Description, operating principle, fuel
What is a bio fireplace?
Biofireplace Is a modern and safe interpretation of a fireplace without a chimney, which can be used in almost any room, which is undoubtedly a plus.
How does it work? The biofireplace runs on biofuel, which consists of biological raw materials, and the combustion products are no more harmful than from a paraffin candle. Externally, a biofireplace can resemble a classic version or rearrange a modern design that will decorate a fashionable interior.
Operating principle
The principle of operation is quite simple. Fuel is poured into the fuel tank and ignited with a lighter. These two actions are enough to get fire. Ceramic wool is used for safety and slow evaporation of fuel.
Biofireplace fuel
The fuel is industrial alcohol. The consistency can be different, for example, gel or liquid. To obtain biogel, alcohol, water, thickener and salt are added to the composition. The liquid form of fuel is obtained by processing crops.
Fuel consumption is quite economical, on average it is 0.5 liters for an hour and a half of work. But the consumption may vary depending on the features of the selected model. The combustion temperature of the flame itself depends on the selected fuel, on average it is 400-600 degrees.
Does the biofireplace heat, heat transfer
Bio fireplaces, in addition to aesthetic pleasure, also give warmth. Heat transfer for different models differs, starting from 1 kW and can reach 10 kW. In terms of heat production, a biofireplace can be compared to an electric heater. Small fireplaces usually do not have a heating function.
Do you need an outlet?
There is no need for electricity to operate. Natural flames are formed when the fuel burns.
Requirements for the room in which the biofireplace is installed
The biofireplace does not have any special requirements for placement, however, basic precautions must still be observed.
- The room in which the biofireplace is installed should be well ventilated, but not have strong drafts, as well as fans and air conditioners.
- The distance from any interior items should be at least one meter, and from flammable objects, such as paper or textiles, at least one and a half meters.
Traditional, automatic and semi-automatic
The difference between a traditional, automatic and semi-automatic biofireplace is in control technology.
- Traditional, or in other words, a mechanical fireplace is kindled manually, with the help of matches or a lighter.
- Auto the fireplace is controlled remotely by phone, tablet or remote control.
- Semi-automatic the model starts and finishes its work after the command given through the control panel located on the fireplace itself.
Open and closed
The difference between open and closed type in the fuel tank device. The open view allows you to see the amount of liquid inside, while the closed type "hides" the firebox inside the box of the structure.
Design
How does a fireplace work? The design of the case can be almost any, depending on personal preference. The main requirement is compliance with safety rules, or rather the required minimum distance from the flame. The top of the flame should be at least 80 cm from the surface of the body, and the distance from the side should be at least 20-25 cm.
Types and diagrams of burners
As for the description of burners, they can be of several types and have different characteristics, but all operate according to the general principle, evaporative atmospheric. That is, the fuel evaporates in the chamber under heating, provided there is no air, and the vapors released into the atmosphere are burned in the air.
For this operating principle, there are three types of burners:
- capillary,
- wick,
- gravity.
Capillary burner has a simple design, but there are a number of disadvantages. At start-up, the smell of ethanol can be felt, the filling of the burner container becomes clogged over time and needs to be replaced, and it is also necessary to provide for the presence of a damper and adjust the flame height, since at the beginning of operation the fire burns more strongly.
Wick burner easier to handle. Filling the container with fuel is done "by eye". The flame of this type of burner is stable, without sudden changes, so a shutter is not required, except for various flame effects, but it is worthwhile to provide for the presence of a divider grate.
Gravity burner during operation, it forms a stable flame, when heated, it does not exude vapors, since their supply is formed in the evaporator and this is enough to start. In addition, this type of burner can be produced in a round shape, provides a long operation, up to 4 hours, and is also suitable for a fireplace of any power.
Advantages and disadvantages
Biofireplace, like any other device, has its own advantages and disadvantages. The most significant of them should be noted.
Pros:
- The bio fireplace is easy to install and operate;
- In addition to the decorative function in the interior, the biofireplace is an additional source of heat;
- Economical fuel consumption and low cost;
- Wide range of models;
- Combustion products are not harmful to health.
Minuses:
- High cost, especially on a model with automatic control;
- Open fire requires careful handling.
Views
Desktop (portable)
A mobile structure that can be easily transferred to another room. Such a model generates a minimum of heat and more has a decorative function in the interior of the room. Mini biofireplaces operate on replaceable cartridges.
Built into a niche in the wall
An interesting model can be built into one or two vertical planes, that is, a corner biofireplace. Visually, the structure looks like a part of the wall.
Built in furniture
A fireplace built into the furniture takes up little space, but creates a feeling of coziness in the interior. A mini biofireplace can be built into a coffee table. As a rule, it is installed on a flat horizontal surface. The table is easy to move and will give uniqueness to the interior. Another design option is a fireplace built into the worktop or the central part of the curbstone.
Wall
The narrow structure does not take up much space and, depending on the design, will decorate the interior in a modern style. The wall-mounted model is fixed to the wall with 2 screws.
Floor
A biofireplace of this type can be considered not a part of the interior design, but its main object. Unlike wall-mounted and built-in models, the floor-standing bio fireplace gives a complete view of the hearth from any side. Floor-standing models are heavier, but also portable.
Suspension
The biofireplace is fixed to the ceiling. Such a model will look good in rooms with high ceilings and will decorate a modern interior.
In the portal
The biofireplace in the portal imitates a fireplace in the classical sense. The portal itself can be made of various materials, it belongs to the wall type. The depth and width of the portal depends on the size of the fuel cartridge.
Angular
The corner model can be installed in the corner of the room, thereby taking advantage of empty space. Another type of corner fireplace is wall-mounted, so it can decorate two rooms at once.
Round
A round or spherical biofireplace is suitable for modern interior design. A round fireplace will look good in the form of a pendant, floor and table model.
Materials, body design
Glass
Stylish design with glass will harmoniously look in a modern interior. In addition, the glass gives a complete view of the flame. Reliable heat-resistant glass is used for the case.
Ceramic body
This type is most often used in the manufacture of small structures, such as a desktop bio fireplace. Ceramics blend beautifully with flames. Also, the design of the case can be made of ceramic tiles.
With a plasterboard portal
Plasterboard construction is a fairly economical way to design. The structure can be made independently or purchased ready-made. The size and shape and finish can be almost any.
Marble body
A bio fireplace in a marble body is a luxurious and expensive piece of furniture. Natural marble or high-quality imitation will look perfect in any interior.
Wooden body
Wood is a beautiful and noble material. The design can be classic, country or Provence style. The wood must be treated with a heat-resistant coating.
Accessories and decor
Accessories and decorative elements add ambiance and create the right atmosphere in the interior. It is worth remembering that the decor should not overlap the flame, but should be located around the fuel block.
Ceramic firewood, burnt logs
Hot wood or stones can be considered an integral part of the fireplace; they enchant with their warmth and bewitching color. For a biofireplace, natural wood will have to be excluded. It will be replaced by ceramic products that are almost indistinguishable in color and texture from real wood. Ceramic firewood can imitate any species, most often it is pine or birch.
Imitation of coals
Coals for a biofireplace are made of ceramics or glass ceramics. Visually, they are no different from the real ones and exactly repeat the shape and color.
Stones, pebbles
Natural pebbles or stone are used. The material is strong and heat resistant. For a more attractive appearance, the stones are polished and coated with the desired color. The fire is reflected especially beautifully on the lacquered surface of the stone.
Photo in the interior of the apartment
Living room
The fireplace in the interior of the living room will envelop the room with special coziness and fill an ordinary evening with charm. Various variations of location and design allow you to choose the ideal option for the living room interior. For example, a floor-standing fireplace in a glass body for a modern style or in a portal with a marble frame for a classic one.
A big advantage of a bio fireplace is the ability to use the space above the fireplace, for example, installing a TV above it. This design method is safe and looks impressive.
Bedroom
The fire in the interior of the bedroom will help to relax and give a romantic mood. For a spacious bedroom, you can use a built-in or floor fireplace. For a compact room, desktop models or models built into furniture are suitable.
Kitchen
A fireplace in the interior of the kitchen is an unusual and original solution. It can be built into the wall, the end of the island, or serve as a room separation function. Another design option will be a small table fireplace that will decorate the dining area.
Loggia, balcony
A loggia or balcony will become a real lounge area, even with a small biofireplace. The interior will be complemented by a table and a pair of cozy chairs. On such a loggia it is pleasant to end the day under the warm glow of the fire.
Photo in a country house
A country house or cottage is an ideal place for a fireplace. The large area allows you to choose unusual and voluminous models, while eliminating unnecessary trouble when melting and leaving.
Also, an original solution would be to install a fireplace on the street, a couple of armchairs in front of it and a cozy blanket will make the evening in the fresh air truly magical.
Presentation in various styles
Classical
The interior will be decorated with a biofireplace in a portal framed from a marble or plasterboard case. Symmetrical shapes and smooth lines will support the design concept.
Modern
There are many design ideas for a modern interior. The bio fireplace will be an excellent solution for areas such as minimalism or high-tech. Transparent glass, chrome or ceramic body will highlight the style in the interior.
Loft
Urban direction will be decorated with a built-in wall or hanging biofireplace. The fire will work well with cold, untreated concrete walls or brickwork.
Provence
Delicate and romantic Provence will envelop the room with warmth with a biofireplace in a wooden, stone or plasterboard case. The interior will be complemented by ceramic wood "like a birch" and coals.
Photo gallery
An interesting interior solution will be a home biofireplace. A living flame completely changes the atmosphere in the house. Dimensions and design can be different, for example, a pass-through fireplace with black cladding on one side and white on the other will simultaneously support the design and color scheme in different rooms. Below are photo examples of the use of a bio fireplace in rooms for various functional purposes.