Tech Talks - Gas Fire Pit Drainage (2024)

FAQs

Should fire pits have a drainage hole? ›

The sole reason for proper drainage is to avoid water/moisture accumulating in the fire pit enclosure. When you are selecting your fire pit inserts there are two things that HPC highly recommends as well: The pan and burner installed in your enclosure should have weep holes.

Remove water using compressed air, or it may evaporate over time. Cover the fire pit when not in use to avoid water build up. Here are the proper pressures for most fire pit burners; Natural Gas: 7-10″wc, Propane: 11-13″wc.

If the soil drains well or there is moderate precipitation, simply dig a hole in the center of the fire pit. The hole should be 12 inches in diameter and 18 inches deep. Fill this hole with large gravel. If the soil doesn't drain well or there is heavy precipitation, dig a trench from the center out.

It depends on the design. Since different fire pits can be made in different sizes, some fire pits may require a little more sand than others. However, an inch or two of sand in the bottom of the fire pit is usually acceptable.

Putting gravel on the ground around your fire pit creates a nice, level base for seating. Plus, it protects the ground and surrounding area with a non-flammable material in case any embers make their way out of the fire pit.

Another advantage of a fire pit dug into the ground is that the fire will be better contained. If the fire is in a hole, it will not spread, provided that you do not have a lot of dry leaves around the area and you are not in a bushy area during the dry season.

Crushed limestone is a popular choice for gravel fire pit areas due to its excellent drainage properties. This type of gravel compacts well, providing a solid base for seating and heavy items. It is often used as the primary material for the fire pit patio itself, creating a sturdy and functional surface.

If you are getting a low flame from your fire pit burner you may not have enough gas pressure coming into the property (gas meter) and/or incorrect gas pipe sizing (diameter) for the distance the gas is required to travel to sufficiently fuel the BTU rating of your burner.

Reflective Surfaces: Fire pits incorporating reflective materials like stainless steel or copper can enhance heat radiation. These materials reflect the heat energy into the surroundings, effectively increasing how warm the fire pit's heat feels to everyone around the flames.

Noise in a gas fireplace can stem from different sources, including: Thermal expansion: As the fireplace heats up during use, metal components may expand, leading to creaking or popping sounds. Settling: After installation, minor settling can cause some noises, which are usually harmless.

What is a good bottom for a fire pit? ›

In conclusion, choosing the material to place at the bottom of a fire pit requires considering ventilation, heat resistance, and protective properties. Materials such as sand, fire bricks, or slabs are excellent choices that can improve burning efficiency, extend lifespan, and ensure safety.

The sand and dirt method is actually preferable if you have a metal fire pit that you plan to use season after season. Water that's left sitting in a metal pit will cause it to rust, so it's best to avoid using water with this type of fire pit.

A sunken fire pit can be a great addition to your outdoor space. Not only does it enable you to enjoy the warmth and crackling of the fire from a safe distance, but it also acts as a specific spot for the rest of your yard.

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. Check your appliance manual for required distances.