BK5 Ethanol Burner

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 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.

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.

What is bioethanol fuel?

Bioethanol (also known as methylated spirits or simply ethanol) is a form of renewable energy. It’s a clear, colourless liquid that’s commonly made from fermenting the sugar and starch components of plant by-products like sugarcane and grain crops.

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 much does it cost to maintain an ethanol fireplace?

EcoSmart Fire’s ethanol fireplaces require little maintenance. It is important to keep the lid closed when not in use to keep debris out of the ethanol burner that can cause corrosion and damages. The 304 stainless steel tank is built to last a lifetime if proper cleaning procedures are done when needed.

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.

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.