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What Are the Different Types of Bioethanol Fireplaces?

What Are the Different Types of Bioethanol Fireplaces?

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Imaginfires
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In short:

There are six main types of bioethanol fireplaces: woodburner-style, freestanding, wall mounted, baskets, suites, and outdoor. imaginfires’ woodburner-style range features our most popular models, giving you that classic log burner aesthetic without the mess or maintenance. Our freestanding collection follows close behind, offering a variety of portable, floor-standing units that can be moved anywhere in your home. We also offer wall mounted fireplaces, bioethanol suites, and fire baskets to help suit different space requirements – and we even have a range of outdoor biofires that bring real flames to your garden or patio area. None of our bioethanol fireplaces require a chimney, flue, or gas connection, making them suitable for all types of homes (including rental properties and flats).

If you’re looking to invest in a bioethanol fireplace, it can be difficult to know which type to choose. At imaginfires, we offer six different styles to suit every type of space and aesthetic. Whether you’re furnishing a small flat or a larger family home, we guarantee you’ll find the perfect bioethanol fireplace for your space in our collections.

Here’s a clear breakdown of the main types of bioethanol fireplaces to help you choose.

A quick comparison of the different types of bioethanol fireplaces

Type

Setup effort

Uses floor space

Portable

Style

Best for

Woodburner-style

None – simply unbox and light

Yes

Yes

Rustic / classic

Any space where you want that classic log burner aesthetic

Freestanding

None – simply unbox and light

Yes

Yes

Contemporary / modern

Rental properties and open-plan spaces

Wall-mounted

Minimal, bracket fitting required

No

No

Contemporary / modern

Smaller rooms or media walls

Suite

Moderate, light assembly required

Yes

No

Traditional / classic

Living rooms where you want a traditional fireplace look

Fire basket

None – simply unbox and light

Yes

Yes

Traditional / classic

Placing into existing hearts or recesses

Outdoor

None – simply unbox and light

Yes

Yes

Various styles

Gardens, patios, balconies, outdoor seating areas
Dusty vacuum cleaner in an empty room

Woodburner-style bioethanol fireplaces

If you’re drawn to the classic look of a log burner but don’t want to deal with the mess, maintenance, or installation costs, our woodburner-style biofires offer the perfect solution. They deliver real flames, real warmth, and all the ambience of a log burner, just without the chimney or flue. 

They sit on the floor like a conventional stove and don’t require any installation. All you need to do is unpack your fireplace, place it where you want it, and light. They can be easily moved around your home as you please, bringing that cosy fireside feeling to any room.

Freestanding bioethanol fireplaces

Searching for a flexible fireplace that you can move from room to room whenever you fancy a change? Our freestanding bioethanol fires operate as standalone units and sit on the floor independently. They don’t require any fixing or brackets – simply unpack, place into position, and light. 

Our freestanding biofires are perfect for open-plan living spaces. They’re also suitable for use in smaller flats and rental properties, giving you the warmth and atmosphere of a real flame without having to get your landlord’s permission or make any permanent changes to your home.

Wall mounted bioethanol fireplaces

Our wall mounted biofires create a stunning focal point in your home without using up floor space. This makes them ideal for smaller rooms or hallways where you want a statement fireplace feature, but don’t want to sacrifice any square footage. Our wall mounted collection features a range of modern designs with large glass panels to enjoy the flickering flames.

They’re quick and easy to install, too, and will only take around an hour out of your day. You just need to fix a bracket to your chosen wall, which is a straightforward job if you’re comfortable using a drill. Once you’ve mounted the bracket, the fireplace then easily attaches into position. 

Bioethanol suites

If you’re looking for a model that closely mimics a traditional built-in fireplace, explore our collection of bioethanol suites. They combine a fireplace surround, mantel, and fire unit into one complete feature, giving you that classic fireside feeling without the expense and hassle of professional installation or ongoing maintenance.

Our bioethanol suites take more time to put together than other options. You’ll need to assemble the surround and position the unit correctly. But the good news is that you don’t need to hire a professional – as long as you’ve got a basic grasp of DIY, you’ll be able to follow our easy instruction guide.

Bioethanol fire baskets

Our bioethanol fire baskets give you the visual appeal of an open fire, but in a simpler, more compact format. The fuel box sits inside an open basket frame on the floor with no installation required.

You can easily place our biofire baskets into your existing hearth or alcove, which makes them the perfect option if you’re looking to switch from a woodburner to a bioethanol fireplace. They create the impression of a traditional open fire without any of the usual mess or maintenance, and you can easily move your fire basket around your home as you please.

Outdoor bioethanol fireplaces

Want to enjoy the beauty of real flames in your garden without the smoke or hassle of getting the fire lit? We offer a range of outdoor bioethanol fireplaces in both contemporary and traditional designs that can be used in all types of outdoor spaces, including gardens, patios, balconies, and smoke control areas.

Our outdoor models don’t require any installation and can be easily moved around your garden whenever you fancy a change of scene. They do have a slightly lower heat impact when used outdoors, but they create a stunning focal point for your outdoor seating areas and are great for extending those summer evenings outdoors.

Bring the beauty of real flames into your home with imaginfires

Whichever type you choose, all our bioethanol fireplaces give you:

  • Real flames without the smoke, mess, or maintenance

  • A boost of warmth (around 2kWh) to supplement your central heating

  • Flexible placement without the need for a chimney, flue, or gas connection

  • Clean-burning flames that are better for your health and the environment

Browse our full range of bioethanol fireplaces to find your favourite design.

Browse our biofires

Frequently asked questions

  • How does a bioethanol fire work?

    Bio ethanol fireplaces (also known as biofires) don't require chimneys or flues as the fuel burns without producing smoke or soot. The bioethanol fuel is poured into our double lined stainless steel fuel box (any spillages must be wiped away before lighting) and lit with a firelighter. The flame height can be adjusted by opening or closing the fuel box slightly. Once finished simply slide the shutter over the opening in the fuel box to extinguish the flame. It's that easy ! 

  • What are the different types of bioethanol fireplaces?

    When it comes to bioethanol fireplaces, there are various types available to suit different needs and preferences. Here are some of the common types:

    Indoor Bioethanol Fireplaces

    Indoor bioethanol fireplaces are designed to be used inside the home and provide a clean and smoke-free alternative to traditional fireplaces. They come in a range of designs, including:

    Outdoor Bioethanol Fireplaces

    For outdoor spaces, there are bioethanol fireplaces designed for outdoor use. These fireplaces are built to withstand the elements and enhance the outdoor ambiance. They include:

    • Outdoor Wall-Mounted Bioethanol Fireplaces: These fireplaces can be mounted on exterior walls, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in outdoor entertaining areas.
    • Outdoor Freestanding Bioethanol Fireplaces: These standalone units are designed to be placed on patios, decks, or other outdoor areas to provide heat and a captivating flame.

    Wood Burner Style Bioethanol Fireplaces

    For those who love the look and feel of a traditional wood-burning fireplace, there are bioethanol fireplaces designed in a wood burner style. These fireplaces mimic the appearance of a wood-burning fire, providing a rustic and classic charm without the need for wood logs or a chimney.

    For more information on the different types of bioethanol fireplaces and to explore our range of products, please visit our bioethanol fireplaces page.

  • 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.