November 28, 2025

Maximising Burn Time: How to Make Your Bioethanol Fire Last Longer

Bioethanol fires are loved for their clean burn, real flame, and zero-mess operation, but many users wonder how to make each tank of fuel last as long as possible. While burn time naturally depends on the model and burner size, several simple techniques can significantly extend the burn time of your bioethanol fire. This guide explains the key adjustments, maintenance habits, and environmental factors that help you get the most from every litre of fuel.

Adjusting the Flame: Your Primary Control for Longevity

The flame size is the biggest factor affecting how fast a bioethanol fire uses its fuel. Learning how to properly adjust the burner helps you slow down consumption while still enjoying the ambience of a real flame.

Utilise the Adjustable Burner Slider

Most bioethanol burners come with a built-in slider or lid that lets you control how wide the burner opening is. This simple adjustment is the most effective way to extend burn time. A fully open burner produces a strong, bright flame, but it also burns fuel much faster. By partially closing the opening, you restrict airflow and slow the rate at which the fuel evaporates. In many models, this can add 1–2 extra hours of burn time per litre, depending on the setting.

This also reduces heat output and flame height, so the goal is to find a balance between the ambience you want and the fuel efficiency you need.

Start with a Lower Flame Setting

Instead of running the fire on maximum from the start, allow your room to warm gradually. Once the space feels comfortable, lower the flame setting to maintain a steady, gentle burn. A moderate flame still offers plenty of visual appeal while preserving fuel much more efficiently.

Optimising the Burner for Maximum Efficiency

Your burner plays a big role in fuel performance. Keeping it clean and ensuring it’s filled with the right materials can help your bioethanol fire burn longer and more evenly.

The Role of Ceramic Wool or Fibre Cotton

Many high-quality burners contain ceramic wool or fibre cotton inside the fuel chamber. This porous, heat-resistant material acts like a sponge, absorbing the liquid bioethanol and releasing it slowly as vapour.

It offers several benefits:

Slower, Controlled Burn: Because the fuel evaporates gradually, it lasts longer.
Better Safety: If the burner gets knocked, the wool helps prevent spills or sudden flare-ups.
More Even Flame: It creates a smoother, steadier burn without flickering or rapid fuel loss.

If your burner didn’t include ceramic wool, check whether your manufacturer approves adding it. Never add materials that aren’t designed for bioethanol burners.

Maintain a Clean Burner

A burner that’s clogged with soot (rare but possible), dust, or debris will burn less efficiently. Even small particles can restrict airflow and disrupt the evaporation process. Once the burner is fully cool and empty, wipe the inside gently with a soft cloth to remove any residue. Incorporate this into your regular cleaning routine to keep burn times steady.

Fuel and Environment: External Factors That Affect Burn Time

Even with ideal burner settings, outside factors like fuel quality and room conditions have a major impact on how long your bioethanol fire burns.

Choose High-Quality, Pure Bioethanol Fuel

Fuel purity directly affects how efficiently it burns. High-quality bioethanol (typically 95–97% purity) produces a steady flame and evaporates at a consistent rate. Cheap or poorly refined bioethanol may contain impurities that burn faster, smell stronger, or create residue on the burner. For the longest burn time, always choose premium, fireplace-grade fuel recommended by your manufacturer.

Minimise Airflow and Draughts

Strong airflow increases oxygen supply to the flame, which makes the fire burn hotter, and faster. Placing your bioethanol fire near open windows, vents, fans, or doors can cut burn time significantly. To maximise longevity, use it in a calm, enclosed space and avoid exposing the flame to direct drafts.

Follow Safe Refuelling and Storage Practices

Burner efficiency starts with proper refuelling. Always fill only to the designated MAX line, never above it. Overfilling is dangerous and often leads to wasted fuel or uneven burning. After use, keep unopened fuel stored in a cool, dry place with the cap tightly sealed to prevent evaporation and maintain freshness.

Conclusion

Making a bioethanol fire last longer is all about smart adjustments and simple maintenance. By keeping the flame lower, using the adjustable slider wisely, maintaining a clean burner, and choosing high-purity fuel, you can easily extend the burn time by hours. Combine this with good placement away from drafts and safe refuelling habits, and your bioethanol fire will remain an efficient, long-lasting source of warmth and ambience. With the right approach, every litre of fuel goes further, helping you enjoy cleaner, safer, and more cost-effective fires all year round.