Convert Your Fireplace Into a Bio-Ethanol Fireplace

We all agree that the advantages of a real fireplace are undeniable: the sound of the crackling, the smell of the wood fire, the heat that spreads… But the disadvantages also exist purchase and storage of wood, ignition not always easy, smoke and dust, chimney sweeping … Bio-ethanol and irons therefore offer an interesting alternative.
But for those who already have a beautiful fireplace in their living room, simply removing it is always a bit of a shame. Unless you transform it easily and inexpensively.

A real fake fireplace

When you get tired of using a real fireplace, which can sometimes be very restrictive, it is tempting to do away with it altogether. It is then necessary not only to break the chimney breast but also to fill in the conduit. Heavy and expensive work can hamper small budgets. On the other hand, in the event of total deletion, it is impossible to go back and reuse your chimney. With bio-ethanol, rapid and reversible conversion is entirely possible.

There are in fact systems running on natural alcohol, made up of a real log (oak, elm, or birch) and two andirons (and even a few pine cones, to complete the illusion). The principle is quite simple: placed on the andirons, the log masks the system diffusing the flames, and giving the impression that the wood is burning. In reality, this is not the case: the fire is fueled by burners, hidden behind the log which does not burn.

On the decorative side, in addition to the inexplicable charm of the dancing fire, the andirons bring a designer and luxurious touch to the fireplace. Several models allow you to choose your style: retro, modern, rustic, art deco… The log holders can be in black iron, brass, bronze, chrome… It is even possible to have your andirons adapted so that your fireplace retains its original appearance.

A simple installation without any work

To the eye, these are real flames, behind real logs. This ingenious idea fits perfectly with any existing fireplace, whether new or old. All you have to do is place the andiron system inside the fireplace to instantly start the fire and enjoy a beautiful fire, without consuming any wood.
Unlike closed ethanol-based systems (only decorative), this solution allows you to benefit from the heat released by the flames: the fireplace then acts as additional heating. Andirons can be installed in any home, with or without a vent. A small revolution for all those who have an old fireplace in an old home, but which they cannot use, or for all those who are affected by the bans on wood fires (prefectural decree, co-ownership regulations, etc.).

Bio-ethanol andirons are also the ideal solution for all those who have never had a fireplace in their house or apartment: a simple cladding using a fireplace mantle placed against a wall, and that’s it. plays! All that remains is to install the andirons and start the flames. However, make sure that a ventilation system exists in the room to ensure air renewal.

How do ethanol andirons work?

There are two types of bio-ethanol aand irons The so-called “mechanical” version requires to be lit with a long lighter (generally sold with the system) and is extinguished by suffocation using a trapdoor. This version is the least fuel-efficient.
The “electronic” model is used with a remote control. A simple press of a button controls the switching on and off of the burners. The advantage of this system is that the flame is larger, but it requires a connection to the electrical network. For perfect safety, make sure that these andirons have a CO2 detector and meet the NF D35-386 standard.
In both cases, the andirons work with bioethanol, an ethanol of plant origin, which is simply ethyl alcohol (identical to that present in your glass of whiskey). Make no mistake, the term “organic” has nothing to do with any organic cultivation, it simply indicates that the ethanol was produced from organic matter (cereals, beets, corn, etc.).
The only constraint of an ethanol home is therefore having to regularly restock with biofuel: count between 3 and 5 euros per liter, knowing that an andiron consumes between 0.3 and 2 liters per hour, depending on the models. Finally, for the price of the andirons, plan a small envelope of 1200 to 2500 euros.