March 1, 2025

Bioethanol Fires: What You Need to Know to Choose a Safe and Efficient Model

Thinking of a Bioethanol Fire? They’re stylish, but not all flames are equal! Short answer: They can be pricey, high-maintenance, and not as toasty as you’d hope. Plus, spills = fire hazards! Keep reading to uncover the hidden costs, ventilation must-knows, and why they might not be as "green" as they seem.

Disadvantages of Bioethanol Fires

So, you’ve spotted a sleek bioethanol fire and thought, “That would look fantastic in my home!” No flue, no chimney, just clean-burning flames? Sounds too good to be true. Well, kind of. While bioethanol fires have their perks, they also come with some drawbacks.

From running costs to heat output and safety concerns, let’s dive into the less glamorous side of these modern fireplaces. Knowing what you're signing up for means fewer surprises down the road.

Running Costs and Fuel Availability

Ever heard the phrase, you get what you pay for? Well, with bioethanol fires, you’ll be paying quite a bit—mainly for the fuel.

Bioethanol isn’t as cheap or readily available as gas or electricity. Unlike flicking on a boiler or grabbing logs for a wood burner, you’ll need to source specific bioethanol fuel, which can fluctuate in price and availability depending on where you live.

And here’s the kicker—it burns fast. Some models need refuelling every three to four hours, meaning your relaxing evening by the fire might come with multiple fuel top-ups. However, EcoSmart Fires offer a clever solution with their ‘Dry Flame’ technology. Instead of burning liquid fuel directly, they burn vapour, making the process more efficient and reducing the risk of fuel spills—an added safety bonus.

If budget-friendliness is a priority, a standard bioethanol fire may not be the best fit for your home, but innovations like EcoSmart’s could help strike a better balance between safety, efficiency, and cost.

Heat Output and Room Suitability

Let’s be honest—bioethanol fires look hot, but do they feel hot? That depends on your expectations.

While they certainly add warmth, some models offer more heat output than others. For example, the EcoSmart XL1200 produces almost 5kW of heat, burning 10 litres of fuel over 9-14 hours. That’s enough to make a noticeable difference in a well-insulated room.

However, if you have a large, open-plan space, a bioethanol fire may not be enough as a primary heat source. Think of them as the fireplace version of fairy lights—great for ambience but best used alongside other heating solutions when it’s really chilly.

Safety Concerns and Ventilation

Fireplaces and safety go hand in hand, and bioethanol fires are no exception. While BS EN16647-compliant models are designed with safety in mind, there are still risks to be aware of.

Bioethanol fuel is highly flammable. Spills can be dangerous, and because these fires don’t have a flue, any fumes produced stay inside the room. That’s why proper ventilation is essential.

Bioethanol fires consume oxygen and release carbon dioxide and water vapour. In a well-ventilated room, this isn't a problem, but in enclosed spaces with poor airflow, it can lead to issues with indoor air quality. The good news? Simply following manufacturer guidelines and cracking a window when needed can keep things safe.

Limited Design Options Compared to Other Fireplaces

Bioethanol fires have a signature look—sleek, modern, and minimalist. But if you’re after something traditional with a grand mantelpiece or classic detailing, you may struggle to find a model that fits the bill.

Unlike wood-burning stoves and gas fires, which come in a wide range of styles, bioethanol fires tend to follow contemporary design trends. They’re stunning in modern spaces but might not suit period homes or cottages with a more rustic aesthetic.

That’s not to say they don’t have variety—there are wall-mounted, freestanding, and tabletop options available. But if you’re dreaming of a cast-iron, Victorian-style fireplace, you might need to look elsewhere.

Final Thoughts

Bioethanol fires certainly bring a touch of elegance to any home. They’re stylish, easy to install, and great for setting the mood.

But they do come with considerations—running costs, lower heat output, ventilation needs, and design limitations. If you're thinking about getting one, make sure you choose a BS EN16647-certified model and weigh up whether it truly meets your heating needs.

A bioethanol fire can be a fantastic addition—just as long as you go in with your eyes open!