March 22, 2025

Are Bioethanol Fires Cheaper Than Electric Fires?

Running costs might be a key factor when deciding between electric or bioethanol fires. Here’s a breakdown of what to consider.

Bioethanol Fuel Costs

Bioethanol fuel typically costs between £2 to £4 per litre. Depending on the size, a bioethanol fire consumes about 0.2 to 0.7 litres per hour. So, on average, a bioethanol fire may cost around 50P to £2 per hour, depending on the flame size and fuel quality.

Electricity Costs for Electric Fires

Electric fires operate on electricity, which averages around 19p to 37p an hour in the UK, depending on the heat settings. An electric fire usually consumes between 0.75 to 1.5 kW per hour. Therefore, the running cost for electric fires ranges from 16p to 37p per hour. This cost can vary based on the efficiency of the unit and local electricity rates.

Comparing Overall Costs

When comparing the overall running costs of bioethanol and electric fires, if you use a bioethanol fire, the monthly fuel cost could reach around £18 to £84, depending on how often you use it, the flame intensity, and your fuel supplier. On the other hand, using an electric fire can cost up to £13 per month.

Costs can vary significantly depending on individual circumstances, such as local prices and how often you use the fire. Homeowners should evaluate their needs and usage patterns to determine which option is more economical.

Are Bioethanol Fires Any Good?

Pros of Bioethanol Fires

Real Flame Experience

Bioethanol fires provide a real flame's authentic look and feel, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in any outdoor or indoor space. The flames dance and flicker like a traditional fire, offering a comforting visual that improves the ambience of gatherings, parties, or quiet evenings at home. This real flame experience can be particularly appealing during colder months, as it adds a touch of warmth and cosiness to your environment.

Versatility and Design

These fires offer flexibility in placement and design options. They can fit into various settings, from modern gardens to traditional patios, improving the overall aesthetic. Bioethanol fires come in various styles, including wall-mounted units, freestanding models, and tabletop designs, allowing homeowners to choose the perfect fit for their space. Their sleek and contemporary designs can be a focal point in outdoor entertaining areas or blend seamlessly with existing decor, making them a stylish addition to any setting.

No Chimney Required

One of the significant advantages of bioethanol fires is that they do not require a chimney. This ease of installation allows homeowners to place them in locations where traditional fireplaces would be impractical, such as balconies, terraces, or even indoors in spaces without existing flues. The absence of a chimney also means that no costly installation requirements or structural modifications are needed, making bioethanol fires a convenient option for many homeowners.

Eco-friendliness

Bioethanol is a renewable fuel source that can contribute to a lower carbon footprint than fossil fuels. This aspect appeals to environmentally conscious consumers seeking sustainable heating solutions. Bioethanol burns cleanly, producing only water vapour and carbon dioxide, so it does not release harmful pollutants or particulates into the air. Additionally, many bioethanol fuels are derived from agricultural waste or by-products, improving their eco-friendly credentials.

Cons of Bioethanol Fires

Safety Concerns

While bioethanol fires are generally safe, they require proper ventilation and safe fuel handling. Homeowners must follow safety guidelines to minimise risks, such as ensuring that the area is well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of carbon dioxide. It’s also important to store bioethanol fuel in a safe, designated area away from heat sources and use appropriate containers to refill the burner. Users should always allow the burner to cool before refilling and avoid overfilling to prevent spills.

Heat Output

The heat output of bioethanol fires may be limited compared to other heating options, such as electric or wood-burning stoves. Typically, bioethanol fires produce between 2 to 4 kW of heat, which may be sufficient for small to medium-sized spaces but may struggle to heat larger areas effectively. This limitation can affect their effectiveness in larger spaces, making them more suitable as supplementary heating sources rather than primary heating solutions. Homeowners should consider their heating needs and the size of the area they wish to heat before opting for a bioethanol fire.

Is Bioethanol Cheaper Than Logs?

When comparing the cost of bioethanol fuel to logs, it’s essential to consider the price of logs. Logs vary widely, but Softwood firewood costs around £80 to £120 per cubic metre, while Hardwood can cost up to £100 to £150 per cubic metre.

The effective cost of heating with logs can be higher than that of bioethanol, especially for regular use. For example, if a wood-burning stove uses 2 kg of logs per hour, and logs cost £0.60 to £1.20 per kg, the running cost would be up to £2.40 per hour. On the other hand, bioethanol could cost 50P to £2 per hour, making logs slightly pricier for heating.

Other Considerations:

Beyond fuel costs, several other factors come into play. The convenience of using bioethanol fire, which requires no chopping or storing of wood, can be appealing. Additionally, the environmental impact of both options should be considered. While bioethanol fire is renewable, the sustainability of wood sources can vary. Overall heating efficiency is critical, as wood-burning stoves often provide more consistent heat output than bioethanol fires.