BioFires Frequently Asked Questions

Here are a few items on BioFires that may interest you.

• Can a room be heated by a decorative fireplace?
Biofireplaces are primarily for decorative purposes, but are also an efficient source of heat and although they certainly do not replace the heating system, they serve as a supplementary feature to under floor heating. A 100% of heat energy from a BioFire remains in the room and if it is placed in a small room (e.g. less that 30 meters square) a few minutes is enough to make the room warmer.

• Will I need to install a chimney for my BioFire to function?
No, this is the cost saving feature of having an alternative fuel fireplace. BioFireplaces are flueless fireplaces so the heat which is usually lost through the chimney remains in the room.

• What is the BioFuel made from?
BioFuel is made from sugarcane - a completely renewable source. It is referred to as denatured Ethanol and is environmentally friendly.

• Is the BioFuel readily available?
Yes - we have several local suppliers in most parts of the country. All of our distributors hold stock of BioFuel and we can also courier the fuel to our clients on request.

• Does the burning of BioFuel make the ceiling above the BioFire black over time?
No, the BioFuel burns completely fume and smoke free but there must be a sufficient distance between the fire and the ceiling, approximately 1 metre.

• How long will the BioFires and BioFireplaces last?
These products will last for the rest of your life if handled carefully and used according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

• Will there be any damage to surfaces on which the BioFires are set, e.g. laminate flooring, wooden tables?
No, there is no hot part of the unit which touches the surface. The air under the fuel pot will become warm but will not cause any damage.

• Can the glass crack?
The sodium glass used in the production of BioFires has been extensively tested using the BioFuel and will not crack when using this product according to the manufacturer’s directions. If you spill fuel on the glass, dry it thoroughly and wipe any residue with a damp cloth before lighting, because a fuel spill on the glass will set it alight, and the glass may then crack. No other fuels may be burned in the BioFires at all, and if you do use other fuels the glass will crack and will not be covered by the manufacturer's warranty.

• What emissions are given off by the burning BioFuel?
Carbon Dioxide and steam are the only emissions from the burning BioFuel - ventilation is essential when using a BioFire, BioFireplace, Wallfire or fireplace insert, as the open flame burns oxygen. All one needs is a slightly open window or forced ventilation.

• Are there dangers for children and pets?
As with any other open flame, it obviously has its dangers and should be kept out of reach of children and away from pets. Please treat BioFires, BioFireplaces or Wallfires and fireplace inserts as you would any other open fireplace or gas fireplace.

• How do I extinguish the flame?
Using the tool provided.

• Can you drink BioFuel?
Absolutely NOT! Although the fuel is eco-friendly, and is denatured Ethanol, it will be harmful to your health.

• Can we do any braaiing or cooking on the BioFires, BioFireplaces, Wallfires and fireplace inserts?
NO!

• Can I toast Marshmallows on my BioFire, BioFireplace, Wallfire or fireplace insert?
NO!

• Can I burn methylated spirits or paraffin in my BioFire, BioFireplace, Wallfire or fireplace insert?
Absolutely not! The glass cylinder will crack; smoke, odour and toxic gasses will be produced. No fuels other than BioFuel may be burned in all our BioFire products, and if you do use other fuels the glass will crack and this will not be replaced within the manufacturer's warranty.

• Will the glass cylinder break if I drop it?
YES, but the glass cylinders are replaceable.

• Can I burn wood in my BioFire, BioFireplace, Wallfire or fireplace inserts?
Absolutely not - nothing except BioFuel should be burned in your glass BioFire, BioFireplace, Wallfire or fireplace insert!

• I am asthmatic or have chest problems. Can I use a BioFire, BioFireplace, Wallfire or fireplace insert?
Yes! No smoke is given off. The only 2 emissions given off are Carbon Dioxide which is in the air we breathe already, and steam which will do no harm at all, the steam will moisten the air which could benefit these ailments.

• What size room can a glass BioFire warm up?
A standard BioFire will warm a room of up to 30m², and a mini BioFire will warm a room of up to 15m²

• Is there a cost saving in using a BioFire rather than an electric heater?
It compares well with electricity and is less expensive than gas. It is however more economical in other ways like not consuming electricity.