Bioethanol tabletop fireplace: three models compared for home ambience

The foundation of a safe tabletop fireplace

When choosing a tabletop ambient fireplace, the technology behind the flame is essential. Unlike a classic bioethanol fireplace where the liquid itself is flammable, Tenderflame uses a system where the fuel does not ignite on its own. Tenderfuel is a liquid that has been extensively tested by institutions such as KIWA and TÜV. This fuel is only activated by the patented steel wick. This means that if you accidentally spill fuel on the table or your hands, there is no immediate fire hazard as long as the liquid does not come into contact with the heated wick. This controlled way of burning ensures a calm, stable flame that does not flicker due to a draft or passing traffic in the room. It is important to always follow the manual when filling. You fill the reservoir and pour a small amount of liquid directly over the steel wick before lighting it with a powerful gas torch. This ensures a direct, beautiful flame without unwanted vapours or soot being released into your living environment. This makes the fireplaces suitable for prolonged use on the dining table, provided the specific ventilation guidelines of the model are observed to maintain air quality.

• Tenderfuel is not classified as toxic or flammable.
• The patented steel wick is designed for long-term use.
• No smoke development or soot deposits on the ceiling.
• Safe to store in the kitchen drawer or cupboard.

Lotus 10: Classical elegance on the coffee table

The Lotus 10 has been one of the most appreciated models in our collection for years. The design is characterised by a flower-shaped base that provides stability and adds an aesthetic accent to any room. The glass cylinder surrounding the flame has a dual function. On one hand, the glass protects the flame from drafts, which is crucial in open spaces or near an open window. On the other hand, the glass reflects the light of the flame, enhancing the atmospheric effect. The Lotus 10 fits perfectly on a medium-sized dining table or a coffee table. It is a model that is subtly present but immediately creates a warm ambience once the steel wick is lit. Because the flame is protected, you need to worry less when passing objects across the table. Maintenance is minimal: the glass cylinder can easily be cleaned with a cloth if some ambient dust settles on it over time. For those getting to know the brand for the first time, this model is often the first choice because of the familiar design and the proven reliability of the patented burning mechanism. Always ensure the fireplace stands on a level surface as per the instructions.

essential guidance for tabletop fireplaces indoors

Cafe 18: Robustness for intensive use

The Cafe 18 is designed with versatility and durability in mind. This model is a favourite in the hospitality industry but certainly does not look out of place in a modern industrial interior. The design is sleeker and more robust than that of the Lotus 10, making it extremely suitable for locations where the fireplace is moved daily or used intensively. The Cafe 18 provides a flame and therefore also heat output, which can be pleasant during a cool evening in the conservatory. Thanks to its compact size, the Cafe 18 is easy to take from the indoor dining table to the lounge table on the terrace. For outdoor use, we recommend doing this only during calm moments to allow the flame to burn optimally. An important feature of this model is that it is supplied with a snuffer to extinguish the flame immediately. By leaving the snuffer on the wick after use until the next time you light it, you prevent ambient moisture from being absorbed by the Tenderfuel. This prevents the sputtering sound that can occur when water vapour escapes from the fuel during a subsequent session. Proper ventilation remains necessary whenever the flame is active indoors to ensure a fresh environment.

• Increased stability due to a weighted base.
• Ideal for both living rooms and commercial spaces.
• Supplied with a custom-made flame snuffer.
• Resistant to intensive movement and frequent use.

Agni: Minimalism and modern design

For lovers of modern design, the Agni is the ultimate model. In this design, all superfluous decoration has been omitted to focus entirely on the dancing flame on the steel wick. The Agni is often built lower than other models, giving a panoramic effect to the flame. This model fits excellently on a sideboard or in a minimalist studio where space is scarce but ambience is desired. The sleek surface and high-quality finish make it an object that, even when not burning, serves as a design piece in the interior. Just like the other models, the Agni is completely dependent on Tenderfuel. The use of other liquids, such as bioethanol, is dangerous for this specific design and is strictly prohibited. The Agni demonstrates that a safe fireplace does not have to be large or bulky to make an impression. By using efficient combustion on the steel wick, you enjoy a clear flame without the odour nuisance often associated with cheaper ambient lights based on liquid wax or paraffin. It is a sophisticated way to bring fire into a small living space without the need for a chimney, provided the user follows all placement distances mentioned in the accompanying manual.

compact ambient fireplaces for studios

Placement and environmental factors

Although a tabletop fireplace is flexible in use, there are strict guidelines for responsible placement. A Tenderflame tabletop model must always stand on a flat and stable surface. Consider solid wooden tables, stone tops, or tempered glass. For delicate surfaces, a heat-resistant coaster may be advisable, although the base of our models is designed so that the heat primarily radiates upwards and sideways. Always ensure there is sufficient distance from flammable materials such as curtains, paper decorations, or low-hanging lampshades. Ventilation is another point of attention. Because a fireplace consumes oxygen, it is necessary to provide the room in which the fireplace burns with natural ventilation, for example, through a vent or a window slightly ajar. This applies to all fireplaces that use fuel. The specific manual for your model indicates which distances you must strictly maintain for safety. A tabletop fireplace is intended for ambience and supplemental warmth; it is not a replacement for a primary heating system. By following these basic rules, you can optimally enjoy the visual warmth of the flame. Never leave a burning fireplace unattended, and ensure that the surface cannot wobble or be easily knocked over during operation.

• Keep distance from flammable objects above the fireplace per the manual.
• Ensure a stable surface that cannot wobble.
• Only use the fireplace in rooms with normal ventilation.
• Never leave a burning fireplace unattended.

Maintenance and troubleshooting

A frequently asked question is what to do if the fireplace starts to sputter. This phenomenon is harmless and is caused by water vapour. Tenderfuel has the property that it can attract moisture from the air if the fireplace is not used for a long time. When the fireplace is then lit, this moisture evaporates quickly, which produces a popping sound. You can easily prevent this by letting the liquid in the fireplace burn out completely or by consistently leaving the included snuffer on the wick after use. If there is still moisture in the reservoir, you can simply pour the old liquid down the drain and fill the reservoir with fresh Tenderfuel. The steel wick itself requires hardly any maintenance; it is designed to last for years without deforming or losing quality. The glass of your Cafe 18 or Lotus 10 is best cleaned when it has completely cooled down. Do not use aggressive chemicals for this, but a soft, damp cloth. This way, the view of the flame remains clear and undisturbed. Keeping the wick clean and the fuel fresh ensures the best performance and a steady flame every time you decide to light your Tenderflame for a cosy evening.

how a soot-free fireplace works

Conclusion: Which model suits you?

The choice between the Lotus 10, Cafe 18, or Agni depends entirely on your personal preference and the intended spot in your home. The Lotus 10 is the safe haven for those who love a classic, romantic look with the protection of glass. The Cafe 18 is the ideal partner for those looking for a fireplace that can take a bump and stands its ground both indoors and outdoors on a calm evening. Finally, the Agni is for the design enthusiast who believes that simplicity is beauty. What unites all these models is the core technology of the steel wick and the liquid Tenderfuel. By choosing this, you opt for a system that has been extensively tested at RISE and other institutes, leaving behind the traditional problems of a bioethanol tabletop fireplace. No hassle with highly flammable liquids, but a controlled and stylish process. Whichever model you choose, the installation is a matter of seconds: unpack, fill, and enjoy the dancing flames on your own table. Remember to read the manual for your specific model to ensure the best experience and to follow all ventilation requirements for a comfortable indoor climate.

• Lotus 10 for a classic ambience.
• Cafe 18 for robustness and mobility.
• Agni for minimalist living styles.
• All models work exclusively with the steel wick.