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How to Install Foco Bioethanol Fireplaces

We, at Bioethanol-fireplace.co.uk, have created our own series of built-in fireplaces under the name Foco. These beautiful and stylish fireplaces are mainly available as bio fireplaces and in standard sizes, but we can also make them to custom sizes and with for example an Opti-myst insert.

In this guide, we will explain how to fit your new Foco fireplace. In fact, it's so easy that you can easily do it yourself, if you just follow this guide.

Foco built-in fireplaces are made with a frame of 4 millimetre thick black powder coated steel, and as standard it comes with a manual burn chamber. So it doesn't need to be plugged into power, which means the installation is easy and straightforward.

You can also choose to replace the manual burner with an automatic burner. In that case, the fireplace needs to be connected to electricity, which may require a little more work, but we'll explain how it works in this guide.

Foco built-in fireplaces are available exactly as you need them - whether you need a one-sided, a double-sided tunnel fireplace, a three-sided, four-sided, room divider, corner fireplace or a fully open fireplace.

You can find our many types of Foco built-in fireplaces here:

Our Large Selection of Built-in Foco Fireplaces

Safety Precautions

When installing and using your Foco fireplace, prioritizing safety is essential to enjoy the warmth and ambiance it provides with complete peace of mind. The Foco bioethanol fireplace is a modern device designed for built in installation, but it requires careful attention to detail during both setup and operation.
To ensure safe use, always keep the Foco fireplace out of reach of children and pets, as the flames and heat generated by the burner can pose a risk. Install your fireplace in a well-ventilated area, making sure it is positioned away from flammable materials and any combustible objects. Proper planning of your built in installation is crucial—securely fasten the frame to the wall and maintain a minimum clearance of 1 meter (40 inches) on all sides and above the device to protect heat-sensitive items.
Only use the recommended bioethanol fuel for your Foco fireplace. Using other fuels can damage the product or cause malfunction. Never leave the fireplace unattended while it is operating, and always extinguish the flames before leaving the room.
The Foco fireplace is equipped with a standard burner, but you can choose to upgrade to an automatic burner, which will require a connection to electricity. Whichever option you select, ensure all components are installed according to the included instructions for optimal safety and performance.
Foco fireplaces are available in a variety of configurations, including one-sided, double-sided, and three-sided models, allowing you to choose the version that best fits your space and installation requirements. Explore the range of included and optional accessories, such as additional burners or installation kits, to further enhance your fireplace experience.
Regularly inspect and maintain your Foco fireplace to ensure it continues to operate safely and efficiently. By following these safety precautions and the manufacturer’s guidelines, you can enjoy the cozy atmosphere of your bioethanol fireplace with confidence, knowing your installation is both beautiful and secure.

Foco Installation Guide: Foco Room Divider 800

1. Build the Load-Bearing Wall

Construct the load-bearing wall from the chosen material. Most materials are suitable for this purpose, but if you build the frame from flammable materials such as wood, remember to add a layer of non-flammable material between the frame structure and the fireplace. See how to do this below on this page.

Foco installation is simple and does not require advanced skills, so most people can carry out the installation themselves.

The frame structure should be built to dimensions corresponding to the fireplace, taking into account the thickness of the wall finishing materials. Be sure to maintain proper clearance around the fireplace as recommended by the manufacturer. This will ensure a flush finish between the fireplace and the wall after the work is completed.

Wall framework for build-in bioethanol fireplace

2. Add Drywall Boards

Attach the selected wall boards to the frame structure. In this example, drywall boards were used.

Different types of wall boards can be used, but it is important that these materials are heat-resistant in the area around the fireplace.

3. Fire Protection

If the wall is made of flammable materials, such as wood, a layer of heat-resistant material should be added between the wall frame and the fireplace frame, as shown in the right-hand graphic above.

Recommended materials include:

Fire-resistant drywall boards (often called pink boards)
SkamoEnclosure boards
Promafour plates
Promatect plates
Super-isol plates
Or similar materials

4. Finish the Wall

Insert the fireplace frame and finish the wall.

In the construction shown in this example with drywall boards, all cracks and gaps in the drywall should be filled with putty, and the surface smoothed with sandpaper.

Next, fiberglass wallpaper can be applied to the wall, and if necessary, any small gaps between the wall and the fireplace should be filled with fire-resistant sealant.

Finally, paint the wall in the chosen colour.