How Does a Gel Fireplace Work?

Gel fireplaces are the perfect choice when a decorative fireplace is needed but its installation is difficult. They provide flames that look perfect for a fireplace but without the need for chimneys, vents or even wood.

How they work

Gel fireplaces look like traditional fireplaces in shape and size. They have a heatproof metal box where a grate is installed and filled with heat resistant logs that hide one or more cans of flammable gel. The gel cans are placed in such a way that flames from the gel rise over the logs to resemble wood burning. Since there is no wood burning, no ashes, smoke or soot are produced, making them very easy to install and operate.

Fuel and heat

Gel fireplaces burn alcohol gel fuel, that is mostly isopropyl alcohol. The fuel is sold in small metal cans with different capacities depending on the manufacturer. The fuel is lit inside the cans and the replaceable lid is used to extinguish any remaining fuel. The cans are very affordable and burn for several hours. The burning temperature of gel fuel is quite low and this means that gel fireplaces are designed for decorative use only. The amount of heat released is minimal when compared with a traditional wood or gas-burning fireplace.

Installation

Since gel fireplaces require no permanent chimneys and only use small fuel cans, they are very portable. You can install them anywhere. Some models even come with small wheels to allow easier placement of the decorative fireplace.

Gel fireplaces offer you a great way to obtain a warm and romantic feeling in a room without the need for an expensive remodeling job. With flexible placement and low maintenance, they are the perfect choice for a decorative fireplace.