Manual Bioethanol Fireplaces with Fuel Arrestors vs Automatic BEV Fireplaces: The Best & Safest Real Flame Choice for Australian Apartments and Homes

02 June 2025

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3 min read

Ethanol fireplaces represent the future of heating in Australia’s increasingly urbanised housing market. Whether you're a developer seeking NCC compliant heating for a multi-residential project, or a homeowner upgrading your apartment’s aesthetic with a clean, real flame, these fireplaces offer the perfect blend of design, safety, and eco-consciousness.

As electric connected real natural flame fireplaces continue to grow in popularity across Australia, developers, architects, and homeowners are seeking safe, stylish, and sustainable alternatives to traditional wood or gas heaters. Two standout choices in the market are Manual Bioethanol Fireplaces with Fuel Arrestors and Automatic BEV (Burning Ethanol Vapour) Fireplaces with Automatic Pumps.

But what exactly sets them apart? And why are these ethanol fireplace solutions the ideal fit for multi-residential developments, apartments, and modern home living?


🔥 What is a Manual Bioethanol Fireplace with a Fuel Arrestor?

A manual bioethanol fireplace is a ventless, clean-burning fireplace that uses liquid ethanol fuel. The addition of a fuel arrestor—a safety mesh or barrier—prevents back flame into the fuel tank, significantly enhancing safety during operation and refuelling.

Key Features:

  • No flue or chimney required
  • Simple manual ignition and control
  • Fuel arrestor technology minimises flame flashback
  • Lower price point than automated units
  • Ideal for smaller-scale installations and outdoor use


🔥 What is an Automatic BEV (Burning Ethanol Vapour) Fireplace with an Automatic Pump?

An Automatic BEV fireplace represents the cutting-edge of ethanol fireplace technology. BEV stands for Burning Ethanol Vapour—a patented process where ethanol is first heated into vapour before ignition, allowing for precise flame control with zero direct contact with liquid fuel.

Key Features:

  • Fully automated operation with remote or smart control
  • No direct contact with flames or fuel
  • Automatic refuelling system with internal pump
  • Built-in safety sensors and CO² detectors
  • Seamless integration into smart homes


🇦🇺 Why These Fireplaces Are Ideal for Multi-Residential Developments and Apartments in Australia

✅ No Chimneys or Gas Lines Required

Both manual and automatic ethanol fireplaces are flueless, making them perfect for apartments and homes without access to traditional ventilation.

✅ Compliance with NCC (National Construction Code)

Modern ethanol fireplaces, especially automatic BEV systems, are designed to meet Australia’s strict building and fire safety standards, ensuring seamless integration into multi-residential developments.

✅ Compact and Versatile Design

Whether you're installing in a penthouse balcony, a living room in a city apartment, or a modern open-plan home, these fireplaces provide flexible design options with real flame ambiance.

✅ Eco-Friendly and Sustainable

Using renewable bioethanol fuel, both systems emit no smoke, soot, or ash, contributing to lower carbon emissions and a cleaner indoor environment.

✅ Enhanced Safety for Dense Living Environments

The BEV fireplace's enclosed vapour combustion and the manual model’s fuel arrestor system provide unmatched safety, especially crucial in apartment buildings where fire risk must be minimised.


🔍 Which Fireplace is Right for You?

  • Choose a Manual Bioethanol Fireplace with Fuel Arrestor if you want a cost-effective, safe, and simple solution for smaller installations or occasional use.
  • Opt for an Automatic BEV Fireplace if you demand premium safety, smart features, and top-tier performance—ideal for high-end developments or permanent indoor installations.


🏡 Real Flame Fireplaces: The Modern Australian Lifestyle Choice

Ethanol fireplaces represent the future of heating in Australia’s increasingly urbanised housing market. Whether you're a developer seeking NCC-compliant heating for a multi-unit project, or a homeowner upgrading your apartment’s aesthetic with a clean, real flame, these fireplaces offer the perfect blend of design, safety, and eco-consciousness.


🔥 Ready to Enhance Your Space?

Discover Australia's leading range of manual and automatic ethanol fireplaces and find the right fit for your apartment, home, or residential development.


Decoflame Net Zero Fireplaces

t:   1800 932 031 

w: www.decoflame.com.au

i:   @netzerofireplaces

y:  @decoflamenetzerofireplaces