Buying Bioethanol?

What is bioethanol?

Bioethanol is a type of alcohol produced by fermenting sugars and starches derived from plants. These can include crops like sugarcane, corn, grain, sugar beets, or even agricultural waste and forest residues. It is a renewable energy source and is considered a cleaner alternative to fossil fuels. Bioethanol fireplaces offer beautiful flames, are easy to use, and instantly create a cozy atmosphere in your home.

Why choose bioethanol instead of wood or gas?

Bioethanol fireplaces are an excellent alternative to traditional fireplaces. They don’t require a chimney, which means you can install them almost anywhere in your home. Unlike wood-burning stoves, they produce no smoke or fine dust, and they don’t rely on fossil fuels like gas. This makes them not only more environmentally friendly but also more practical to use.

Save on installation and usage costs

A major advantage of a bioethanol fireplace is that you can significantly save on installation and operating costs. You don’t need a chimney, flue, or gas line, eliminating the need for expensive renovations. There’s also no need for annual maintenance, which is often required with traditional fireplaces. The only recurring cost is the bioethanol fuel, which is relatively affordable. Since you only turn on the fireplace when you want to and don’t waste energy, it’s an efficient and budget-conscious choice.

Bioethanol fireplaces produce real heat

While many people know bioethanol fireplaces for their ambiance, they also produce actual heat. The larger the burner, the more heat the fireplace can generate. A compact fireplace with a smaller burner is perfect for adding a bit of extra warmth to a room, while a larger fireplace with a wide ceramic burner has enough power to noticeably heat a medium-sized space. This makes bioethanol fireplaces not only a cozy addition to your interior but also a practical source of supplemental heat during colder months. It’s a much more eco-friendly way to heat a space.

Bioethanol is environmentally friendly and sustainable

It’s made from plants such as sugarcane, corn, or grain. During the fermentation process, the sugars in these plants are converted into alcohol. This alcohol is then distilled and processed into fuel. Because the raw materials are renewable, bioethanol is considered a sustainable energy source.

In a bioethanol fireplace, you pour the liquid bioethanol into a special burner. When ignited, the fuel produces a real, attractive flame. Since bioethanol burns very cleanly, it produces virtually no smoke, soot, or ash. The only by-products are water vapor and a minimal amount of carbon dioxide (CO₂). However, this CO₂ equals the amount that the plant previously absorbed from the air. This makes it a closed carbon cycle, meaning bioethanol is climate neutral.

Safe and efficient with Xaralyn’s ceramic burner

Not all bioethanol fireplaces are the same. Safety and efficiency strongly depend on the technology used. Xaralyn uses a patented ceramic burner. This burner absorbs the bioethanol like a sponge. As a result, there’s no visible liquid, and the fire is evenly distributed.

The ceramic core ensures that the flames burn calmly without splattering. This makes the fireplace extra safe and economical to use. You have full control over the flame and can easily extinguish the burner. Moreover, the ceramic burner is designed to last for years without compromising safety or performance.

Always use high-quality bioethanol specifically intended for decorative fireplaces. Xaralyn CL100 bioethanol is specially developed for safe combustion. Cheaper or unsuitable fuels may contain impurities that release harmful fumes or unpleasant odors during burning. Never use gasoline, spirits, lamp oil, or other fuels​

What should you pay attention to when filling bioethanol?

• Refilling a warm fireplace: This is the biggest risk and a common cause of accidents with bioethanol fireplaces. If you pour bioethanol into a warm or still-burning burner, the vapors can ignite instantly, causing a flare-up and serious burns. Always wait at least 15–30 minutes after the flame is extinguished and the burner has completely cooled before refilling.
• Spilled fuel: If you spill bioethanol, clean it up completely before lighting the fireplace. Spilled ethanol can also catch fire.

Is bioethanol safe?

Bioethanol for decorative fireplaces is generally safe to use if instructions and safety guidelines are followed carefully. However, there are some important considerations and potential health and safety risks.

• Carbon dioxide (CO₂) and water vapor (H₂O): These are the main by-products of bioethanol combustion. These substances are not harmful in small quantities. The amount of CO₂ released is comparable to the emissions of a few burning candles or normal human breathing.
• Oxygen consumption: A flame uses oxygen. In poorly ventilated spaces, prolonged use can lower oxygen levels, leading to symptoms like headaches, nausea, or drowsiness. 
• Ventilation: Even though a chimney is not needed, proper ventilation is essential. It ensures that CO₂ and water vapor are removed and that enough fresh oxygen remains in the room. Slightly opening a window or using air vents is often sufficient.

A bioethanol fireplace is generally safe for your health if the user manual and safety precautions are strictly followed. The main risk is the fire hazard due to the highly flammable liquid, especially during improper refilling. By ensuring proper ventilation, allowing the fireplace to cool before refilling, and using high-quality fuel, you can enjoy your bioethanol fireplace safely and comfortably.

Simple, stylish, and responsible fire enjoyment

A bioethanol fireplace is not only practical and environmentally friendly, it’s also a stylish addition to your interior. Whether you choose a wall-mounted model, a freestanding fireplace, or one built into a mantel: it brings instant warmth and ambiance to your home.

Although bioethanol fireplaces have many advantages, it’s important to note that they are mainly designed for ambiance. The heat output is limited (often comparable to a 2–3 kW electric heater) and not intended as a primary heating source. Proper ventilation is always recommended, especially during extended use, since some oxygen is consumed and CO₂ is released.