Smokeless Fire Pit Design: Comparing Tremblant and Tenderflame Models

If you're shopping for a smokeless fire pit, you've probably noticed there are quite a few different styles out there. We sell two main brands - Tremblant and Tenderflame - and they're actually pretty different from each other.

Tremblant makes gas fire pits with glass panels. They're meant for outdoor use and have a modern look. Tenderflame uses bioethanol fuel instead, and the big difference is that you can use these ones indoors as well as outside.

Let me walk you through what we've got and hopefully help you figure out which style might work for your place.

Why Design Matters

A fire pit isn't just about keeping warm anymore. People want something that looks good, too. Whether you're putting it on your balcony or mounting it on your living room wall, it's going to be a focal point in that space.

The smokeless fire pit designs we stock range from modern outdoor pieces to wall-mounted indoor fireplaces. Some are portable, some are permanent. Some burn gas, others use liquid fuel. The variety is actually helpful because different homes need different solutions.

Tremblant Gas Fire Pits

These are the outdoor ones. They run on gas (usually propane) and have tempered glass panels around the flames. The glass does two things - it protects the flame from wind, and it lets you actually see the fire from all sides.

Tremblant Como

The Como is the smaller of the two Tremblant models. It's quite compact, which makes it good for balconies or smaller patios where you don't have heaps of room.

The design is pretty straightforward - black frame with clear glass panels. You get a proper view of the flames, and because it's gas-powered, you can turn it on and off whenever you want. No waiting for wood to catch or dealing with ash afterwards.

I'd say this one suits apartments or townhouses where outdoor space is limited. The glass keeps the flame visible even when it's a bit breezy, which is handy if you're up high.

Tremblant Hudson

The Hudson is basically a larger version of the Como. Same glass panel design, just bigger. It puts out more heat and has a more substantial presence.

This one makes more sense if you've got a decent-sized outdoor area - like a backyard or a big deck. The larger flame area means you can heat a bigger space, which is good if you're having people over.

The Hudson comes in a couple of different sizes, starting from $1,179.

Both Tremblant models need to stay outside. They're gas-burning, which means they produce carbon monoxide just like any other gas fire. Don't use them indoors or even on a fully covered patio.

Tenderflame Bioethanol Fire Pits

Now these are different. Tenderflame products burn bioethanol fuel, which is a liquid that comes from plants. It burns really clean - no smoke, no smell, no soot. Because of this, you can actually use them inside your house.

They come in two main types: wall-mounted ones and freestanding ones.

Wall-Mounted Designs

Tenderflame Square 180

This is the big wall-mounted one - 180cm wide. It's rectangular and sits flat against your wall with real flames burning inside.

The design is pretty minimal. Black frame, horizontal orientation. When it's on, you've got this long line of fire on your wall. When it's off, it still looks like a piece of modern art.

Because it's so wide, it works best on large walls. You wouldn't put this in a small bedroom - it needs space to make sense. Living rooms, dining rooms, or commercial spaces work well.

Currently priced at $999 (reduced from $1,199).

Tenderflame Wall Fire Pit

The standard wall-mounted version is smaller than the Square 180. It's got more traditional fireplace proportions - not as wide and horizontal.

This size fits more rooms. You could put it in a bedroom, a study, or a smaller living area without it overwhelming the space. Still uses bioethanol, and it is still safe for indoors.

Tenderflame Cycloflame

This one's circular instead of rectangular. Honestly, it's a bit unusual - you don't see many round wall-mounted fireplaces.

The flames burn around the edge of the circle, which creates a different effect than the rectangular ones. Whether you like it or not probably depends on your taste. Some people love how different it is, others prefer the more traditional rectangular shape.

It comes in different colours too - black or white frame options.

Freestanding Designs

Tenderflame Plettenberg

The Plettenberg sits on a pedestal base. You can move it around, which is the main advantage over the wall-mounted ones.

People use these on patios in summer and then bring them inside for winter. Because they're freestanding, you can rearrange your space without worrying about permanent installation.

The design is sleek and black. The flame sits up at about waist height on the pedestal, so you get a good view of it whether you're standing or sitting.

Tenderflame Mossel Bay

This one sits lower - more like coffee table height. It's wider than the Plettenberg but not as tall.

The lower profile works well for outdoor seating areas where people are sitting down. Put it in the middle of your outdoor furniture arrangement and everyone can see the flames without it blocking conversation across the table.

You can use it indoors, too, but most people seem to use it outside because of the size and height.

Tenderflame Aria

The Aria is the smallest and most portable option. It's compact enough to move around easily.

This suits people who want flexibility. Small balcony? Fine. Tabletop? Also fine. Want to bring it camping? You could do that too (though you'd need to carry the fuel).

The cylindrical design means you can see the flames from any angle. It's simple but looks good.

Gas vs Bioethanol - What's the Difference?

The main thing to understand is where you can use them.

Tremblant (gas): Outdoor only. Never indoors. They put out more heat than bioethanol models, which is good if heating is your main goal. You need a gas bottle, and you control the flame with a knob or switch.

Tenderflame (bioethanol): Can go indoors or outdoors. They burn clean enough that you don't need a chimney. Less heat than gas, but still enough to take the chill off a room. You pour liquid fuel into the burner and light it.

Both types give you real flames, which is the whole point. Neither produces the smoke you'd get from burning wood.

Choosing What Works for Your Space

If you have a small balcony or patio: Tremblant Como or Tenderflame Aria. Both are compact and won't overwhelm a small space.

If you want something for indoors: Any of the Tenderflame models. Gas fire pits can't be used inside safely.

If you want maximum heat output: Tremblant Hudson. Gas puts out more BTUs than bioethanol.

If you want to mount something on the wall: Tenderflame Square 180, Wall Fire Pit, or Cycloflame. These become permanent features.

If you want flexibility to move it around, Tenderflame Plettenberg or Aria. Freestanding models can go wherever you need them.

If you have a large outdoor entertaining area: Tremblant Hudson or Tenderflame Mossel Bay. Bigger models suit bigger spaces.

Installation Stuff

Wall-mounted models need proper installation. You're mounting them to your wall with brackets, and you want to make sure that's done right. Most people get someone to install them rather than doing it themselves.

Freestanding models don't need installation. Put them where you want them, pour in the fuel (or connect the gas), and you're done.

Gas models need a propane bottle. You'll need to swap or refill the bottle when it runs out.

Bioethanol models use liquid fuel that you pour into the burner. You can buy bioethanol fuel from us.

Looking After Them

These are pretty low-maintenance compared to wood-burning fire pits.

For the Tremblant models, you might need to wipe down the glass panels occasionally. That's about it. Check the gas connections once in a while to make sure everything's tight.

For the Tenderflame models, wipe the outside with a cloth when it gets dusty. Clean out the burner bowl between refills. No ash or soot to deal with because bioethanol burns so clean.

Safety Basics

All of these are safe when you use them properly, but a few things to remember:

• Gas models stay outside. Always.
• Even bioethanol models need some ventilation when used indoors. Don't use them in tiny rooms with no airflow.
• Put them on stable surfaces. You don't want them tipping over.
• Keep them away from curtains, papers, and anything flammable.
  
• Read the manual. I know, everyone says this, but seriously - read it.

The Cost Question

These aren't cheap. You're looking at $1,000 to $1,600 for most models. That's a fair bit of money for a fire pit.

But compare it to installing a traditional fireplace - that costs thousands and you need a chimney. These are ready to go, especially the freestanding ones. The wall-mounted ones need installation but still cost way less than a built-in fireplace.

The gas models are slightly cheaper than the bioethanol ones. Fuel costs vary - gas is probably cheaper per hour of burn time, but bioethanol is more convenient if you're using it indoors.

Which Brand Should You Go With?

Honestly, it's not really about which brand is better. They're designed for different uses.

Choose Tremblant if:

• You're only using it outdoors
• You want maximum heat output
• You like the glass-panel modern look
• You're comfortable dealing with a gas bottle

Choose Tenderflame if:

• You want to use it indoors
• You want something wall-mounted
• You like having the flexibility to move it around
• You prefer the cleaner bioethanol fuel

Some people end up getting both - a Tremblant for the backyard and a Tenderflame for inside. They serve different purposes.

Where to See More

You can browse the full range of smokeless fire pits on our website. Each product page has more detailed specs, dimensions, and photos.

If you're not sure which one suits your space, feel free to get in touch. Sometimes it helps to talk through what you're trying to achieve and where you're planning to put it.

Final Thoughts

The smokeless fire pit design you choose comes down to where you want to use it and what look you're after. Modern glass panels for outdoor spaces? That's Tremblant. Clean-burning indoor capability with wall-mount or freestanding options? That's Tenderflame.

Both types give you real flames without the smoke and hassle of traditional fire pits. Whether you go with gas or bioethanol, you're getting something that's easier to use and cleaner to maintain than burning wood.

Have a look at the different models and see what fits your space. The right fire pit makes a difference - it's nice having somewhere warm to sit outside on cool evenings, or having real flames inside without needing a traditional fireplace.