Are you considering adding a propane fire pit to your outdoor space? Propane fire pits offer a range of benefits, including portability, ease of use, and a clean-burning flame without ash. This article answers common questions about propane fire pits, helping you decide if this convenient and environmentally friendly option is right for your home.

Is a Propane Fire Pit Worth it?

the outdoor plus propane fire pit with propane tank drawer pulled out example

Absolutely! Propane fire pits are a fantastic addition to any outdoor space. They offer portability and ease of use, as they do not require a connection to a gas line. This flexibility allows you to position your fire pit wherever you like. Propane fire pits also provide a clean-burning flame with no smoke or ash, making them low-maintenance and environmentally friendly. Additionally, their convenience and aesthetic appeal make them a worthwhile investment for many homeowners. Check out some of our favorite propane fire pits here.

How Long Will a Propane Tank Last on a Fire Pit?

the outdoor plus propane fire pit near a pool while lit aflame

On average, a standard 20-pound propane tank can provide around 4 to 4.5 hours of continuous burn time at a high flame setting. Lowering the flame setting can extend the usage time significantly, allowing for several evenings of enjoyment from a single tank. However, the duration a propane tank will last depends on the BTU rating of your fire pit and the size of the propane tank. Moreover, it's always good to have an extra tank on hand to avoid interruptions.

Do Propane Fire Pits Give off Heat?

closeup of fire and fire media

Yes, propane fire pits provide substantial heat, making them perfect for cool evenings and social gatherings. Heat output is measured in BTUs, and the higher the BTU rating, the more heat the fire pit will produce. Furthermore, many propane fire pits are designed to offer enough warmth to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere, ensuring you and your guests stay comfortable outdoors.

Do Propane Fire Pits Need Ventilation?

propane fire pit ventilation

Proper ventilation is essential for propane fire pits to ensure safe operation. Propane fire pits need ventilation while natural gas ones don’t always need it because propane gas is heavier than air. Therefore, propane sinks to the bottom of the fire pit and pools up if there is nowhere to escape. If gas builds up too high, it is dangerous so the vents are near the bottom of propane fire pits. Also, most propane fire pits are designed with built-in ventilation systems, but it's crucial to follow the manufacturer's guidelines and install the fire pit in an open or well-ventilated area to ensure safety.

Additionally, propane gas needs oxygen mixed in it for it to burn properly. Therefore, you’ll need an air mixer where the flex line connects to the burner. The air mixer has holes drilled around it, allowing it to pull in oxygen as propane travels through it. It’s important to ensure the air mixer isn’t directly connected to the burner to guarantee your fire pit runs smoothly. Furthermore, we offer a multitude of conversion kits if you want to use propane instead of natural gas.

Do Propane Fire Pits Need to be Covered?

Propane fire pit vinyl cover lifestyle

Covering your propane fire pit when it's not in use is highly recommended. A cover protects the fire pit from the elements, such as rain, snow, and debris, which can cause damage and reduce its lifespan. Additionally, covering the fire pit keeps it clean and ready for use. Investing in a high-quality, weather-resistant cover will help maintain the appearance and functionality of your fire pit for years to come.

What Kinds of Propane Fire Pits are Available?

Propane Fire Pits come in many different shapes and sizes. We have rectangle, round, and square propane gas fire pits. Additionally, there are various customization options available on our site, allowing you to personalize your fire pit and make it perfect for your outdoor space.

Rectangle Propane Fire Pits

Rectangle propane fire pits offer a sleek and modern design, providing ample space for gathering around and enjoying consistent, clean-burning flames. Their elongated shape also makes them perfect for larger outdoor settings, enhancing both ambiance and functionality.

Tavola 4 Fire Pit

by Prism Hardscapes

The Tavola 4 Fire Pit offers an ultramodern fire pit with a custom handcrafted patina finish and a powerful 65,000 BTU stainless steel burner. Its 66x38-inch rectangular design includes ample surface space for drinks and comes in six color options with standard lava rock media. Furthermore, this fire pit can be configured for either propane or natural gas and features a choice between match light or electronic ignition systems for added convenience and luxury.

Prism Hardscapes Tavola 4 Lifestyle Image

Round Propane Fire Pits

Round propane fire pits create a natural gathering spot, promoting conversation and a cozy atmosphere. Additionally, the circular design ensures even heat distribution, making them perfect for smaller spaces or intimate settings where guests can comfortably sit around the fire.

Moderno 5 Fire Pit

by Prism Hardscapes

The Moderno 5 Fire Pit offers an ultramodern design with glass fiber-reinforced cement and a custom handcrafted patina finish. It features a 65,000 BTU stainless steel burner, a 16-inch height for comfortable conversation, and six color options. Available in match light or electronic ignition and configurable for propane or natural gas, this fire pit is perfect for both residential and commercial settings.

Prism Hardscapes Moderno 5 Lifestyle

Square Fire Pits

Square propane fire pits combine contemporary style with convenience, offering a balanced, symmetrical design that fits well in any outdoor space. They also provide quick ignition and adjustable flame control, making it easy to create a warm and inviting environment.

Maya Square Fire Bowl

by The Outdoor Plus

The Maya Square Fire Bowl offers a high-quality, handcrafted fire bowl made from durable powder-coated steel, available in various finishes like white, grey, and black. This unique product includes a burner system, gas line, and lava rock, with fire glass available as an upgrade. Moreover, choose between electronic ignition, which withstands harsh weather and can be controlled remotely, or the simple match light ignition with an optional key valve upgrade.

The Outdoor Plus Maya Square Lifestyle on Pedestal

Where to Discover More Information on Fire Pits?

If your priority is having a clean-looking backyard, we suggest reading about the Best Hidden Propane Tank Fire Pits. Additionally, you can explore all the different types of fire pits we offer on our fire pit category page. On the other hand, you can contact us if you have specific questions that need to be answered. We are open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. CT Monday through Friday or email us anytime!