Protect Fire Tables, Fireplaces or Fire Pits in Winter

Here are some ways to prepare a wood-burning fire pit for winter.

• After the final use, wait for the fire pit to cool completely. 
  
• Clean the ashes and remaining wood from the bowl. Leftover material can retain moisture, causing rust or corrosion. Make sure there are no embers and dispose of the ashes properly. 
  
• Use a clean, soft cloth to wipe off the parts of the fire pit, including the cover, the poker and other tools. If necessary, use water and baking soda or mild detergent to remove grime, but dry the parts thoroughly. 
  
• Inspect all of the fire pit parts for damage. Replace any damaged parts. 
  
• Protect the fire pit from dust, dirt and moisture with a cover. If your kit didn’t include one, you can purchase a fire pit cover. Just match the cover to the size of your fire pit. 
  
• If you have a portable firepit, store it in a dry, cool location, away from children and pets.
  

Whether you’re preparing a fire table or gas fire pit for the off season, the steps are similar:

• Turn off the burner and allow the fire table or fire pit to cool completely. Depending on the model, you may need to close the propane tank valve and disconnect the tank from the heating appliance. Follow the instructions for your device to turn off the gas supply. 
  
• Clean the exterior surfaces as necessary with warm, soapy water, but keep the area around the burner and the control valve dry. Check for carbon deposits and clean them with warm, soapy water. Rinse and allow all the surfaces to dry. 
  
• Make sure the burner and tubing is clear of debris. You can often clean away debris and spider webs with a dry wire brush or nylon brush, a pipe cleaner or compressed air. 
  
• Remove the fire glass and other accessories and store them out of the reach of children and pets. Cover the burner area with the protective cover plate. If your fire table has a glass wind guard, store it in a secure location where it’s not at risk of breaking. Be sure to remove it before covering the fire table. 
  
• With the fire table burner turned off, check the gas regulator, gas hose and all connections for leaks. Check your manual for specifics, but typically you can apply a solution of water and dish detergent to the areas you’re testing. Bubbles indicate a leak. Disconnect and reconnect the components and check again. If the leak still occurs, replace the parts. 
  
• Make sure the propane tank valve is closed and disconnect it. You can store it with your appliance or in a detached shed or garage if there’s suitable ventilation and no risk of extreme temperatures. Keep it away from electrical components and flammable materials and make sure children and pets don’t have access to it. 
  
• Once the fire table or fire pit is completely dry, protect it with a weatherproof cover. If your appliance didn’t include a cover, you can purchase one. 
  
• If you store the fire table, keep it in a cool, dry location that’s out of the reach of children and pets. 
  
• If you keep the fire table or fire pit outdoors, keep it clear of debris. Regularly remove any snow or ice accumulation. 
  

Here are some tips on winterizing a wood-burning or gas outdoor fireplace: 

• Allow the fireplace to cool completely. 
  
• For an outdoor wood-burning fireplace, make sure all embers are extinguished. Clean out the ashes and remove the remaining wood. The material can hold moisture that leads to rust. Dispose of the ashes properly. 
  
• If you have an outdoor gas fireplace, check the gas valves and supply lines for leaks by applying a mixture of soap and dish detergent. Bubbles indicate a leak — reconnect or replace the component as necessary. Turn off the gas supply and check the burner and venturi tubes connected to the burner for debris, insects and spider webs. Clear obstructions with a brush, pipe cleaner or compressed air. 
  
• Wipe down the exterior of the fireplace with a soft, clean cloth and water mixed with dish detergent or baking soda. If necessary, use a soft-bristle scrub brush to clean dirt or stains. Rinse and dry the surfaces. Clean and dry the fireplace screen and any fireplace tools in a similar fashion. 
  
• Protect the fireplace with a weatherproof cover. If a cover didn’t come with your appliance, look for one to fit it. 
  
• If you have a compact fireplace that you store in a garage or shed, secure it in an area that’s cool and dry. Make sure it’s out of reach of children and pets. 
  
• If your fireplace remains outdoors for the winter, keep it clear of leaves and other debris. Clear away ice and snow throughout the winter. 
  

• Make sure your appliance cover fits well and that you secure it tightly to the appliance so it won’t blow away. Properly covering the appliance helps protect the finish and helps prevent discoloration, rust and corrosion. Covering the appliance when it’s not in use is a good idea for any season. This practice helps prevent rust that harsh winter conditions can worsen. 
  
• Don’t use any cleaners, solvents or lubricants on the appliance unless recommended by the device manufacturer. 
  
• Don’t allow water, snow or ice to accumulate on the cover. The weight can stretch or damage the material. 
  
• If you find damage, don’t use the heating appliance until you’ve replaced the damaged part. 
  
• Clean, protect and store any tools or utensils that came with your heating appliance. 
  
• Check your heating appliance for damage, debris, spider webs, etc. after taking it out of storage and before using it again.