioethanol fire is a fantastic addition to any home—clean, stylish, and easy to use. But safety should always come first.

While CO levels from bioethanol are low, a carbon monoxide detector is a small, affordable device that can offer peace of mind. It’s one of those things you hope never to need—but if you do, you’ll be glad you have it.

Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy your fire worry-free!