Why Does My Bioethanol Fire Burn With Odour?

February 25, 2025

Why Does My Bioethanol Fire Smell? The Truth Behind the Scent

Ever lit your bioethanol fire and thought, Is that coconut… or chemistry? The short answer: It’s the fuel burning—ethanol and its additives create the scent. Poor-quality fuel smells stronger due to impurities. Stick around to learn why, how to reduce odour, and how to enjoy a cleaner, near-scentless flame!

What is Bioethanol for Fires?

Bioethanol is a liquid fuel made from fermented plant sugars, commonly sourced from corn, sugarcane, and wheat. It’s celebrated for its clean-burning properties, making it a popular choice for modern fireplaces. While often marketed as odourless, some users notice a scent, which can vary based on the quality of the fuel and how it’s burned.

Bioethanol Production for Fireplaces

Bioethanol is created through a fermentation process that converts plant-based sugars into alcohol. The purity of bioethanol is crucial—the cleaner the fuel, the less it smells. Lower-quality versions may contain residual byproducts that contribute to an unwanted odour.

Benefits of Bioethanol Fireplaces

No need for a chimney or vent—easy installation!
Clean-burning with minimal emissions
A modern, aesthetic addition to any home
Easy to use and maintain
Provides real, warming flames without the hassle of logs or gas lines

The Source of Bioethanol's Smell in Fireplaces

Not all bioethanol smells the same! The scent is influenced by multiple factors, including fuel quality and the way it burns.

Impurities in Bioethanol Fuel

The ethanol itself is nearly odourless. However, lower-quality bioethanol often contains added chemicals, known as denaturants, which can create a more pronounced smell when burned.
It is advised to use a high-quality Bioethanol fuel designed for Fireplaces, Such as e-Nrg Bioethanol Fuel. High in purity, but not high enough to cause fuel to burn excessively fast through evaporation.

Fusel Alcohols and Other Byproducts

Some bioethanol fuels contain fusel alcohols (such as propanol, butanol, and amyl alcohol). These compounds, along with other volatile byproducts like aldehydes and ketones, can alter the scent—often making it stronger and more noticeable.

Fuel Quality and Purity

The higher the purity, the cleaner the burn. Top-tier bioethanol fuels go through extensive purification, removing the impurities that contribute to an unpleasant smell. Choosing a high-quality brand is essential for reducing odour.

Incomplete Combustion

If bioethanol isn’t burning efficiently, you’ll likely notice a stronger smell. This can happen due to:

Overfilling the burner, which leads to inefficient combustion
Poor ventilation, trapping vapours indoors
Low-quality burners, which don’t allow for proper airflow

A well-designed burner and adequate ventilation help ensure a clean, low-odour flame.

Is the Smell of Bioethanol from Fireplaces Harmful?

Potential Irritants

While bioethanol is not highly toxic, inhaling excessive vapours—especially in an enclosed space—can cause mild irritation. Ensuring good airflow in the room minimises exposure.

Long-Term Effects (if any)

There’s little evidence suggesting serious long-term health risks. However, prolonged exposure to certain combustion byproducts should always be minimised. Stick to high-quality fuel and keep the room ventilated for a safer experience.

Addressing the Smell in Bioethanol Fireplaces

If you’re noticing an unpleasant odour, don’t worry—there are simple ways to fix it!

Choosing High-Quality Fuel

Using premium bioethanol fuel with high ethanol purity and fewer additives significantly reduces odour. Check the label and buy from reputable brands.

Proper Ventilation

While bioethanol fires don’t require a chimney, some airflow is key. Open a window slightly or ensure your room has adequate ventilation to disperse any residual vapours.

Burner Maintenance

Keeping your burner clean and free of residue ensures a more efficient burn. Regular maintenance prevents blockages that could lead to incomplete combustion.

Troubleshooting Odours

Check your fuel quality – Cheaper bioethanol often contains more impurities.
Ensure ventilation – Stagnant air can make odours linger.
Inspect and clean the burner – Residue buildup affects combustion.
Avoid overfilling – Stick to manufacturer guidelines for fuel levels.

Bioethanol Fireplace Smell: FAQs

Why does my bioethanol fireplace smell when I first light it?

A slight scent at the start is completely normal. It’s often due to the burner heating up or any residual fuel from previous use burning off.

Is it normal for a bioethanol fireplace to have a slight smell?

Yes, but it should be very faint. If the smell is strong or unpleasant, it’s likely an issue with fuel quality or incomplete combustion.

How can I tell if my bioethanol fuel is good quality?

Look for:

High ethanol purity (95%+)
Minimal or no added denaturants
A clear, transparent liquid with no cloudiness
A reputable brand known for clean-burning fuel

Conclusion

The smell from bioethanol fires comes down to fuel impurities and how efficiently the fire burns. Choosing high-quality bioethanol, ensuring proper ventilation, and keeping the burner well-maintained will drastically reduce any unwanted odours.

Follow these steps, and you’ll enjoy the warm, flickering glow of a bioethanol fire—without the unwanted scent!