Posted byJames Callow on Tue, Jun 14, 2022 @ 10:10 AM
It's one of those big trends you see every once in awhile in home outdoor living & patio design - the fire pit. You just need to look through your local real estate listings to see how many people are installing fire pits and showcasing them as a backyard feature.
A fire pit looks inviting and reminds us that our outdoor space can be an area for family and friends to get together and enjoy time outside. No wonder they are so popular! And the heat they generate means you can enjoy your patio at the start of the spring and well into the fall.
Fire pits can be wood, natural gas or propane. Of course the advantage of propane is that the unit can be run from a portable propane cylinder and propane provides strong BTU heat and burns clean.
Learn more about the environmental benefits of propane.
In terms of efficiency, propane has the advantage over natural gas, providing about 2,500 BTUs, with the same volume of natural gas providing around 1,000 BTUs. Being portable means that your fire pit can be moved to different locations and even transported with ease.
But what are some of the safety considerations when using a propane powered outdoor fire place?
1 - Location: Your propane fire pit needs to be placed away from overhanging tree branches or shrubs, and it should sit on a solid, non-flammable surface such as a fire mat, pavers or heat-proof tiles.
A propane fire pit is safe to use on both wood and composite decks, and doesn’t give off those hazardous sparks like wood fire pits.
2 - Ventilation: It's essential that your propane fire pit is installed in the open outdoors with maximum ventilation to prevent any build-up of carbon monoxide.
3. - Operation: Never leave a propane fire pit unattended. And there is no reason to do so, as you can easily switch the propane flames on and off with a switch. As with your propane BBQ, when you switch tanks ensure that your connection is correct and there are no leaks.
For home and cottage owners in rural locations and off the natural gas grid - the choice of fuel for an outdoor fire pit / fireplace is propane or wood. Propane burns hotter supplying more heat, and is both energy efficient and clean. With no wood to buy or cut and no ashes and soot to remove, the maintenance on a propane fire pit is next to zero. That means more time with family and friends enjoying your outdoor natural space.
For more information about our propane services to residential, commercial and construction locations throughout central Ontario, give us a call 1-888-405-7777.
You should place your gas fire pit on a level, fire-resistant surface, such as concrete or stone. You should also keep it away from any flammable materials and structures, including overhanging tree branches and nearby shrubs. Provide ample seating space that maintains a safe distance from the fire pit.
You should place your gas fire pit on a level, fire-resistant surface, such as concrete or stone. You should also keep it away from any flammable materials and structures, including overhanging tree branches and nearby shrubs. Provide ample seating space that maintains a safe distance from the fire pit.
Gas and propane fire pits create a relaxing outdoor space, offering both beauty and functionality. Their controlled flames provide warmth and ambiance without the unpredictability of traditional wood fires. The pressing question for many is: are they safe? The straightforward answer is yes.
Place your fire pit at a safe distance (10-25 feet) from any flammable structures or surfaces. This includes your house, trees, shed, vehicle, neighbors' property, and wood deck, among other things. Keep your fire pit away from overhanging branches. A 21-foot clearance is standard for most municipalities.
You can absolutely have a natural gas or propane fire pit under a covered patio if the overhead height of the ceiling meets CSA requirements for distance from appliance. This is usually 80 inches.
If you are looking for a source of heat able to withstand unpredictable weather, a gas fire pit is the right product for you. With its durable construction and reliable burner technology, your fire pit table was made to be left outside.
In general, propane fire pits are not suitable for indoor use. The primary reason is that propane fire pits need plenty of ventilation to avoid the build-up of dangerous gases such as carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is incredibly dangerous and toxic, particularly when it builds up in an enclosed space.
The short answer is that the typical 50,000 Btu firepit will burn for about seven hours on a 20-pound cylinder. For perspective, the same amount of propane will get you about 18 to 20 hours of grilling time.
Unfortunately, gas fire pits do not repel mosquitoes effectively. The smoke from a gas fire does not contain the same chemicals that are found in the smoke produced from a wood fire, which is what makes wood fires effective at repelling mosquitoes.
Using silica sand is highly advisable when placing the sand at the bottom of a fire pit for an additional layer of heat protection. Silica sand is also known as the most affordable type of sand available for purchase, making it optimal for those who enjoy plenty of fire year-round.
First, as a protective layer, we recommend using small lava rocks at the bottom of the fire pit, ideally between a quarter and a half inch in size. This is essential. Once this is done, you must continue adding more lava rocks until you have a layer of lava rocks at least 4 to 5 inches deep.
Some recommend a minimum of 18 square inches of opening to provide adequate air flow and cooling for a gas burner system. Be sure to also check to see if there are any local requirements or regulations for fire pits.
A vertical clearance of at least 120” from the burner to a combustible structure or other combustible materials is required. Horizontal or lateral clearances of at least 36” between the edge of the burner and combustible materials is required, including structures and seating.
For the Fire Pit, a 20# propane tank will last approximately 4 to 4 ½ hours at a continuous burn at the maximum output. The tank will last approximately 8-9 hours at a moderate gas output. For the Fire Table, a 20# propane tank will last approximately 4 to 4 ½ hours at a continuous burn at the maximum output.
In general, propane fire pits are not suitable for indoor use. The primary reason is that propane fire pits need plenty of ventilation to avoid the build-up of dangerous gases such as carbon monoxide. Carbon monoxide is incredibly dangerous and toxic, particularly when it builds up in an enclosed space.
Detach the fuel cylinder for the hand torch when not in use and replace caps to keep valves clean. Never drop, throw or puncture fuel cylinders. Store fuel cylinders away from living spaces, out of reach of children and away from ignition sources. Do not leave in direct sunlight.
Introduction: My name is Kareem Mueller DO, I am a vivacious, super, thoughtful, excited, handsome, beautiful, combative person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.
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