Converting your gas fire pit from natural gas to propane, or vice versa, is a practical way to adapt to your fuel preferences or availability. However, this process involves specific steps and safety precautions to ensure proper functionality and safety.

Important Considerations

Before starting the conversion process, several key factors need to be considered:

  • Compatibility: You can't convert all fire pits. Check the manufacturer’s guidelines or consult with a professional to confirm that your fire pit can safely be converted between natural gas and propane.
  • Conversion Kit: A conversion kit is typically required for this process. The kit provides the necessary components, such as orifices, regulators, and connectors, designed for the specific type of gas you’re converting to. Ensure that you purchase a kit that matches your fire pit model.
  • Professional Assistance: While some may choose to attempt the conversion as a DIY project, we highly recommend hiring a licensed professional. Gas conversions involve complex tasks that, if done incorrectly, could pose significant safety risks.
  • Local Regulations: Some areas have regulations governing gas conversions. Verify with local authorities to ensure compliance with any relevant codes or regulations.

Ensure you are 100% positive you want to switch the fuel type of your gas fire pit. If you are still deciding whether it’s worth switching or not, consider checking out this article comparing fuel types.

Converting from Natural Gas to Propane

converting to propane fire pit

Converting your fire pit from natural gas to propane requires careful attention to detail:

  1. Turn Off the Gas Supply: Before starting any conversion work, make sure you completely turn off the gas supply to avoid accidents.
  2. Disconnect the Natural Gas Line: Carefully disconnect the natural gas line from the fire pit. Complete this step with caution to prevent any gas leaks.
  3. Install the Propane Conversion Kit: Follow the instructions provided with your propane conversion kit. This typically involves replacing the natural gas orifice with one designed for propane, as propane requires a smaller orifice due to its higher pressure.
  4. Connect the Propane Tank: Attach the propane regulator and hose to the fire pit. Ensure all connections are secure and tight to prevent leaks.
  5. Test for Leaks: Once you connect the propane tank, use a soap and water solution to check for leaks at all connection points. Turn on the gas supply and look for bubbles, which indicate a leak that needs to be fixed.
  6. Light the Fire Pit: After confirming there are no leaks, light the fire pit to ensure it’s operating correctly. The flame should be steady and strong, with a blue base and yellow tips.

Converting from Propane to Natural Gas

converting to natural gas fire pit

Switching from propane to natural gas involves a similar process but with specific adjustments:

  1. Turn Off the Gas Supply: As with any gas-related work, ensure the gas supply is turned off completely before beginning the conversion.
  2. Disconnect the Propane Tank: Carefully disconnect the propane hose and regulator from the fire pit.
  3. Install the Natural Gas Conversion Kit: Use the conversion kit to replace the propane orifice with one designed for natural gas, which is larger due to the lower pressure of natural gas.
  4. Connect the Natural Gas Line: Attach the natural gas line to the fire pit. This line should be professionally installed if not already in place. Additionally, make sure all connections are secure.
  5. Test for Leaks: As with propane, check for leaks at all connection points using a soap and water solution. Turn on the gas supply and look for any signs of leakage.
  6. Light the Fire Pit: After ensuring there are no leaks, light the fire pit to verify it’s functioning properly. A properly converted natural gas fire pit will produce a consistent flame with a blue base.

Summing Up Converting a Gas Fire Pit

Converting a fire pit between natural gas and propane is a process that requires careful attention and the right tools. Whether you’re looking to take advantage of a different fuel source or simply need to adapt to what’s available, following these steps and consulting with a professional will ensure a safe and efficient conversion. If you still have questions about converting your gas fire pit, feel free to contact our certified team of product specialists. We are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or email us anytime.

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