About Gas Fire Pits

Shaped as Grecian urns, end tables or campfires, gas fire pits can add light, beauty and warmth to any garden, patio or deck. Small glass-enclosed fires can safely warm your feet as you sip sangrias on the deck, or you can roast marshmallows over a blazing fire encircled with granite or slate. Whatever style you choose, gas fire pits provide clean-burning flames that ignite easily and last all night.

Function

Gas fire pits are metal or masonry structures made to contain a fire for outdoor use, as an attractive visual element, heat source and in some cases for cooking. Gas fire pits use natural or propane gas fuel that is ignited to create the fire. Metal fire rings and other non-burning elements (rather than wood or coal) are typically used to disperse the gas and create natural-looking dancing flames.

Types

Gas fire pits can be custom built or purchased pre-built. The components nearest the flame are typically made of steel, aluminum, porcelain or other strongly heat-resistant metals. The outer structure is usually square or circular, allowing for seating all around, but other custom shapes can be made to fit into your patio or deck design. This outer structure can be made of metal, stone, masonry or fire-retardant resin. Resin fire pits can be formed to simulate other materials and textures, like stone and wicker.
Most gas fire pits can be adapted for use with natural gas lines from the home or with self-contained propane tanks. Propane gas fire pits made of lighter weight materials like resin are portable and can be easily moved to suit specific entertaining needs. Many gas fire pits come with custom fitted metal or ceramic covers that protect them from the elements and allow them to be used as another table when a fire is not needed. Small, decorative table-top fire pits add an understated element of beauty and warmth to outdoor seating.
Gas fire pits come in a range of BTU ratings. Choose units with lower ratings for smaller, safer fires, particularly in windy areas or where children are present. Some gas fire pits come with grates and utensils for outdoor cookouts. Read manufacturer's guidelines and warnings before using any fire pit for cooking.
Gas fires can be lit with built-in electric ignition activated by controls on the side or top of the unit. This is the safest option. Other fire pits are started by turning on the gas and using long-stem igniters or matches.

Considerations

Not all gas fire pits are safe for all locations. Some may burn or damage the lawn or deck underneath. Pedestal styles allow safer heat venting and are typically the right choice for flammable flooring. If building or buying a wall or corner unit, proper shielding must be used to protect the side of the house.
Select ceramic or concrete simulated logs, chips and coals for a tall flame that simulates a real wood fire. Choose lava rocks or vermiculite and a top layer of fire-safe glass beads for a low flame that reflects brightly and generates steady warmth. A metal fire ring over the burner helps displace the gas for a more realistic dancing flame. Fire screens or tempered glass enclosures are available for added safety.
Choose water-resistant fire pits with accessories made of concrete to prevent water damage. Cover all fire pits after use (after all parts are cool) to protect the materials from rain, sun and debris. Buy fire pits with matching covers, or purchase less expensive vinyl covers that work with a variety of gas fire pits.

Benefits

Gas fire pits burn cleaner and use less natural resources. No volume buying of wood or coal is necessary; faux wood logs and lava rocks last for years with a gas flame. Gas fires are low maintenance, and in many instances can be operated with a mere flip of a switch. The fire burns bright and evenly all night, with no need to keep feeding or stoking the fire. Special fire-safe glass rocks create steady warmth for all those close to the gas fire pit.

Warning

Never use a gas fire pit indoors or in an enclosed area. Gas appliances use up oxygen, and unvented use can lead to illness or even death.
Use only heat-safe materials as accessories in a gas fire pit. Rocks, simulated logs and glass must be fire-pit approved. Read all manufacturer's instructions and warnings carefully.
Avoid heating or cooking food using a gas fire pit, unless the model is specifically designed for this use. Drippings from food can clog gas outlets and cause the fire pit to malfunction.
Natural gas lines for gas fire pits should only be installed by a qualified installer, service agency or your local natural gas supplier. Improper installation can lead to gas leaks, explosions, property damage and physical injury.

Resources

• Buy gas fire pits at Firepits.com
• Safest gas fire pits recommended by Epinions
• Deck-safe models from Fire Pits, Inc.