Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What exactly is the VENTOR?
The VENTOR is a premium free-standing outdoor fireplace made of corten steel, designed and produced in the Netherlands. Thanks to its organic design, optimal airflow, and 360° fire experience, the VENTOR creates warmth, atmosphere, and character in any outdoor space.
2. What is the VENTOR made of?
The VENTOR is made of high-quality corten steel. This material develops a natural protective layer that shields the fireplace from weather influences and provides its characteristic warm rust color. Corten steel is known for its durability and long lifespan.
3. Why does the VENTOR smoke less than many other outdoor fireplaces?
The VENTOR has been developed with a carefully balanced diameter, organic firebox, and optimized airflow. This creates a strong natural draft, leading to more efficient combustion and significantly less smoke development when used correctly.
4. What's the best way to light the VENTOR?
For the best result, we recommend the top-down method:
- Step 1 – Place the largest logs at the bottom
- Step 2 – Lay medium-sized logs crisscross on top
- Step 3 – Add kindling and a firelighter on top
- Step 4 – Light the fire from the top
This method ensures: less smoke development, faster and more stable draft, cleaner combustion, and less ash formation. Always use dry hardwood with a moisture content below 20% for optimal results.
5. What wood is best to use?
Only use dry hardwood, such as oak, beech, or ash, with a moisture content below 20%. Wet wood causes more smoke, less heat, and pollution.
6. Can the VENTOR remain outdoors all year round?
Yes. The VENTOR is designed for permanent outdoor use. Rain, wind, and temperature fluctuations are not a problem. The corten steel actually develops its unique appearance through weather influences.
7. Does corten steel initially release rust water?
Yes, in the initial period of the natural oxidation process, corten steel can release some rust water. Therefore, we advise not to place the fireplace directly on natural stone, light ceramic, or wooden terraces without protection in the initial phase.
8. How heavy is the VENTOR?
The VENTOR weighs approximately 41 kg. This makes it stable and solid, but it can be moved by two people if necessary.
9. What are the dimensions of the VENTOR?
The VENTOR Original has approximately the following dimensions:
- Height: 220 cm
- Firebox diameter: approximately 62 cm
- Chimney diameter: 40 cm
- Corten steel thickness: 1.8 – 2 mm
- Fireplate thickness: 10 mm
- Firebox height: 70 cm from the ground
This height places the fire at a comfortable viewing height, both when sitting and standing.
10. Does it have a spark arrestor?
Yes. The VENTOR comes standard with an integrated spark arrestor that helps to limit flying sparks and provides extra safety.
11. Can I place the VENTOR on a wooden deck or wooden terrace?
The VENTOR may only be placed on a stable, flat, and non-combustible surface. Placement on wood, composite, artificial grass, or other heat-sensitive materials is discouraged due to risks of fire and heat damage.
12. How do I maintain the VENTOR?
The VENTOR requires little maintenance:
- Remove ash after use
- Keep the air supply clear
- Remove any dirt or leaves
The corten steel does not need to be painted or treated.
13. Does the exterior get hot?
Yes. Parts of the fireplace can get very hot during use. Keep children and pets at a safe distance and do not touch the fireplace during or immediately after use.
14. How much wood fits in it?
The VENTOR is designed for standard fireplace logs and offers sufficient capacity for a long-lasting fire without constantly needing to refuel.
15. How long does the VENTOR last?
With normal use and correct maintenance, the VENTOR is designed for years of intensive use. Thanks to the material thickness and high-quality construction, this is a long-term investment.
16. Where is the VENTOR produced?
The VENTOR is fully developed and produced in the Netherlands (Haarlem), with craftsmanship, high-quality materials, and an eye for detail.
17. Do you also supply to hospitality businesses or dealers?
Yes. The VENTOR is also available for restaurants, beach clubs, hotels, rooftop bars, and select dealers. Contact us for business opportunities.
18. What is the delivery time?
Depending on stock, the delivery time is usually a few working days to approximately 2 weeks. The exact delivery time will be communicated upon order.
19. How is the VENTOR delivered?
The VENTOR is safely packed and delivered on a pallet to prevent transport damage.
20. How much warranty do I get?
The VENTOR comes with a 1-year warranty on construction and manufacturing defects under normal use.
21. What is the difference between a fire pit and an outdoor fireplace?
A fire pit is usually an open fire source that primarily provides ambiance but often offers less control over smoke, heat distribution, and safety. An outdoor fireplace is designed for more controlled combustion, better heat output, and more comfort. Thanks to the chimney, a natural draft is created, which helps to vent smoke more effectively. The VENTOR combines the atmospheric character of an open fire with the performance, appearance, and efficiency of a premium outdoor fireplace.
22. What is better: corten steel or black steel?
That depends on what you're looking for.
Corten steel has the advantage: develops a natural protective layer, very suitable for outdoor use, low maintenance, and a unique warm, characteristic appearance.
Black steel has the advantage: sleek, industrial look and often slightly cheaper to purchase. Black steel usually requires more maintenance outdoors to prevent rust formation. Corten steel, on the other hand, is specifically designed to age naturally outdoors. That's why we consciously choose corten steel for the VENTOR.
23. Which outdoor fireplace smokes the least?
No wood-fired outdoor fireplace is completely smoke-free, but the amount of smoke strongly depends on the fireplace's construction, airflow, chimney draft, and the type and dryness of the wood. The VENTOR is designed with an organic firebox, optimized airflow, and a carefully balanced chimney diameter. This ensures a strong natural draft and, when used correctly with dry wood, minimal smoke development.