Decorative alcohol fuelled devices (often called ethanol burners and ethanol fireplaces) are sold for heating and display purposes. Burners are typically fuelled with liquid ethanol. The most common form is methylated spirits, often marketed as bio-ethanol or eco-fuel.
This page includes information on the safety requirements for ethanol burners, your consumer rights, tips for safer use and what to do if you have a concern.
This page includes information on:
- what are ethanol burners?
- risks and injuries
- safety requirements
- your consumer rights
- how to report a product safety concern
- advice to be a savvy consumer
What are ethanol burners?
There are three common types of ethanol burners:
- table-top devices are small and designed to sit on a table (these are no longer legal)
- freestanding devices are larger and heavier. They stand on the floor or are placed against a wall, or in a prominent position as a feature.
- fixed devices – installed in a fixed position (wall-mounted or recessed), often referred to as ‘fireplaces’.
Here are some examples of ethanol burners:
Risks and injuries
While beautiful, these devices can be hazardous when children and pets are present, and when they are being refuelled. When fuel is low, the flame can appear blue or clear, making it difficult to see.
Refuelling when a flame is present or when the device is still warm can lead to an explosion.
There is also a risk of the device being knocked over by children or pets, causing serious burns to people nearby, as well as damage to property.
These devices can lead to:
- death
- serious burn injuries requiring intensive care, skin grafts, lengthy hospital stays and ongoing physiotherapy
- house fires.
Always read and follow the directions that come with the device to limit the risk of injury and fire.
Don’t risk fire and injury, follow our tips to stay safe.
Safety requirements
A mandatory safety standard for decorative alcohol-fuelled devices sold in Australia was introduced in July 2017. According to the standard, devices must:
- be a permanent fixture, or weigh at least eight kilograms and have a footprint of at least 900 square centimetres
- meet the stability test set out in the European Standard
- come with a fuel container with a flame arrester or an automatic fuel pump system
- have the prescribed warning (see below).
Prescribed warning
For devices with fuel tanks that must be removed for refuelling:
WARNING
Filling an alcohol fuelled device while lit has caused severe burns and deaths.
You must remove the fuel tank from the device before refilling.
When refilling only use containers with a flame arrester.
When refilling first check the flame is extinguished and that the device is cool.
For devices with fuel tanks that don't need to be removed for refuelling, and come with fuel containers with flame arresters:
WARNING
Filling an alcohol fuelled device while lit has caused severe burns and deaths.
When refilling only use containers with a flame arrester.
When refilling first check the flame is extinguished and that the device is cool.
For devices with fuel tanks that don't need to be removed for refuelling, and are supplied with automatic fuel pump systems:
WARNING
Filling an alcohol fuelled device while lit has caused severe burns and deaths.
When refilling first check the flame is extinguished and that the device is cool.
Your consumer rights
As a consumer, you have the right to expect that the goods you buy are safe.
Australian Consumer Law requires safety standards to be met before certain goods are sold. These standards include:
- the way the good is made
- what it contains
- how it works
- the tests it needs to pass
- whether any warnings or instructions need to accompany it.
Individual suppliers who breach Australian Consumer Law can be fined up to $220,000, while corporations can be fined up to $1.1 million.
How to report a product safety concern
IMPORTANT: If there is a fire or you require urgent medical assistance, don’t delay - contact your GP or call 000 immediately.
If you become aware of an unsafe situation or item, whether or not anyone has been injured:
- Alert the supplier about the issue.
- You can also report it us by calling 13 32 20 or making a complaint online, or report the matter to Product Safety Australia.
Be a savvy consumer
If you have an ethanol burner that doesn't meet the new standard
If you have a table-top device you should stop using it.
If you bought an ethanol burner before the mandatory safety standard was introduced in July 2017, and it does not meet the new standard, you should return the item to the seller with your proof of purchase to obtain a refund.
Buying an ethanol burner
Consumers who want to buy an ethanol burner should check with the retailer that the device complies with the safety standard.
Using ethanol burners safely
- Always follow the safety instructions.
- Take extreme care when refuelling fixed or freestanding devices. Only use a fuel container with a flame arrester or an automatic fuel pump.
- When you’re refuelling your device:
- extinguish flames completely and check the device is cool before refilling
- if possible, remove the fuel tank from the device before refilling
- only use the recommended fuel for the device
- when refilling only use containers with a flame arrester or use an automatic fuel pump
- be aware that flames can be difficult to see, particularly in sunlight or in bright conditions. This can lead you to think that the flame has gone out
- clean up spills immediately, as pooled vapours may explode when the device is relit.
- When lighting your device:
- use the lighting tool that comes with the device as it should be long enough to safely light the fuel tank. Alternatively, use a BBQ lighter (or similar device) to remain at a safe distance when lighting the flame. Never use matches or cigarette lighters.
- When extinguishing the device, use the extinguishing tool that comes with the device. Make sure you extinguish all flames when leaving the room and before going to sleep. Never use water as this may cause the flames to spread.
- If there is a fire - use a powder extinguisher or a fire blanket to smother the fire. Use dirt or sand if you don’t have these. If you cannot control the fire, move away from it and contact the fire emergency service by calling 000.
Further information
Browse our Product safety section for more information on a range of product types including baby and children’s products, gas and electrical goods, and other consumer items.
The Product Safety Australia website is managed by the ACCC and has information on corded blind and curtain safety and national recalls.
Go to Kidsafe NSW for information to help make your home safe for young children.
Suppliers can find out more about their responsibilities on the selling safe products page.
Can’t find what you’re looking for? Call us on 13 32 20 or submit an online enquiry.
Who enforces Australian Consumer Law?
The following agencies enforce provisions relating to consumer goods and services:
- Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC)
- NSW Fair Trading, and
- other State and Territory consumer protection agencies.
The Australian Securities and Investments Commission (ASIC) is responsible for financial products and services.