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Ethanol Fireplace Safety

Fire has captivated us since the dawn of humanity - mesmerising, powerful, primal. For two decades, EcoSmart has reimagined how this ancient element can safely enhance modern homes. We've created not just another decorative accent, but a revolutionary system where innovative engineering meets the timeless dance of flames.

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The cleaner way to experience fire

Traditional fireplaces force an uncomfortable choice between beauty and health. Wood fires release particles the EPA compares to tobacco smoke. Gas options emit invisible toxins that require complex ventilation.

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A breath of fresh air

Our bioethanol technology offers a fundamentally different approach:

  • Cleaner air – Produces only heat, water vapour, and minimal CO₂ - elements as natural as your own breath
  • No contaminants - Zero smoke, soot, or ash to breathe or clean
  • Freedom of placement – No need for chimneys, gas lines, or complex ventilation - put it almost anywhere in your home

The EcoSmart Fire difference

When exploring ethanol fireplaces, a critical distinction emerges in both design philosophy and engineering approach. Despite widespread assumptions, the fireplace industry contains a surprising gap: while virtually every appliance in your home must meet mandatory safety standards, some companies sell fire-containing products without any independent verification of their safety performance.

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thumbnail: esf-production-ab-burner-laser-detail-4325.pngProduction Images - AB Burner Detail

EcoSmart Fire stands apart in this landscape. Rather than simply creating decorative flame features, we've engineered comprehensive safety systems where every component - from fuel delivery to flame control - undergoes rigorous testing and certification. This fundamentally different approach places our products in an entirely separate category from uncertified tabletop alternatives.

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thumbnail: safety-operation.pngSafety and operation

Consumer safety research consistently identifies one critical factor: proper fuel management is the primary determinant in ethanol fireplace safety. This insight has driven our development process from the beginning, resulting in innovative engineering solutions that not only enhance safety but also improve your everyday experience through intuitive operation and thoughtful design.

Global Safety Certification

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thumbnail: mad-esf-standards-testing-safety-certifications-v2411.pngCertifications

Our engineering team didn't just meet existing standards - they helped create them, working directly with Underwriters Laboratories to develop UL 1370, now recognized as the definitive safety benchmark for ethanol fireplace technology.

This comprehensive certification process challenged our designs with over 100 different laboratory tests that simulate real-world scenarios homeowners might face:

  • What happens when fuel accidentally spills during refilling?
  • How does the fireplace respond when bumped by people or pets?
  • Will the unit maintain stability on slightly uneven surfaces?
  • Can flames travel back into the fuel container during operation?
  • What safety measures prevent accidental ignition or misuse?


The result? EcoSmart Fire has earned the industry's most respected safety verifications across three continents:

  • UL 1370 Certification from America's leading independent testing laboratory
  • EN16647 Approval recognized throughout Europe and the United Kingdom
  • ACCC Safety Mandate meeting Australia's stringent safety mandate

With more certified ethanol products than any other manufacturer in North America, our commitment to verified safety remains unmatched - because we believe beautiful design and comprehensive protection should always go hand in hand.

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From Farm to Flame: 
e-NRG Bioethanol

At the heart of every EcoSmart Fire is our proprietary e-NRG bioethanol - a renewable fuel that begins its journey in agricultural fields rather than fossil fuel deposits or forests. We partner with regional farmers who cultivate specialty crops like corn, sugarcane, and grain, all naturally rich in starches and capable of efficiently converting sunlight and CO₂ into energy through photosynthesis.

Once harvested, these crops undergo a natural fermentation process - similar to what transforms fruit into wine or helps bread rise - converting plant starches and sugars into clean-burning bioethanol. 

What makes bioethanol truly remarkable is its balanced environmental footprint. Unlike fossil fuels that release carbon trapped underground for millions of years, our bioethanol only returns to the atmosphere the same carbon that plants recently absorbed during growth. The result is beautiful amber flames that combine the timeless appeal of real fire with modern environmental sensibilities.

Simple Safety Essentials

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thumbnail: esf-sidecar-24-fire-table-patio-1.jpgSidecar 24 - Private Residence

Following these simple practices ensures optimal enjoyment of your EcoSmart Fire:

  • Allow complete cooling before refuelling - Always wait 15 minutes after extinguishing the flame
  • Use only e-NRG bioethanol fuel - Formulated specifically for optimal safety and performance
  • Utilise the included safety tools - They're engineered specifically for your protection See how it’s done
  • Ensure proper ventilation - While bioethanol burns exceptionally clean, all fires consume oxygen
  • Maintain clearance from combustibles - Keep a minimum of 3 feet from draperies, furniture, and other flammable items

For comprehensive safety instructions tailored to your specific EcoSmart Fire model, please consult your owner's manual. It contains detailed guidelines, maintenance procedures, and important safety information designed to ensure years of safe enjoyment from your fireplace.