Fireplace in a new build apartment without a chimney

The challenge of airtight construction and ambience

Modern apartment buildings are constructed according to strict energy efficiency standards. This means the building envelope is completely airtight to minimize heat loss. While beneficial for energy bills, it limits the possibilities for traditional fire sources. A wood fireplace requires a constant supply of oxygen and a duct to exhaust smoke gases. In a new build complex, retrofitting a chimney is often structurally impossible or prohibited by building regulations due to the impact on fire safety and the facade. Tenderflame solves this dilemma. Because the fireplaces burn Tenderfuel in combination with a steel wick, there is no smoke development. The fuel itself is not classified as flammable or toxic, making it suitable for use in an apartment. This allows you to enjoy a real flame without requiring structural changes to the property. It makes the system particularly suitable for residents who want to experience the cosiness of an open fire in an environment that is technically not equipped for classic combustion systems. The focus remains on comfort without the traditional architectural constraints of historical heating methods, providing a modern alternative for urban living.

Ventilation and HRV systems in practice

In a new build apartment, air quality is generally managed by a Heat Recovery Ventilation (HRV) system or mechanical ventilation. These systems continuously refresh the air. When using a decorative fireplace, it is important to support this process. Although Tenderflame burns cleanly, every flame consumes oxygen and releases a certain amount of heat. We advise setting the ventilation system to a higher level during use, such as the setting used while cooking or showering. This ensures optimal air circulation and maintains air quality within desired limits. If the room is small, opening a window slightly or a ventilation grille can be enough to restore the balance. It is essential to always consult the manual of your specific Tenderflame model for the correct operating instructions. This way, you enjoy the dancing flames responsibly without disturbing the balanced climate of your modern home. Proper air management ensures that the living environment remains fresh while the fireplace provides its visual and thermal benefits. Always monitor the room temperature to maintain a pleasant indoor atmosphere during operation.

emissions and ventilation for fireplaces without a flue

Design and integration in a modern interior

New build apartments are often characterised by large windows, sleek walls, and a minimalist aesthetic. A traditional robust fireplace can quickly look heavy or outdated in such an environment. Tenderflame designs are specifically developed with a modern vision of interior design. By using materials such as glass, steel, and aluminium, the fireplaces fit effortlessly into contemporary decor. Whether you choose a freestanding model that acts as a room divider or a compact tabletop fireplace for the dining table, the visual aspect enhances the architecture of the home. Furthermore, flexibility is a major advantage. Unlike a fixed fireplace, you can move a Tenderflame when you want to rearrange your interior. This gives you the freedom to determine the atmosphere wherever you need it at that moment, whether in the seating area or near the kitchen. The dancing flame on the steel wick creates a focal point in the room that radiates peace and warmth, without losing the clean lines of your new build apartment. It serves as a functional piece of art that complements the high-end finishing of modern luxury apartments.

interiors without compromise with design fireplaces

Tenderfuel versus alternative fuels

Many people looking for a fireplace for an apartment compare different options. A key distinction for Tenderflame is the combination of the steel wick and the special fuel. Tenderfuel is developed so that it only burns when it comes into contact with this patented wick. This is a fundamental difference from other liquid fuels that can be flammable on their own. This property has been extensively tested and analysed by institutions such as KIWA, RISE, and TÜV. In the context of an airtight apartment, where safety and air purity are paramount, this system offers reassuring certainty. Additionally, Tenderfuel does not emit bothersome odours, which is often a problem with other combustible substances in well-insulated homes. It is a technological innovation specifically designed to bring the atmosphere of an open fire to environments where traditional combustion systems are not desirable or simply not allowed by current building codes. The fuel is safe to handle and can be safely exposed to the skin, adding another layer of practicality for daily use in a busy household environment.

• Fuel only burns on the steel wick
• No unpleasant odours in the home
• Tested by independent institutes
• Non-toxic composition of Tenderfuel

Practical tips for use in small spaces

In many apartments, space is limited, which requires smart choices. A large fireplace can cause the temperature in a well-insulated new build home to rise quickly. Therefore, it is advisable to match the size of the fireplace to the surface area of the room. Larger wall models emit more heat than subtle tabletop models. If you place the fireplace in a room with underfloor heating, it is wise to pay attention to downward heat radiation; a heat-resistant base plate can help protect the floor from local temperature fluctuations. When lighting the fireplace, you should always fill the reservoir first and then pour a small amount of Tenderfuel over the steel wick. Use a powerful lighter or gas torch for this. If the fireplace has not been used for a while, the fuel may have absorbed moisture from the air, which can cause a slight sputtering sound when ignited. This is harmless and stops as soon as the liquid has warmed up. By following these simple steps, your fireplace remains in top condition and provides a consistent experience every time you light it for an evening of relaxation.

safety and ambience with tabletop fireplaces

Sustainability and the gas-free future

New build projects are now delivered almost exclusively without gas. The transition to heat pumps and district heating means that the cosy gas fireplace is permanently disappearing from the streetscape. Many residents, however, miss the visual warmth of a flame. Tenderflame fits perfectly into this new era. Because no gas connection is required, the fireplace meets the requirements of gas-free living. For the energy performance calculations of your home, the decorative fireplace has no negative influence, as it is seen as a supplementary product and not the primary heating source. This makes it an ideal addition for those who want the experience but also want to comply with modern sustainability requirements. The system is efficient and focused on atmospheric experience, where the heat output is a pleasant side effect in the winter months, without needing to adjust the main heating thermostat. It is the modern way of burning that takes into account the limitations and opportunities of today's housing. It bridges the gap between traditional fire and the requirements of the modern energy transition without sacrificing the emotional value of a flickering flame.

• Meets the requirements of gas-free living
• No impact on energy performance calculations
• No fixed gas connection needed
• Efficient atmospheric experience without a flue

Maintenance and long-term enjoyment

One of the greatest benefits for apartment residents is the minimal maintenance that a Tenderflame requires. Unlike a wood fireplace where you must remove ash and have the chimney swept annually, for Tenderflame, regular cleaning of the glass and refilling the reservoir is sufficient. The steel wick is designed to last for years without needing replacement, provided you exclusively use Tenderfuel. Using other fuels is not permitted and can damage the wick. If you wish to extinguish the flame, always use the supplied snuffer to shut off the oxygen supply to the wick. Leave the snuffer on the wick until the next use to prevent evaporation of the fuel. This simplicity in management makes it a worry-free addition to your living pleasure, where the focus lies entirely on relaxation and atmosphere, exactly as living in a modern apartment is intended. The lack of soot and smoke also means that your walls and furniture remain clean, which is a significant advantage compared to traditional fireplaces. It is a clean, low-maintenance solution that delivers high-quality aesthetics and reliable performance year after year for the discerning urban resident.

• No annual maintenance by a chimney sweep
• Easy extinguishing with the provided snuffer
• Long lifespan of the steel wick
• Easy-to-clean glass panels