Freestanding Fireplaces
Freestanding fireplaces - portable fires
Standalone fireplaces that don’t require fuel lines or ventilation give you a lot of flexibility. Their relative mobility allows you to place them wherever you need them at the moment. They can be used in both commercial and residential settings to warm a small space or create a mood.
Heating and attractive flames for indoors and outdoors
Most portable fireplaces use bio-ethanol fuel, which is smokeless, low-odor and, because it doesn’t produce toxic fumes, does not require a flue or chimney for ventilation. Consequently, you can place them in your bedroom or living room, as well as on your deck or in your backyard outside. These fireplaces store fuel in their burners (which you periodically refill), so there are no tanks or hoses to hide.
Modern assortment of standalone fireplace designs
The simplicity of the fueling set-up allows manufacturers to focus on the aesthetics of the base, windshield and storage areas. Decor Outdoor carries a number of chic designer quality freestanding fireplaces. Styles range from vibrantly colored Mid-Century Modern to upscale Industrial to sleek and translucent Minimalist Modern.
Key features to compare - Freestanding fireplaces
- Ease of Moving - Depending on the design and weight, some freestanding fires may be more of a challenge to relocate than others and should not be moved unless the flame is out and the fireplace is cool to the touch
- Indoor & Outdoor - Not all portable fires are designed with materials that are meant for outdoor use - exposure to the elements may lead to warping or corrosion
- Heat Output - Be aware of not only the heat generated but also how the design impacts the direction and distance the heat covers
- Storage - Some freestanding fireplaces are designed with handy compartments for showcasing accents or storing other items
- Assembly - A few standalone fireplaces are ready to use out of the box, while others may require some assembly
Helpful articles
Frequently Asked Questions - Portable Fireplaces
What are the risks of a freestanding fireplace?
Truly freestanding portable fireplaces are not connected to a flue, vent or chimney. That essentially limits them to either bio-ethanol fuel or electric powered models. Both types can be used indoors or outdoors but have risk and limitations. The exception is a chiminea, which has it’s own built-in chimney.
Bio-ethanol freestanding fireplaces store the liquid fuel in their burner, which must be lit and periodically refilled. The process of filling the burner and lighting it can be dangerous, especially if near flammable materials. Additionally, placement of a bio-ethanol fireplace should be made with careful consideration of foot traffic and the presence of children or pets. Lightweight versions or ones placed in the middle of the action are at risk of being knocked over. Additionally, curious hands and inadvertent tails could be burned if the flame is easily accessed.
Electric portable fireplaces are somewhat limited by their proximity to power outlets and the capacity of any battery pack. They too might tip over if bumped or burn if touched. Depending on the power usage, electrical standalone fireplaces might overwhelm a well-used power strip and cause an electrical short. Typically, these are less common outside as it’s easy to trip on long power cords.
Chimineas burn wood and are used exclusively outdoors. Due to sparks and flying embers, they should be placed on non-flammable surfaces and away from any materials that could accidentally catch fire from burning debris. These freestanding fireplaces also get very hot to the touch, so kids and animals need to stay clear. Some chimineas are ceramic and can shatter if knocked over on concrete floors.