Gas fire pits are total game-changers for your patio.
They give you warmth, create an amazing atmosphere, and unlike wood fire pits, you don’t have to deal with smoke in your face or clothes that smell like a campfire the next day.
But picking the right one? That’s where a lot of people get stuck.
I’m going to walk you through everything you need to know about choosing a gas fire pit that you’ll love for years.
No complicated jargon, just straight talk about what matters when you’re shopping. Ready? Let’s jump right in.
9 Tips To Choose Right Gas Fire Pit For Your Patio
Before we get into the nitty-gritty details, remember that the perfect fire pit is one that fits your specific needs.
Your dream fire pit might be totally different from your neighbor’s, and that’s okay! These tips will help you figure out what works for your unique situation.
Know Your Patio Space Requirements
First things first – you need to know exactly how much room you’ve got to work with.
Grab a measuring tape and figure out the dimensions of your patio space.
Fire pits need breathing room.
You want at least 3 feet of clearance on all sides from any walls, furniture, or plants that could catch fire.
If you’ve got a covered patio, check that you have at least 6 feet between the top of the fire pit and your ceiling fans.
Got a tiny patio? Look for compact models around 20-30 inches in diameter.
Working with a massive deck? You might want something 36-48 inches to make a real statement without looking tiny in a big space.
Don’t forget to think about where your gas line is (for natural gas models) or where you’ll store the propane tank if you go that route.
These practical details matter a ton when you’re living with your fire pit day to day.
Choose the Right Fuel Type
You’ve got two main options with gas fire pits: natural gas or propane. Both have their good points.
Natural gas connects directly to your home’s gas line.
Once it’s set up, you never have to refill anything, and the fuel costs less over time.
The downside? Installation costs money upfront, and your fire pit stays put wherever you install it.
Propane uses tanks like the ones for your grill.
You can move these fire pits around if you want, which is super handy. But you’ll pay more for fuel over time, and you’ll need to swap out tanks when they run empty—usually at the most inconvenient time possible, like in the middle of a party.
Some fire pits can work with both fuel types if you buy a conversion kit.
This gives you flexibility if you’re not 100% sure which way to go right now.
Consider Heat Output (BTUs)
BTUs (British Thermal Units) tell you how much heat your fire pit puts out.
This matters a lot, especially if you plan to use your fire pit when it’s chilly outside.
For most home patios, you’re looking at fire pits between 30,000-60,000 BTUs. Smaller patios do fine with 30,000-40,000 BTUs.
If you have a larger space or live somewhere that gets really cold, aim for 50,000+ BTUs.
The truth is, more heat isn’t always better.
A fire pit that’s too powerful for your space will have everyone sweating and moving their chairs back.
One that’s too weak will have folks huddling uncomfortably close just to feel the warmth.
Think about how you’ll use the fire pit too. If it’s mainly for looks and you live somewhere warm, you can get away with lower BTUs.
If you want to extend your patio season into fall and winter, go bigger on the heat output.
Prioritize Safety Features
Safety isn’t exciting, but it’s non-negotiable with anything that involves fire and gas.
Look for fire pits with:
- Automatic shut-off valves that kill the gas if the flame goes out
- Properly certified hoses and connections (look for CSA certification)
- Stable, tip-resistant bases
- Wind guards or screens if you live in a breezy area
If you have kids or pets, consider models with protective rings around the edge to prevent accidental contact.
Some fire pits also come with locks on the controls to prevent little hands from turning up the flames.
The control panel should be easy to reach but not so exposed that you could bump it accidentally.
Gas fire pits are generally safer than wood-burning ones, but they still need respect and proper handling.
Pick a Durable Material and Weather Resistance
Your fire pit will live outside in sun, rain, maybe snow, and temperature swings. The materials need to handle all that without falling apart.
Stainless steel is popular because it resists rust and looks good.
Cast aluminum won’t rust and stays cooler to the touch.
Concrete or stone options are heavy and stable, perfect for windy areas.
High-end gas fire pits use luxury materials like copper trims or custom concrete finishes that add major style points while standing up to the elements.
Check what kind of cover comes with your fire pit.
A good cover extends the life of your fire pit dramatically. If one isn’t included, budget to buy one separately.
Think about your climate too. If you get heavy rain or snow, drainage holes are essential. In coastal areas, marine-grade metals resist salt corrosion better than standard materials.
Style and Design That Matches Your Outdoor Decor
Your fire pit will be a focal point on your patio, so pick something you actually like looking at.
Fire pits come in tons of styles:
- Modern minimalist designs with clean lines
- Rustic stone looks that blend with nature
- Traditional round tables with fire in the center
- Sleek rectangular shapes for contemporary spaces
The fire media (what surrounds the flames) makes a big difference too.
Lava rocks give a natural look, while fire glass comes in different colors and creates a more modern, shimmery effect when lit.
Height matters as well.
Lower fire pits put the flames at or below eye level when sitting, creating a cozy campfire feel.
Taller table-height models double as actual tables when not in use, which is super practical for smaller patios.
Check Ignition System Options
How you light your fire pit affects how much you’ll actually use it. Trust me on this one.
Match-lit systems are the most basic and cheapest option.
You turn on the gas and use a long lighter or match to get things going. They’re reliable but not as convenient.
Push-button ignitions use a spark generator (like on a gas grill) to light the flame. They’re easier but may need battery replacement eventually.
Electronic ignition systems are the premium option.
Press a button or even use a remote control, and your fire pit lights automatically.
Some even work with smart home systems now. These cost more upfront but are worth it if you’ll use your fire pit frequently.
If you go with electronic ignition, ask about weatherproofing.
The electronic components need protection from the elements to keep working properly year after year.
Accessories and Features to Enhance Experience
The right accessories can take your fire pit from “pretty nice” to “absolute favorite spot in the house.”
Some handy add-ons include:
- Glass wind guards that protect the flame and look fancy
- Side tables for setting drinks or snacks
- Tank enclosures that hide propane tanks
- Conversion kits for cooking (though not all gas fire pits support this)
- Adjustable flame controls for different moods and weather
Fire pit tables with wider ledges give you space to set down drinks without needing separate side tables.
Some even come with insert covers that turn the entire fire pit into a table when it’s not in use.
For year-round enjoyment, look at models with protective covers included.
This seems small, but replacing a fire pit because water damaged the burner is an expensive mistake.
Budget and Long-Term Value
Gas fire pits range from about $300 for basic models to $3,000+ for custom built-in versions.
The sweet spot for most homeowners is $500-$1,000 for a good quality portable or semi-portable unit.
Within this range, you can get decent materials, reliable ignition, and enough BTUs for most spaces.
When comparing prices, look at what’s included. Does it come with a cover? Fire media like glass or lava rocks? A regulator for propane models? These “extras” can add $100-$200 if purchased separately.
Think about running costs too.
Natural gas is cheaper to operate but costs more to install.
Propane is more expensive per use but needs no installation. Over 5+ years of regular use, these differences add up.
Warranty matters a lot with fire pits. Look for at least 1 year on all components and longer (3+ years) on the burner system, which is the heart of the unit.
Conclusion
Picking the right gas fire pit isn’t rocket science, but it does require thinking about your specific needs.
Measure your space, decide on your fuel type, and pick something that matches how you’ll actually use it.
The best fire pit is one that you’ll use regularly for years to come.
It should be easy to operate, durable enough to withstand your local weather, and create the right atmosphere for your outdoor living space.
Once you’ve got your fire pit set up, the real fun begins.
There’s something magical about gathering around flames under the open sky, even if those flames come from a gas line instead of wood.
Your patio will instantly become everyone’s favorite spot to hang out.
So what kind of fire pit are you leaning toward? Whatever you pick, make sure it’s one that makes you excited to head outside and enjoy your patio to the fullest.
