FAQ - Bio Ethanol Fires

Find answers to common questions about bio ethanol fires.

Bioethanol (or simply ethanol) is a renewable, alcohol-based fuel made by fermenting plant sugars and starches — typically from crops like:

  • Corn
  • Sugarcane
  • Wheat
  • Sugar beets
  • Agricultural waste (like straw or wood)

It's essentially the same type of alcohol found in beverages, but it's denatured (treated to make it undrinkable) and used as a clean-burning fuel for heating or energy.

  • Freestanding bioethanol stoves are ideal for apartments, rentals, or anyone who wants a movable heating feature. These stoves require no installation—simply place them where you want and light the flame. They’re perfect for flexible décor and spaces where structural changes aren’t possible.
  • Wall-mounted bioethanol stoves are great for modern interiors and small spaces. Installed using wall brackets, they offer a sleek, contemporary look while saving valuable floor space. Their elevated design makes them a stylish focal point in any room.
  • Built-in or recessed bioethanol stoves are designed for custom installations, providing a clean and integrated aesthetic. These models are typically installed within a niche or false wall and are best suited for homeowners looking for a seamless, designer fireplace look. Professional installation is usually recommended.
  • Tabletop or portable bioethanol stoves are compact units intended for ambient use, both indoors and outdoors. They’re perfect for patios, dining tables, or creating cozy vibes in specific areas. These stoves are primarily decorative and not intended as a main heat source.

Yes, indeed! Bioethanol stoves produce a substantial amount of heat — nearly 2.5kW, delivered directly into the room where they’re placed. That’s typically more than most electric fires and comparable to some gas fires, making them not just stylish, but genuinely functional as a source of warmth. While they’re often chosen for their aesthetic appeal, bioethanol stoves can also provide comfortable, supplemental heating in small to medium-sized spaces.

Yes, bioethanol appliances are safe when used correctly and responsibly. They are designed with safety in mind.

  • Snuffer tool to extinguish flame safely
  • Spill tray or safety trough around burner
  • Certified to EN16647 (Europe) or other safety standards

Yes, most appliances will have a shut off / closure slide.

Bio ethanol appliances burn cleanly, producing no smoke, soot, or harmful gases — just heat, carbon dioxide, and water vapour.

No, you do not need a chimney as bio ethanol appliances give off no smoke or harmful gases. Since they don’t require a chimney or flue, they’re often safer than traditional wood or gas fires in terms of indoor air quality.

The burn off is heat, carbon dioxide, and water vapour.

When it burns, it produces:

Carbon dioxide (CO₂) + Water vapour (H₂O) + Heat

No wall vent is required.

  • Look great
  • Fast & Quick installation
  • Flexible installation
  • Retro fit installation
  • Efficient heating source
  • No smoke + fumes
  • No soot
  • No ash
  • No chimney or flue needed
  • No maintenance
  • No wall vent
  • Clean

Most appliances generally range from 0.5L to 2.5 Litres.

Depending on the appliance and size of the burning pot, 2-8 hours per fill.

You can install a bio ethanol appliance in any room. Living rooms, bedrooms, or garden rooms.

Stainless steel, tempered glass, or powder-coated steel, and the burners tend to be double wall.

No, most appliances can be installed DIY. Some of the wall mounted, suspended may require an experienced installer.

This would recommended as good practise to the room the appliance will be fired.

No, there is no hearth plinth required for installation.

The appliances cost from £500-£1000 in the most part.

No, they are only intended for indoor-use, and it is not recommended to use in any room where water is in use, such as kitchens, bathrooms or swimming pools.

Bioethanol fuel is sold in 1 litre containers, which can be easily purchased from a variety of retailers, such as garden centres or you can even buy it in bulk online. Bioethanol is available in various degrees of purity. Typically, bioethanol is sold between 95% and 100% purity.