Fire Pits for the Win
When you think of a fire pit, you think of more than just a fire burning outdoors. You think of the coziness it brings, the conversations it sparks and the warmth it conveys. Fire pits bring friends and families together for good times, lots of laughter, telling ghost stories and roasting marshmallows.
Because they’re soot-, spark- and smoke-free, gas fire pits for patios are no problem. You get all of that and more and you can ignite them and extinguish them instantly. Whether it’s a propane fire pit or a gas fire bowl, all it takes is the turn of a knob, the flip of a switch, the push of a button or your smart phone. And unlike with wood fire pits, you’re in total control with heat right at your fingertips.
Fire pits help extend your outdoor space into a multi-season area where you can enjoy your patio well into the fall and maybe even year-round in some climates. Gas outdoor fire pits make the best outdoor fire pits.
Many gas fire pits are rated for decorative use — they don’t provide enough heat to properly cook food at a safe temperature. While it should be safe to roast marshmallows, be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully before attempting to prepare marshmallow or any other type of food over your fire pit.
Gas Fire Pit Types, Shapes and More
From different shapes to different types, gas fire pits are far from ordinary. Whether your style is firmly rooted in a classic square or you’re adventurous side leans more towards a column, the choice is yours. There’s no shortage of fire pit styles, from gas fire bowls that mimic a natural, wood-burning fire to fire in a pit table that is the no-nonsense pit on the block. These tables with built-in fire pits have space typically come with a cover that provides an additional surface.
What fire pit would be complete without fire glass? Fire glass is type of tempered glass that conducts heat better than wood. It’s created specifically for fire pits and fireplaces to help keep them low maintenance. Cleanup is simple with dishwashing liquid and water. Fire glass is available in a variety of colors from cobalt blue to snow white, radiant jade to midnight black, and everything in between.
Fire Pit Fuel Options: Gas or Propane – Which Is Right for You?
Gas fire pits are available with two different fuel options: gas and propane. Gas fire pits, both natural and propane, are sold and measured by the BTU. British Thermal Unit (BTU) is the heat output. On the low end is around 40,000 BTU and on the higher end is 300,000 BTU. The higher the BTU, the more gas that is being used, the more heat there is and the higher the flame. Natural gas typically has a lower heat generation, and a lower BTU. It burns with a lower intensity. Natural gas and propane are both good, solid options and they each have their benefits and drawbacks.
Natural Gas
PROS
• Cheaper than propane.
• With its permanent and dedicated gas line, there’s no need to refill tanks.
• Adds considerably to your home’s property value.
• You have control over the flame.
CONS
• Professional installation is needed.
• Requires a fixed/permanent spot.
• The initial cost of installation is more expensive than propane.
Propane
PROS
• Burns cleaner than natural gas, at about 2,500 BTUs, making it more efficient than gas, which runs at 1,500 BTUs.
• Burns hotter than natural gas, producing about twice as much heat.
• A propane fire pit is easy to set up.
• You have control over the flame.
CONS
• In the long run, it’s more expensive than natural gas.
• Natural gas burns faster than propane.
• Sometimes the propane tank, as well as the connection hose, are visible.
Anatomy of a Gas Fire Pit
There are several elements to a fire pit:
• Enclosure. This is the body, or the outer structure, of the fire pit. They come in various shapes (round, square, etc.) and are built-in (permanent) or portable. Built-in fire pits are sturdy and are usually made of heavy materials like brick, concrete or stone. Portable fire pits are more lightweight, making them easier to move around.
• Burner and Pan.
• Burning Media (river stone, fire rock, etc.).
• Ignition System.
• A way to control the gas and fire.
Things to Consider When Buying a Gas Fire Pit
There are a few things you should consider when buying a fire pit.
• The fuel type and source - natural gas or liquid propane
• Most fire pits or tables use propane but some include a conversion kit if you want to run a natural gas line
• Ignition system
• What type of fire media to use
• Consider the dimensions of a propane fire pit
• Location of gas or propane fire pit table
• Material – aluminum is lighter than steel and stone, but more expensive
Fire Pit Safety
• Inspect the fire pit before each use.
• Make sure the fire pit is at least 10 feet away from flammable structures (your house, garage, trees, vehicles, etc.). Trim any branches, shrubs, etc. that may be a hazard as well.
• An emergency shut-off feature is designed to turn the gas supply in case of an emergency.
• Supervise children and pets when a fire pit is in use and keep them a minimum of 3 feet away when in use.
• Be prepared to put out a fire. Have a dry-chemical fire extinguisher handy in case a fire breaks out. Ensure that it’s a fire extinguisher for outdoor use and familiarize yourself with how to use it. Also make sure you have it inspected regularly.
• Cover the fire pit when it’s not in use.
• Always use the right fuel type. Use the fuel type that’s recommended by the manufacturer.
• Clean the fire pit regularly.
• Always have proper ventilation, especially if you want to use the fire pit on a covered porch, deck, gazebo, porch, etc.