A bioethanol fireplace for outdoor use promises atmosphere on the terrace without smoke, logs or a connection. In practice, wind is the deciding factor: a classic liquid burner works with an open pool of fuel, which makes it sensitive to draughts. Tenderflame works differently. Our appliances run exclusively on Tenderfuel, dosed through the stainless steel wick. That combination keeps the flame noticeably calmer outdoors. Below you read what wind does to an open flame, which spot on your terrace works, and which models earn their place outside.
- Read time
- About 8 minutes
- Suitable models
- Table models such as Lotus, Cafe and Agni
- Tenderfuel burn time
- 45 minutes to several hours per fill
- Source
- Tenderflame product information and manuals
In short
- Classic bioethanol is wind sensitive outdoors: an open liquid surface gives wide, unpredictable flames
- Tenderflame table models burn on the steel wick and keep the flame low and even
- Always refill when cold, using original Tenderfuel, never while the burner is still warm
- Limit outdoor use from wind force 4 (moderate breeze) onwards, Tenderflame included
Bioethanol fireplace outdoors: why classic burners are wind sensitive
In a classic bioethanol fireplace for outdoor use, the fuel sits in an open reservoir and the flame burns straight off the liquid surface. In a draught that flame spreads wide, can shoot upwards and throws unpredictable radiant heat towards textiles, parasols or planting. Refilling on a terrace adds the risk of spilling liquid onto a burner that is still warm. You notice this faster outdoors than indoors, because wind keeps changing the shape of the flame.
What the steel wick does differently on your terrace
In a Tenderflame the flame burns above a stainless steel wick rather than on an open pool. Capillary action carries Tenderfuel up to the flame, so only a small amount of fuel is available at any moment. Outdoors that translates into a lower, even flame that is less likely to flare up in the wind. The wick itself does not burn away and needs no maintenance between sessions.
Which Tenderflame models earn their place outdoors
Not every model is meant for the terrace. Table models are the most practical outdoors: they are portable, low and easy to carry back inside when the weather turns. Keep these points in mind when choosing:
- Lotus 10 and Lotus 12: compact glass models for a table or low wall, with a low flame
- Cafe 18: widely used in hospitality settings and stable on a tabletop
- Agni 40: a larger table model for a lounge corner or an outdoor dining table
- Weight and centre of gravity: outdoors, favour a model that will not tip over in a gust or a knock
- Reach: keep the snuffer within arm's reach for as long as the flame is burning
Surface and safe zone: a step by step routine for outdoors
Before you light the flame, work through these steps:
- Choose a level, heat resistant surface such as stone, tile, metal or tempered glass.
- Keep at least 1 metre clear above the flame and 60 cm to the sides of textiles, parasols and planting.
- Place the fireplace out of direct wind, for example closer to a wall or behind a windbreak, but never under flammable material.
- Fill the burner while it is completely cold, using original Tenderfuel and following the manual.
- Light it with the supplied lighter and stay nearby for as long as the flame burns.
- Extinguish with the snuffer and let the burner cool down fully before moving or storing it.
Wind, weather and season: when to light and when to wait
Burning outdoors is mostly a matter of reading the weather well. These guidelines keep the evening calm:
- Up to wind force 3, a table model in a sheltered spot is usually fine
- From wind force 4 (roughly 20 to 28 km per hour) it is better to limit or postpone use
- In rain or wet snow, extinguish the flame and store the fireplace somewhere dry
- In spring and autumn a table model suits your terrace best, because you sit close to the flame
- Never leave a burning fireplace unattended outdoors, not even briefly
Care after an evening outdoors
Let the fireplace cool completely before you move it. Store it dry or use a cover. Remove leaves, dust and moisture from the burner before lighting it again. The steel wick is stainless and needs no special maintenance between sessions. Clean glass parts with a soft cloth and no abrasive products.
How to choose a terrace model
Start with where you sit: at the table, in a lounge corner or on a small balcony. Then pick the size that fits that spot and allow for the clear space around the flame. The fuel choice is simple: original Tenderfuel, because the wick, flame height, burn time and warranty are matched to it. Each model page lists the corresponding specifications.
Frequently asked questions
Can a bioethanol fireplace be used under a canopy?
Only if the space is open enough and the canopy is not directly above the flame. Follow the minimum clearances in the manual and, if in doubt, set it up outdoors without anything overhead.
At what wind force should you stop burning outdoors?
Limit outdoor use from wind force 4 (a moderate breeze, roughly 20 to 28 km per hour). The steel wick keeps the flame low, but above wind force 4 even small eddies can make the flame unpredictable.
What should I do if it starts to rain during use?
Extinguish with the supplied snuffer and store the fireplace somewhere dry. Water on a warm burner can cause damage and makes the flame restless.
Can I easily bring a table model back inside?
Yes. Models such as Cafe 18 and Lotus 10 are portable, provided they are fully cooled down and no Tenderfuel is spilled.
Can the flame reach curtains or parasol fabric?
Only on direct contact. Keep at least 1 metre clear above the flame and 60 cm to the sides of textiles, parasols and planting.
How long does one fill of Tenderfuel burn in a table model?
Depending on the model and flame height, roughly 45 minutes up to a few hours per fill. Follow the fill volume in the manual to reach the stated burn time.
Can I use classic bioethanol in a Tenderflame that stands outdoors?
No. The steel wick and the burner behaviour are matched to Tenderfuel. Other fuels are unsafe, produce unpredictable flames and void the factory warranty.
A real flame on your terrace, even when the wind picks up.
Discover Tenderflame table models that combine the steel wick technology with a steady outdoor flame.
