Ethanol fireplaces do indeed give off a considerable amount of heat. Because the heat is generated from the burning of ethanol, it doesn’t put off any smoke or pollutants in the air, making it an eco-friendly source of heat for indoor and even covered outdoor areas.
The heat released from an ethanol fireplace can typically reach anywhere from 6,000 to 30,000 BTUs per hour, making it comparable to a medium-sized electric or gas space heater. However, because ethanol fireplaces provide radiant heat, lower temperatures can be achieved than traditional gas or wood burning fireplaces.
Ethanol fireplaces also require less regular maintenance than wood burning fireplaces, and the fire can be adjusted to provide the desired amount of heat.
Do ethanol fires heat a room?
Yes, ethanol fires can be used to heat a room. Ethanol fires are a type of bio-ethanol fire, which are designed to provide both heat and a decorative visual flame in a safe and clean manner by burning denatured alcohol.
They are often referred to as ventless, smokeless, and odorless fires due to their combustion technology, making them a great option for heating an indoor space. The amount of heat that an ethanol fireplace can produce depends on the size of the room and the size of the fireplace, but ethanol fires are capable of heating up to 400 square feet of space and reaching temperatures of up to 80°F.
Additionally, many models come equipped with temperature control and adjustable flames, allowing you to tailor the fire to your exact heating needs and provide the perfect atmosphere for any room.
How hot is a bio ethanol fire?
The temperature of a bio ethanol fire can vary depending on the size of the flame and the specific type of fuel, but generally speaking, it can reach temperatures between 1100-1300°C. These temperatures are similar to other types of fires, though a bio ethanol fire burns with a much cleaner flame and produces significantly less smoke.
Additionally, because of the high temperature range, the fire is often self-regulating, which means that it will turn itself down or off if the flame gets too large. The main difference between bio ethanol and other types of fuel sources is that the former is more expensive and requires more setup, making it better suited for larger installations.
Can you put a TV above an ethanol fireplace?
Yes, in most cases, it is possible to place a TV above an ethanol fireplace. However, it is important to take the safety precautions necessary to ensure that the TV and fireplace will not cause any type of fire or property damage.
As ethanol fireplaces produce heat, it is necessary to ensure that the TV is mounted at a safe distance away from the fireplace, so as not to be exposed to excessive heat. Additionally, it is best to install the TV above the fireplace on a brick, stone, or marble wall, rather than any other type of surface, such as wood, as these materials are more fire resistant.
Finally, when mounting the TV, it is important to use robust hardware, such as anchors appropriate for the weight of the TV, to ensure that the TV is securely mounted in place.
Is Bio ethanol cheaper than gas?
Bio ethanol is generally not cheaper than standard unleaded gasoline, but it can still be an attractive alternative to regular gasoline depending on local fuel prices. Bio ethanol produced from renewable sources such as sugarcane, corn, and wheat can typically cost 5 to 15 percent less than regular unleaded gasoline.
However, the cost of production for bio ethanol is typically higher than for regular gasoline, which offsets the cost savings. Additionally, the composition of bio ethanol is usually lower than that of regular unleaded gasoline, meaning that consumers tend to get fewer miles per gallon when they use it.
As a result, while bio ethanol may be less expensive overall, consumers may still have to pay more out of pocket to fill up their vehicles with it in the short-term due to the lower miles per gallon.
Does burning ethanol produce carbon monoxide?
Yes, burning ethanol does produce carbon monoxide. Ethanol is an oxidizing agent, meaning that when it is burned it produces both energy and other gases, including carbon monoxide (CO). Incomplete combustion of ethanol can occur if not enough oxygen is present or if the temperature is too low.
This can result in high levels of CO. Carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that is highly toxic, so it is important to be aware that burning ethanol can produce it. Additionally, welding on any fuel-containing metals while using an oxygen-acetylene torch can also produce carbon monoxide from the burning of any trace amounts of ethanol that may be in the metal.
How do you extinguish ethanol fire?
The best way to extinguish an ethanol fire is using a dry chemical fire extinguisher that is rated A-B-C (for burning solids, burning liquids and electrical). Do not use a water based fire extinguisher on ethanol fires, as water and the vapours of burning alcohol can create a violent reaction.
To begin, remove any combustible materials from the area, then stand a safe distance away and aim the fire extinguisher nozzle at the base of the flames. Move the nozzle back and forth and evenly coat the burning material with the chemical agent.
Be sure to use the entire contents of the extinguisher, as some of the material may continue to smoulder. Wear appropriate protective gear (eye protection, gloves, boots, etc. ) while fighting the fire.
If the fire still continues to burn, safely evacuate the area and call the fire department.
Can you make bio ethanol at home?
No, it is not recommended that you try to make bioethanol at home. Ethanol is flammable and highly volatile, so it requires special equipment and safety procedures to produce in large quantities. Not to mention, the chemical processes involved are often complicated and require a great deal of expertise.
Additionally, since you would need to source the materials necessary for such a process, such as molasses and yeast, it is likely not a safe nor cost-effective option for the average homeowner.
Is ethanol safe to burn indoors?
The general answer is no, it is not safe to burn ethanol indoors. Ethanol, being a flammable liquid and gas, has very specific safety guidelines for using it in indoor spaces. Burning ethanol indoors can fill a room with fumes that can be very dangerous to inhale in small and enclosed spaces.
This can lead to cases of alcohol poisoning, irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and lungs, as well as nausea, headaches, and dizziness. Burning ethanol also increases the risk of fire, as any drop of an ignited liquid can cause a severe fire or explosion.
Therefore, it is best to use an alternative fuel, such as natural gas, propane, or electricity, for indoor use.
What are the disadvantages of bioethanol?
Bioethanol has some notable disadvantages that should be considered. Here are some of the main disadvantages:
1. Cost: Bioethanol production can be costly due to the large investment needed in renewable crops, equipment, and land. It can be difficult to find a feasible production scale or to make enough money in order to be profitable.
2. Efficiency: Biofuels generally have lower energy yields per acre than petroleum, which means that more land and resources are required to produce bioethanol.
3. Pollution: Although bioethanol is considered a clean, renewable fuel, it can still release pollutants such as carbon dioxide and particulates into the atmosphere when burned, contributing to global warming and air quality problems.
4. Nutrition Impact: Growing crops for biofuel production can reduce the amount of land available for food production. This leads to competing interests between using land for food or for fuel production, potentially increasing the cost of food for many people.
5. Transport and Storage: Ethanol is more corrosive than other types of fuel, so special materials must be used to store and transport it. This can add additional costs to bioethanol production and increase the cost of the fuel.
In addition, it is water soluble, meaning that water and dirt can contaminate fuel shipments, which can reduce engine performance.
Can you use fire glass with bio ethanol?
Yes, you can use fire glass with bio ethanol. This is a popular option for fire pits, fireplaces, and other fire features since it doesn’t require a traditional firewood or gas fuel, making it a greener option.
Bio ethanol is created from renewable sources like vegetable oils and sugar crops, and it produces clean, smokeless flames. Fire glass is tempered glass designed specifically for use in fire pits and fireplaces, and it adds a modern, decorative touch.
It is safe to use with bio ethanol and won’t corrode or have restrictive heat, so it is able to withstand the temperature of a burning flame. Fire glass also is non-toxic and doesn’t emit any toxic fumes or smoke.
You can even add your own style to the fire feature by choosing different shapes, sizes, and colors of fireglass.