Biofireplace in the interior - an innovative solution for your home

Operating principle and characteristics

The biofireplace, the brainchild of Italian designers, appeared following the invention of environmentally friendly fuel. Any model consists of four main parts: the body, the fuel chamber, the burner and the portal, in which you can observe the flame directed by the burner. The features of the device are described by the following characteristics:

• Appearance. It can resemble a traditional hearth and look like an original design, the fruit of the creative inspiration of designers.

On a table in the recreation area Source img.edilportale.com

• Principle of operation. To get started, just pour fuel into the fuel tank and light it with a lighter.
• Material. The body is made of heat-resistant steel, sometimes with decoration, the burner is made of steel or ceramics.
• Weight. From 12 to 150 kg.

Round model Source tipicoshop.ru

• The size of the flames and burning time depend on the volume of the fuel tank and the parameters of the model. The average flame height is 20-25 cm, operating time is 3-9 hours (0.5 l for 1-1.5 hours of continuous operation).
• Flame temperature. Varies between 400-600°C.
• Additional functions. Some models have a pet and child lock mode.

With two burners Source images.homify.com

Basic principles of operation and design of a biofireplace

The biofireplace consists of several elements. The most important of these is the burner or fuel block. In more budget versions the first element is installed, in more expensive ones - the second.

The burner is a small container made of steel 2 mm thick. The fuel tank is more convenient to use, as it has the function of regulating the intensity of the fire. It can cut off the fuel supply if the fireplace tips over. This reduces the risk of fire. The design of the fuel tank is more complex, which is why such models cost much more.

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The biofireplace is fueled, regardless of the heating element, with the same fuel: bioethanol. It has a plant base and is safe for humans, as it does not produce burning, smoke, odors or harmful gases when burned.

About biofuels and accessories

All models burn biofuel obtained from plant raw materials - highly purified ethanol, which can be in liquid or gel form. The fuel received the prefix “eco” due to its safety, both for people and the environment.

During the combustion process, only heat is released, without smoke or soot. Other combustion products, water vapor and carbon dioxide, have low concentrations. With one combustion cycle (one load of fuel), as much carbon dioxide will be released as three average paraffin candles will produce. The proximity of a bio-fireplace will not harm the furniture, carpets or decoration of your interior.

Decorative protective glass Source http2.mlstatic.com

The units are supplied with various accessories. Technical accessories help make the device trouble-free and reliable, and make working with it convenient. Accessories include:

• Gas piezo lighter.
• Dividers. They have different designs and can give the flame a certain shape.

Popular size Source img.archiexpo.fr

• Biofuel pump. Fills the burner; runs on batteries located in the case.
• Silicone funnel. Used for filling fuel.
• Devices for extinguishing flames. This could be a cap or a damper.

A little bit of geometry Source u6.platformalp.ru

Biofireplaces - advantages and disadvantages

An object for decorative purposes, a biofireplace has additional advantages. In addition to environmental friendliness, safety and ease of use, the following advantages are noted:

• No formalities. Installation of a conventional fireplace is impossible without compliance with the strict requirements of SNiP; when purchasing a heat generator, you must register and obtain a permit for its installation and operation. When purchasing a biofireplace, you don’t have to think about such obstacles at all.

For a small room Source i0.wp.com

• Easy care. There is no combustion waste - no need to clean the structure from soot and soot; even glass will not get dirty.
• Design possibilities. Stylish and compact models easily fit into any style, and a living flame creates a truly romantic atmosphere.
• Choice. A wide range of models of various designs and sizes is offered. There is a possibility of making to order.

Perfectly clean Source gorbyk.info

• Heating function. Some models can warm up a room, although they produce half as much heat as a wood stove. A large model warms up a room of 30-40 square meters in two hours of operation.
• Gift idea. If you have difficulty choosing a gift, perhaps a biofireplace will be an unexpected but pleasant surprise.

Mini version Source www.tutiendadecoracion.com
The disadvantages include the following features:

• Additional expenses. Periodic purchase of biofuel.
• High cost of many models.

Island central fireplace Source pechiexpert.ru

• Need for ventilation. One of the combustion products, carbon dioxide, accumulates indoors and can cause deterioration in health. For ventilation, a regular window is enough.
• Safety precautions. An open fire should not be left unattended, even if it is a bio-fireplace.

Mobile version Source moderendom.net
See also: Catalog of companies that specialize in interior redevelopment

Wall-mounted biofireplace

This category is divided into the following types:

• Mounted models. Fixed on the wall using fasteners. In urban interiors, a wall-mounted bio-fireplace imitating a painting is often found. The design is equipped with a glass shield;
• Built-in bio-fireplace. The most optimal model from the point of view of rational use of usable space. To install a built-in biofireplace, you need to build a niche in the wall and equip it with a protective box;
• Classic wall-mounted biofireplaces. The back panel and side parts of the case are made of steel, natural or artificial stone. The front zone is decorated with a glass screen;
• Corner bio fireplace. It stands out for its extraordinary design and is installed at the junction of two walls.

They note that a wall-mounted bio-fireplace with a corner configuration occupies a minimum of usable space and is popular in furnishing interiors of any style.

Varieties

Biofireplaces are classified in different ways: by size, shape, material and style. But it is most convenient to distinguish them by method of use:

• Floor-standing. In appearance they are closest to a classic fireplace. Small models are easy to move from place to place.

In the Art Nouveau style Source mit24h.com

• Wall-mounted (built-in). The bio-fireplace can be built into a niche in the wall or into furniture.

In the bedroom interior Source biocamino.net

• Hanging. Stylish models, many of which can rotate around their axis, have an all-round view of the flame.

Suspended structure Source i.pinimg.com

• Tabletop (portable). Portable models are often made in high-tech style (metal, glass and right angles) and have an organic look both in the living room and in the office.

On the table in the kitchen area Source i.pinimg.com

• Designer ones. Non-standard solutions, for example - a biofireplace on the floor, mounted along the corner of the wall.

Non-standard solution Source i0.wp.com
There is a division of units according to control technology:

• Mechanical. The most budget option. The fireplace is ignited with a match or lighter; you will also have to manually adjust the height of the flame or extinguish it.
• Automatic. Remote, using a remote control, phone or tablet.
• Semi-automatic. The device has a keypad. There is no remote control; to light or extinguish the fire, you will have to approach it, but you won’t have to make any unnecessary movements.

In the bathroom Source santeh777.ru
See also: Catalog of companies that specialize in the installation of fireplaces and stoves

What to look for when choosing a fireplace

When choosing a biofireplace, pay attention to its design. The seams must be of high quality, and the body must be free of dents and damage. The protective door must be made of heavy-duty, fire-resistant glass. But the most important thing about a biofireplace is its warm “heart”. The thicker the walls of the heating tank, the longer it will last. High-quality containers are made of stainless steel. You will also have to decide on the control system. Some will prefer the mechanics with manual adjustment of the fire intensity, while others will not be able to do without “smart” automation with a set of buttons on the control panel.

Stylistic direction

Biofireplaces are universal. Absolutely any interior style will accept this element into the decor. Although some models, of course, are combined with specific design trends. For Provence and rustic style, bio-fireplaces with wood trim are suitable. The body made of decorative stone is organically combined with the classical and colonial trends, art nouveau. Glass models are suitable for modern, Scandinavian style and eco-friendly interiors. The body, decorated with imitation brick, will highlight the masonry on the accent wall in the loft. No Alpine chalet, country or Russian style would be complete without a bio-fireplace. Even restrained art deco and strict modern could benefit from a “fiery” addition.

Case materials and design

Based on body materials, biofireplaces are classified into the following types:

• Glass. The most popular option due to the special aesthetics of transparent walls.
• Ceramic. It has a pleasant glossy surface, which is most often combined with glass.
• Marble. The body is made of natural stone or its imitation. In the first case, the model will have an impressive weight, which will make it difficult to move and affect mobility. The use of decorative stone is completely justified, because overheating of the surface is not dangerous.
• Wood. The wood body has a particularly “cozy” look and fits into the eco-style “related” to the unit. In the original models, it has the shape of logs stacked in the hearth.
• Metal. Durable, reliable material, combined with strict styles.
• With a plasterboard portal. Such models are considered the cheapest, because their price, although biting, is not so much. Drywall is often used to decorate the body in cases where a biofireplace is built independently from scrap materials.
• Brick. The models fit into the concepts of loft and modern style. Such a body will echo a wall decorated with brick or stone masonry.

There are also combined options where several materials are combined at once. Glass appears in almost every model, since the front protective door is traditionally made of it.

Variety of shapes

Biofireplaces are made in a wide variety of forms: from classic to complex asymmetrical geometry. Depending on this characteristic, they are classified into the following types:

• Round and oval. The non-standard form of execution will attract attention. Such a fireplace will become the interior center of the room. Typically, wall-mounted and floor-standing models have rounded “sides.”
• Square. The shape, traditional for ordinary fireplaces, will blend into the interior created according to the principles of constructivism, minimalism and high-tech.
• Rectangular. Classic fireplaces that will appeal to conservatives who are skeptical about the new and extraordinary.
• Built-in. Static models that adapt to the characteristics of the location.
• Angular. The best option for small rooms.
• Asymmetrical. The variety of non-standard shapes will allow you to choose a unique option that will highlight the features of the author’s design of the room.

In the original models, the biofireplace burner is placed inside a vertically located ring, in the center of a curved metal tray or triangle, rhombus.

According to control technology

There are three types of control technology in biofireplaces:

• Machine. Ignition, extinguishing of fire and adjustment of its intensity are carried out remotely using a remote control. An ideal model for “lazy” people who prefer to place all the burden on equipment.
• Semi-automatic. Control is carried out using a button panel, which is located on the biofireplace itself. It differs from the machine only in the absence of a remote control, that is, to turn on the unit, you will have to approach it.
• Mechanics. You will have to light the fireplace with a match, and to extinguish it or adjust the flame, you will have to move the slide lid on the tank.

Mechanical models are among the cheapest, so they are suitable for those who need a budget option for an eco-friendly fireplace.

Types and diagrams of the burner device

Burners are classified into two types depending on the complexity of the device:

• Heating tanks. They are a set of a separate fuel tank with thick walls and the burner itself. The device is convenient in that combustion stops at any time when the flap is pulled back, which will hermetically close the fuel compartment. Heating tanks are more convenient to use and more expensive.
• Directly the burner itself without additional components. Such elements are most often made independently due to the simplicity of the design. They are an open tank into which fuel is poured. To ensure that there are several flames, it is covered with a special mesh with holes. The main drawback of the design is that combustion will not stop until the fuel liquid runs out. The intensity of the flame cannot be adjusted. But you can install several such burners and even supplement them with a bio-fireplace with a heating tank.

An important factor when choosing a unit will be fuel consumption. When using heating tanks, this figure is slightly lower than in simple burners, so from the point of view of economy, they are more profitable.

Accessories and decor

Since the main function of biofireplaces is decorative, they are decorated with all kinds of accessories. They surround the burner and give the flame a touch of mysticism and romance. Fireplaces are decorated with wooden firewood and its ceramic imitation, sand, pebbles, colored pebbles, artificial or natural burnt coals. Most bio-fireplaces are sold already with decorations, but you can decorate the area around the burner yourself. The main thing is that the materials used are fireproof, as safety comes first.

Decor for bio fireplace

To ensure that the resemblance to a traditional hearth is as complete as possible, manufacturers offer a variety of decor. To decorate a biofireplace in the interior, use the following accessories:

• Firewood. They are made of glass ceramics and look like whole or charred logs of different types of wood. You can choose thin or thick branches and cones depending on the size of the model. The firewood is carefully placed around the burner, making sure that it does not block the flame. Glass ceramics are fire resistant and do not release hazardous compounds into the air.

Ceramic firewood Source archiflame.gr

• Decorative pebbles. Made from refractory ceramic, it is sold as a set of pebbles that are scattered around the burner. Pebbles can have a natural appearance (for example, white marble or granite), there are sets of white, black, chocolate colors, and there are original golden pebbles.
• Decorative protective glass. Tempered glass with metal fasteners will decorate the fireplace and protect against accidental burns.
• Metal decor. Forged and cast stands (grates) help to fit the fireplace more organically into the interior, while simultaneously increasing the safety of operation.

Ceramic pebbles Source i.ytimg.com

Where can you use a biofireplace?

We are accustomed to the fact that a fireplace is a traditional element for living rooms. But if we look at history, we can remember that fireplaces used to heat homes and every room was equipped with them. Nowadays, no one bothers to place a fireplace in any room of an apartment or house.

In the living room

Often a biofireplace can be seen in a living room decorated in a modern style, as in the photo:

Photo: etsy.com

In the bedroom

A bio-fireplace in a bedroom interior also looks great. It gives the room additional coziness.

Photo:

In the nursery

The interior of a nursery with a bio-fireplace is a controversial decision. For this room, parents most often choose false fireplaces.

Photo: heatnglo.com

Biofireplace in the kitchen

A fireplace in the kitchen is also not uncommon. It is placed there to create an atmosphere of warmth near the dining area or to zone a large space. This works especially well with large rooms where the kitchen is combined with the living room.

Photo: trendir.com

Would you choose any model for your home? Share your thoughts in the comments.

In the interior

The following recommendations will help you choose a device and its place in the interior:

• If you are thinking about a bio-fireplace on the eve of renovation, you can choose a wall-mounted, hanging or floor-mounted model, and make it an accent detail of the room.
• It is difficult to find a place for a large fireplace in the existing interior; in this case, a compact floor or tabletop option is suitable.

In a modern style Source c4.wallpaperflare.com

• A spectacular art object can be installed in any room, with the exception of the nursery. Usually it decorates the living room, dining room, office, and less often the bedroom, for which neat tabletop models are chosen.
• The original way of placing a biofireplace in the living room interior is island (central). The island model is ideal for high-tech, loft or modern style. The design can be floor-mounted or suspended; Transparent cylindrical fireplaces look impressive, providing an all-round view of the flame.

Island options Source kamin.com.ua
Despite their versatility, models can be matched to certain styles:

• The interior is in a classic look. The optimal solution is a wall-mounted biofireplace with a ceramic frame. You can place ceramic coals or firewood of a suitable color around the burner.
• Rustic styles, including country and Provence, as well as chalets and retro. A bio-fireplace with a wood finish (or its imitation) is suitable.

With a portal made of plasterboard in a classic style Source www.planikafires.es

• Decorative (artificial) stone finishing. This model will decorate an interior in a classic, colonial (English) or modern style.
• Models made of metal and glass will fit into modern, Scandinavian and eco-style. Glass models with a natural stone base look charming. The fireplace is also selected for the loft, hi-tech, and minimalist style interior.

In a box made of artificial stone Source i.ytimg.com
Biofireplaces offer other possibilities. Eco-friendly and safe designs are installed in saunas, where they play the role of a kind of aroma lamp (some burners are equipped with a special container for adding flavored water). Mobile devices will make a cozy evening in the gazebo or on the veranda.

On the terrace Source www.picclickimg.com

Features of selection and operation

Although the biofireplace in the living room serves only a decorative role, when choosing it, it is worth considering not only the design and style of the model.

• First of all, determine its type of mounting : floor, tabletop, wall-mounted, built-in. If you can ask for a floor-standing one to be installed anywhere in the living room, then for a built-in one you will have to make a niche in the wall.
• Depending on the location, the dimensions are determined. Desktop models, in principle, are not large. But the sizes of wall ones vary very widely. A simple hanging bio-fireplace is usually small, but a built-in model can have very impressive dimensions.
• Type of fuel - ethanol, biomethanol, dimethyl ether and even dry alcohol are used in this capacity, that is, materials that can burn without the formation of soot. The choice is determined only by the preferences of the owner, since different types of fuel do not have any advantages over each other.
• Flame color - ethanol burns with a completely blue flame, in the literal sense of the word. This shade looks unnatural, especially in a large bio-fireplace. To get a natural-colored fire, you should choose a model that can operate on fuel with coloring additives.

• Fireplace type - in a closed bio-fireplace, the front wall is covered with glass. It is not available in the open model. The type of fireplace affects the placement: a closed model can be installed anywhere in the living room, an open one is located no closer than 1 meter to the ceiling.
• Although a biofireplace requires a very small amount of air, it is still necessary to take into account the living room area and the power of the burner. In a small room, only a tabletop or wall-mounted bio fireplace of modest size is acceptable. In the living room of more than 25 sq. m. you can install a large built-in or floor-mounted one, but in this case additional air flow will be required - ventilation, for example.
• Control technology. A traditional mechanical living room fireplace is lit manually using long matches. The automatic model is controlled from a remote control. The semi-automatic device is turned on and programmed using the control panel located on the body of the bio fireplace.
• Design . A biofireplace in a modern-style living room is most often made of metal and glass or glass and stone. Classic models imitate brick and natural stone.

Operating rules

Despite the simplicity of the device, there are certain standards that increase the safety of using biofireplaces. In addition to the need to ventilate the room during work, there are additional rules:

• The distance between the bio-fireplace and other objects should not be less than 1 m. Synthetics, textiles, and paper should not be kept nearby.
• For ignition, do not use paper or matches, only a fireplace lighter; This task cannot be trusted to children.

On an accent wall Source static.tildacdn.com

• Bioethanol is poured immediately before use. The fuel compartment is not sealed and is not designed to store fuel, which immediately begins to erode.
• Do not add (or pour) biofuel into a hot device.

There can never be too much romance Source www.italydreamdesign.com