XS340 Ethanol Burner

What are the benefits of using a bioethanol heater compared to heating your house with a reverse cycle air conditioner?

It’s important to understand the difference between “foundation” heating and occasional heating. Quite often these are two completely different yet complementary systems that work hand in hand. Reverse cycle air conditioning doesn't give you a beautiful flame and lifestyle benefits of an EcoSmart Fire. However, By combining reverse-cycle air conditioning and an EcoSmart Fire within your home you can have the ‘best of both worlds’ - effective heat and ambiance.

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.

Do EcoSmart Fire ethanol fireplaces give off any fumes or gases?

Bioethanol 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. Clean burning and eco-friendly, ethanol fuel releases heat, carbon dioxide (the same stuff we exhale) and steam.

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.

How safe are bioethanol fireplaces?

EcoSmart Fire’s operating tools, procedures, and proprietary technologies were developed with safety as our top priority. Made from 304-grade stainless steel, EcoSmart Fire’s ethanol fireplace burners go through a deep-draw fabrication process that eliminates the potential for dangerous leaks. Additionally, our patented filling point is separated from the ignition zone and engineered so that the jerry can spout is fully supported prior to releasing the fuel supply. This eliminates the usual splash and spills that would otherwise occur when fuel is decanted into the burner while simultaneously reinforcing the maximum fill line within the burner. EcoSmart Fire’s ethanol fireplaces release heat, carbon dioxide (the same stuff we exhale) and steam. Allowing you to enjoy a clean-burning flame without the soot, smoke, ash or other harmful substances emitted by traditional wood burning fireplaces. When selecting an installation location for your ethanol fireplace it is important to consider the required minimum room sizes and clearances. Please reference our installation manual for more information.

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.

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.

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.