Bioethanol Fireplace Guides
Bioethanol Fireplace Guides
Bioethanol Fireplace Guides
How much does it cost to run bioethanol fires?
How much does it actually cost to keep a bioethanol fireplace burning for an evening? It mainly comes down to three things: how much fuel your burner uses, what you pay for a litre of bioethanol, and how many hours you enjoy the flames. Some bioethanol fireplaces cost as little as 60p an hour to run, while larger models with longer flames naturally use more. Use the calculator below to work out the cost for your own fireplace, then compare three examples from our range to see how the design affects fuel consumption and burn time. Calculate the running cost of your bioethanol fireplace Enter the figures for your fireplace and how you plan to use it. If you already own one, you will usually find the fuel consumption in the product specifications or the user manual. The calculator estimates fuel costs only. Enter your own fireplace's stated consumption and the price you pay per litre. What does bioethanol cost in the UK? In the UK, fireplace-grade bioethanol currently sells for around £3 per litre, depending on the brand, the pack size and delivery. That is the price we use in every example in this guide, so the figures give you a realistic picture of what an evening in front of the fire costs. If you pay more or less, simply change the price in the calculator. How to work out the running cost The sum is simple: multiply the fuel consumption per hour by the price per litre. At 0.25 litres an hour and £3.00 a litre, for example, the fuel costs 75p for every hour the fireplace is lit. Multiply that by the number of hours, and you have the cost of an evening. The size of the burner and the flame setting both affect consumption. A longer flame usually needs more fuel, while some burners can be turned down. The size of the tank decides how long the fireplace can burn between refills, but on its own it tells you nothing about the running cost. How long does a litre of bioethanol last? A litre goes further in a small burner than in a large one. The table shows the total burn time a litre gives at a steady consumption. It does not mean that every fireplace holds a full litre or can burn continuously for the whole period. Fuel consumption Total burn time per litre Cost per hour at £3.00/L 0.20 L/h 5 hours £0.60 0.25 L/h 4 hours £0.75 0.46 L/h About 2 hours 10 minutes £1.38 Lambeth, for example, holds only 0.5 litres. At an estimated 0.20 L/h, one fill gives about 2.5 hours of burn time under normal conditions. Always keep to the burner's maximum fill level and let it cool as the manual instructs. Three examples: small, enclosed and long flame To make the figures more tangible, we have worked out the costs for three different fireplaces from our range. The calculations are based on £3.00 per litre and each model's stated consumption per hour. The examples sit alongside the calculator and are not settings built into it. Running costs at £3.00 per litre Specification Lambeth Tabletop fireplace Washington Enclosed bioethanol stove Lansing L Freestanding, long flame Heat A little extra warmth Steel body holds the heat Longer flame, higher consumption Fuel consumption 0.20 L/h 0.25 L/h 0.46 L/h Tank capacity 0.5 L 1.5 L 3.5 L Burn time Up to 2.5 hours* Up to 6 hours About 7.5 hours Flame Small, compact flame Tall central flame Long, wide flame Cost per hour £0.60 £0.75 £1.38 Cost for 4 hours £2.40 in theory (needs cooling and a refill) £3.00 £5.52 Cost per full tank £1.50 £4.50 £10.50 Best for Shorter evenings, easy to move Long evenings A focal point with a long flame * Lambeth's average consumption of about 0.20 L/h is calculated from its 0.5-litre tank and stated burn time of 2.5 hours. The four-hour cost is theoretical, because the fireplace cannot burn for four hours on a single fill. Follow the manufacturer's instructions and let the burner go out and cool completely before any permitted refill. All prices are estimated fuel costs only, based on £3.00 per litre. Lambeth: a small tabletop fireplace for shorter evenings Lambeth is an affordable tabletop fireplace that you can move around and light wherever suits you, as long as you follow the manual. With an estimated consumption of 0.20 litres an hour over its 2.5-hour burn time, it costs about 60p an hour to run. The small 0.5-litre tank is its main limitation if you want a fire all evening. One fill lasts up to 2.5 hours under normal conditions, so Lambeth suits a shorter session better than three or four hours in a row. Washington: a bioethanol stove for long evenings Washington has the familiar look of a wood-burning stove. It uses 0.25 litres an hour, slightly more than Lambeth, but its 1.5-litre tank gives up to six hours of burn time. Four hours costs about £3.00. The enclosed steel body warms up while the fire is lit and gives some of that heat back after the flame has gone out. It adds to the feeling of a real stove, although it is the same energy the fuel has already released, so it is not extra heat. Does the enclosed stove make the fuel last longer? The stove body can shield the burner from draughts and change the airflow around the flame, which may affect consumption. How large that effect is, and in which direction, has not been tested in a controlled comparison with Washington. Always use the burner in its approved setup. Lansing L: a longer flame with higher consumption Lansing L has a long, visible flame and a freestanding design that can also work as a room divider. It uses 0.46 litres an hour, which comes to £1.38 an hour at £3.00 a litre. Four hours costs about £5.52. With a 3.5-litre tank and a burn time of about 7.5 hours, it suits anyone who wants a large flame for many hours and is happy with the higher fuel cost. Lambeth and Washington show why the hourly cost and the burn time should be looked at together. Lambeth uses a little less fuel an hour and can be moved around, but Washington's larger tank makes it more practical for a whole evening. Lansing L offers a different experience, with a longer flame and higher consumption. Washington in different conditions: do draughts change the burn time? A burner's consumption can change with the airflow around it. We are preparing a practical comparison in which the Washington burner runs in three different conditions. The times below are indicative figures that still need to be verified, not results from a controlled test. Indicative comparison of Washington with 1.5 litres of bioethanol Measurement Inside Washington Showroom with draught Outdoors Indicative burn time 6 hours 5 hours 4 hours Calculated consumption 0.25 L/h 0.30 L/h 0.375 L/h Calculated cost per hour £0.75 £0.90 £1.13 These are indicative calculations that assume the same 1.5 litres is used in all three setups. Actual consumption and burn times need to be measured before the figures can be treated as a test result. Airflow may explain the differences, but this comparison does not prove the cause on its own. A loose burner, or one intended for indoor use only, must never be used outside its approved installation or in windy conditions. The outdoor scenario is not a recommendation. Our tip: make your fuel last longer by turning the flame down If you have an adjustable burner, you can often enjoy a lovely flame and use less fuel at the same time. First let the flame settle for as long as your fireplace's manual recommends. Depending on the burner, that usually takes 10 to 30 minutes. Once the burner is warm and running normally, a lower flame setting can still give an attractive orange flame with lower consumption. We often see this with manually adjustable burners. How the flame looks and how much you save depend on the model, the fuel and the setting. Bear in mind that a smaller flame also gives less heat. Only turn down a burner that is designed for it, using the supplied tool and following the manufacturer's instructions. Never try to adjust a burner that is not approved for it. Lambeth, for example, has a fixed flame that cannot be adjusted. In the video below you can see Lambeth and Washington side by side. Washington has an adjustable burner, so the flame can be turned down to save fuel, while Lambeth's flame is fixed. Lansing L also has an adjustable burner. Is a bioethanol fireplace expensive to run? It depends on the kind of flame you want and how often you light it. At £3.00 a litre, a four-hour evening costs about £3.00 with Washington and about £5.52 with Lansing L. If you light the fire twice a week, that works out at roughly £26 or £48 in an average month, assuming the same consumption each time. A bioethanol fireplace gives you a real flame and some extra warmth without the logs, ash and chimney that come with a wood burner. An enclosed steel model can also release stored heat after the fire has gone out. Bioethanol is not the cheapest way to heat a home, though. If your heating bill is the main concern, compare it with your electricity tariff, gas central heating, a heat pump and the other heat sources you have. How to keep running costs down Choose a burner with a flame size that matches the way you plan to use the fireplace. Check the stated consumption, the tank size and the burn time, especially if you want a fire for three or four hours at a time. Where the manufacturer allows it, turning the flame down on an adjustable burner can stretch the burn time further. Buying bioethanol in larger packs or by the case often lowers the price per litre. Compare the total price including delivery, and always use the fuel your fireplace is approved for. Never refill a burner that is lit or still warm; let it cool completely as the manual instructs. Find the fireplace that suits you Once you know roughly what the fuel will cost, it is easier to choose a fireplace that matches the way you will actually use it. Compare the consumption figures on our product pages, or get in touch if you would like help choosing between a small tabletop fireplace, an enclosed stove and a larger freestanding model. Shop bioethanol fireplaces | Shop bioethanol stoves | Buy bioethanol
Read more
TV Wall with a Built-In Fireplace
Thinking about a TV wall with a built-in fireplace? Discover the best ways to combine a bioethanol or electric fireplace with your television, plus safety tips for every layout.
Read more
How to Install Foco Bioethanol Fireplaces
Installing a Foco built-in bioethanol fireplace is easier than you might think. In this guide, we walk you through the five installation steps with images for each, plus video guides for every Foco model — so you can get your new fireplace fitted with confidence.
Read more
How to Clean Your Bioethanol Fireplace
Keeping your bioethanol fireplace clean is easier than you might think. In this short guide, we explain why regular cleaning matters and walk you through the simple steps to keep your bio fire looking its best for years to come.
Read more
Bio Ethanol Fuel for Bioethanol Fireplaces
Bioethanol fuel is the essential ingredient that makes a bioethanol fireplace work. In this guide, we explain what bioethanol fuel is, how it is produced, and how to choose the right fuel for your fireplace — including why 100% alcohol fuel is not always the best choice.
Read more
Bio Ethanol Fireplace Safety Distance and Risk of Fire
When dealing with an open fire, it is crucial to be mindful of potential fire hazards. One key consideration when purchasing and installing a bioethanol fireplace is ensuring the appropriate safety distance between the fire and surrounding objects and materials. This guide will help you understand the necessary safety distances to maintain, helping to minimise risks and ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Key Safety Precautions for Bioethanol Fireplaces This guide focuses primarily on essential steps and measurements for DIY bioethanol fireplace projects, as well as general placement guidelines for various types of bioethanol fireplaces. Exercise caution during installation: A bioethanol fireplace generates a real flame — ensure no flammable materials are nearby. Use non-combustible materials: MDF is not suitable. If building your own bioethanol fireplace, always use non-combustible materials. This is less of a concern with ready-made fireplaces, as these are typically designed with safe materials. Allow sufficient clearance: Maintain a recommended clearance of at least 50–60 cm above the burner and at least 100 cm from any flammable materials. Currently, there are no specific bioethanol building regulations in the UK, so each manufacturer sets their own guidelines. Always adhere to the installation manual provided with your fireplace. If you have any doubts, feel free to contact bioethanol-fireplace.co.uk. Bioethanol Burner Installation in a Surround If you are planning to place a burner inside a surround — including converting an old wood-burning stove — the following guidelines apply. If you intend to install a TV above your bioethanol fireplace, follow our dedicated guide: Installation of a TV above your bioethanol fireplace. Ref. Description A We recommend a minimum clearance of 50–60 cm above the fire opening for the flame. B No definite safety distance for the sides, but we recommend 5–10 cm. If placing several burners next to each other, leave a minimum of 5 cm between them. C We recommend approximately 10 cm in front of and behind the burner. D The optimum depth varies with the burner. If you want to hang a TV above the fire, allow extra space to push the burner further in. E If hanging a TV above the fire, ensure heat does not rise directly into the TV. Allow a minimum of 10 cm in front of the burner — 15–20 cm is recommended for a TV above. F No specific floor distance requirements. Ensure the burner is placed on solid materials and is positioned horizontally. G If hanging a TV above, add an additional 30 cm clearance above the burner. See our dedicated TV installation guide for full details. Ref. Recommended Materials and Notes 1 Must be completely solid and fireproof. Suitable materials include bricks, slate, stone, cement, ceramics, or metal (stainless steel recommended). Do NOT use MDF, gypsum boards, or fibreboards. 2 Recommended materials: stainless steel, metal, stone, slate, cement, or bricks. 3 This part is particularly affected by heat. Ensure it is thick and solid. Suitable materials include bricks, steel, cement, or stone. Heat-insulate if necessary with Vacupor or mineral wool. 4 Use fireproof materials such as metal, stone, slate, bricks, or tiles. Note Be especially vigilant with curtains and similar items that can move in a draught. Maintain a minimum safety distance of 1 metre from the fireplace at all times. Bioethanol Burner Installation Without a Surround If you are installing a bioethanol burner without a cavity or surround, adhere to the following safety distances to ensure safe and efficient operation. Ref. Description A We recommend approximately 10 cm of space in front of and behind the burner. B We recommend 5–10 cm on both sides of the burner. If placing several burners next to each other, leave a minimum of 5 cm between them. C We recommend a minimum free space of 50–60 cm above the burner opening for the flame. D No specific floor distance requirements. Ensure the burner is placed on solid materials and is positioned horizontally. A, B, C, D refer to the recommended minimum measurements. Ref. Material and Safety Measures 1 Must be completely solid and fireproof. Suitable materials include bricks, slate, stone, cement, ceramics, or metal (stainless steel recommended). Do NOT use MDF, gypsum boards, or fibreboards. 2 Be extra observant with curtains and similar items that are moveable by the wind. Ensure that elements such as these will not get near the open fire and maintain a security distance of a minimum of 1 metre from the bioethanol fire. Whilst these guidelines provide a general framework, always adhere to the manufacturer's specific installation instructions included with your burner. Find our selection of bioethanol burners for DIY fireplace projects here. Safety Distances for Pre-Fabricated Bioethanol Fires Pre-fabricated bioethanol fires, including wall-mounted and freestanding fireplaces, are designed for quick and straightforward installation. Given the vast array of models available, always consult the individual manual for detailed installation and safety instructions. Wall-Mounted Bioethanol Fireplace Safety Distances When installing a wall-mounted bioethanol fireplace, ensure a minimum clearance of 100 cm above the burner (A). If the burner is enclosed within a box surround, this can be reduced to 60–70 cm (B). Whilst side clearance is generally not required, it is advisable to maintain a few centimetres of space from other materials (C). Pay particular attention to curtains and similar items that can move in a draught — these should be kept at least 1 meter away from the fireplace at all times (D). Most wall-mounted bioethanol fireplaces can be installed on any wall type, as long as the wall can support the weight. Fireplaces that require heat protection typically come with a backplate or special mounting brackets to protect the wall. See our collection of wall-mounted bioethanol fires here. Freestanding Bioethanol Fireplace Safety Distances These guidelines apply to both freestanding bioethanol fireplaces and tabletop bioethanol fireplaces. The required safety distance around freestanding bioethanol fires varies depending on the model and whether the flame is enclosed within the fireplace body. For most models, the flame is safely contained, so only a few centimetres of clearance is needed (A, D). For bio fires without a fully enclosed body, where the flame is more exposed, we recommend maintaining a safety distance of 60 cm from the burner to any flammable materials (C). As always, exercise caution with curtains and items that can be moved by a draught. A safety height of 1 metre above the fire should always be maintained (B). This is particularly important for tabletop fires and any lamps or hanging objects above the fireplace. As always, exercise caution with curtains and items that can be moved by a draught. See our selection of freestanding bioethanol fires here.
Read more
Are Bioethanol Fireplaces Safe?
Bioethanol fireplaces are safe to use as long as you follow a few simple precautions. In this guide, we cover the three most common hazards associated with bioethanol fires — spilling fuel, filling a hot burner, and overfilling — and how to avoid them.
Read more
Bioethanol fireplace disadvantages
Bioethanol fireplaces are a stylish and eco-friendly choice, but like any heating solution they come with a few considerations. In this guide, we explore the key disadvantages of bioethanol fireplaces — from heat output and fuel costs to safety precautions — and how to address them.
Read more
Room Size and the Size of a Bioethanol Fireplace
Choosing the right sized bioethanol fireplace for your room is essential for maintaining good air quality. In this guide, we explain how much CO2 a bioethanol fire produces, how to find the right fireplace for your room size, and why ventilation matters.
Read more
How to Extinguish a Biofireplace
How you extinguish a bioethanol fireplace depends on which type of model and burner you have. On a manual bioethanol fire, you cut off the supply of air to smother the flame. On an automatic bio fireplace, you cut off the supply of bioethanol fuel and the flame will extinguish itself. How to Extinguish a Manual Bioethanol Burner All manual bioethanol fireplaces are extinguished the same way: by cutting off the supply of air and thereby smothering the flame. The procedure for cutting off the air may vary slightly depending on which model you have. The vast majority of wall-mounted and freestanding bioethanol fires are fitted with an adjustable burner. With this type of burner, you can control the size of the flame using a metal sheet that slides over the opening. When you want to extinguish the fire, open the metal sheet fully and then slide it completely over the burner opening in one swift motion. This ensures the opening is fully covered and the air supply is cut off completely. If the flame does not go out on the first attempt, simply repeat the process. In this video we show how to use and extinguish a manual bioethanol burner. How to Extinguish a Round Burner The method for extinguishing a round burner is very similar to the adjustable burner — it is all about cutting off the air supply to smother the flame. Round burners come with a small metal disc attached to a rod, which is placed over the top of the burner opening to cut off the air and extinguish the flame. When placing the disc over the opening, make sure it covers the burner completely to ensure the air supply is fully cut off. If the flame does not go out straight away, hold the disc firmly in place for a few seconds until the flame is fully smothered. As with all manual burners, always allow the burner to cool down fully before attempting to refill it. In this video we show how to extinguish a round bioethanol burner. How to Extinguish an Automatic Burner Extinguishing an automatic burner is simple. Just press the button on the remote control or on the burner itself. This cuts off the supply of bioethanol fuel and the flame will go out — either immediately or after a few minutes, depending on the model, as the last added bioethanol burns off. Some high-end automatic burners, like the ones from Planika, can be connected to Wi-Fi and controlled via an app on your phone or tablet, making it possible to extinguish the fireplace remotely from anywhere in the home. In this video we show how to use and extinguish an automatic bioethanol burner. A Quick Summary Extinguishing a bioethanol fireplace is a simple process, but it is important to use the correct method for your burner type. Manual burners are extinguished by sliding a metal sheet over the opening to cut off the air supply, whilst round burners use a metal disc on a rod to achieve the same result. Automatic burners are the easiest to extinguish — simply press a button on the remote or the burner itself. Regardless of the type of burner you have, always allow the burner to cool fully before refilling, and never add fuel to a hot or lit fireplace. Following these simple steps will ensure your bioethanol fireplace remains a safe and enjoyable addition to your home.
Read more
How to Light a Bioethanol Fireplace
Lighting a bioethanol fireplace is quick and straightforward, whether you have a manual or automatic burner. In this guide, we walk you through the ignition process for both types, so you can get your bio fireplace up and running safely and confidently.
Read more
The Role of Ceramic Cotten in a Bioethanol Fireplace
Ceramic cotten, also known as ceramic fibre cotton for bioethanol fires, is a type of heat-resistant wadding made from fine ceramic fibres. In the context of bioethanol fireplaces, this material has become an essential safety and performance element. Although early bio fires did not include fibre cotton as standard, ceramic fibre cotton has gradually established itself as a vital component in the construction of a manual bioethanol burner. Its ability to absorb bioethanol efficiently, minimise spillage, and support an even, controlled flame makes it a trusted addition to modern manual burners. Today, ceramic fibre cotton is not just an upgrade — it is a standard for ensuring better combustion and a safer, more consistent fireplace experience. How Ceramic cotten Enhances Fireplace Safety Ceramic cotton plays a vital role in improving the safety and performance of bioethanol fireplaces. By absorbing the bioethanol fuel inside the burner, it helps keep the fuel securely in place — even in the event of accidental tipping. This smart material also supports faster ignition, making it easier to light your bio fireplace burner quickly and safely. At Bioethanol-fireplace.co.uk, ceramic fibre cotton is included in most of the manual bioethanol fireplaces we offer. Some models, such as those from Nordlys Denmark, use a ceramic stone inside the burner instead — but the purpose remains the same: to ensure safe, stable, and efficient combustion. How to Use Ceramic Cotton for Bioethanol Fires Most modern bioethanol burners already come with ceramic fibre cotton installed. However, if you own an older model that does not include it, you can easily add it yourself. Simply place the ceramic cotton carefully inside the burner, making sure it is evenly distributed. This allows the fuel to be absorbed consistently, helping to prevent spills and ensuring a stable, clean-burning flame. For the best performance and safety, always use high-quality bioethanol fuel with an alcohol content of 95–97.5%. However, you should always follow the fireplace manufacturer's specific recommendations listed in the user manual. Using the correct type of fuel not only protects the ceramic fibre but also ensures efficient and safe operation of your bio fireplace. How to Make Bioethanol Fuel Last Longer Most modern bioethanol fireplaces already come with ceramic fibre cotton included. However, if you have an older model without it, adding ceramic cotton can help you get more out of your fuel. Once placed inside the burner, the cotton absorbs and distributes the bioethanol evenly, allowing for a slower, more controlled burn — helping your fuel last longer. In addition to ceramic fibre cotton, maintaining a clean burner and ensuring proper ventilation can also improve fuel efficiency. For the best results and safe operation, always follow the manufacturer's instructions and recommended maintenance practices. Replacement of the Ceramic Fibre Cotton in a Bioethanol Fireplace If you are fitting ceramic cotton into an older burner yourself, it is worth taking a few simple precautions during handling. Like other mineral fibre materials, ceramic cotton can release fine fibres when cut, torn, or manipulated, which can irritate the skin, eyes, and respiratory tract. To handle it safely: Work in a well-ventilated area, or outdoors if possible Wear gloves and long sleeves to avoid skin irritation Use safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes Consider wearing an FFP2/N95 dust mask, particularly if you are cutting the material or handling larger quantities Wash your hands thoroughly after handling Once fitted, no special precautions are needed during normal fireplace use. Not a Consumable Product Ceramic fibre cotton is not considered a consumable part of a bioethanol fireplace. This means it does not have a fixed lifespan or a set number of uses before it needs replacing. It is designed to withstand regular use and typically lasts for the entire life of the fireplace without requiring replacement. Use the Correct Fuel It is essential to use only bioethanol fuel in your fireplace. Using the wrong type of fuel — such as Tenderflame or other non-approved products — can permanently damage the ceramic fibre cotton. Once contaminated, the material cannot be cleaned or restored, which compromises both performance and safety. Most Burners Are Not Designed for Cotton Replacement In most bioethanol burners, the ceramic fibre cotton is integrated into the design and not intended to be removed or replaced. This ensures optimal fuel absorption, consistent burning, and overall safety. If the cotton is damaged due to misuse or incorrect fuel, the burner may need professional servicing. Older Burners Without Ceramic Fibre Cotton If you own an older bioethanol fireplace model that does not include ceramic fibre cotton, there is no need to worry. Whilst not strictly necessary, adding ceramic cotton can significantly enhance safety and fuel efficiency. You can easily purchase ceramic fibre wadding to upgrade your existing burner and improve its overall functionality. As with any fibrous insulation material, a little care during handling goes a long way — but once it is fitted and your fireplace is in use, no special precautions are needed. Buy ceramic cotton here. Benefits of Using Ceramic Cotton Better Fuel Efficiency, Fewer Spills By absorbing and evenly distributing bioethanol inside the burner, ceramic fibre cotton helps reduce unnecessary fuel evaporation and the risk of spills. This means less waste, a more controlled flame, and ultimately lower fuel consumption over time — a practical benefit for anyone who uses their fireplace regularly. A Small Component, Used Responsibly Though small and often hidden inside the burner, ceramic fibre cotton plays a genuine role in both safety and performance. It supports a stable flame, reduces the risk of spills, and helps ensure a more controlled burning process. Whilst most modern fireplaces already include it, adding ceramic cotton to an older model can meaningfully improve how your bioethanol fireplace performs.
Read more
