
Gel Fireplaces burn canisters of Gel Fuel which are concealed behind a set of cast, concrete logs. The flames come up well beyond the height of the log set and logs usually will have cavities where you may see the flame through the log.
Full Answer
Do gel fireplaces give off heat?
Yes. A gel fuel fireplace does give off heat. Additionally, the fire from a gel fuel can look somewhat similar to a normal fireplace with a crisp burning sound. However, the heat gives away it is kinda low and your home won’t get too much warm. A gel fuel fireplace is good for decoration, and you will get a cool vibe in front of guests.
How to use gel fuel fireplaces indoors or outdoors?
Gel fuel is safe to burn both indoors and outdoors, but there are a few important things to remember when using gel fuel fireplaces: Never burn gel fuel unattended. Place freestanding models on the level, solid flooring or outdoor surfaces to prevent them from tipping over.
How do I make fireplace fuel gel?
- Melt the soy wax in a saucepan.
- Now, gradually pour the isopropyl alcohol in the pan, while continuously stirring the mixture until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into the cans till they are 3 quarters full.
- Put the wicks in the center of the mixture, and push them till the ends reach the bottom of the cans.
Which type of fireplace is the best?
The 13 Different Types Of Fireplaces Perfect For Your Home
- Types of Wood Burning Fireplaces. A traditional wood-burning fireplace is the ideal representation of the word” cozy”. ...
- Types of Gas Fireplaces. Unlike a wood-burning fire, gas-burning fireplaces can bring down the overall maintenance cost and create better heating efficiency.
- Ethanol Burning Fireplaces. ...
- Electric Fireplaces. ...
- 12. ...
- 13. ...

Do gel fireplaces give off heat?
Yes. Although gel fireplaces are not heat efficient, they can still produce heat. On average, a can of gel fuel produces around 3,000 British thermal units (Btus). To put this into perspective, a wood-burning fireplace may produce up to 40,000 Btus.
How do you use a gel fuel fireplace?
0:494:48What is Gel Fuel - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipIt's also easy to put out by simply snuffing out the flame with the cans lid. You can also put outMoreIt's also easy to put out by simply snuffing out the flame with the cans lid. You can also put out the can of gel fuel. And continue to relight them until the can is empty gel fuel does produce heat.
Does a gel fireplace need to be vented?
Gel fireplaces operate by using a special type of gel as their fuel source. The fire that is produced is not real, so it is considered a 'faux fireplace'. This means that the fireplace does not require any ventilation, and does not need to be hooked up to a chimney.
How long does a gel flame last?
three hoursLasting up to three hours, each can creates bright orange flames that crackle just like a real fire. Best of all, Real Flame Gel Fuel is an environmentally preferable, clean-burning gel that doesn't leave any messy soot, smoke or ash behind.
Do gel fireplaces smell?
Gel fuel fireplaces are not entirely odorless. The gel fuel itself is odorless. You can smell the alcohol in the product when you pry off the lid, but that is the extent of the issue. When you light the canister to start the fire, you'll get a faint smell of liquor from the fireplace with some fuels.
How do you light a gel fuel fireplace?
To burn gel fuel, you remove the paper label from the outside of the can, pry open the lid (similar to a paint can), and set the can in an appropriate place inside the fireplace. Then, you simply light the gel with a match or a lighter. Most fireplaces can accommodate up to three cans that can burn at the same time.
Can you relight gel fuel?
Yes, you can absolutely extinguish and relight the fuel if you don't want to burn the entire can in one sitting.
Can you use fire glass with gel fuel?
Place the canister of fire gel fuel in the center of the pot and surround it with a one- to two-inch-deep layer of fire glass. Do not use rocks from the yard, as they can crack and explode when exposed to heat. Also, wear gloves whenever handling fire glass, as some edges may be sharp.
Are alcohol gel fireplaces safe?
Feel At Ease When Using Ethanol in your Home In conclusion, bioethanol fuel is a safe fuel to use, especially when compared to standard gas burning fireplaces and woodburning fireplaces. It emits no smoke or particles, just trace amounts of carbon dioxide that are no threat to you or your family.
Is Sterno the same as gel fuel?
Secondly, it is important to note that our gel fuel is not the same as something like Sterno. While Sterno or other gel fuels used for catering do have an attractive price, the way they work is very different.
Is Sterno safe to use indoors?
Sterno Fuel a jellied petroleum product, is an excellent source of fuel for inclusion in your back pack as part of your 72 hour kit. Sterno is very light weight and easily ignited with a match or a spark from flint and steel but is not explosive. It is also safe for use indoors.
Can you use fire glass with gel fuel?
Place the canister of fire gel fuel in the center of the pot and surround it with a one- to two-inch-deep layer of fire glass. Do not use rocks from the yard, as they can crack and explode when exposed to heat. Also, wear gloves whenever handling fire glass, as some edges may be sharp.
How do you light gel fuel cans?
0:201:44Sterno Chafing Fuel Safety Tips - YouTubeYouTubeStart of suggested clipEnd of suggested clipThe only safe way to light chafing fuels is with a long reach butane lighter. Please do not lightMoreThe only safe way to light chafing fuels is with a long reach butane lighter. Please do not light the chafing fuel. And move it to the service area.
How do you extinguish a gel fire?
You can extinguish the flame by using the cap as a snuffer. Turn the cap over and slide it over the can opening to put out the flame. Wait until the canister has completely cooled before you remove it and replace the cap, though it's good to note that liquid fuels maintain a cooler canister than the gel variety.
Are gel fire pits safe?
NFPA warns the public that a flame may still be burning even when it is not visible, which is not uncommon with some gel fuel, and pouring fuel on any open flame is extremely unsafe.
What is a gel fireplace?
Gel Fireplaces are Convenient and Clean Burning. Gel Fireplaces burn canisters of Gel Fuel which are concealed behind a set of cast, concrete logs. The flames come up well beyond the height of the log set and logs usually will have cavities where you may see the flame through the log.
How long does real flame gel fuel burn?
Our RealFlame gel fuel is sold in cases of 12 or 24 canisters. Each can will burn for about 3 hours. The cost is similar to one burning the wax fire logs in a traditional wood burning fireplace...but no fumes or venting is needed while burning gel fuel
Can a media center fireplace be placed against a flat wall?
This selection of Media Center Gel Fireplaces can be placed against any flat wall without any hookups or installation and offer media sections, flat-screen top and component shelves. These handsome cabinets will compliment any decor and become the families favorite area to gather and relax. Watch your favorite show or movie with the ambiance of a real flame fire below. These media fireplaces are wide enough to handle about any size of flat-screen television.
Can you open a glass door on a wood fireplace?
If you have glass doors on your wood fireplace, you will be able to open them while a gel fireplace is burning as they produce no smoke.
Can you convert a wood burning fireplace to a gel fireplace?
Converting your wood burning fireplace to a Gel Fireplace is easy. Once you have clean ed out your wood fireplace, set our specially designed gel log kit inside and close your damper. All of the heat will no longer be going up the chimney.
Do gel fireplaces need a chimney?
Gel Fireplaces produce no smoke and need no chimney. Our gel fireplaces may be used in any room or office without any need for power or natural gas connections.
Can you use gel fuel in a fire pit?
Convert your existing firepit or purchase a new gel outdoor fireplace that uses clean burning gelfuel with no smoke or harmful oders and gasses.
What is a gel fireplace?
As the name implies, a gel fireplace is a specific type of fireplace that uses a specialty gel as its source of fuel.
How easy is it to use a gel fireplace?
Every aspect of the gel fireplace, from installation to use, is incredibly easy. Using the fireplace only requires the insertion of a gel canister to have a fire going in seconds. This ease of use coupled with the fact that these types of fireplaces can be used in any home without modification, has made gel fireplaces a very popular option for homeowners. An added benefit is the fact that the fuel that is used is safe for use without ventilation, and is also environmentally sound.
How many BTUs does gel produce?
Gel is not the most effective option in terms of its heat-generating capabilities as it produces about 3,000 BTUs per hour, per can. Given the fact that it is most commonly used in smaller living spaces, the amount of heat it gives off is typically ideal for its intended function.
How long does a gel fireplace last?
However, if you want to keep a larger area warm, a gel fireplace may not be the option for you. Each can is estimated to last for about two to three hours, so when used in conjunction with other cans, its endurance potential is solid.
What is the best material for a gel fireplace?
In most cases, mahogany or enamel is used. In the case of outdoor gel fireplaces, the metallic or ceramic shell is made to be more durable in order to protect from the elements.
Can a gel fireplace be assembled?
The kits are designed in an intuitive manner since the manufacturers are aware of the fact that the kits will not be assembled by professionals.
Can ceramic wood be placed in a fireplace?
Once the gas and ventilation lines have been closed, the ceramic wood or other materials can be placed in the existing fireplace. The gel canisters can then be arranged behind the ceramic wood to give the appearance that the wood is burning in the existing fireplace.
What is gel fuel fireplace?
This technology gives you a freestanding fireplace option.#N#If you have a small space or home where permanent changes are not practical, then a gel fuel fireplace is the perfect addition to consider. Most of them come with the look of the traditional fireplace, including the molding, columns, and mantelshelf. Some come equipped with glass panels or flames that come through ceramic rocks instead. As long as the room is well-ventilated, then you can enjoy a moment to sit by the fire in almost any situation.
How much heat does a gel fuel fireplace produce?
If you have a conventional wood-burning fireplace or cast-iron stove, then you can achieve up to 40,000 BTUs of heat output when the fire starts roaring. Gas fireplaces can go even higher at 65,000 BTUs.
What is the fuel that pops when you burn a fireplace?
Some fuels contain organic materials so that the fireplace will pop and hiss when operating it, mimicking what wood does in a fire. All gel fuels typically come from an isopropyl alcohol mixture. When you want to burn the gel fuel, then you remove the paper label from the outside of the container.
What do fireplaces come with?
Most of them come with the look of the traditional fireplace, including the molding, columns, and mantelshelf. Some come equipped with glass panels or flames that come through ceramic rocks instead. As long as the room is well-ventilated, then you can enjoy a moment to sit by the fire in almost any situation. 2.
Can you regulate the flame level of a gel fuel fireplace?
6. There is no way to regulate the flame levels. A gel fuel fireplace burns based on the canisters you place in the holders of the unit. You’ll get a nice flame once they start burning, but there is no way for you to control the size or shape of the fire itself.
Can you operate a gel fuel fireplace outside?
If you operate a gel fuel fireplace outside, then there is a tremendous amount of heat loss that occurs once you step away from the unit. This technology does an excellent job of heating those who are close to the product, but the warmth dissipates as you move away from it.
Is it safe to burn gel fuel?
1. It can be more dangerous to use gel fuel than a regular fireplace.#N#Gel fuel is generally safe to burn both indoors and outside. There are a few essential tips that you’ll need to remember to ensure that you can use your new fireplace safely. If you have a freestanding model, then you must place it on solid flooring where the appliance cannot tip over. You should not burn gel fuel unattended, and avoid lighting a fire during high winds or when precipitation is falling. Adding new fuel to an old container is a bad idea as well.
What is a gel fuel fireplace?
One of these are gel fuel fireplaces. Gel fuel fireplaces use an alcohol based gel to produce the flame and heat. They are much different from traditional wood burning fire places for multiple different reasons, the first and foremost being that they are virtually mess free. While gel fuel fireplaces are becoming more and more popular as an alternative to wood burning ones, there are still some distinct disadvantages that should be considered. If you are considering purchasing one of these fire places, it is best to educated yourself about all they have to offer and the obstacles you may face.
Who invented the fire place gel?
The patent for “fireplace gel” was filed in 1986 by John M. Browning.
Is there a way to regulate the amount of flames that gel fuel ignites?
1. No Flame Regulation#N#There is no way to monitor or regulate the amount of flames that the gel fuel ignites. It is also much more difficult to extinguish the fire with gel fuel.
How long does a gel flame last?
It is the closest you can get to real fire without wood and smoke. BTUs range from 2,500 to 3,000 per hour, and a 30oz can will typically last 2.5 to 3 hours. You do not need to wait for this flame to heat up. It is at full intensity in about 30 seconds.
What is gel made of?
Gel is made using a mixture of pure isopropyl alcohol, salt, water, and thickening agents. The salt actually creates a crackling sound like a real fire. Gel comes in canisters that you set in a designated area of the fireplace. When empty, they are removed and disposed of.
How to extinguish a bio ethanol fireplace?
With a bio ethanol fireplace you will pour the liquid into the fuel burner, and use a wand lighter or long match to ignite the fuel. To extinguish, cover the fuel tray with the included fuel tray lid to eliminate the oxygen supply.
Do you need a vent for an ethanol fireplace?
Looking for the Best Ethanol Fireplace? Ethanol Fireplaces have become a popular design trend not only for their appearance but for their heating capabilities. No need for a vent , these fireplaces can be used anywhere a fireplace is needed. Shop Now and Enjoy Free Shipping on all Fireplaces!
What is a gel fuel fireplace?
Share. Email. Brookstone.com. A gel fuel fireplace is a type of vent-free fireplace that uses canisters of an alcohol-based gel as a fuel source. There are many types of gel fuel appliances that you can use for both indoors and outdoors. Because they need no chimney, gas hookups, or electricity, these handy fireplaces can be moved ...
How many cans of gel can be used in a fireplace?
Then, you simply light the gel with a match or a lighter. Most fireplaces can accommodate up to three cans that can burn at the same time. To extinguish the flame, carefully drop the lid onto the can, smothering the flame. Cans can be resealed and saved for future use.
How many BTUs does a gel fuel stove have?
A single can of gel fuel typically provides about 3,000 Btus ( British thermal units) of heat. Burning three cans at once puts out 9,000 Btus. As a comparison, a wood fire in a conventional wood-burning fireplace may produce 20,000 to 40,000 Btus, while a gas fireplace can put out about 8,500 to 60,000 Btus.
How to prevent gel fuel from tipping over?
Place freestanding models on the level, solid flooring or outdoor surfaces to prevent them from tipping over. Exercise care when using gel fuel outdoors; do not burn fires during high wind or when it is raining or snowing . Burn gel fuel only in its original container.
How long does gel fuel burn?
Gel fuel is typically made with isopropyl alcohol and is sold in 13-ounce cans that burn for about two-and-a-half to three hours. Cans cost about $3 each. Some fuel mixtures contain organic materials that make a sizzling or popping sound when burned, to mimic the sound of burning wood.
What is a freestanding fireplace?
A freestanding fireplace is an appealing option for homes or small spaces where you cannot or don't want to make permanent changes. Many indoor fireplaces have the look of traditional fireplaces, with a mantelshelf, columns and molding, a fireplace screen, and ceramic logs.
Can you refill gel fuel?
Burn gel fuel only in its original container. Do not refill used containers or add fuel from one container to another.
What is a real flame gel fireplace?
Featuring a solid wood and veneered MDF construction in a pure white finish, this real flame gel fireplace is a thing of beauty. The pure white color, which is often hard to find in almost anything decorative, stands out like a marble pillar and helps brighten any room just by its color alone. The regalness and splendor of its appearance will astonish those who glimpse it for the first time, and is sure to invite questions from those who see it for the first time.
What is a gel fireplace?
Gel fireplaces, in general, are more ornamental than practical items , but this gel fireplace fits both functions beautifully. Using the Real Flame gel fuel, it produces a beautifully large flame from the cans, which are placed behind realistic-looking ceramic logs.
What is the shelf on top of a corner fireplace?
Thanks in large part to the shape of the fireplace, as well as to its solid, sturdy build, the shelf is actually quite useful, being able to hold heavy items such as a television, and being roomy enough to accommodate almost any decoration. This makes it quite favorable in comparison to many other freestanding gel fireplaces, where space on the shelf is often at a premium for even the smallest decorations.
How long does it take for a gel fireplace to burn?
As with many other gel fireplaces, this fireplace uses the Real Flame gel fuel, which produces a large flame and emits up to 9,000 BTUs per hour, with a burning time of up to 3 hours. When using up to the maximum of 3 gel canisters simultaneously, this provides a good amount of warmth and light to the room, while not being too hot. For those in need of a fireplace of this functionality and color scheme, this model is about as close to perfection as you can get.
How does a gel fireplace work?
Gel fireplaces work by burning a gel. The types of gel used in most gel fireplaces burn very clean, and no ventilation is required. The gel also does not produce any unpleasant odors, although there are some gels that are scented to produce a nice fragrance.
What is inside a firebox?
Included inside of the firebox are hand painted ceramic logs that are placed in front of the gel holders, which helps give the fireplace a look of authenticity. The included protective screen helps keep wandering hands out of the firebox while the fireplace is in use.
How big is a regal fireplace?
The fireplace stands a good 48 inches wide, 13 inches deep, and 41 inches high, so it is small enough to fit in most interiors without a problem, while large enough to be functional as both a fireplace and a shelf. The fireplace includes a mantel which is large and deep enough to hold even a television on top, as well as a matching fire box. Included inside of the firebox are hand painted ceramic logs that are placed in front of the gel holders, which helps give the fireplace a look of authenticity. The included protective screen helps keep wandering hands out of the firebox while the fireplace is in use.
