How to Build a DIY Gas Fire Pit

1. Gas Supply

Before you begin designing your fire pit, first determine your gas supply. Both Natural Gas and Propane may be used but your supply pressure and BTU ratings need to be regulated for both. For Natural Gas, the supply pressure should be set between 3.5" - 7" of water column. For Propane, the supply pressure should be set between 8" - 11" of water column.

If you are using a 20lb propane tank, consider the maximum output of the tank to be 90,000 - 125,000 BTU. You'll also need to purchase a regulator. The reason why this is important is that the BTU rating of the 20lb tank will limit your burner options to sizes that are rated for 125,000 or less BTU.

2. Fire Pit Burner

The shape and size of your fire pit burner can be selected after determining your gas supply. Choose a burner that is at least 6" smaller than the inside dimension of your enclosure, which will put 3" between the edge of the burner and the inside edge of the pit all the way around your pit.

3. Fire Pit Pan

A fire pit pan is recommended for use with all fire pit burners and required for fire pits that use a propane gas supply. A fire pit pan can be flat or a bowl style to accommodate your specific construction style. Your pan should be installed at least 3" - 4" below the top surface of your fire pit enclosure. The purpose of a burner pan in propane applications is to separate the air mixer from the burner, and in all applications it helps with water drainage and ventilation.

4. Valves & Keys

You'll of course need a way to control the fuel supply, and that's where a valve and key assembly comes in. By placing the valve inside the enclosure and requiring a key to actuate it, you can ensure the safety of your home and family.

5. Flange Extension

In many cases, the shut-off valve has to be located inside the fire pit, and if your enclosure walls are thicker than 3", there is a good chance that it will be necessary to use a flange extension and a longer on/off key.

6. Gas Flex Lines

Not all gas lines are created equal. Using a flex line that isn't rated for high-BTU applications can cause an annoying whistling sound. Be sure to buy a flex line specifically designed for fire pits, like those you'll find here.

7. Ventilation

For all fire pit burners, adequate ventilation is required. The recommended amount of ventilation is 36 square inches, or two 18 sq. inch vents on two opposing sides to create proper airflow. This prevents gas from pooling beneath your fire pit, which can present a safety hazard.

8. Installation Collar

Installation collars are designed to simplify the installation process of a fire pit pan. The flexible installation collars can bend for round enclosures and can be anchored in with concrete screws. Not only will they make your fire pit easier to assemble, they also make it easier to take apart if you need to access the inner workings for cleaning and maintenance.

9. Fire Media

Fire media is the final step to finishing your gas fire pit. Lava rock, fire glass, and log sets are all available. A maximum of 2" - 4" of media should cover your burner and pan. Your choice for fire media is purely aesthetic, depending on what you want for a final look and feel.