Safety First
Safety should be one of your top priorities when installing a fire table or fire pit. With that in mind, here are some quick answers to some common fire pit and fire table safety questions we receive at Firepits Direct.
Are Propane Fire Tables Safe?
Absolutely. As long as you follow the manufacturerâs instructions.
Weâre often asked if propane fire tables are safe to use in certain applications. Itâs a fair question given the nature of propane gas. Since itâs heavier than air, the risk of pooling is a possibility. Fortunately, many propane fire tables are safety certified to ensure they meet national standards.
When installing your fire pit table, make sure all gas connections are leak-tested. You also want to ensure all manufacturer specifications regarding safe clearance and operation are followed properly. Doing this will help ensure you, your family, and your friends can all enjoy your fire table safely.
As an added safety precaution, more and more patio fire tables are including a flame sensor, as well. This feature allows the fire table to automatically shut off the gas in the event flames are extinguished. This extra feature prevents gas from pooling, which could present a potentially dangerous situation in an area with poor ventilation.
Are Gas Fire Pits Safer than Wood?
Yes. Gas fire pits are often much safer than wood.
Almost everyone has been near a classic wood campfire at some point in their life, so itâs easy to recall the warmth, the smoky smell and the crackling logs. This also makes it easy to understand why a wood fire can be dangerous if not properly contained.
Gas fire pits do not emit sparks or smoke the same way a traditional wood fire does. For these reasons, theyâre often safer from both a fire hazard and health standpoint. While the previously noted risk of pooling gas may be a concern, this can easily be avoided with proper installation and maintenance. Since gas fire pits also burn at a lower temperature, additional safety accessories like glass wind guards are also available for use. These are an especially great option for those with animals and small children.
How Much Heat Does a Gas Fire Table Produce?
A typical gas fire pit table emits anywhere from 40,000 to 100,000 BTU. While these fire features put off less heat than a wood fire, youâll still be able to make your outdoor entertaining space cozier with the right fire feature.
Gas fire tables are typically capped at this capacity to meet safety certifications or to make the units more compatible with 20-pound propane tanks. While these fire tables wonât keep you warm on a frigid night the same way a wood bonfire can, the trade-off is enhanced safety with impressive ambiance.
Is It Safe to Have a Propane Fire Pit on a Wood Deck?
Most pre-made propane fire pits and fire tables are safe to use on a composite or wood deck. Unlike wood fires, there are no sparks thrown from a gas fire pit, so the risk of unintentional ignition is much lower.
If youâre building your own gas fire pit, there may be additional steps youâll want to take to ensure safety. One of the most common additions would be something like the addition of a deck insulation kit. Always be sure to reference your local gas and fire codes beforehand, as well.
Want to learn more about installing a fire feature on a deck, patio, or porch? Check out this article where we cover the process in greater detail.
Can You Cook on a Fire Table?
Itâs not advisable to cook on your gas fire table. Gas fire tables are considered to be decorative gas appliances. You can roast marshmallows, but be careful not to drop any. Food residue can fall onto the burners, clog burner ports and negatively affect performance. Should this happen, youâll likely need to remove all media to clean the burners.
Is it Safe to Have a Fire Table on a Screened-in Porch?
Yes, it can be safe to use a fire table on a screened-in porch, but only under the right conditions. You should use a gas-powered fire table, never a wood-burning model, as gas produces less smoke and fewer embers. The space must be well-ventilated to prevent gas buildup, and you should follow all the manufacturer's guidelines while also following the clearance requirements for walls, ceilings, and nearby furniture.
Look for fire tables that are specifically rated for use in covered or enclosed outdoor areas, and consider installing a carbon monoxide detector as an added safety measure. Always turn off the fire table when not in use and never leave it unattended.
Can You Put a Fire Table Under a Covered Patio?
Yes, you can put a fire table under a covered patio, but it must be done safely. Ensure the area is well-ventilated and the ceiling is high enough, typically at least 7 to 10 feet above the flame, to allow heat and gases to disperse properly. Propane and natural gas fire tables are typically a safer choice for use under a covered patio, as they emit minimal smoke and donât release as many sparks or embers as wood-burning options.
Always follow the manufacturerâs guidelines and place the unit on a non-combustible surface like stone or concrete. To enhance safety, consider using a glass wind guard and keeping the fire table away from walls, ceilings, and flammable materials.
Can You Put a Fire Table on a Deck?
Yes, you can put a fire table on a deck, but you need to take proper safety precautions to do so. Most fire tables are designed to be safe for use on wood or composite decking as long as there is adequate ventilation and heat protection. Always follow the manufacturer's clearance requirements and avoid placing the unit too close to railings, walls, or overhead structures. Itâs a good idea to place a heat-resistant barrier or fire-resistant mat underneath the fire table to protect the deck surface from heat damage.
Also, make sure your deck is level and stable enough to support the fire tableâs weight, and never use a wood-burning model unless itâs explicitly rated as deck-safe. Gas or propane fire tables are usually better suited for deck use.
Any Other Questions?
Weâre here to answer any questions you may have about fire pits, fire tables or anything else we sell at Fire Pits Direct. You can also contact us via phone or email to speak with one of our product experts.. Our team can help you with product research, find the right products for you and they can even troubleshoot any issues you may be having.
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