Bioethanol Fireplace Guides
Guides des Cheminées Bioéthanol
Guides des Cheminées Bioéthanol
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.
En savoir plus
Comment nettoyer votre cheminée bioéthanol ?
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.
En savoir plus
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.
En savoir plus
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.
En savoir plus
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.
En savoir plus
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.
En savoir plus
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.
En savoir plus
Comment éteindre une cheminée bioéthanol ?
La façon dont vous éteignez une cheminée bioéthanol dépend du type de modèle et de brûleur dont vous disposez. Sur une cheminée bioéthanol manuelle, vous coupez l'alimentation en air pour étouffer la flamme. Sur une cheminée bioéthanol automatique, vous coupez l'alimentation en bioéthanol et la flamme s'éteint d'elle-même. Comment éteindre un brûleur manuel de cheminée bioéthanol ? Toutes les cheminées bioéthanol manuelles s'éteignent de la même façon : en coupant l'alimentation en air et en étouffant ainsi la flamme. La procédure pour couper l'air peut varier légèrement selon le modèle que vous possédez. La grande majorité des cheminées bioéthanol murales et à poser sont équipées d'un brûleur réglable. Avec ce type de brûleur, vous pouvez contrôler la taille de la flamme grâce à une plaque de métal qui glisse sur l'ouverture. Lorsque vous souhaitez éteindre le feu, ouvrez entièrement la plaque de métal puis faites-la glisser complètement sur l'ouverture du brûleur en un seul mouvement rapide et décidé. L'ouverture est ainsi entièrement couverte et l'alimentation en air est totalement coupée. Si la flamme ne s'éteint pas au premier essai, répétez simplement l'opération. Dans cette vidéo, nous montrons comment utiliser et éteindre un brûleur bioéthanol manuel. Comment éteindre un brûleur rond ? La méthode pour éteindre un brûleur rond est très similaire à celle du brûleur réglable — il s'agit de couper l'alimentation en air pour étouffer la flamme. Les brûleurs ronds sont livrés avec un petit disque métallique fixé à une tige, qui se place sur l'ouverture du brûleur pour couper l'air et éteindre la flamme. Lorsque vous placez le disque sur l'ouverture, assurez-vous qu'il couvre entièrement le brûleur afin que l'alimentation en air soit totalement coupée. Si la flamme ne s'éteint pas immédiatement, maintenez le disque fermement en place pendant quelques secondes jusqu'à ce que la flamme soit complètement étouffée. Comme pour tous les brûleurs manuels, laissez toujours le brûleur refroidir entièrement avant de tenter de le remplir. Dans cette vidéo, nous montrons comment éteindre un brûleur bioéthanol rond. Comment éteindre un brûleur automatique ? Éteindre un brûleur automatique est simple. Il suffit d'appuyer sur le bouton de la télécommande fournie ou sur le bouton du brûleur lui-même. Cela coupe l'alimentation en bioéthanol et la flamme s'éteint — soit immédiatement, soit après quelques minutes selon le modèle, le temps que le dernier bioéthanol ajouté finisse de se consumer. Certains brûleurs automatiques haut de gamme, comme ceux de Planika, peuvent être connectés au Wi-Fi et contrôlés via une application sur votre téléphone ou tablette, permettant d'éteindre la cheminée à distance depuis n'importe quel endroit du domicile. Dans cette vidéo, nous montrons comment utiliser et éteindre un brûleur bioéthanol automatique. En résumé Éteindre une cheminée bioéthanol est un processus simple, mais il est important d'utiliser la bonne méthode selon le type de brûleur. Les brûleurs manuels s'éteignent en faisant glisser une plaque de métal sur l'ouverture pour couper l'alimentation en air, tandis que les brûleurs ronds utilisent un disque métallique sur une tige pour obtenir le même résultat. Les brûleurs automatiques sont les plus faciles à éteindre — il suffit d'appuyer sur un bouton de la télécommande ou du brûleur. Quel que soit le type de brûleur, laissez-le toujours refroidir complètement avant de le remplir, et n'ajoutez jamais de combustible dans une cheminée chaude ou allumée. En suivant ces étapes simples, vous vous assurez que votre cheminée bioéthanol reste un élément sûr et agréable dans votre intérieur.
En savoir plus
Comment allumer une cheminée bioéthanol ?
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.
En savoir plus
The Role of Ceramic Wool in a Bioethanol Fireplace
Ceramic wool, 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 Wool Enhances Fireplace Safety Ceramic wool 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 Wool 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 wool 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 wool can help you get more out of your fuel. Once placed inside the burner, the wool 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 wool into an older burner yourself, it is worth taking a few simple precautions during handling. Like other mineral fibre materials, ceramic wool 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 wool 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 Wool 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 wool to an older model can meaningfully improve how your bioethanol fireplace performs.
En savoir plus
Comment remplir une cheminée au bioéthanol ?
Filling your bioethanol fireplace correctly is essential for both safety and performance. In this guide, we walk you through how to fill both manual and automatic bioethanol burners, including the key safety steps to follow before and after refilling.
En savoir plus
Where Can I Place And Install A Bioethanol Fireplace?
Choosing the right location for your bioethanol fireplace is important for both safety and performance. In this guide, we cover the recommended safety distances to flammable materials and how to calculate the correct room size for your bioethanol fireplace.
En savoir plus
