Flex 50SS.BXR Single Sided Fireplace Insert

Why use bioethanol?

Bioethanol, a renewable energy, is the cleanest and most efficient fuel on the market, which means there are no emissions and no soot or ash to clean up.

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.

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.

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.

Where is the best place to install an ethanol fireplace?

Our ethanol fireplaces can be installed virtually anywhere - in walls, cabinets, high rise buildings, commercial / residential / hospitality spaces, indoors and outdoors. Because EcoSmart Fire’s ethanol fireplaces are ventless, they require no gas line, no electricity, and no chimney for a hassle free and cost effective installation. Our ethanol fireplaces have been designed and tested with safety as our top priority. We have outlined requirements for each ethanol burner, ethanol fireplace insert, and ethanol freestanding fireplace in our collection. These guidelines include minimum room size requirements and clearance recommendations for flammable materials and movable objects. Please refer to our manual for more information.

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 do I clean my EcoSmart Fire ethanol burner?

Cleaning of the ethanol burner should be done only after you have used 50 litres of fuel or as soon as you notice a black residue forming around or on the burner. Before starting, make sure the burner is off, empty of ethanol, and at room temperature. Spray a multi-purpose cleaner on the surface of the burner and wipe with cloth, making sure to wipe in the direction of the grain. If material has fallen into the ethanol fireplace burner use a vacuum cleaner to remove debris through the burner opening. If your burner smells unusually strong after extensive use, remove the empty and room temperature burner from its surround and wash in hot, soapy water. Rinse thoroughly under running water and wait until the burner is completely dry before placing it back into its surround and reusing. View this video of the simple cleaning process here: https://youtu.be/VqHg9mXOc0U

Note: Stainless steel will rust or corrode over time if contamination or debris is not cleaned or removed immediately. When not in use, we recommend that you protect your ethanol fireplace from water damage or corrosion with a protective cover and the regular use of the burner lid included with your model.

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.