A Chiminea (pronounced chee-meh-NEEY-yah) is similar to a wood-burning fire pit or fireplace, however it usually has an chimney for venting smoke. Traditionally made of large clay chiminea, modern designs are available in aluminum and cast iron.
Install a chiminea on a hearth on a patio that is safe, fire-resistant pavers. Avoid locations with eaves or any overhead cover that could catch fire.
Bioethanol burners
Bio ethanol fires, also known as 'ethanol fireplaces', are a feature of design that is mesmerising. The dancing flames transform any room into a cozy space. It is powered by liquid bioethanol the energy efficient fire pits burn cleanly and do not emit smoke or ash. They also don't require power, and can therefore be installed almost anywhere within the home.
Available in a variety of styles, ranging from modern to traditional there is a bioethanol fire to suit almost any interior style. Many models can be wall-mounted or freestanding, or suspended from the ceiling. These fireplaces are often a cheaper option than traditional gas or wood fires, and are easier to install too. They do not require a gas or chimney connection and can be set up in less than an hour.
Alternatively, a bespoke indoor biofire can be constructed to fit your personal fireplace style using a custom made surround and burner tray. After the ethanol burner has been filled with liquid fuel, either manually or automatically (depending on the model you select) the fire can be lit. The flames appear instantly and you can alter the flame's 'burning' by opening or closing the lid on the burner. Typically, the inside of the fuel tray is lined with a layer of non-flammable material to reduce the possibility of spillage and to ensure that the fuel is fully ignited prior to opening the lid.
In less than a half hour, you can put up an eco-friendly fire that plugs in and plays in your home. The fire is controlled using a long fire-lighting rod or wand, which comes supplied with the product or manufacturer-recommended. If you want to relax and sip a glass of red wine using a remote control powered by batteries is the best option.
As with other fires and stoves bio ethanol burners must be placed in a room that is well ventilated. If the space is small it may be necessary to open a window after the fire has been burning for a while, but this is normal for all flueless appliances. Installing a carbon dioxide sensor near your bio-fire will also help monitor the quality of air.
Gel fuel
Gel fuel, also referred to as fire gel or ethanol fuel, is a smokeless and odorless alternative to wood burning fireplaces. Gel fuel is a clear, alcohol-based gel that burns for up to three hours. It doesn't produce soot or ash, and instead produces a low amount of carbon monoxide. This means it is safe to use indoors in areas that are well ventilated. Gel fuel is available in cans and is used with fireplace inserts portable freestanding fireplaces, outdoor fire pits, tabletop burners and more.
The great thing about gel-fuel fireplaces is that they are easy to set them up and operate them without a chimney. They are an excellent choice for those who live in apartments and would like the ambiance and comfort of a fireplace but do not have the space for traditional wood-burning fireplaces. Gel fireplaces are a popular choice because they don't emit harmful gases or toxic particulates and emit minimal amounts of carbon dioxide into the air.
They can be constructed from a variety like glass and cast iron. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes and feature an attractive fireplace screen and mantel. Some are sleek and modern in appearance, offering a more contemporary look to the home.
The majority of fireplaces powered by gel fuel are designed to be compact and easy to use with some being that can stand on their own. They are powered by a small bottle of gel fuel that is placed in the middle of the unit and lit with a long match or lighter. The flame is allowed to burn until the fuel has been consumed and then smothered by closing the lid on the can.
Gel fuel is an eco sustainable alternative to gas fireplaces because it does not require venting. Some people add a couple of teaspoons of cooking oil to their fuel to make a more smoky flame, and others add a tablespoon or so of calcium acetate/water mix (a cheesemaking ingredient) to make their flame more vibrant and density.
It is vital to supervise the fireplaces that use gel fuel. Don't leave a flame unattended. This is particularly crucial if you will be absent for a prolonged period. It is crucial to wash any gel fuel that has gotten on your skin, clothes or hair as soon as possible. In case in an emergency, it is a good idea keep an extinguisher for chemical fires near the fireplace that is made of gel fuel.
Candles
Chimineas can create a warm and welcoming ambience in your outdoor space. They can also be an excellent way to spend time with your family and friends. They can be used anywhere from gardens and patios rooms to balconies and poolside. Available in a wide range of styles and materials, from traditional clay to contemporary steel and cast iron. You can also buy them in different sizes that are suitable for your space.
Chimineas are suitable for use indoors with bioethanol burners and gel fuel. However, they must be placed carefully to avoid overheating or creating the possibility of a fire. It is crucial to keep them away from things that can be damaged by heat, like furniture or plants. It's also important to ensure that they're kept away from vents, drafts and fans because they can trigger rapid and uneven burning, flare-ups and can blow nearby items into flames which could ignite.
When using a chiminea in, it's important to read all the instructions and keep away from anything that could be burned, like paper, flowers, curtains or any other combustible material. Don't leave a candle burning unattended as this poses an actual fire risk and can be dangerous.
If you decide to burn candles indoors in your chiminea, only purchase high-quality ones. Also, make sure they are safe to be burned in an enclosed space. Avoid candles made of paraffin, which are petroleum by-products and emit toxic fumes. They're also known to increase the amount of air pollution in your home and are linked with poor indoor air quality. Instead, look for alternatives that are natural, such as soy or palm oil candles which are made from plant sources rather than fossil fuels.
If you're using a big clay chiminea chiminea indoors, be aware that it's made of hard materials that can break easily when it falls or is dropped. It is essential to prepare the chamber prior to use by filling it up with sand that is four inches in diameter, or gravel. This will help to reduce the amount of smoke that is produced and make it easier to light. It is also essential to clean out any creosote or ash that has accumulated inside the chamber prior to lighting the fire.
Other fuels
Gel fuel is a relatively innovative and new type of fuel that burns efficiently and without smoke or ash. It's perfect for an indoor chiminea or gazebo or other covered space where there isn't enough ventilation to be able to safely utilize a traditional charcoal or wood burning chiminea. It also burns well, which makes it a great choice for an ordinary cookstove, where the ineffective combustion of cooking fuels made of solid is responsible for significant burdens of illness.
Avoid using charcoal or wood inside an indoor chiminea because the fumes can contain carbon monoxide that is lethally hazardous. Even a small amount of carbon monoxide can cause a person to become unconscious and lead to death, usually from brain damage or simply not waking up even. Likewise, candles look great in a clay indoor chiminea but they need to be sited with care so they don't scorch or burn carpets or walls.
