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Outdoor fireplace

How to Choose the Right Outdoor Fireplace for Your Garden

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Imaginfires
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Key takeaways:

If you need to choose an outdoor fireplace and you’re not sure which one is right for your space, start by assessing how much room you have, how you plan to use your fireplace, and any practical constraints such as smoke and maintenance. From there, it becomes much easier to select the right fuel type. Bioethanol fireplaces offer the best balance of real flame ambience, flexibility, and minimal maintenance, making them suitable for gardens of all shapes and sizes.

Outdoor bioethanol fireplace

Want your garden to feel like a true extension of your home, with a soft, flickering flame at the centre of it all? Outdoor fireplaces bring a sense of comfort, focus, and atmosphere that furniture alone simply can’t achieve, turning even the simplest patios into a lively outdoor living space that everyone can enjoy. But with so many options to choose from, how do you decide which outdoor fireplace is right for your garden? 

We’ve put together this outdoor fireplace buying guide to walk you through exactly how to choose an outdoor fireplace, step by step – so you can create a space that feels inviting and ready to enjoy whenever you step outside.

A step-by-step guide to choosing an outdoor fireplace

Step 1: Define how you want to use your space

Before you start researching outdoor fireplace models, you need to consider how you want your garden to feel and function. 

Try asking yourself:

  • Are you creating a relaxed outdoor seating area for quiet family evenings?

  • Would you like a sociable outdoor space to entertain guests?

  • Are you looking to install outdoor heating for your patio dining area, so you can stay outside longer into the evening?

This will then guide every decision that follows. For example, a compact, low-maintenance fire feature may suit a casual seating area, while a larger, statement fireplace may be better suited to a dedicated outdoor entertaining space. 

Step 2: Assess your garden size and layout

The size and layout of your garden will also help you determine which outdoor fireplace works best in your space. 

If your garden is on the smaller side, then a bulky fireplace may not be the most sensible choice, as it can overwhelm the space and limit how you use it. On the other hand, larger gardens can accommodate standout outdoor fireplace designs, as they help to create natural “zones” within bigger areas.

Our bioethanol fireplaces are available in a wide range of sizes and styles, so you can easily integrate them into your garden without dominating the space.

Step 3: Consider smoke and maintenance

Next, you need to consider any practical constraints such as smoke and maintenance. 

If you have neighbouring properties nearby or you live in a smoke control area, then a traditional wood-burning fireplace may not be suitable (or allowed). Even if you live in an area where woodburners are allowed, you may not want to sit outside coughing, and then come in smelling like a bonfire. 

Maintenance is another key factor. If you opt for a wood-burning fireplace, you’ll need somewhere to store your fuel, and you’ll need to regularly clean and maintain the fireplace – which can be expensive in the long run. 

If you’re looking for a smokeless outdoor fireplace that doesn’t require any maintenance, then a bioethanol fireplace could be the perfect option. Then burn cleanly, producing no smoke, soot, or ash – giving you all the ambience of real flames without the mess or maintenance.

Step 4: Decide how flexible your fireplace needs to be

Some outdoor fireplaces are designed to be permanent fixtures, while others give you far more flexibility.

If you’re planning a fixed layout, then a built-in or integrated fireplace may work well. But if you want the freedom to adapt your space over time and move your fireplace around your garden, then a portable or freestanding option might be the best choice.

Our freestanding bioethanol fireplaces are extremely easy to install, with no need for a chimney, flue, or gas connection. They’re portable and can be easily moved around your garden, allowing you to refresh your outdoor living space as often as you like. 

Howarth outdoor bioethanol fireplace

Step 5: Choose the right fuel type

Once you’ve got a clear understanding of your space and practical requirements, you can focus on the fuel type. Here are the pros and cons of each traditional outdoor fireplace type:

  • Wood-burning fireplaces offer a traditional look and feel with strong heat output, but they produce smoke and ash which can be messy and inconvenient.

  • Gas fireplaces are easy to use and offer instant flames at the touch of a button, but they require professional installation and access to a gas supply.

  • Electric fireplaces are quick and easy to install with no need to purchase any fuel, but they don’t produce real flames.

Bioethanol fireplaces offer a compelling alternative, giving you all the benefits of a woodburner without any of the drawbacks. They produce real flames with no smoke or ash to worry about, making them the perfect choice for all types of outdoor living spaces, including smaller patios and smoke control areas.

Step 6: Think about style and overall impact

An outdoor fireplace doesn’t just give off warmth. It’s a key design feature that shapes the entire look and feel of your garden.

You need to decide whether you want a traditional, rustic fireplace, or something more contemporary and refined. Think about the materials, finishes, and how the fireplace will complement your existing outdoor furniture and landscaping.

At imaginfires, we supply a wide range of woodburner-style designs and contemporary models, so you can choose the perfect style to suit your aesthetic. 

Outdoor electric fireplace

Why a biofire is the best outdoor fireplace for your garden

Bioethanol fireplaces are becoming increasingly popular in UK gardens, and it’s easy to see why:

  • They deliver real, flickering flames without smoke, soot or ash

  • Easy to install with no need for a chimney, flue, or fixed connection

  • Extremely flexible and can be easily moved around your garden as you please

  • Low maintenance and simple to operate

  • Can be used in all types of outdoor living spaces, including smaller patios and smoke control areas

Thinking about upgrading your outdoor space this season? Browse our range of outdoor fireplaces and find the perfect centrepiece for your garden.
Explore our outdoor biofires

Frequently asked questions

  • Can bioethanol fireplaces be used in an outdoor space?

    Yes, bioethanol fireplaces can be used in outdoor spaces, providing an elegant and portable heating option. Here are some key considerations.

    Considerations for Using Biofires in an Outdoor Space

    • Weather Resistance: Choose a bioethanol fireplace specifically designed for outdoor use, as it will be built to withstand various weather conditions. Look for features such as weatherproof materials and durable construction.
    • In any case, always cover the biofire with a waterproof cover when not in use.
    • Residential Use Only: Remember that a biofire is intended for domestic/residential interiors. When used outside, the effect of the heat will be considerably reduced, and should instead be thought of as a pleasant aesthetic addition, rather than a main heat source.
    • Ventilation: Outdoor spaces generally have natural ventilation, but ensure proper airflow around the fireplace for safe combustion and to prevent the accumulation of fumes.
    • Safe Placement: Select a stable and level surface for placing the bioethanol fireplace. Keep it away from flammable materials, overhanging structures, or low-hanging branches.

    Remember to always follow the manufacturer's instructions for safe installation and use of the outdoor bioethanol fireplace in your spaces. Enjoy the warmth and ambiance it brings to your gatherings or outdoor relaxation areas.

  • Do bioethanol fires produce heat?

    Are bioethanol fires warm?

    Perhaps surprisingly, this is a very common question that confuses many people!

    While biofires are not intended as a primary heat source for your home, your bioethanol fireplace gives off plenty of heat, with much better fuel efficiency than a wood-burning stove (which loses around 40% of its heat up the chimney). 

    So with our fireplaces you can close off the chimney (with a proprietary chimney sock or similar) and finish off above the fireplace with a piece of fireboard or similar for that added bit of protection.

    Do bioethanol fires give off heat?

    Yes. The real flame provides a cosy atmosphere, but it also produces a comfortable toastiness for your room.

    However, we don’t recommend replacing your central heating system with a bioethanol fireplace as it will not produce enough heat and will be expensive to run. But for supplementary heat, you’ll love the comfortable warmth produced by your bioethanol flame.

    Our fireplaces are ideal for those cooler summer evenings when you don’t want to heat the whole house, just taking the chill off a room and alternatively are also great for that added boost of heat in a room on the colder winter evenings.

    How much heat does a bioethanol fireplace produce in Kilowatts?

    In technical terms, bioethanol fireplaces produce around 3 kilowatts (kW) of heat when the fuel gauge is fully open. 

    To give you an idea of how hot this is, the average electric fire will generate around 2kWh of heat. So, depending on the size of your room, your bioethanol fireplace gives off heat that maintains a comfortable, consistent temperature.

    Wood-burning stoves and open fireplaces generally generate around 5kWh of heat (depending on their size), but this is often too hot for small-to-medium-sized rooms. So, you should find that your bioethanol fireplace gives off plenty of heat, even for deep midwinter. 

    If anything, you may find that a full bioethanol flame is a little too hot for your tastes. Fortunately, the easily adjustable slider on the fuel box will allow you to reduce the strength of the flame as you desire.

    How hot is an ethanol fireplace?

    If you place a wood burner thermometer on a bioethanol fireplace, you’ll find that it hits the temperature considered Best Operation for a wood burner (between 130ºC and 280ºC). At full burn, it reaches around 180ºC, which is plenty to warm a small-to-medium-sized room.

    However, we don't recommend replacing your central heating system with a bioethanol fire - we don't consider it a suitable replacement for your primary heating source. But it is perfect as a top up fireplace or suitable for when you just wish to warm up one room.

    Bioethanol makes a perfect additional heat source, offering a real, warming flame. In a standard-sized room, an average-sized bioethanol fireplace will give off as much heat as an electric heater on a medium-to-high setting.

    We recommend our larger bioethanol fireplaces for big rooms - our customers love our  Marlow fireplace or the freestanding  Globus. Larger fireplaces are capable of producing more heat. 

    Whichever bioethanol fireplace you choose, be assured that you'll get a natural, warming flame that brings a beautiful toasty warmth and cosiness to your room.

    Biofire is an environmentally-friendly heating option

    Bioethanol fuel provides a guilt-free flame — it’s carbon neutral and doesn’t pollute the air or damage the environment. 

    And, of course, with the spiralling price of gas and electricity, bioethanol puts you in control of your heating bills. You can rest assured that you’re using a green energy source that doesn’t pollute or damage the environment. 

    Many of our bioethanol fireplaces are portable, so you can use them outside. However, be aware that your bioethanol fuel is unlikely to last as long in windy conditions. 

    Bioethanol fireplaces are perfect for conservatories because you don’t need a flue or chimney to run your fire safely. Just fill your fireplace with bioethanol, light the flame, and enjoy a toasty warmth without the hassle or mess of burning wood or coal.

  • Does bio ethanol fuel produce smoke or soot ?

    Bioethanol fuel burns with 98% efficiency, so when used correctly it is very clean burning and therefore does not produce any smoke, soot or nasty residues. 

    So what does ethanol produce when burned? Nothing more than carbon dioxide and water. You should never observe any smoke or soot coming out of your bioethanol fireplace. 

    Potential Reasons Bioethanol Fireplace Sets Off Smoke Alarm

    In the unlikely event that your smoke or carbon monoxide alarm is triggered whilst using a biofire, please in the first instance always stop using the biofire and check the following:

    • That no stray household debris has accidentally fallen into the fuel box and is thus being burned and emitting smoke. Please wait for the biofire to return to room temperature before checking!
    • That you are using high grade bioethanol fuel specifically developed for bioethanol fireplaces.  Do not use any biofuel that does not clearly state it is formulated for use in bioethanol fireplaces. Also ensure it is at least 96% alcohol as this gives the cleanest and longest usage time.
    • That there are no restrictions to the ethanol fuel burning fully and cleanly. In particular, never cover the opening of the fuelbox with any accessories or other obstructions. This may change the quality of the combustion of the fuel.  
    • That any accessories used on or inside the bio fire have been designed specifically for use in biofires. Whilst we recommend you only use accessories available through our website, we are aware that other products are available and have caused the triggering of some smoke/fire alarms.

  • Can I move my bioethanol fireplace?

    Since many of our bioethanol fireplaces require absolutely no installation, these can easily move to different rooms or different locations. You can experiment as many times as you like. They are not fixed to one location!. Whichever room you decide to locate the bioethanol fire, please ensure that the room is well ventilated. This means not putting the biofire in an air sealed room, but in rooms that have some natural circulation.  Never move the biofuel fireplace whilst lit or with any biofuel inside the burner box. Always ensure that the unit has cooled completely before moving it. Allow at least 30 minutes for the stainless steel fuel box to cool.