Ethanol fireplaces are among the most common fireplaces today. These fireplaces provide a state-of-the-art way to replace your traditional fireplaces while bringing about all the warmth and comfort you need in the house. Unlike traditional fireplaces that use firewood or coal (produce smoke), an ethanol fireplace does more than just get rid of the smoke. Outlined below are some of the advantages of investing in one.
1. Ethanol fuel is environment-friendly.
Ethyl alcohol (ethanol) is produced from organic materials and plants such as sugarcane, switchgrass, and corn through fermentation. Unlike most fuel, ethanol burns almost completely producing very little to no carbon dioxide, hence safe to the environment. Putting this in another perspective, ethanol produces less carbon dioxide than a full grown man produces when he exhales. The amounts of CO2 produced is way less than that produced by petroleum-based fuels.
The low CO2 emissions, therefore, do not affect your indoor air quality in any way. This thus makes it a safe bet, especially when using in closed doors. Ethanol fireplaces are the recommended option for city dwellers living in confined environments and aren’t prepared to sacrifice indoor air quality or need ventilation.
2. Flexible Design
Unlike most other fireplaces, you don’t require a chimney with an ethanol fireplace. You can, therefore, have your fireplace designed to fit virtually any space, on the wall, tabletop, or even have it installed in an existing fireplace. You also get to choose between lighter portable fireplaces and much larger ones. For a more personalized design, you can make a custom order with the manufacturer.
As an added benefit, ethanol fireplaces can be controlled remotely via a remote switch. This enables you, the user, to adjust the flame, amount of heat produced, and even switch it on or off whenever needed. This feature allows for you to set the mood or temperature without having to deal with firewood or smoke.
As mentioned earlier, you no longer need logs of wood or coal to fuel the ethanol fireplace. This also means you don’t have to deal with ash and other compounds that come from burning wood. The fireplace is relatively easy to use, clean, and maintain. All you need to do is top up the ethanol fuel if too low.
3. Pocket-Friendly Installation and Operating Costs
Ethanol fireplaces come in two types: portable and non-portable options. The portable fireplaces don’t need to be installed while non-portable ones do not need an additional housing or chimney during installation. For this reason, installations costs for the same are significantly lower. In addition to this, you don’t need an outdoor outlet to vent out smoke or poisonous gases. This means none of the heat produced is lost through the vents, which translates to lower fuel consumption and operational costs.
The extra labor of chopping tons of wood or burning coals, or having to call a professional to remove a raccoon trapped inside the flue is eliminated with an ethanol fireplace. The only amount you have to spend on is fuel to keep you warm throughout the cold season. Maintenance and operational costs are greatly reduced.
Pros and Cons of an Ethanol Fireplace
If shopping for a fireplace, an ethanol fireplace may be just what you need. Learning the advantages, and cons of the same should help you make a more informed decision.
The Pros
Ethanol fireplaces use ethanol as fuel. Ethanol is a renewable resource that produces more heat than wood or coal. In addition to this, ethanol burns producing heat and vapor with very little or no smoke or carbon dioxide. Produced from plants and organic materials, using an ethanol fireplace won’t have any effect on the environment as no logging is needed. The fireplace produces little to no carbon dioxide, hence safe to use in the house. Look here if you are interested to add an ethanol fireplace.
The Cons
Although ethanol burns completely producing no smoke or carbon dioxide, incomplete combustion can lead to increased production of carbon dioxide. Sufficient ventilation is therefore needed to ensure the fuel burns completely to reduce the risk of suffocating. Incomplete combustion may at times lead to the formation of carbon monoxide, which is more dangerous.
The lack of ventilation or a vent may also mean decreased oxygen levels over time. You may, therefore, need to leave a window or a vent open to replenish oxygen supply. Be sure to ensure the room is well ventilated before having the fireplace installed.
Image Credit: Contemporary Living Room | Modern Bedroom | The Elite Home | Cicero – Neighborhood Estate | Ethanol Fireplace Pros
