What are the Real Running Costs of Bioethanol Fireplaces?

Energy bills and fuel prices have risen dramatically over the past few years, and there’s little sign of them settling down. If you’re feeling the pinch, you’re probably wondering what’s the most practical and cost‑effective way to add a touch of extra warmth to your space. 

A bioethanol fireplace could be the perfect solution. They’re affordable, efficient, and completely hassle-free, with no installation, electricity, or maintenance costs to worry about.

But what are the true bioethanol fireplace running costs, and how do they compare with traditional fires? Let’s take a closer look. 

How much does it actually cost to run a bioethanol fireplace?

One of the main advantages of owning a bioethanol fireplace is how straightforward it is to run. Biofires don’t require a chimney or flue, and they’re also exceptionally easy to install – simply unpack your biofire and place it in your desired spot. You don’t need to pay any daily standing charges or fork out on installation or maintenance costs, unlike gas or electric fires.

Biofires run on bioethanol: a clean-burning fuel that you simply purchase when needed, just like topping up your car. As a general guide, one litre of bioethanol fuel provides around 3.5-4 hours of burn time at full flame. Depending on where you buy it, that litre can cost anywhere between £2.50 and £7.00. 

Our own-brand fuel is made from high-grade ingredients and is exceptionally long-lasting. It also offers excellent value when purchased in bulk. A 12-bottle pack currently costs £46.99, which works out at around £3.91 per litre. Based on an average burn time of four hours per litre, your biofire will roughly cost 97p per hour to run at full output. This makes it easy to budget how much you’ll spend on fuel, without needing to worry about unexpected costs. 

And because all our models feature an adjustable slider to control the flame size, you can easily reduce the burn rate (and cost) by up to 50%. This means that your litre of fuel could actually last significantly longer than it says on the tin!

Comparing running costs: bioethanol vs gas, electric, and wood

While the cost of bioethanol fuel has remained relatively stable, gas and electricity prices have fluctuated dramatically in recent years. Here are the typical running costs of each type of fire:

While gas and electric fires may seem cheaper on paper, the installation fees, flue requirements, and annual servicing quickly add up. And although electric fires might be convenient, they can’t replicate the movement and feeling you get from a real fire. Woodburning stoves are a traditionally attractive fireplace, but they need constant upkeep and release harmful greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, so they’re by no means a sustainable option in any sense of the word!

Bioethanol fireplaces are the superior choice, offering a unique balance of affordability, simplicity, and looks. They give you the beauty of a real flame without the cost, mess, or maintenance of other fireplace options.

Our top tips for efficient fuel use

Wondering how to get the most from your bioethanol fireplace? These small steps can make a big difference to the efficiency and running costs of your fire:

• Adjust the flame size. Reduce the slider during mild weather to extend the burn time and make your fuel last longer.

• Use in well-insulated rooms. Bioethanol fires are designed as a top-up heat source, not as a replacement for your central heating. Position your fire in a draught-free space to retain the heat for longer.

• Purchase high-quality fuel. Use our premium, clean-burning bioethanol fuel to ensure a steady flame and better fuel efficiency.

• Buy in bulk. Take advantage of our multi-pack fuel deals to keep your running costs low. 

• Regularly clean the burners. This ensures that your flames continue to burn at their best and reduces unnecessary fuel consumption. Check out our blog post on how to clean and maintain your bioethanol fireplace.  

Bring home the beauty of real fire, without the cost

Want to enjoy the cosy glow of a real flame, without worrying about sky-high running costs? We offer a wide range of bioethanol fireplaces, from traditional woodburner styles to sleek, contemporary designs, so you can enjoy the ambience of a real fireplace without the expense or effort of log, gas, or electric fires. Pair your fire with our premium bioethanol fuel for a long-lasting flame that won’t burn through your budget. 

Ready to make the switch? Explore our bioethanol fireplace collection today.