Regan Brown
Bioethanol fires are an ultra-sleek, modern alternative to traditional fires, offering both a contemporary and traditional design for domestic and commercial settings. They are fuelled by bioethanol, a liquid produced from plants such as sugar cane, straw and maize. The cost of running a bioethanol fire depends on the cost of the fuel and the size of the burner. The larger the burner, the more fuel is consumed. The length of burn also depends on the capacity of the burner tray and the size of the flame.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Cost of fuel | £48.80 for 20 litres |
| Fuel consumption | 1 litre per 3.5 hours with the slider fully open |
| Fuel consumption | 1 litre per 4.5 hours with the slider half open |
| Fuel consumption | 1 litre per 5 hours with the slider a quarter open |
| Burning rate | 1 quart (1 litre) per 1-2 hours |
| Burning time | 6-14 hours with 5 litres of e-NRG bioethanol fuel |
| Burning time | 3 years with 20 litres of e-NRG bioethanol fuel |
| Running cost | £1 to £2 per hour for a proper fireplace container |
| Running cost | £1.72 per hour when buying fuel in bulk (18 litres for £108) |
| Fuel quality | Ethanol content not greater than 96.6% |
| Fuel storage | In a tightly sealed container |
| Fuel storage | In a cool, dry place of approximately 20°C |
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What You'll Learn
Fuel quality and quantity
The fuel quality and quantity required for a bioethanol fire depend on several factors. Firstly, the size of the burner within the fireplace is crucial. A larger burner will produce a larger flame, resulting in higher fuel consumption. The heat output of bioethanol fires is typically 2-3 kWh, which can be lower than other types of fireplaces.
Secondly, the fuel quality itself plays a role. Bioethanol fuels come in various qualities, and while the quality rarely affects burning time or running cost, cheaper fuels tend to be more flammable, leading to faster consumption and potentially higher running costs. It's important to choose fuel with an ethanol content not exceeding 96.6% and designed specifically for fireplaces to avoid unpleasant smells and spills.
Thirdly, the flame size and the fuel box slider setting influence fuel consumption. A fully open slider will consume more fuel, with a litre of biofuel lasting around 3.5 hours, whereas a half-open slider can last 4.5 hours, and a quarter-open slider can make a litre last for 5 hours or more.
Finally, the length of the burn is a critical factor. The longer the fire burns, the more fuel it will require. The capacity of the stove's burner tray determines the length of the burn, so a larger capacity will result in a longer-lasting fire. For example, 20 litres of bioethanol fuel can provide approximately 20 days of fire, burning for around 3.5 hours daily with the slider fully open.
It's worth noting that the cost of bioethanol fuel is generally affordable, with prices ranging from £48.80 for 20 litres to £108 for 18 litres when bought in bulk. The high efficiency of bioethanol fires, at 98%, means that only 2% of the fuel is wasted, making it a cost-effective option for heating your home.
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Burner size
The burner size of a bioethanol fireplace is a crucial factor in determining fuel consumption and heat output. A larger burner will typically produce more heat than a smaller burner, resulting in increased fuel usage. Therefore, the size of the burner should be considered based on the space you want to heat.
When selecting a bioethanol fireplace, it is important to evaluate the size of the room. A large fireplace may appear out of place in a small room, while a small portable fireplace might not provide sufficient heat for a spacious area. As a general rule, it is recommended to have 1 kW of heat output for every 10 square metres of space. For instance, a 20-square-metre room would require a bioethanol fireplace that generates 2 kW of heat.
The heat output of a bioethanol fireplace can be adjusted by regulating the amount of fuel that is burned. This is achieved by modifying the opening of the burner. By partially closing the burner, you can reduce the heat output and extend the burn time of the bioethanol fuel. This adjustment feature allows you to control the room temperature and fuel consumption according to your preferences and requirements.
The length of burn, or burn time, is another critical factor influenced by the burner size. The capacity of the burner tray determines how much bioethanol it can hold, directly impacting how long the fire will burn. A larger burner with a higher capacity will require more fuel to fill, resulting in a longer burn time compared to a smaller burner.
It is worth noting that the cost of operating a bioethanol fireplace is influenced by factors such as fuel quality, flame size, and the degree of openness of the fuel box slider. Generally, a litre of biofuel burns for approximately 3.5 to 5 hours, depending on the settings and conditions.
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Fireplace design
Bioethanol fireplaces are an excellent option for those seeking a stylish, modern, and eco-friendly alternative to traditional fireplaces. They offer a range of design options, from sleek and modern stainless steel to traditional looks with tempered glass panels or powder-coated finishes. They are also highly portable, as they do not require hardwiring or ventilation, making them perfect for renters or those who move frequently.
When considering the fuel consumption of a bioethanol fire, it is important to note that the length of burn depends on the capacity of the stove's burner tray. The larger the burner, the more fuel it can hold, and the longer the fire will burn. Additionally, the fire's slider setting—whether it is fully open, half-open, or a quarter open—will impact fuel usage. For example, a litre of biofuel will last around 3.5 hours with the slider fully open, 4.5 hours when half-open, and up to 5 hours or more when a quarter open.
The cost of bioethanol fuel is another factor to consider. While the quality of the fuel rarely influences burning time or running cost, cheaper fuels may lead to faster fuel consumption and higher running costs. The purchase price of a bioethanol stove can vary from £290 to £1,000 or more, depending on factors such as brand, construction quality, heat output, and technical features.
To ensure safety, it is crucial to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer when refuelling a bioethanol fire. Spills are common when refuelling, and ignoring spilled fuel can lead to uncontrolled flames. Always use a funnel to prevent spills, and if any fuel does spill, clean it up immediately. Additionally, avoid filling a hot burner with bioethanol, as this can lead to a burst flame.
Overall, bioethanol fireplaces offer a stylish, flexible, and environmentally friendly option for those seeking an alternative to traditional fireplaces. With their real flames, low emissions, and easy installation, they can add warmth and sophistication to any space.
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Safety considerations
The placement and installation of bioethanol fires is another critical safety aspect. These fires require adequate ventilation and should never be placed in confined or enclosed spaces without proper ventilation systems in place. It is also crucial to maintain a safe distance from combustible materials, such as furniture, curtains, or decorations. A minimum distance of one metre is generally recommended, and it is essential to ensure that the fire is positioned on a stable, level surface to prevent accidental spills or tip-overs.
Regular maintenance and careful refuelling practices are also essential for safe operation. Before refuelling, ensure the burner is completely extinguished and cooled down. Refuel in a well-ventilated area, and avoid overfilling to prevent spillage. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions for maintenance, including cleaning and replacing any worn or damaged parts. It is also advisable to keep a fire extinguisher or a fire blanket nearby in emergencies.
User safety is another vital consideration. Always prioritize adequate ventilation during and after use to prevent the buildup of harmful gases or fumes. Never leave a bioethanol fire unattended, especially around children or pets, as the risk of accidental contact or ingestion of the fuel is hazardous. Ensure that young children do not have access to the fuel bottles, and keep them stored safely when not in use. Be cautious when handling the fuel, avoiding any contact with skin or eyes, as it can cause irritation.
Lastly, it is essential to be aware of the potential hazards associated with bioethanol fires and know how to respond in case of an accident or emergency. Understand the signs of fuel poisoning and seek immediate medical attention if fuel is ingested or inhaled. In the event of a fire, know how to properly extinguish a bioethanol flame, which may differ from traditional fires. Never use water to extinguish a bioethanol fire, as it can cause an explosive steam reaction. Instead, use a fire extinguisher or a fire blanket, following the manufacturer's instructions for proper emergency response procedures.
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Environmental impact
Bioethanol is a renewable fuel source that produces fewer emissions than traditional fossil fuels. It is produced using plants such as sugar cane, straw, maize, and corn stover. As an alcohol, it burns cleanly and does not produce soot, ash, or harmful emissions. It is also safe for people with allergies or respiratory problems.
However, the environmental impact of bioethanol is complex and depends on various factors, including the feedstock used, the production process, and the energy sources used during manufacturing. While bioethanol saves up to 87% of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions compared to petrol per MJ of fuel, the impact varies depending on the feedstock. For example, ethanol from poplar reduces emissions, while straw increases them. Land use change, such as converting forests to miscanthus, can also increase GHG emissions.
The production of bioethanol can have other environmental impacts, such as terrestrial and freshwater toxicity, eutrophication, ecotoxicity, ionizing radiation, human toxicity, and ozone layer depletion. Additionally, the production process often relies significantly on fossil fuels, which can reduce its overall environmental benefits. Sustainable sourcing, resource conflicts, water quality, and managing environmental footprints are also challenges that need to be addressed to maximize the benefits of bioethanol.
Furthermore, the use of bioethanol in fireplaces carries some risks. Spills are common during refuelling, and ignoring spilled fuel can lead to uncontrolled flames. Overfilling the burner can also be dangerous, as it can cause the fire to get out of control and be difficult to extinguish. Therefore, it is crucial to follow safety instructions and recommendations to prevent accidents and ensure safe use.
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Frequently asked questions
The amount of fuel a bioethanol fire uses depends on the size of the burner, the heat output, the quality of the fuel, and the flame size. A larger burner will create a larger flame, which will use more fuel. A higher heat output will also use more fuel. The quality of the fuel rarely influences burning time or running cost, but cheaper fuels may cause faster fuel consumption. On average, a litre of biofuel will last around 3.5 hours with the slider fully open, 4.5 hours with the slider half open, and 5 hours or more with the slider a quarter open.
The cost of biofuel depends on the quantity purchased and the quality of the fuel. For example, 20 litres of bioethanol costs £48.80, while 200 litres could save you almost £60. Cheaper brands may produce a smell when burning.
Always follow the instructions in the manual for how much fuel to use. Usually, you should fill the burner up to 1 cm from the top.
To prevent spills, use a funnel. If any fuel spills, clean it up right away and ensure none remains on your hands or lighter. Do not fill a hot burner.
The cost of running a bioethanol fire depends on the cost of the fuel, the heat output, and the size of the burner. On average, it costs approximately £1 to £2 per hour to run a bioethanol fire.
