Understanding UL/ULC Certification
UL/ULC 1370
Safety certification is the foundation of trust for any indoor fireplace. In North America, UL/ULC 1370 is the standard that evaluates unvented alcohol-fuelled decorative appliances—including bioethanol fireplaces like Le Feu. This guide explains what UL/ULC 1370 covers, why it matters for Canadian homes, and how to verify compliance when you buy, install, and use a fireplace.
What is UL/ULC 1370?
UL/ULC 1370 is a binational safety standard recognized in the United States and Canada that specifies requirements for unvented alcohol-fuelled decorative appliances. Products evaluated to this standard undergo third-party testing for construction, materials, performance, marking, and instructions to help ensure safe indoor operation when used as directed.
What the certification tests cover
While the exact protocols are detailed and proprietary to the standard, UL/ULC 1370 evaluations typically include:
Construction & materials
Assessment of housing, burner, fasteners, and stability to meet structural integrity requirements.
Combustion performance
Flame behaviour and combustion characteristics when used with the intended liquid alcohol fuel.
Thermal limits
Surface temperature and heat exposure checks to confirm safe operation within prescribed limits.
Markings & instructions
Labels, warnings, and user manuals are reviewed for clarity, fuel use, and safety procedures.
Certification does not replace responsible use—it confirms that a product design has passed rigorous safety checks when operated as instructed.
Why certification matters for Canadian homes
Choosing a fireplace certified to UL/ULC 1370 helps homeowners, designers, and property managers meet safety expectations and simplify approvals. It also supports insurance acceptance and provides confidence that the product was independently evaluated.
- Recognized in Canada: Aligns with Canadian certification requirements for indoor decorative appliances.
- Third-party verification: Confirms the product meets defined construction and performance criteria.
- Clear documentation: Labels and manuals guide safe fuel handling and everyday use.
- Design freedom: Enjoy ventless bioethanol flames with standards-based safety assurances.
How to verify a certified fireplace
A legitimate UL/ULC certification is traceable. Use this simple checklist before purchasing or installing:
- Look for the mark. The product should display a UL/ULC certification mark on the rating label.
- Match the model. Confirm the exact model name/number on the label matches packaging and manual.
- Check documentation. Verify that the included user manual references UL/ULC 1370 and approved fuels.
- Ask the retailer. Request a certificate, test report reference, or a link to the listing if needed.
Important: Certification applies to the specific product. Accessories or off-label fuels are not covered unless explicitly included.
Installation and operation essentials
Certification is one part of safety. Proper installation, fuel choice, and daily habits complete the picture. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and these best practices:
Installation basics
- Mount wall or ceiling models only to suitable substrates (e.g., brick, concrete, or properly reinforced structures).
- Respect the required side/top/bottom clearances in the manual.
- Place freestanding models on stable, heat-resistant surfaces away from drafts and combustibles.
Operation & fueling
- Use only approved bioethanol fuel intended for decorative fireplaces.
- Light with a long lighter; keep hands, sleeves, and objects clear of the flame path.
- Allow at least 30 minutes to cool before refilling; never add fuel to a hot burner.
- Maintain normal room ventilation during use; never modify the burner.
Care & maintenance
- When cool, wipe the exterior with a damp, lint-free cloth.
- Clean the burner using a soft cotton cloth lightly moistened with bioethanol.
- Store fuel upright, capped, and away from heat sources and sunlight.
Quick FAQ
What does UL/ULC 1370 certify exactly?
It covers unvented alcohol-fuelled decorative appliances, evaluating construction, performance, markings, and instructions for indoor use.
Is UL/ULC the same as CSA?
No. UL/ULC is a binational UL standard recognized in Canada; CSA is a separate standards organization. Authorities commonly accept recognized certifications that meet applicable codes.
Does certification mean I can use any fuel?
No. Use only the bioethanol fuel types specified by the manufacturer. Off-spec fuels can be unsafe and void compliance.
Do I still need ventilation?
Only normal room ventilation as described in the manual. These appliances are flueless, but responsible air exchange is essential.
Are Le Feu fireplaces certified?
Le Feu bioethanol fireplaces are certified to UL/ULC 1370 for indoor decorative use when installed and operated per instructions.
Choose Certified Bioethanol Fireplaces
Le Feu combines Scandinavian design with UL/ULC 1370 certification for safe, modern, flueless firelight at home.