Question 1

Can I install a fireplace insert into my existing fireplace?

Accepted Answer

EcoSmart’s  fireplace inserts  are mostly used for new construction when an entirely new fireplace is desired for a given space. They are not designed for the conversion or remodelling of an existing masonry or gas fireplace but could be used if the dimensions align.  To convert an existing fireplace we recommend using our  fireplace grates  or  ethanol burners  as noted above.  Ensure that the flue has been closed off and the relevant suppliers have officially detached all connections to utilities.

Question 2

What are the differences between the Flex, Heritage, and Frame fireplace insert series?

Accepted Answer

Three zero-clearance bioethanol series, three distinct design intents. Flex is the format-flexible range for bespoke and commercial builds, Heritage reimagines the traditional hearth for compact and high-rise settings, and Frame delivers low-profile linear flame for contemporary and retrofit interiors.

Where they diverge:

Flex offers the widest format choice: 12 single-sided sizes from 378 to 4,030 mm [14.9 to 158.7 in] viewing width, available across eight configurations (single-sided, left corner, right corner, bay, double-sided, peninsula, island, and bench). The viewing area is all live flame. Select models include an optional decorative box and copper log set. Single-sided models share a 365 mm [14.4 in] depth.
Heritage is the single-sided traditionalist. Three sizes, 860 to 1,624 mm [33.9 to 63.9 in] wide, with the tallest proportions and deepest 539 mm [21.2 in] profile of the three. A SECC steel grate and toughened glass fire screen come standard, creating the classic log-fire read inside a modern firebox. Zero-clearance, ventless installation makes it suited to compact living spaces and high-rise buildings.
Frame is the shallowest and lowest-slung, at 363 to 403 mm [14.3 to 15.9 in] deep and 598 mm [23.5 in] high. Five single-sided sizes, toughened low-iron glass for clearer flame, and a design that lets wall finishes be updated without disturbing the insert.

Flex for design freedom. Heritage for traditional proportions without the infrastructure. Frame for linear, low-profile statements and renovations.

Question 3

Can they be installed on any wall type?

Accepted Answer

EcoSmart Fire wall-mounted fireplaces are engineered for integration into most wall constructions, though the backing material and clearances matter. Suitable substrates include brick, stone, plastered masonry, fire-rated plasterboard, tile, and concrete. Stud walls work when lined with fire-rated plasterboard and hollow-wall anchors; fabric and wallpaper directly behind the unit must be avoided.

Recessed installations require non-combustible cavity backing, such as vermiculite board, fibre cement, or steel framing lined with fire board, to maintain safe operating temperatures. The Flex Series is purpose-built for architect-led recessed integration and uses specified mounting brackets and spacers to create the necessary air gap for heat distribution.

Installation details vary by model, so the manufacturer's installation manual governs clearances to combustibles and any structural considerations.

Question 4

Can you install a TV above a wall-mounted ethanol fireplace?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can install a TV above a wall-mounted ethanol fireplace using one of three engineered design solutions. EcoSmart Fire bioethanol fireplaces emit minimal radiant heat and require no venting, making TV placement above the opening viable when proper spacing or shielding is applied.

The three approved approaches are: (1) a non-combustible mantel or ledge installed between the fireplace and TV to deflect radiant heat; (2) a recessed niche that sets the TV into the wall above the fireplace, creating physical depth separation from the flame; (3) sufficient setback clearance, positioning the TV well above the opening to allow heat to dissipate naturally.

Overhead clearance from the flame to any overhead surface must be 1,500–2,000 mm [59–78 in], depending on your burner model. Check your installation manual for the exact specification. The fireplace itself has zero clearance at the back and sides, but materials positioned above it, including your TV bracket, are not supported by the fireplace frame. Your TV bracket must be independently anchored to the wall structure or a structural element, not the fireplace surround. This independent anchoring ensures safe mounting and code compliance for load-bearing fixtures.

Question 5

Can a wall-mounted bioethanol fireplace be installed in a rental property?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a wall-mounted bioethanol fireplace can be installed in a rental property, provided you have written consent from your landlord or property manager.

Bioethanol models have a clear advantage in the rental context: no gas line, no flue, and no electrical connection are required. The fireplace runs entirely from bottled fuel, so there is no permanent utility infrastructure to negotiate. This removes the primary obstacles that would make a gas or wood-burning installation impractical or impossible in most rental agreements.

Installation does involve physical wall work. A recessed model requires a framed wall cavity; a surface-mounted model requires anchor fixings. Both create modifications that most tenancy agreements require prior landlord approval for. Obtain that consent in writing before any work begins.

Question 6

What is the minimum wall space required for a wall-mounted bioethanol fireplace?

Accepted Answer

Minimum footprints by range:

Frame (surface-mounted, zero clearance): 746 mm x 798 mm, 403 mm deep
Flex (recessed cavity): 488 mm wide x 730 mm tall, 365 mm deep
Heritage (hearth alcove): 860 mm wide x 910 mm tall, 539 mm deep

Question 7

How do bioethanol wall-mounted fireplaces compare to electric wall fireplaces?

Accepted Answer

Both bioethanol and electric wall-mounted fireplaces support recessed installation, but the real difference comes down to flame type. EcoSmart Fire's bioethanol wall-mounted ranges produce genuine combustion: a moving, organic flame with radiant warmth, fuelled by plant-derived e-NRG. The electric Switch and Motion collections, available in the USA and Canada, recreate the look using Switch FX or Motion Picture Technology, with multi-dimensional flame imagery, wood-crackling audio, and adjustable accent colours.

The practical differences shape where each suits a project:

Power vs fuel. Electric wall fireplaces need a power outlet and switch on instantly via remote or touch control. Bioethanol units need no electrical connection, just a fuel refill and manual ignition, with 7 to 13 hours of burn per fill depending on the model.
Heat character. Bioethanol delivers radiant heat from real combustion. Electric models produce convective heat from a heating element, with three modes including flame-only.
Indoor and outdoor use. Bioethanol works fully indoors or outdoors. Switch electric is rated for indoor or covered-outdoor use; Motion is indoor only.
Room conditions. Bioethanol fireplaces are designed for use in rooms with standard volumes, in line with the combustion certifications they carry. Electric fireplaces have no ventilation requirement.

For a living flame with outdoor flexibility and no electrical infrastructure, bioethanol is the natural choice. For spaces where combustion is not an option, the electric collections deliver a credible flame experience.

Question 8

Are ethanol fireplace inserts easy to install?

Accepted Answer

Yes, ethanol fireplace inserts are straightforward to install compared to traditional fireplaces. Unlike wood-burning or gas fireplaces, there's no flue, gas line, or electricity connection required, which eliminates most of the structural and trade complexity. The zero-clearance technology means the appliance mounts directly against standard timber framing without additional wall spacing, giving you genuine flexibility in placement.

The installation typically follows three phases: build the framework to the specified opening dimensions, slide the appliance into the cavity and secure with standard screws, then complete your wall panelling and finishes. Single-sided inserts follow a 10-step sequence, from framework construction through media positioning, while fire pit kits simplify to 6 steps. Basic tools suffice: a power drill, screwdriver, and level. Models range from 25.7 kg [56.5 lbs] to 222.1 kg [488.6 lbs], and heavier units benefit from a second pair of hands, though no specialist trades or custom engineering is needed.

Flexibility is where ethanol fireplace inserts stand apart. Zero-clearance installation removes traditional constraints, so you can incorporate the fireplace at any renovation stage: before wall lining, mid-construction, or even as a retrofit into existing openings. Your finishing materials (marble, timber, concrete, or custom millwork) can be chosen independently, and the appliance fits into interior walls, under cabinetry, or recessed niches. After installation, fill with e-NRG bioethanol, ensure adequate room ventilation, and test the ignition.

Question 9

Are there specific clearance requirements?

Accepted Answer

EcoSmart Fire bioethanol fireplaces feature true zero-clearance design. At the back and sides, the appliance frame installs directly into wood or metal stud walls with no spacing required between the unit and surrounding combustible materials.

For mantels and surrounds fitted above or beside the unit, specific vertical clearance distances apply. These differ depending on whether the material is combustible or non-combustible; your model's support page provides the exact dimensions and diagrams for your configuration.

Each model specifies a minimum room volume for adequate ventilation. This is an air quality requirement rather than a physical clearance distance. Your product specifications or installer will confirm the threshold for your room.

Before installation, verify your wall cavity dimensions against the product's cut-out specifications to ensure tolerances align.

Question 10

What design materials and finishes can be used to surround an ethanol fireplace insert?

Accepted Answer

Zero-clearance construction gives a bioethanol fireplace insert genuine freedom at the face: marble, timber, concrete, and custom millwork all sit flush against the unit frame with no side or rear spacing required. The surround becomes a material decision, not a compliance one.

Approved face finishes include honed or book-matched marble, figured timber veneers, poured or board-formed concrete, and bespoke joinery. Tile, plastered masonry, brick, and natural stone work as substrate and typically as finish too, with non-combustible backing behind the cavity (EcoSmart Fire specifies vermiculite board, fibre cement, or steel framing lined with fire board). Matte surfaces like raked plaster or fluted stone read the flame as warm and painterly; reflective finishes like polished marble or blackened steel double the fire visually and throw light deeper into the room.

The only real constraint sits above the unit. EcoSmart Fire's installation guidelines specify a minimum of 600 mm [23.6 in] from the flame for non-combustible mantels or shelves, and at least 1,500 mm [59.1 in] for combustible materials including timber mantels, ceilings, joinery returns, and curtains. Everything beside and behind the firebox is yours to specify.

For retrofit projects, the wall finish can be reworked later without damaging the insert or the surrounding structure, which keeps the surround a live design decision rather than a permanent commitment.

Question 11

How do you install a wall-mounted ethanol fireplace?

Accepted Answer

Recessed installation of EcoSmart Fire bioethanol fireplaces follows a straightforward three-phase process. Construct your wall cavity to the specified cut-out dimensions, slide the appliance into the opening so the base sits securely on 50 × 100 mm [2×4 in] framing, then secure it via the mounting hole flanges using a power drill and screwdriver. Remove the transport brackets, complete your wall panelling around the insert, and the fireplace is ready for operation: no venting, no gas line, no electrician required. The absence of utility connections is what makes recessed installation possible in spaces where traditional fireplaces cannot go: interior feature walls, under-window niches, between built-in cabinetry. Framing above the appliance must be self-supporting, and the toughened glass windscreen slides into place before the decorative charcoal spreads around the appliance tray. Most installations are completed within an hour. EcoSmart Fire trade specialists are available to review your design drawings at no cost and provide technical support throughout installation. Compliance with UL 1370 and EN 16647 standards ensures your installation meets all relevant safety requirements.

Question 12

What is the difference between a wall-mounted and a recessed bioethanol fireplace?

Accepted Answer

A wall-mounted bioethanol fireplace is a self-contained unit that brackets onto the wall surface, projecting forward as a visible design object. A recessed bioethanol fireplace sits inside a framed cavity, finishing flush with the wall plane so the surrounding materials, plaster, stone, timber or tile, frame the flame. The distinction is one of design intent rather than performance. A wall-mounted installation reads as a piece of furniture for the wall, retaining its own form, its own edges, and the option to be relocated later. A recessed installation belongs to the architecture, its viewing area becoming a window cut into the room itself. Both share zero-clearance construction at the back and sides of the appliance frame, and both deliver the same clean-burning, ventless flame. The choice comes down to whether you want the fireplace to be an object in the room or part of the room.

Question 13

What is an ethanol fireplace insert?

Accepted Answer

A zero-clearance ethanol fireplace insert is a self-contained bioethanol fire unit designed to drop into a wall cavity or an existing hearth, delivering a real flame without a chimney, flue, gas line or electrical connection. It burns liquid bioethanol fuel cleanly, producing only heat, water vapour and a small amount of CO2, with no smoke, soot, sparks or ash. That clean combustion is what sets it apart from a wood or gas insert, and what allows the unit to sit directly against timber or metal studs. EcoSmart Fire builds ethanol inserts across three ranges, each suited to a different architectural setting: Frame: recessed wall inserts for indoor or outdoor single-sided viewing, built around a Grade 304 stainless steel burner and toughened glass screen. Heritage: a contemporary take on the traditional hearth and firebox, designed for classic fireplace openings. Grate: drop-in bioethanol grates that convert an existing wood-burning fireplace into a clean-burning fire, suitable for retrofit projects. All ranges are safety-certified and designed for use in adequately ventilated indoor and outdoor spaces.

Question 14

Do fireplace inserts require professional installation?

Accepted Answer

EcoSmart Fire's zero-clearance bioethanol fireplace inserts do not require professional installation. They are designed for confident DIY completion with comprehensive instructions. The process has three steps: construct a timber-framed cavity to specified dimensions, mount the insert via the included mounting holes, and finish the surround with approved non-combustible materials. No structural modifications or specialist trades are needed. Many customers choose to involve a qualified builder or interior designer, and this is where professional input earns its value. A tradesperson brings precise placement, tight integration with bespoke cabinetry, and a polished finish that elevates the overall design. If you're building or renovating, they can also coordinate installation timing across other trades on site. EcoSmart Fire's trade specialists offer a free drawing review to validate your plan before work begins, giving you expert oversight without the cost of full professional installation. Building permit requirements vary by jurisdiction; confirm local regulations before starting work.

Question 15

Do I need a chimney for an ethanol fireplace insert?

Accepted Answer

No, ethanol fireplace inserts don't require a chimney. The clean-burning chemistry of bioethanol combustion produces only heat, water vapour, and minimal CO2, with no smoke, soot, or harmful gases that would need venting through a flue. This zero-clearance capability means the insert can sit inside your existing fireplace opening with heat retained in the room. When retrofitting an existing fireplace with an active chimney, simply seal the damper or install a metal plate to block the opening. This prevents warm air escaping up the unused flue and maximises the fireplace's heating efficiency. All EcoSmart Fire bioethanol inserts are UL-listed and EN 16647 certified, meeting international safety standards for clean-burning, unvented operation.

Question 16

Can fireplace inserts heat an entire home?

Accepted Answer

Bioethanol fireplace inserts are designed as supplemental heat sources rather than primary heating systems for whole homes. EcoSmart Fire's zero-clearance inserts effectively heat individual rooms ranging from 35 to 65 square metres [377 to 700 square feet], depending on burner configuration and room volume. This focused heating strategy is intentional: inserts deliver 90 per cent efficiency because ventless design retains all heat within the room, rather than losing it up a chimney. For whole-home heating, consider two approaches: combine multiple inserts in key gathering spaces (living areas, gathering spaces), or use your existing central heating system with inserts adding warmth and ambience to high-use zones. A single insert won't replace your primary heat source, but it reduces energy demand in the room it occupies whilst delivering the aesthetic benefits of real flame. This targeted approach suits luxury residential design where thoughtful zone heating aligns with sustainable living principles.

Question 17

How much does an ethanol fireplace insert cost to install?

Accepted Answer

EcoSmart Fire bioethanol fireplace inserts cost significantly less to install than traditional gas or wood-burning fireplaces because they eliminate structural modifications, gas line installation, and chimney work. Installation focuses on securing the insert in a framework and finishing the surround, a zero-clearance design that removes expensive building work. The cost advantage comes from simplicity: no venting requirement, no electrical wiring, no combustion air ducts. Installation typically completes in under an hour once the framework is ready, keeping labour costs lower and timelines shorter. Many homeowners invest in professional finishing work, but the fireplace insert itself requires minimal specialist input. EcoSmart Fire reports up to 70% in cost savings compared to gas fireplaces across the full installation journey. This includes the insert and surrounding build work. The remaining costs reflect design choices: cabinetry finishes, materials, and architectural integration, decisions that would apply regardless of fireplace type. Once installed, running costs are minimal. A 9-litre fuel refill burns for 8–13 hours depending on heat setting, making it one of the most economical focal point options. Total cost of ownership, including installation and fuel, typically proves competitive with traditional alternatives.

Question 18

What is the minimum room volume for a wall-mounted ethanol fireplace?

Accepted Answer

Minimum room volume is determined by the burner capacity, not the fireplace footprint. EcoSmart Fire wall-mounted bioethanol fireplaces require between 40 m³ [1,413 ft³] and 90 m³ [3,178 ft³] depending on the model's heat output; compact models start at 40 m³, whilst larger designer series reach 90 m³. A few models in the largest range require up to 116 m³ [4,096 ft³]. These figures represent the air capacity needed to sustain clean combustion. EcoSmart Fire bioethanol fireplaces are engineered to operate safely in rooms of these volumes, meeting strict safety certifications. Natural air infiltration through doors, windows, and standard building construction provides adequate fresh-air exchange in rooms meeting the minimum volume. The right fireplace scale often matches your room size naturally. A 40 m³ space (roughly 4 × 5 × 2 metres) suits compact models perfectly; a 90 m³ space (say, 6 × 5 × 3 metres) accommodates larger designer fireplaces. Rather than viewing this as a constraint, consider it a guide to matching the visual and thermal impact of the fireplace to the space itself. Check your product's specifications for the exact minimum; the burner type determines the requirement, not the installation style.

Question 19

Are fireplace inserts safe to use?

Accepted Answer

Yes, EcoSmart Fire fireplace inserts are safe to use when installed correctly and operated according to manufacturer guidelines. Inserts are engineered with zero-clearance construction, with combustion containment built directly into the frame, and carry certifications across major markets: UL-listed to UL 1370 (USA), EN 16647 certified (Europe/UK), and compliant with Australian safety mandates. Every component is engineered for safety. Burners are Grade 304 stainless steel. Glass is toughened, low-iron, and withstands heat exposure. A dedicated filling point, safe shut-off mechanism, and safety markings eliminate handling risk. The combustion system burns cleanly, producing heat, water vapour, and carbon dioxide; each output is managed safely within the minimum room volume requirements for each configuration. Proper operation requires attention to ventilation. Each model has a minimum room volume requirement (ranging from 40 to 345 m³ depending on configuration) to ensure adequate oxygen and prevent indoor air quality concerns. Installation should follow the trade guidance provided, and the burner tray is mandatory for indoor use. The design reflects 20+ years of research and third-party safety validation. Professional installation is recommended to confirm correct placement and ventilation setup, ensuring reliable performance.

Question 20

What is the ideal mounting height for wall fireplaces?

Accepted Answer

Ideal mounting height for EcoSmart Fire wall-mounted bioethanol fireplaces depends on how you want to experience the flame rather than a single fixed measurement. Position the burner at eye level when seated in your primary viewing area, typically 1,200–1,400 mm [47–55 in] from the finished floor, so the flame draws your gaze naturally as you relax. Viewing angle is the real guide. If you'll stand in front of it, aim higher. If you're watching from a dining table, position lower. The beauty of bioethanol fireplaces is that ventless installation frees you from chimney positioning, ceiling-height constraints, or ventilation paths. Design comfort first, then build clearance into the architecture around it. Maintain overhead clearance of 1,500 mm [59.1 in] from the flame to any combustible material (ceilings, shelving, curtains). Non-combustible mantels can sit as close as 600 mm [23.6 in]. These aren't rigid rules but sensible margins that protect finishes and ensure safe operation. Your placement becomes a design choice driven by sightline and room proportion, not a compliance checklist.

Fireplace Inserts

Zero-clearance fireplaces

Fireplace Insert Ranges

Flex Fireplaces

Heritage Fireplaces

Frame Fireplaces

Electric Fireplaces

Premium materials

Zero clearance

Complete design freedom

Significant savings

Our flame, your vision

No flue, no chimney, no vent

Global compliance

Styled by Our Clients

Related Collections

Learn More

The Complete Guide to Choosing the Perfect Ventless Fireplace Insert: Types, Costs, and Installation

All You Need to Know About Flex

FAQ's