What is Bioethanol?
Bioethanol is a clean-burning liquid fuel made from renewable plant sources like maize and sugar cane and has been used in modern fireplaces for years and has become popular within the interior design space for its simplicity and lower environmental impact.
Stove Hunters specialists have been working with bioethanol stoves for over nine years, refining our approach through dedicated hands-on experience converting antique French stoves for all your projects.
Why We Chose Bioethanol for our French Stoves
Our aim was to find a way to continue using beautiful antique stoves without relying on coal or traditional wood burning. Bioethanol offers a practical, environmentally considered alternative that allows these stoves to be enjoyed without chimneys, flues or building regulations.
Environmental Considerations
Bioethanol is widely regarded as carbon neutral because as CO₂ is released during combustion it broadly equals the CO₂ that was absorbed by the plants during their growth cycle. When burned, bioethanol releases carbon dioxide and a small amount of water vapour. Using this fuel requires no chimney because there is no smoke, soot or ash when it is burnt.
In addition, bioethanol stoves are also 100% efficient, as all heat generated stays within the room rather than being lost up a flue.
The Practical Benefits of Using a Bioethanol Stove
Here are several benefits to consider:
No chimney, flue or pipework required
No building regulations or gas connection
No electricity needed
Suitable for most rooms with adequate ventilation
No chimney fires, ash or soot
No routine maintenance
No additional insurance implications for thatched properties
Great source of heat in a power cut.
This makes bioethanol stoves particularly well suited to properties where traditional fireplaces are impractical or undesirable.
Running Costs
Running costs are typically 60p per hour but this does depend on burner size and usage.
We use two burner sizes:
A smaller round burner (approx. 1 litre capacity)
A larger rectangular burner (approx. 1.5 litre capacity)
The appropriate burner is included in the purchase price of each stove, so there are no hidden extras.
Bioethanol fuel is also readily available to buy online, often with next-day delivery.
Do Bioethanol Stoves Deliver Heat?
Yes, they do and this is one of the most common questions we’re asked.
While our antique French stoves are often chosen for their appearance, customers are frequently surprised by the amount of effective supplementary heat they produce as well as visual appeal in your home. Most of our stoves deliver between 3-3.5kW per hour.
What This Means for You
In practical terms, it means you can choose one of our restored French stoves, visit the showroom and take it home with you or have it delivered and enjoy it the same day.
If you need further advice please call us on 01380 587013 or contact us via email.