Wood burning vs. propane fire pits; which is better for the planet? (2024)

FAQs

Wood burning vs. propane fire pits; which is better for the planet? ›

Propane and gas fire pits burn cleaner than wood, with little to no smoke or sparks. They can be more energy-efficient because they provide direct radiant heat without the need for a warm-up period.

Wood fire pits emit around 28 or more pounds of emissions into the atmosphere every time they're used. This is compared to natural gas, which produces 99 percent fewer emissions than that of the wood fire pit.

Ethanol fire pits

Also known as bioethanol, it's a clean-burning fuel source and is a low maintenance and modern solution.

Wood is a renewable resource, unlike gas. However, gas is far more clean burning than wood, so environmentally it's a toss-up. Certainly if you or a family member has asthma or is sensitive to smoke, gas may be a better option for you.

That said, when it comes to the carbon impact of burning campfires, propane takes the cake as one of our cleanest, most efficient options—especially if you're able to replace single-use propane tanks with refillable tanks.

Gas-burning fire pits are generally more efficient, and release fewer emissions and potentially harmful particles into the atmosphere than an open-air wood-burning fire—but many modern smokeless wood-burning fire pits are designed to burn more efficiently and release fewer emissions via smoke.

So, if open fireplaces aren't the best option for the environment, then what is? Luckily, you don't have to sacrifice the cosiness of a fire to help keep the air clean! The two best options for an eco friendly fire are gas and electric. Find out about their pros and cons here...

A gas-powered fire pit can often be safer and easier to use than a wood-burning fire pit. A gas-powered fire pit can often be safer and easier to use than a wood-burning fire pit.

Bioethanol Eco Fires

With their innovative design and use of bio ethanol fuel, they produce no harmful emissions, making them a perfect choice for environmentally conscious individuals.

Talking about a definitive answer - YES! There is nothing different about roasting a marshmallow over a propane gas fires, it is the same as you would do it over a grill or a wood fire pit. The only difference is propane gas fire pits are more aesthetic than basic grills.

Are propane firepits worth it? ›

When it comes to heat, a propane fire pit is more efficient than natural gas, cranking out a warmer heat. Because a propane fire pit isn't usually a permanent landscape addition, most often it's cheaper to install than a natural gas fire pit. Propane fire pits are portable, but require a propane tank to run them.

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.

Pros: Portability: Propane fire pits are often portable, allowing you to move them around your outdoor space. Clean burning: They produce minimal smoke and ash. Adjustable heat: Like gas fire pits, propane models offer flame control.

Propane is an environmentally friendly choice. While it does emit a low level of carbon dioxide, it's relatively clean burning when compared to gas or diesel. It does not emit sulfur dioxide, methane, nitrogen oxides, and other wastes.

Propane vapor is not toxic, but it is an asphyxiating gas. That means propane will displace the oxygen in your lungs, making it difficult or impossible to breathe if exposed to high concentrations. If you suspect you have inhaled a significant amount of propane, call 911.

Smoke from burning wood is made up of a complex mixture of gases and fine particles, which are also called particle pollution or particulate matter. Outdoor recreational fires can become a considerable source of fine-particle air pollution – especially in some metro areas.

Compared to their wood-burning counterparts, natural gas fireplaces are often considered a more clean-burning alternative and can help reduce your impact on the environment. Gas fireplaces are one of the more efficient fireplaces on the market when it comes to heat and energy usage.

Residential wood burning creates more PM2.5 pollution in California than the exhaust emissions of all motor vehicles on the road. A study of the the ecotoxicities of urban particulate matter found that wood smoke was more ecotoxic than particulates emitted from modern diesel engines.

Less maintenance: Gas fireplaces require less maintenance than wood ones. You only need an annual inspection to ensure everything works correctly. You must also clean the glass occasionally. More efficient heating: Natural gas heats your space more quickly and efficiently than wood.