Ethanol fireplaces are becoming increasingly popular and bring a cozy atmosphere to your living space. But you often ask yourself: Are these tabletop fireplaces actually safe? In this blog post, we'll explore the different categories, what you should look out for, and explain why CLIMAQUA ethanol tabletop fireplaces are even safer than candles thanks to their solid construction and innovative leak protection.
Different models of ethanol fireplaces
Ethanol fireplaces are available in various versions that differ in design and functionality:
Freestanding models : These fireplaces offer a high degree of flexibility and can be placed anywhere in the room. They are often real eye-catchers. They are usually quite large and consume more than 0.3 liters of fuel per hour, which is why they are subject to strict regulations that require, for example, exhaust ventilation in the room. 
Built-in models : These fireplaces are integrated into furniture or built into walls. They offer a particularly elegant and space-saving solution. Due to their high combustion efficiency, they are also usually subject to strict regulations. 
Tabletop fireplaces : These compact models are perfect for tabletops or balcony surfaces. They create a cozy atmosphere without taking up much space. Because they burn < 0.3 L/h of ethanol, they are not subject to strict regulations and can be easily and flexibly installed in any suitable location.
What should you pay attention to when it comes to ethanol fireplace safety?
When using ethanol fireplaces, there are some important safety aspects you should consider. We summarize them here:
1. Safety standard
"Ethanol stoves must meet the requirements of the Product Safety Act, meaning they must comply with the state of the art and the latest technology. Adequate distance from flammable materials must be maintained. The room must be adequately ventilated, and anyone refilling liquid fuels such as ethanol may only do so when the burner is off and cold." (Information sheet on ethanol stoves, Federal Office of Public Health FOPH). Therefore, it is crucial that the fireplaces comply with the current standard DIN EN 16647:2016. This standard applies to decorative fireplaces that use liquid fuels such as ethanol. Among other things, it specifies warning and operating instructions as well as design requirements for the devices, particularly to prevent tipping and fuel spillage. The standard applies to devices with a maximum output of 4.5 kilowatts.
2. Construction
The construction method that meets at least the standards of the standard DIN EN 16647:2016 fulfilled is very important. When purchasing a product, make sure that this standard is adhered to and stated. Unfortunately, there are many cheap products, especially from low-cost providers in overseas online shops like Temu, Wish, AliExpress, etc., that violate these standards (or are even unaware of them). We strongly advise against such products. Reminder: You bear a duty of responsibility that you would violate by purchasing such products – which could be punishable.
3. Material
Not only must the combustion chamber be made of high-quality, non-flammable, and solid material (ideally Class 302 stainless steel), but so must everything around it. A stable base or good stability on the floor/table/sideboard/etc. is essential. It's also important to regularly check your tabletop fireplace for damage. The combustion chamber, in particular, must be leak-proof. You can easily test this with water.
4. Location
Place the fireplace on a stable, heat-resistant surface and keep it away from flammable materials. We recommend a slate base: it looks great and is very safe.
5. Quality of ethanol
Please use only high-purity ethanol suitable for fireplaces. Cheaper blends can emit harmful fumes! The CLIMAQUA FLAMO (currently only available in Switzerland) fully meets these requirements!
6. Ventilation
Ensure good ventilation, especially in small rooms, to avoid the accumulation of fumes.
7. Operation
Only add the ethanol just before burning. Important: Never pour fuel into an open fire! Always wait until the fireplace is no longer hot to refill. Use a stick lighter or long match to light the fire. Always keep a fire blanket or fire extinguisher handy in your home in case of emergency.
8. Supervision
Never leave the fireplace unattended while it's lit. Keep it away from children and pets.
9. Storage of ethanol
Store only small amounts of ethanol at home and always away from your burning table fireplace
CLIMAQUA ethanol table fireplaces: Safety through innovation
The CLIMAQUA ethanol table fireplaces stand out due to their solid construction and sophisticated safety features. Thanks to the compact and solid design and the consistent construction according to According to DIN EN 16647:201, they are among the safest tabletop fireplaces on the market. A leak guard keeps the ethanol safely contained in the container: a ceramic fiber sponge prevents the ethanol from spilling if the fireplace is tipped over. Unlike candles, which can burn uncontrollably and leave wax residue, ethanol fireplaces offer a controlled flame, surrounded by a protective glass panel and including an extinguishing device (lid with chain).
Why are CLIMAQUA table fireplaces safer than candles?
-
Even combustion
Ethanol fireplaces burn the ethanol evenly, ensuring a safe and stable flame pattern. -
No wax
Unlike candles, there are no flammable wax residues that could cause a fire. -
Easy handling and stable stand
CLIMAQUA fireplaces are intuitive to use. Simply closing the burner allows you to extinguish the flame quickly and in a controlled manner. A CLIMAQUA tabletop fireplace offers more stability than most candles and features a spill guard in case it should tip over. -
Little soot and smoke
Ethanol fireplaces use high-quality ethanol fuel to produce minimal emissions, improving the air quality in your home.
Conclusion
When used responsibly, ethanol fireplaces represent a safe and attractive alternative to traditional candles. CLIMAQUA ethanol table fireplaces offer the highest level of safety, even exceeding that of candles, thanks to their:
- compact size,
- robust construction and
- innovative security features.
If you follow the precautions mentioned above, you can fully enjoy the cozy atmosphere and the fascinating flames of these fireplaces without worry.
Links and helpful documents:
Article by Stiftung Warentest, October 29, 2024
Contribution to safety with ethanol stoves, Federal Office of Public Health, Switzerland, 2024
Information sheet on ethanol stoves, Federal Office of Public Health, Switzerland, 2010
