April 4, 2025

Is Bioethanol Safe Indoors?

Imagine a cosy night by a bioethanol fire—no smoke, no mess, just warmth and style. But is it safe indoors? Yes, if used correctly! Good ventilation, proper handling, and smart placement are key. Want to avoid rookie mistakes and keep your home hazard-free? Keep reading for essential safety tips!

Indoor Safety of Bioethanol Fires

Bioethanol fires have surged in popularity, and it’s easy to see why. They offer the charm of a real flame without the hassle of a chimney or the mess of soot and ash. Plus, they run on clean-burning bioethanol, making them a greener alternative to traditional fireplaces.

But, like any open flame, they come with risks. Misuse can lead to accidents, and poor ventilation could impact air quality. The key is understanding how to use them safely, so you can enjoy the ambience without worry.

General Safety Guidelines

Bioethanol fires are straightforward to use, but safety should always come first. A few simple precautions can make all the difference.

Use the right fuel – Only buy high-quality bioethanol designed for fireplaces. Cheap or unregulated fuel can be dangerous.
Keep a safe distance – Your fire should be at least one metre away from curtains, furniture, or anything flammable.
Never refill while lit – This is a major fire risk. Always let the burner cool completely before adding more fuel.
Install carbon monoxide detectors – While bioethanol fires produce minimal emissions, extra safety measures are always a good idea.
Supervise at all times – It might be tempting to leave the room, but unattended flames can be unpredictable.

Following these steps ensures a safe and stress-free experience.

Ventilation and Air Quality

One big perk of bioethanol fires? No chimney needed. But that doesn’t mean you can ignore ventilation. These fires burn clean, but they still release carbon dioxide and water vapour.

Ever noticed a room feeling a bit stuffy after lighting a candle for too long? The same applies here. If there’s not enough fresh air, CO₂ levels can build up, leading to headaches or drowsiness.

Here’s how to keep your air fresh:

Small rooms (under 20m²) – Keep a window slightly open.
Medium rooms (20-40m²) – Use mechanical ventilation or open multiple windows.
Large rooms (over 40m²) – Consider a dedicated air circulation system.

For peace of mind, use an air quality monitor to track CO₂ levels.

Fuel Storage and Handling

Bioethanol fuel is highly flammable, so handling and storage require care. Think of it like keeping petrol in your garage—you wouldn’t leave it near an open flame, right?

Here’s how to store it safely:

Keep fuel in its original, sealed container – This prevents leaks and keeps it from evaporating.
Store in a cool, dry place – Away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or anything that could ignite it.
Avoid storing large amounts indoors – If you need extra fuel, keep it in a safe storage area, like a garage or shed.

When refuelling your fire, take it slow:

Use a funnel – This prevents spills, which can lead to accidental flare-ups.
Never overfill – Stick to the recommended fuel level. More fuel doesn’t mean more heat—it just increases the risk.
Clean up spills immediately – Even a small spill can be a fire hazard if not wiped up properly.

A little caution goes a long way when handling bioethanol.

Supervision and Fire Safety

Even though bioethanol fires don’t spit sparks like wood burners, they’re still an open flame. Treat them with the same respect you would any other fire source.

Never leave a bioethanol fire burning unattended – It’s easy to step out “just for a second”, but accidents happen in the blink of an eye.
Keep children and pets at a safe distance – Curious hands and wagging tails aren’t a good mix with fire.
Extinguish properly – Snuff out the flame using the fireplace’s built-in lid. Never blow it out—that can spread the flames.

Want extra security? Keep a fire extinguisher or fire blanket nearby. It’s one of those things you hope you’ll never need—but you’ll be glad to have it if you do.

Final Thoughts

So, is bioethanol safe indoors? Absolutely—if you use it responsibly. Good ventilation, careful handling, and smart supervision mean you can enjoy the warmth and ambience without a worry.

By following these simple safety steps, your bioethanol fire can be a safe, stylish, and cosy addition to your home. Stay safe, stay warm, and enjoy the glow!