I am constantly asked by people who don’t own ventless fireplaces exactly what is a gel fuel. So instead of being me today and trying to tell you about some wild fireplace idea I have, I thought I would give a run down and talk about the differences of gel fuels. Hopefully, this will help people get up to speed.
Gel fuels are an alcohol-based product that is not supposed to give off smoke or odor, allowing you to have a fireplace without a chimney or the need to worry about ventilation. Gel fuels are a blend of isopropyl alcohol and a mixture of other things. They give you the sensation and feel of a flickering flame without having to store and burn wood. Gel Fuels have only come about recently but have allowed many people without proper ventilation to own a fireplace.
Real Flame gel fuel in cans give off a bright yellow, orange, and red flame that flickers and crackles like a real fire. They can last up to three hours burning at 3,000 BTUs. This type of gel fuel is not designed as a source of heat but it does provide some warmth. It is environmentally friendly, non-toxic and safe to burn indoors or outside, without having to worry about anything like ashes, soot or smoke.
SunJel Gel Fuel consists of an Isopropyl Alcohol Base. It is the first Gel Fuel that has been combined with an organic thickener and true sea salt to enhance the light crackling sound effect. It contains pure IPA and H2O. SunJel Premium branded gel fuel consists of an Ethanol Alcohol Base and is the first denaturedGel Fuel that was allowed to cross all borders with laboratory testing resultssatisfyingCanadian and USA testing facilities. It is pure and organic with a natural corn base that is naturally derived and made in the USA.
Liquid Ethanol is a bio-fuel that allows the energy supplied to simply disappear upon burning, maximizing its efficiency indoors. The liquid ethanol gel fuel is a pure plant derivative made from the purest ethyl alcohol and is non-toxic, odor and smoke free as well as being an environmentally friendly fuel. One Quart burns for about 2 – 5 hours (depending on room conditions, flame size and fireplace model). It burns cleanly giving off CO2 and steam in similar proportions that are exhaled by humans. Its flame is strong and ironically, it provides a great way to heat foods.
Citronella is a gel fuel with various features. One feature of the Citronella fuel gel is that it allows you to avoid mosquito bites and keeps mice away. This fuel gel is safe to use around kids and pets. It is best recommended for outdoor use. Citronella fuel gel creates a large, dancing flame and a crackling sound.
The Eucalyptus Gel Fuel provides a natural and long-lasting protection against insects. Data available from EPA and CDS have named several products that provide insect repellent activity stating that products containing these active ingredients typically provide reasonably long-lasting protection. Citronella and Oil of Eucalyptus are 2 ingredients listed in the evaluation. Eucalyptus gel fuel helps against West Nile and other insect irritations. Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus, is known as a “bio-pesticide repellent”, which means it is also derived from natural materials.
These gel fuels either come in a can or in a bottle for refills. Make sure that the can is not lit when you attempt to refill. This has been attempted and it has lead to injuries. That is the only safety issue that exists with gel fuel because it won’t spark or jump out of the fire like wood embers have the ability to do.
