AB8 Ethanol Burner

What maintenance is required for ethanol fireplaces?

Clean your EcoSmart Fire unit after you have used 50 liters [13.20 Gal.] of fuel or as soon as you notice black deposits on or near the burner of the ethanol fireplace. Black marks can be removed from the stone, solid surfaces or stainless steel with a mild abrasive washing product such as JIF or similar. It is recommended to test a small area first to ensure the cleaning product chosen is appropriate and will not mark or damage the surface. Burners can be washed as required in hot soapy water (even in your dishwasher) from time to time and the internal mechanics won’t deteriorate like some other brands as all internal parts are stainless steel.

How does an ethanol fireplace work?

EcoSmart Fire’s ethanol fireplaces are self-contained, burning bioethanol fuel that is housed within the stainless steel container. A flame regulator controls and stabilizes the flame. With a designated filling area, and easy shut off mechanism, you can ignite the flame and turn it off in a matter of seconds. View this quick demonstration video to help illustrate the process.

How long does it take to assemble?

There is virtually no assembly. Our Freestanding and Fireplace Grates ranges are designed to be placed into the desired location, secured into position, and operated immediately. Our Fireplace Inserts are designed to slot into place, secured and built around with your preferred finish – again a quick and easy installation – so your builder or interior designer will love you!

The longest part of the setup process is trying to figure out where you want to place it – be sure it complies with our clearance requirements particularly with regard to moving objects like curtains, tree branches and so forth.

Do ethanol fireplaces smell?

All heating appliances have their own smell be it gas, wood or electric - ethanol fireplaces are no different. e-NRG ethanol fuel is made of fermented plants like sugarcane or corn and is essentially a liquid alcohol. To safely make “de-natured” and unfit for consumption, substances have been added. The burning of these substances may cause a slight smell upon initial lighting and when the flame is extinguished – similar to when you blow out a candle. e-NRG ethanol fuel is the only fuel recommended for your EcoSmart Fire ethanol fireplace. e-NRG ethanol fuel has the lowest odor and longest burn time on the market. The nice thing about using ethanol is that it’s not dry like gas or smokey like wood.

What are some key benefits – compared to other heating options?

When you choose ethanol as your fuel source over gas or wood, you are totally simplifying your installation requirements and costs. There's no flue or chimney required when burning ethanol, which means that you have the ultimate in design flexibility to achieve an open fire in so many more areas of your home - both indoors and out.

What is the difference between gel and EcoSmart Fire’s ethanol fireplaces?

There are key differences between gel fireplaces and ethanol fireplaces in terms of operation and performance. Gel fireplaces are operated by inserting and lighting tin cans filled with gel. The cans act as the burner mechanism. Gel fireplaces do not produce a long coherent flame as known from ethanol fireplaces and can be difficult to extinguish. EcoSmart Fire’s ethanol fireplaces use a clean burning liquid fuel made with fermented plants. The fuel is housed in a ethanol burner that allows for safe and easy operation. Ethanol fireplaces produce a beautiful, vibrant dancing flame. Gel fuel should never be used within an ethanol fireplace.

Do bioethanol fireplaces produce heat?

Yes, although it does depend upon the size of the fireplace and also the size of the room itself. But a fire of an appropriate size can produce a good level of heat when considered properly in terms of its actual output and how it is positioned in the space. Bioethanol fires are a secondary source of heat that deliver a myriad of lifestyle benefits that can’t be achieved from primary heat sources such as radiators or reverse cycle air conditioning.

Can I extinguish my ethanol fireplace before the fuel has burnt?

Yes, you can turn your EcoSmart Fire ethanol burner off at any given time, even if there is ethanol still left in the burner. It is recommended however, that you leave it to burn until it completely runs out. The shut off mechanism is there for security and safety for those times when you need to leave the house, as it is not safe to leave a fire unattended. You need to wait until your appliance cools to room temperature (60 minutes) before re-igniting, this is because hot vapours are a hazard and may cause a strong, initial ignition if the ethanol has not cooled long enough. This is also to ensure that the flame has been totally extinguished and that the appliance is safe to refuel if the amount of fuel in the burner at that time is insufficient for your next ignition / use.