BK5 Ethanol Burner

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.

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.

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.

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 long will my ethanol fireplace burn?

Burn times for our ethanol fireplaces vay based on flame size and fuel capacity of the burner. EcoSmart Fire’s ethanol fireplaces will burn between 8-13 hours when full.

Can EcoSmart Fires be installed everywhere?

Almost everywhere! EcoSmart Fires cannot be installed into small rooms that are less than our minimum room size which is burner specific. For all other installations, you must comply with our compulsory clearances and installation instructions. Approval from building authorities may be required prior to installation in your area. Please make sure you contact appropriate parties before installing your EcoSmart Fire.

Is their heat output similar to a gas heater?

Burning bioethanol is similar to gas, but the room doesn't dry out like it does with gas - a more gentle, softer heat is created. Heat-wise, it depends on the models being compared. Some of our bioethanol burners output 15,000 BTU and can heat up to 60sqm of living space. Bioethanol is not, however, on an adjustable thermostat. Some may be turned up and down, but you can't control the room temperature in the same way as you do with gas on mains

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.