Best Ethanol Fireplaces: Top Picks, Reviews & Buying Guide

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Best Ethanol Fireplaces: Top Picks, Reviews & Buying Guide

Shopping for an ethanol fireplace to set a modern chill mood in your living room or bedroom?

You’ve come to the right place. 

Ethanol fireplaces are becoming increasingly popular due to their slim modern design, low-carbon footprint, unique features, and ease of use. 

Ethanol fireplaces use bioethanol fuel to run, so they do not require gas, wood, chimneys, or electricity – making them extremely simple & safe to install and use in any wall or room. 

They are also ventless and do not produce smoke, ash, soot, or unpleasant odors. 

Ethanol fireplaces nevertheless generate real flames by burning alcohol fuel in their burner units. The amount of heat an ethanol fireplace gives off is rated by its BTU or British Thermal Unit output and the size of your room. 

Ethanol fireplaces are mainly decorative, however – they are rarely uses as a primary heat source in a home or office. 

So if you want a low-effort contemporary fireplace that gives off a small amount of heat while adding a stylish touch to your space, then an ethanol fireplace is a great choice. 


What’s In This Buying guide

In this buying guide, we recommend and review what we think are the best ethanol fireplaces sold today for most modern homes and offices. 

Our goal is to make it easy for you to decide which ethanol fireplace is the best for your budget, room requirements, and style. 

In our reviews we look at each top pick’s design, material, durability, and heating efficiency.

After the reviews, we answer commonly asked questions and provide a brief shopping guide that discusses the major issues and features to consider when shopping for a linear fireplace insert for your room.

So let’s begin by reviewing our current top picks:


Best Ethanol Fireplaces

  1. Most Innovative: Ignis Bio Ethanol Ventless Fireplace Burner Insert
  2. Best Value: BRIAN & DANY Tabletop Portable Ethanol Fireplace
  3. Most Durable: HOMCOM Wall-Mounted Ethanol Fireplace
  4. Highest Quality: EcoSmart Mix 850 Bioethanol Freestanding Fire Bowl
  5. Best Design: Anywhere Fireplace – BROADWAY Bio-ethanol Fireplace
  6. Most Practical: Regal Flame Ethanol Fireplace Log Set with Burner Insert
  7. Best Art Deco: Lovinflame Mountain Tabletop Fire Pit 

bio ethanol fireplace insert
  • Ignis Bio Ethanol Ventless Fireplace Burner Insert

  • Most Innovative
  • Material
    Stainless Steel

  • Weight
    4.5 lbs

  • Dimensions
    11.25 (L) x 5 (W) x 3.25 (H) inches

free standing ethanol fireplace
  • BRIAN & DANY Tabletop Portable Ethanol Fireplace

  • Best Value
  • Material
    Glass

  • Weight
    3.3 lbs

  • Dimensions
    13.8 (W) x7 (D) x 5.7 (H) inches

fuel for ethanol fireplace
  • HOMCOM Wall-Mounted Ethanol Fireplace

  • Most Durable
  • Material
    Tempered glass, alloy steel, stainless steel

  • Weight
    36 lbs

  • Dimensions
    43.25 (L) x 5.5 (W) x 21.25 (H) inches

ethanol fireplace
  • EcoSmart Mix 850 Bioethanol Freestanding Fire Bowl

  • Highest Quality
  • Material
    Stainless steel

  • Weight
    105 lbs

  • Dimensions
    12.6 (H) x 33.5 (D) inches


best gel fuel fireplace
  • Anywhere Fireplace – BROADWAY Bio-ethanol Fireplace

  • Best Design
  • Material
    Glass/p>

  • Weight
    27 lbs

  • Dimensions
    23 (W) x 18 (H) x 14 (D) inches

ethanol fireplace
  • Regal Flame Ethanol Fireplace Log Set with Burner Insert

  • Most Practical
  • Material
    Ceramic wood logs & 304 stainless steel insert/p>

  • Weight
    9 lbs

  • Dimensions
    17.3 (W) x 12.4 (D) x 4.6 (H) inches

ethanol fuel fireplace
  • Lovinflame Mountain Tabletop Fire Pit

  • Best Art Deco
  • Material
    Powder-coated metal & stainless steel/p>

  • Weight
    8.07 lbs

  • Dimensions
    20.08 (L) x 7.48 (W) x 3.94 (H) inches


1. Most Innovative: Ignis Bio Ethanol Ventless Fireplace Burner Insert 

ethanol fuel fireplace

The Ignis EB1200 bioethanol ventless fireplace features the innovative patented spill-proof technology that maximizes safety.  

Pros

  • Patented spill-proof technology
  • Stainless steel construction
  • 3-year warranty
  • Low maintenance
  • Reasonably priced

Cons

  • May develop rust over time
  • Flame does not last as long as advertised

Our Review

The rectangular fireplace is designed to fit small or custom fireplaces in your home or office. It also comes in handy for fireplace conversion projects and can easily be inserted into existing stoves or fireplaces. 

This fireplace insert has a 1.5-liter burner that delivers a burn time of 5-9 hours per refill. It also has a 7⅛ -inch linear flame that you can adjust with the help of a sliding baffle. 

The Ignis EB1200 bio ethanol fireplace burner insert is made of high-quality 304 stainless steel and boasts a unique double-wall construction. 

It is also effortless to use; you only need to add bioethanol and ignite the fireplace with a matchstick or long lighter to enjoy the eye-catching burning flames. 

With this sleek and contemporary fireplace insert, you can also purchase a blackened top plate or fire grate that is compatible with fireplace logs, fire glass, or pebbles. 

The Ignis EB1200 bio ethanol fireplace burner insert comes with an EB1200 burner, a damper tool, and a user manual. Plus, it comes with a 3-year factory defect and a malfunction warranty. 

Specifications

  • Dimensions (without grate): 11.25 x 5 x 3.25 inches
  • Weight: 4.5 lbs
  • Material: Stainless steel
  • Color: 304 stainless steel
  • Batteries Required: No
  • Warranty: 3-year factory defects and malfunction warranty 

2. Best Value: BRIAN & DANY Tabletop Portable Ethanol Fireplace

bio ethanol fireplace insert

The BRIAN & DANY tabletop ethanol fireplace is an affordable and portable solution if you want to create a warm atmosphere inside your home or a romantic setting on your patio. 

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Portable
  • Lightweight
  • Easy assembly
  • Aesthetically pleasing

Cons

  • Cheap construction
  • Short burning time

Our Review

The BRIAN & DANY tabletop portable ethanol fireplace is an excellent alternative to gas fires or traditional wood logs. It features an 8 to 12-inch real flame that does not emit any smoke or ash. Plus, it is highly durable owing to its tempered glass construction and sturdy steel base.

The BRIAN & DANY portable fireplace has an approximate burn time of 40 to 60 minutes after fuel refilling, making it ideal for a cozy dinner at home or a relaxing evening in your backyard. You can also use the durable wick for extended periods without having to replace it. 

This classic fireplace is easy to use and requires ethanol fuel with a minimum of 95% alcohol. Note that ethanol is not included with your purchase, but you can find it easily at a local hardware store. 

You need to take a few precautions when using the BRIAN & DANY tabletop portable ethanol fireplace. 

When using this ethanol fireplace outdoors, make sure that it is not too windy and that no food is cooked on the fire. If indoors, ensure that at least one window is open when the fireplace is in use. Also, do not add ethanol to the fireplace if it is still hot or while there is an active fire. 

The BRIAN & DANY tabletop portable ethanol fireplace comes with one flame snuffer, one wick, and an instruction manual. 

Specifications

  • 13.8 x 7 x 5.7 inches
  • Weight: 3.3 lb
  • Material: Glass
  • Maximum burning time: 45-60 Minutes
  • Fuel: Ethanol with a minimum 95% alcohol percentage 

3. Most Durable: HOMCOM Wall-Mounted Ethanol Fireplace

ethanol fireplaces reviews

The stylish and modern HOMCOM wall-mounted ethanol fireplace is the perfect addition for creating a warm and relaxing ambiance in your office or living space. Plus, it is made of highly durable stainless steel and alloy steel, so it is sure to last long.

Pros

  • Elegant and modern design
  • Includes a tempered glass cover lid 
  • Stainless steel finish
  • Ideal for small spaces

Cons

  • Does not heat effectively
  • Difficult installation
  • Burns fuel quickly

Our Review

The classic HOMCOM wall-mounted ethanol fireplace features real burning flame effects that are 19.75 inches long. It also includes a burner box that holds 2.8L of ethanol and has a burning time of up to 4 hours per refill.

This recessed ethanol fireplace is ideal if you have a small living space or office, as you can easily mount it on any wall. Plus, it provides supplemental heat for up to 323 square feet. 

The HOMCOM fireplace does not exude any harmful chemicals, smoke, or ash while burning and also includes a tempered glass cover lid that allows you to put out the fire safely. It also has a chamber width of 43.25 inches and a thermal efficiency of 4000W. 

The elegant HOMCOM wall-mounted ethanol fireplace is a mid-range, high-quality product that ensures efficiency. 

Specifications

  • 43.25 (L) x 5.5 (W) x 21.25 (H) inches
  • Weight: 36 lbs
  • Color: Black
  • Material: Tempered glass, stainless steel, alloy steel
  • Installation Type: Wall mount
  • Chamber Width: 43.25 inches
  • Thermal Efficiency: 4000W
  • Burner Volume: 2.8L

4. Premium Quality: EcoSmart Mix 850 Bioethanol Freestanding Fire Bowl

fuel for ethanol fireplace

The premium-quality EcoSmart Mix 850 bio ethanol freestanding fire bowl exudes classic luxury with its unique shape and elegant design. 

Pros

  • Durable
  • Ideal for indoor and outdoor use
  • Statement decorative piece
  • Easy to install
  • 1-year limited warranty
  • Made with Fluid Concrete Technology

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Does not always heat effectively 
  • Makes whistling sound

Our Review

The EcoSmart Mix 850 bio ethanol freestanding fire bowl features the innovative Fluid Concrete Technology that delivers exceptionally durable products. This revolutionary technology uses a unique curing process that allows ethanol fireplaces to rest in quality-controlled surroundings. 

This elegant ethanol fireplace boasts an impact and stain-resistant barrier, making it suitable for harsh weather conditions. It also features black glass charcoal, a solid stainless steel burner, and black glass charcoal, creating an eye-catching atmosphere on chilly nights. 

The EcoSmart Mix 850 is constructed with lightweight concrete, making it easy for you to transport it from one area to another quickly. 

Plus, it is fueled by e-NRG bioethanol fuel, which does not result in any soot, ash, or smoke emission while burning, making it safe and enjoyable to use around your family and friends. E-NRG bioethanol fuel is eco-friendly and eliminates sparks and odors, but is not included with your purchase. 

With this freestanding bioethanol fireplace, you can personalize your space by adding existing decorative media to the platform around the burner. You can also choose between 3 tasteful colors (bone, graphite, and natural) to match your home decor. 

The EcoSmart Mix 850 is tested worldwide and adheres to the ACCC safety mandate in Australia. It is also UL listed in the USA and certified in the UK and EU in accordance with EN16647 global standards. 

With the EcoSmart Mix 850 bioethanol freestanding fire bowl, you also get a burner assembly, a lighting rod, black glass charcoal, a refillable butane lighter, an e-NRG fuel adaptor, and a 1.25-gallon Jerry can with a safety spout. 

EcoSmart is synonymous with premium quality and substance. It also offers a 1-year limited warranty that you can avail of in case you have any issues with the EcoSmart Mix 850. You can return unused items within 180 days from the date of purchase for a full refund. 

Specifications

  • Height: 12.6 inches
  • Diameter: 33.5 inches
  • Weight: 105 lbs
  • Location: Indoor/Outdoor
  • Material: Stainless steel
  • Ignition: Match lit
  • Heat Output: 20433 BTUs
  • Fuel: Bioethanol

5. Best Design: Anywhere Fireplace – BROADWAY Bio-ethanol Fireplace

ethanol fuel fireplace

The Anywhere Fireplace – BROADWAY bio-ethanol fireplace features two glass panels holding a curved steel burner, giving the illusion of floating or dancing flames. This contemporary design really makes the fireplace stand out. 

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Burns cleanly with no ash or smoke
  • 5-hour burning time 

Cons

  • Liquid bio-ethanol fuel is not included

Our Review

This freestanding BROADWAY bio-ethanol fireplace can be safely used indoors and outdoors and is compatible with liquid bio-ethanol fuel.

This ventless bio-ethanol fireplace adds a stylish touch to your home and can easily be placed on any flat surface. Remember to bring it inside or cover it adequately in case of rain to avoid any damage to the body. 

The BROADWAY bio-ethanol fireplace is extremely easy to clean and maintain owing to its use of ‘green fuel’. It has a burning time of 5 hours with one liter of fuel, making it relatively economical. However, the fuel is sold separately. 

This bio-ethanol fireplace is made of high-quality metal and tempered glass, making it highly durable. Plus, its unique shape and modern design make it the perfect gift for your loved ones. 

Specifications

  • 23 (W) x 18 (H) x 14 (D) inches
  • Weight: 27 lbs
  • Material: High Gloss Beige
  • Indoor/Outdoor: Indoor only
  • Burner Capacity: 1.5 liters per burner
  • Approx. Burn Time: 5 hours per refill
  • Approx. BTU Output: 8,400
  • Fuel: Liquid Bio-ethanol Fuel

6. Most Practical: Regal Flame Ethanol Fireplace Log Set with Burner Insert

This Regal Flame ethanol fireplace log set with burner insert is an affordable and convenient alternative to hauling and burning wood during cold winter nights. It also provides a real fire without any hassle or mess, making it an overall practical investment. 

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Eco-friendly
  • Simple to use
  • Realistic-looking logs

Cons

  • Small logs
  • Insufficient burning time

Our Review

The Regal Flame ethanol fireplace log set is extremely easy to use; you only need to insert the log set into your hearth to create a warm and cozy ambiance in your living space.

This ethanol fireplace log set features ceramic wooden logs and a black grate. It also has a 304 stainless steel dual-layer burner with a capacity of 2 x .4 liters. Plus, it boasts a burn time of 2-3 hours and requires no gas, gel cans, or electricity to run.

Regal Frame delivers the utmost customer satisfaction and offers a refund guarantee on its ethanol fireplaces. If you are unhappy with your purchase for any reason, you can return unused items in their original packaging within 14 days for a full refund. 

The Regal Flame ethanol fireplace comes with a log set of eight pieces, a grate, two ethanol cup burners, and one damper tool. 

Specifications

  • 17.3W x 12.4D x 4.6H inches
  • Weight: 9 lbs
  • Material: 304 stainless steel
  • Use: Indoor/outdoor
  • Color/Finish: Black grate & wood finish logs
  • Burn Time: 2-3 hours approximately
  • BTU: 4,000 
  • Fuel Type: Ethanol fireplace fuel 
  • Flame: 8 -12″ high
  • Insert Capacity: 2 x .4 liter dual-layer burner

7. Best Art Deco Style: Lovinflame Mountain Tabletop Fire Pit 

bio ethanol fireplace insert

The Lovinflame mountain tabletop fire pit adds a sleek and modern touch to your space with its unique art deco design. 

This portable fireplace offers clean burning with its water-soluble fuel, which produces no odor or smoke, making it safe to use indoors and outdoors. 

Pros

  • Portable
  • Easy to use
  • Stainless steel wick
  • Includes a 1-year warranty

Cons

  • May not heat effectively
  • Fragile construction

Our Review

The Lovinflame mountain tabletop fire pit is ideal if you have small children or pets because its water-soluble fuel releases mostly water vapor. 

It features a patented stainless steel wick that can be ignited using only the Lovinflame non-toxic fuel to avoid flare-ups and fuel spills. This unique wick creates a lovely orange flame, is wind-resistant and boasts a 2000+ hour long life.

Apart from being extremely safe to use, the Lovinflame fireplace is lightweight and portable, making it easy for you to transport it from one area to another. 

You can place it on your patio to elevate the atmosphere of your outdoor gathering or place it in your living room to create an inviting ambience.

The Lovinflame mountain tabletop fire pit is made of fine powder-coated metal and has a stainless steel finish, which blends in with most interiors and exteriors.

In addition, it comes with a 1-year manufacturer’s warranty, along with a 5-year warranty for its unique stainless steel wick. 

The Lovinflame mountain tabletop fire pit comes with four liters of Lovinflame fuel, one snuffer and one butane torch lighter. 

Specifications

  • 20.08 x 7.48 x 3.94 inches
  • Weight: 8.07 lbs
  • Material: Metal
  • Finish: Stainless Steel
  • Variations: 16 inches & 20 inches
  • Burn Time (16-inch): 3-3.5 hours 
  • Burn Time (20-inch): 4 hours
  • Fuel Tank Capacity (16-inch): 1L
  • Fuel Tank Capacity (20-inch): 2L

Ethanol Fireplace Buying Guide

best gel fuel fireplace

What are Ethanol Fireplaces and How Do They Work?

Ethanol fireplaces are designed to burn ethanol as fuel poured into a burner or tank, resulting in real flames. 

They work using fiberglass wool or ceramic that acts like a candle wick and absorbs most of the fuel, making the flame last longer. You can quickly light an ethanol fireplace with the help of a match or a long lighter. 

Ethanol fireplaces do not generate as much heat as traditional fireplaces and are typically used for decorative purposes. 

However, how much warmth an ethanol fireplace generates also depends on the size of your living or office space.  

Why Buy an Ethanol Fireplace?

Ethanol fireplaces are more aesthetically pleasing than other kinds and generate sufficient heat. 

They offer a mix of benefits of gas, electric, or wood fireplaces. They are energy-efficient and easy to clean and maintain. Plus, they do not require gas, chimney, or electricity to run and do not produce any smoke, ash, or odors. 

What to Look for When Purchasing an Ethanol Fireplace

A few key features to consider when purchasing an ethanol fireplace include:

Design

best bio ethanol fireplaces

The ethanol fireplace’s design is a significant factor because it says a lot about your personal style. You can find ethanol fireplaces in various sizes, shapes, and colors to suit your home or office decor. 

The most appealing feature of an ethanol fireplace is the real flames that create a beautiful ambiance to your surroundings. So when browsing through ethanol fireplaces, you should look at the length of the flame.

You should also take into account the fireplace’s style. A recessed or wall-mounted ethanol fireplace is ideal if you have a small space. In contrast, a freestanding or tabletop fireplace is easy to move around quickly from indoors to outdoors. 

Panels

The panels of an ethanol fireplace serve as a protective barrier to ensure safety while the fire is burning. They are usually made of tempered glass that prevents breakage. The panels also protect the flame from wind to ensure a longer burn time. 

Most rectangular or square ethanol fireplaces have glass panels on the front and back, whereas round ethanol fireplaces feature a cylindrical glass panel with the top open. Other freestanding ethanol fireplaces may have glass panels only on the sides. 

Indoor/Outdoor

You can find ethanol fireplaces designed specifically for either indoor use, outdoor use, or both. 

Most ethanol fireplaces are safe to use inside your home or office. However, if you want an ethanol fireplace for your outdoor patio or backyard, make sure it is durable with strong panels to protect the flame in windy conditions. 

Area Coverage

fuel for ethanol fireplace

The size of an ethanol fireplace is directly linked to the size of your space. You can opt for wall-mounted ethanol fireplaces that do not take up much space if you have a small area to utilize. You can also find small tabletop ethanol fireplaces.

If space is not an issue, you can buy a larger ethanol fireplace that doubles as a statement piece in your living room or patio. 

Apart from the size, you should also check how much heat an ethanol fireplace produces, how long the burn time is, and the quantity of bioethanol it requires to run. 

Warranty & Costs

There are ethanol fireplaces to fit almost every budget.

Small tabletop ethanol fireplaces or log inserts cost between $50 and $150, while mid-range ethanol fireplaces cost between $150 and $500. You can find high-quality wall-mounted ethanol fireplaces and contemporary freestanding fireplaces in the latter range.

If you want to splurge on a new ethanol fireplace for your home or office that makes a bold statement, you can expect to spend anywhere between $1000 and $7000. More expensive ethanol fireplaces promise a highly durable and premium-quality product. 

An ethanol fireplace’s warranty varies from brand to brand, so there is no set time frame that you can keep in mind. 

However, you should try to invest in an ethanol fireplace that comes with some sort of warranty or guarantee. If you are not satisfied with your purchase for any reason, you should have the option of returning it for a refund. 


Ethanol Fireplaces: Frequently Asked Questions

ethanol fireplaces reviews

Are Ethanol Fireplaces Expensive To Run?

Ethanol fireplaces are generally less expensive to run as compared to wood, gas, or electric fires. 

The cost of installing ethanol fireplaces is minimal because they are independent units that do not require any plumbing or wiring. However, the fuel cost for an ethanol fireplace is an ongoing expense. 

Some ethanol fireplaces include bioethanol fuel; however, most do not, which means you have to purchase it yourself. One liter of ethanol has a burn time of approximately 4 hours, which means an ethanol fireplace costs around $2.50 an hour to operate. 

While there is a regular fuel cost attached to ethanol fireplaces, you end up saving on energy costs as they do not require any electricity to run. So overall, ethanol fireplaces are cost-effective and also add a stylish touch to your space. 

Do Ethanol Fireplaces Give Off Heat?

Ethanol fireplaces produce different heat as compared to other traditional fireplaces. They give off supplemental heat and are generally not considered the best as the primary heat source in your home or office. 

The amount of heat an ethanol fireplace gives off depends on a few variables. The size of the burner and the room plays an important part. The larger the room or area, the less heat you receive from an ethanol fireplace. 

Also, using the fireplace outdoors only produces sufficient heat for those sitting close by. So, if you have ample space and are looking for extra warmth, you may have to invest in a big ethanol fireplace.

Ceiling height is another crucial factor that affects the efficiency of ethanol fireplaces. This is because heat rises, so if you have high ceilings, the heat automatically travels up, reducing the warm air from your space. 

Can I Use Ethanol In Any Fireplace?

Ethanol is created by the fermentation of sugars or alcohol, making it highly flammable. So, it is recommended to use an ethanol fireplace only as they are designed to create real flames without producing smoke or harmful chemicals.

Gas fireplaces use gas lines and vents to run and cannot operate with ethanol. On the other hand, electric fireplaces are similar to ethanol fireplaces because they do not require vents or a chimney. 

Electric fireplaces use a heating coil to run, and it is recommended that you do not add ethanol to them. 


Final Verdict: What is the best Ethanol Fireplace sold today?

fuel for ethanol fireplace

While all of the units we’ve reviewed have advantages and unique features, we think the HOMCOM wall-mounted ethanol fireplace is the best of the bunch for most homeowners. 

This elegant wall-mounted ethanol fireplace adds a stylish touch to any modern home or office space and is especially ideal for smaller rooms. 

It features a high-quality alloy steel and stainless steel construction with a tempered glass cover lid, making it safe and durable. 

The HOMCOM wall-mounted ethanol fireplace can hold 2.8L of ethanol, does not produce any smoke, ash, or carbon, and has a burning time of 4 hours. 

Even better, it is reasonably priced and a great buy. 

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