Campfires, bonfires, barbecue grills, you know what it means. Winter is coming. What if we tell you that there is a way you could cozy up your winter evenings without all that hassle associated with setting up a fire? Yup, we are talking about gas fire pits.
Whether you want to go camping or enjoy a quiet night in your backyard, gas fire pits are the way to go. Keep reading to find out which is the best gas fire pit for you.
A gas fire pit is a heating source and a decorative feature in one. Although the name suggests a hole in the ground, gas fire pits are available in various styles and designs. These fire pits either use propane tanks or are attached to your natural gas pipeline.
Detailed Reviews of the Best Gas Fire Pit of 2020
Here are some of the best products out there with quick reviews.
🥇 Heininger Portable Propane Outdoor Gas Fire Pit
If you’re looking for a compact product that is easy to carry around, look no more. This product fits in any trunk and has a sleek, stylish appearance.
This fancier copper/bronze finish model comes assembled. It also includes a stabilizer ring plus decorative rocks. Weighing only 22 lbs, this product is ideal for camping and traveling.
The compact (19.2 x 19.2 x 11.5 inches) design fits anywhere and can be carried by almost anyone. It is a sturdy product with 58,000 BTUs so you can go camping in all seasons and every kind of weather.
However, a 20-lbs propane tank with a 10 feet hose would be a hassle to lug around. The metal base ring does not get too hot, so it is easy to pick up immediately after use. It includes a match light ignition system with a regulator.
What’s more? This product is RV campground approved, which means it is safe for camping and comes with a one-year manufacturer’s limited warranty. The 20-lbs tank can last up to twelve hours so go ahead and plan that camping night right now.
Pros:
- Pre-assembled gas fire pit kit
- Gorgeous design
- Portable & compact
- Good heat output & runs for long
- Sturdy stand
Cons:
- Manual ignition
- Lid costs extra
- Some owners complain that the flames aren’t very bright
🥇 Blue Rhino Outdoor Propane Gas Fire Pit
A table style fire pit with blue glass, what more can we say? This model is great for your patio as well as outdoor vacations. It requires assembly for the stand that takes only an hour.
The body of this fire pit is black and steel. The top consists of a steel fire bowl, and the side panels hide the propane tank, which can be attached to the gas hose. The fire can be started and controlled with the dial. A plastic cover is also included to protect the table from wear and tear.
A 70 lbs fire pit, a propane tank that weighs 20 lbs, and no wheels at the base mean this model is not designed for portability. The dimensions of the table (30 x 30 x 24 inches) reiterate this point. The fire pit includes a Piezo ignition system along with a safety valve for easy starting and stopping of gas flow.
It also ensures full control of user and protection in case of a malfunction. However, this fire pit offers 30,000 BTUs of heat output, which is good enough for a small gathering.
This means this model is more about ambiance than functionality. The blue fire glass (12 lbs) included with the product is sure to enhance the beauty of your backyard.
Pros:
- Quick assembly.
- Good height
- Beautiful blue fire glass for flame accents
- Convenient operation
- Conceals propane tank
- Less energy usage
- Comes with a waterproof cover
- One-year manufacturer’s limited warranty
Con:
- Not enough warmth
🥇 Outland Firebowl 870 Premium Outdoor Portable Propane Gas Fire Pit
This product is similar to the previous one. It is great for adventurous times in the wild, and also looks great on your patio as the gas fire pit insert has a stylish design.
This model consists of an auto-ignition feature that its predecessor lacked. The high-quality stainless steel is topped with a protective layer of the enamel finish. A locking lid, strap, and handle are provided for portability.
It is a lightweight model weighing just 24,5 lbs and has 19 x 19 x 11 inches dimensions, which means you can carry it around almost as easily as your backpack (*almost*). The handle, fasteners, and locking lid provide ultra-portability.
The spark ignition system has adjustable flame settings and can provide excellent heat for as much as 10 feet around the fire pit. The 10 feet hose ensures that the propane tank can be kept a safe distance away from the fire, but if dragging a tank around is not your thing, you can convert this model to natural gas and fit it to your natural gas pipeline for an even safer pipeline connection.
To top it all off, this model is CSA-approved and comes with a one-year warranty. A cover and carry kit have been added, so this fire pit can stay with you for years. If you are willing to pay extra, this model also comes with a CSA approved Natural Gas Conversion Kit.
Pros:
- Portable
- High heat output
- 12 to 15 hour heat output
- Low height gives you more direct heat
- Durable steel material with stylish enamel coating
- Lava rocks for an enhanced flickering effect
- One-year manufacturer’s limited warranty
Cons:
- Enamel coating and exposed steel would get damaged easily
- Carry bag costs extra
🥇 Home Square Stone Fire Pit by Christopher Knight
Let’s take a break from camping and talk about a romantic evening at home. This gas fire pit table blends in easily, as you can set up seats around it for a quiet hangout.
It comes ready to be put to use. The compartment inside stores the 20-lbs propane tank and is made from magnesium and steel.
The package includes a fire pit with other attachments, along with clear instructions in English and French. It has an easy-to-use electric ignition system (battery operated) with a smart control panel to ensure maximum protection.
Lava rocks have been included to enhance the look of this fire pit, which will provide sufficient warmth of 40,000 BTUs. The low height of the table enables the heat to spread out more.
However, this 162-lbs, 32 x 32 x 24 inches model is pretty much a semi-permanent structure. Since you are not going to be moving it around too much, a waterproof cover has been provided to keep the fire pit protected.
Pros:
- Propane tank (not included) can work for 20 hours
- Attractive design
- Clear instructions
- One-year warranty
Cons:
- No windshield
- Limited reach of heat
- No cover for burner only
🥇 Camp Chef Monterey Propane Fire Pit
This stylish model goes from a coffee table to a heater within seconds. It looks great on your patio and is suitable for cooking.
It requires assembly but is a simple construction. It also has space for storing the propane tank. A burner lid and fire glass (black) are included. The penny vein finished top and rectangular footprint go well with sofas. This 65.5-lbs, wheel-less semi-permanent fixture is made of steel coated with powder to ensure durability.
The product claims 40,000 BTUs of heat output to keep people warm and has a turn-and-key piezo ignition system for safety and convenience.
The 40 x 19.5 x 24 table has a built-in compartment for a 20 lbs propane tank but can also be converted to use with gas.
Choosing between types of fuels is a dilemma with grills and smokers as well. Click here to read about gas grills vs. pellet grills.
Pros:
- The gorgeous finish makes this a beautiful centerpiece
- Lid converts it to a table
- Easy ignition and dial system
- Striking flame effect
- 12-months warranty
Cons:
- Lid is not waterproof
- The surface is not as durable as some other options on our list
- Limited mobility
- Some owners have complained that it is difficult to light up and does not stay lit
🥇 AZ Patio Heaters GS-F-PC Propane Fire Pit
Similar to the Camp Chef model, it is a table and a source for heat in one. It blends in well with your wooden or wicker furniture and enhances the look of your patio/deck.
It consists of a high-quality ISTA 3A certified packaging to ensure the safe delivery of the product. It arrives unassembled but only takes up to an hour for assembly. The elegant design has a durable base unit and a compartment for storing the propane tank.
This fire pit has a height of 28-inches with a 38-inches tabletop. It comes with a 19-inches lid for the 17-inches burn area. It is a propane/butane model that can generate heat up to 40,000 BTUs to a 15-inch radius. Fire glass has been added to spruce up the look since this heavy, wheelless model is going to stay in one place.
For maximum safety, it is CSA-approved and comes with a battery-operated piezo ignition system and a 20 lbs propane tank compartment to ensure further convenience.
Pros:
- Durable and compact design
- Stylish finish.
- Extra safe delivery and usage
- Propane tank storage
- Lid for burner
Cons:
- Not resistant to the elements
- No cover for the entire table
- Some people complain that the product is faulty (does not stay lit or difficult to assemble)
🥇 BALI OUTDOORS Square Table Gas Fire Pit
This is a budget-friendly alternative that still provides plenty of heat (58,000 BTUs) to keep you warm. It comes unassembled but with detailed instructions. Lava rocks are also included to help maintain consistent heat output and ensure efficient gas intake.
At 70 lbs, this matte black model is also wheelless, so do not get your hopes up for a warm winter getaway. The 28 x 28 x 25 inches all-steel construction comprises a spacious compartment for the 20-lbs propane tank as well as other accessories. The only thing missing is a lid/cover.
Gas fire pit inserts are included with this product, which features a hidden control panel for the ignition system. The ignition is electric (battery-operated) and has a safety valve. This product also comes with a standard one-year warranty. So all is safe except for one thing. The height of the table could prove a danger for kids as there are no flame protection features.
Pros:
- Easy assembly
- Elegant and durable design with matte black steel
- Control panel is easily reachable
- Easy ignition + safety valve
- Provides sufficient heat
- Lava rocks included
- Cost-effective
- Smaller pit opening for higher flames
Cons:
- Burner lid costs extra
- No flame protection
- Susceptible to damage by the elements
If table style is your thing, here is a list of the best tabletop grills of 2019.
How To Choose A Best Gas Fire Pit?
We’ve established that gas fire pits are a good option but which is the best gas fire pit? Honestly, it all comes down to personal preference and need. Here are some key features to look for.
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Design and Style
Most gas fire pits range from 20 to 45 inches in diameter. Furthermore, the size of the fire pit might also correspond with the amount of heat it generates or the amount of energy it uses.
Table-style fire pits give a sophisticated touch to your backyard while also providing extra table space and storage compartment for the propane tank. Whereas, recessed/sunken burners provide better safety from the flames and wind protection.
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Is it Portable?
Propane tanks increase portability. However, you would also need a model that is lightweight and compact. You can easily find many affordable propane smokers and gas grills as well.
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Heat Generation
BTUs (British Thermal Units) are a measure of the amount of gas you use, or how much heat it generates. In most cases, 40,000 BTUs are great for efficiently heating the surrounding. However, less than that means the product is designed more for ambiance than for functionality.
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Ignition Technique
Ignition systems on gas fire pits are very easy to operate and are of three main types:
Match Light Ignition: The match-light ignition system is the basic and old-fashioned one. You just open the valve and use a match to light the gas pit. When you’re done using it, simply turn off the gas valve. It is also the most cost-effective.
Spark Ignition: Spark ignition system is more modern and similar to the one found on gas grills. You push a button connected to the ignitor probe, sending a manual spark and igniting the burner.
Electric Ignition: This system is comparatively the easiest of the three. It is also more costly and is only available in expensive fire pits. All you need to do is flick a switch or press a button on the remote control.
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Safety Characteristics
In terms of safety, gas fire pits are your best bet. The clean-burning fuel is environment-friendly, and the set-up highly reduces the chances of a forest fire.
According to the NFPA, fire pits and outdoor fireplaces cause over 3000 accidental fires annually. Consequently, many places are now placing bans on campfires. This is where portable gas fire pits come into play.
However, ensure that the fire pit is safety certified by credible certification companies, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL).
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Size of Propane Tank
The standard tank size most propane gas fire pits include is 20 lbs. The tank size also depends on the burner ring size. Larger rings mean a need for greater gas supply.
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Build Material & Quality
For semi-permanent fire pits, you should opt for a durable all-weather material. Copper and stainless steel provide a shiny look and enhance the flame effect.
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Warranty
Most of these products normally have a one-year warranty, but you can also look for longer warranty in some.
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Price & Value for Money
These fire pits have a wide price range. They are, in general, more expensive than wood-fired or coal ones. More affordable gas fire pits are often smaller, more lightweight, and portable.
Propane models are less expensive and can easily be converted into natural gas ones. On the contrary, natural gas fire pits are cheaper for longer use.
Like fire pits, gas grills can get pricey as well. Click here for a list of good-quality affordable gas grills.
Tips for Buying
- For outdoor or permanent fixtures, avoid materials that are not robust enough.
- Look for a model with stable footing which can’t easily get knocked over by a child or a pet.
- Avoid metal legs that could conduct heat, particularly for use on decks or outdoors.
You can look into how to build a gas fire pit, but buying one is so much more convenient.
Conclusion
This is it. We are sure you can now easily buy the best gas fire pit among the top options. As you can now compare different options, you can buy one that specifically meets your needs.
Last Updated on August 11, 2020 by Judith Fertig
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