Le Feu Bioethanol Fireplace FAQ

Everything you need to know about our Le Feu bioethanol fireplaces: how they work, how warm they get, how to use them safely and which one suits your space. Can't find your answer? Send us a message on the chat (bottom right) with a photo of your room and we'll help you choose.

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The basics

What is a bioethanol fireplace?

A bioethanol fireplace gives you real flames without a chimney, flue, gas supply or electricity. It burns liquid bioethanol, a plant-based alcohol fuel, in a sealed burner, so you can place it almost anywhere in your home.

Do I need a chimney or electricity?

No. Bioethanol burns without smoke or soot, so there's no chimney or flue to install, and there's nothing to plug in. You just need a well-ventilated room (see the safety section below).

Does it actually give out heat?

Yes. On 1.5 litres of good-quality bioethanol, a Classic 525 Dome can raise the temperature of a 40 m² room by 3 to 4°C. Think of it as a cosy top-up and a beautiful focal point rather than your main heating.

How long does it burn?

  • Classic 525 Domes: 4 to 6 hours on 1.5 litres
  • Large 625 Domes: up to 6 hours on 1.9 litres

Can I adjust the flame?

Yes. The Dome burner can be used fully open or partly closed, which changes both the flame size and the heat output.

How much do they weigh?

The freestanding Domes weigh around 26.5 kg including base and burner, which is what keeps them so stable. The Dome itself is around 20 kg, which matters if you're hanging a Sky from the ceiling. Exact dimensions are on each product page.

Can I change the look later?

Yes. All Le Feu Domes are designed to work with a range of legs, pedestals, poles and mounts, so you can change how your fireplace is displayed, or move it from floor to ceiling, without buying a new one. See the accessories.

Placement

Where can I put it?

Almost anywhere with good ventilation: living rooms, open-plan kitchens, bedrooms, garden rooms. Keep it at least 15 cm away from anything flammable such as curtains, shelving and soft furnishings, and away from draughts.

Can I rotate it?

The ceiling-hung Sky rotates 360°, so you can turn it towards wherever you're sitting. The Wall model rotates 90° to each side. The freestanding models are easy to move around, indoors and out.

Can I use it outdoors?

Yes. The freestanding models are lovely on a terrace or patio. Bring them back inside afterwards, or protect them with the Le Feu Outdoor Cover when not in use (the cover fits the Classic 525 Domes).

The Dome Sky (ceiling-hung)

Which pole length do I need?

Measure from your ceiling down to where you'd like the top of the Dome to sit. The Dome itself is 35 cm high. Poles come in 50, 100, 120 and 140 cm, and can be joined to reach the height you want.

Not sure? Send us your ceiling height and a photo of the room on the chat and we'll work it out with you.

What kind of ceiling can it hang from?

The Sky can be fitted to most ceilings. Plasterboard ceilings may need extra reinforcement, as the Dome alone weighs around 20 kg before the pole and burner are added. For sloped ceilings, use the Angle Ceiling Mount. If in doubt, ask a qualified tradesperson to fit it.

How long can the pole be?

Poles can be combined, but Le Feu recommend a maximum total length of 4 metres for stability and safety.

Can I hang a Sky outside?

Yes, but because it's permanently fixed, choose a sheltered spot such as a covered terrace, and protect it with a cover when not in use.

Fuel and refilling

What fuel should I use?

Use liquid bioethanol with a purity of at least 95% (95 to 97% is ideal). Higher purity gives a clearer, steadier flame, less smell and protects the burner over time. Avoid gels and low-grade fuels.

How do I fill the burner? Is it safe?

  • Always let the burner cool completely first: wait at least 30 minutes after the flame goes out.
  • Never refill while it's lit or hot, and never pour fuel onto a flame.
  • Use a funnel or pump to pour the bioethanol in.
  • The burner contains ceramic wool, which soaks up the fuel and helps prevent spills.

Does it smell?

Good-quality bioethanol produces little to no smell. You may notice a faint smell for a moment when the flame goes out.

How should I store bioethanol?

Keep it in its original sealed, child-resistant container, away from heat and open flames, and out of reach of children and pets. If you spill any, wipe it up straight away and let the vapour clear before lighting. Always follow the label on your fuel.

Safety

Are Le Feu fireplaces safe?

Yes, when used as directed. The Domes weigh at least 25 kg, so they're very stable and hard to knock over. If one did tip, the spill-proof burner is designed to stop liquid fuel leaking out. Le Feu fireplaces are CE marked.

Golden rules

  • Use only in a well-ventilated room. Like any open flame, bioethanol uses oxygen and gives off carbon dioxide and water vapour.
  • We recommend a carbon monoxide alarm in any room with an open flame.
  • Never leave a lit fireplace unattended, and keep children and pets at a safe distance.
  • Keep it at least 15 cm from flammable materials.
  • Only refill when the burner is completely cool.
  • No smoking near the fuel, and keep the fuel away from sparks and flames.
  • Read the manual that comes with your fireplace for full instructions.

Buying from North Home

How long does delivery take, and how much is it?

Le Feu fireplaces are delivered in 3 to 6 days. UK delivery is £35 (£75 for the larger 625 models). Le Feu fireplaces aren't included in free delivery offers.

Can I see one in person?

Yes. Our showroom at Redbrick Mill, 218 Bradford Road, Batley, WF17 6JF has a Dome Sky 625 in Black, a Mocca Dome on wooden legs and a White Dome on a steel pedestal on display. See our store visit page for opening hours.

I already own a Le Feu. Can I buy parts?

Yes. We stock extra Sky poles, ceiling and angle mounts, wall mounts, legs, steel plates and poles, and the Outdoor Cover, so you can set up your Dome in a new way. Shop Le Feu accessories.

Videos: colours and assembly guides

Short videos from Le Feu (these open on Vimeo):

Still have a question? Message us on the chat (bottom right) or email info@northhome.uk. We're always happy to help you find the right fireplace for your space.