How Long Does a Propane Tank Last on a Fire Pit? (READ THIS FIRST)


How Long Does a Propane Tank Last on a Fire Pit

A fire pit is an excellent addition to your home’s backyard. Furthermore, it will make your outdoor time more enjoyable and warmer.

When deciding to add a fire pit to your home, you need to consider the kind of fuel you’ll use. But how long does a propane tank last on a fire pit?

Today, we’ll help you answer that question and provide you with other valuable information. Let’s dig deeper to find the correct answer!

How Long Does a Propane Tank Last on a Fire Pit?

A propane tank is 20 lbs in size and can hold 430,000 BTUs. A fire pit can last 3 to 6 hours if you use a 20-pound propane tank with 430,000 BTUs.

However, it also depends on many aspects, such as the fire pit size, your chosen fuel, how often you use the fire pit, and weather conditions.

The following tables will give you some estimates for each specific fire pit type:

H-Burner Drop-In Pan

SizeBTU Ratings (BTU)Average Burning Time (Hours)
36 x 12 inches165K2.5
30 x 10 inches 125K3.5
24 x 8 inches 120K3.5
18 x 6 inches70K6

Round Drop-In Pan

SizeBTU Ratings (BTU)Average Burning Time (Hours)
19 inches 92K4.5
13 inches 48K9

Linear Burner Drop-In Pan

SizeBTU Ratings (BTU)Average Burning Time (Hours)
48 x 6  inches 91K5
36 x 6 inches 65K6.5
30 x 6  inches54K8

Round Burner Ring

SizeBTU Ratings (BTU)Average Burning Time (Hours)
24 inches 294K1.5
18 inches 147K3
12 inches 92K4.5
6 inches 48K9

H-Burner

SizeBTU Ratings (BTU)Average Burning Time (Hours)
24 x 8 inches  125K3.5
18 x 6 inches75K6

How to Use a Propane Tank in The Fire Pits?

It is easy to use propane fire pits as they require little establishment. 

You only need to attach your propane tank to a fire pit and check out for releases before turning it on.

In most cases, a propane tank is convenient and small, allowing you to carry a fire pit from one location to another easily.

If you have a vast propane tank near a fire pit, running the gas line underground is okay to connect to a fire pit, making it a perpetual thing in your living space.

On the other hand, suppose you are concerned about the propane tank appearing in your visibility.

In that case, you might consider various designs that allow you to hide the propane tank from sight or conceal it from your visibility.

Also, getting a residential propane tank refill service is okay if your tank runs out of propane.

What to Consider When Considering a Propane Fire Pit?

Before thinking about investing in a fire pit, you need to consider many factors. Start by ensuring that it is accepted by your homeowner’s and local government.

In addition, you need to learn carefully about rules and restrictions (if applicable) regarding the use of fire pits in your place.

You also need to consider the factors to choose the one that works best for you.

Style

The fire pit is available in various shapes and styles. 

You should choose one based on your backyard’s landscaping theme or design. Your chosen fire pit should match the existing theme of your backyard.

Ensure that the shape of your selected fire pit fits the maximum number of people expected to participate in your backyard events.

Size

You’ll want to choose something that’s the right size for your area. The fire pit is available in plenty of sizes, from 24 to 54 inches wide.

You also need to consider the fire pit’s height, which usually ranges from 18 inches to more significant heights.

Materials

The fire pit can also be made from many materials, the most common being stone, metal, and cement.

We recommend comparing materials through their own set of pros and cons. 

Then it’s wise to go with the most durable option. Thanks to that, you can expect your pit to last long and save your budget on repairs.

Propane Usage

You must ensure that your chosen fire pit is economical enough to fit your budgetary needs and what you will spend to utilize it throughout the year.

Moreover, some models may consume more ingredients than others. So, you should pay attention to the consumption ratings before deciding.

Cost

Buying the most expensive fire pit doesn’t mean you own the best one. So you should consider something that fits your cash budget and is worth the money.

In other words, you need to choose affordable models and compare them before buying the one that offers you the most for your budget.

What Factor Determines How Long Your Propane Tank Lasts?

The propane tank size is one of the main factors determining how long it can last. The bigger tank should last longer than the smaller one if usage is the same.

In addition, the fire pit’s output will also play an essential role in how long you can use a propane tank. 

For example, If you buy a fire pit with a higher output, you can expect it to consume more gas, resulting in your propane tank not lasting as long.

How frequently you use the fire pit also comes into play. If you utilize a fire pit sporadically, your propane should last longer than if you utilize it every night.

How To Make Your Propane Tank Last Longer?

To make your propane tank last longer, you should ensure you use the proper size propane tank for the fire pit. If you own a smaller fire pit, it is unnecessary to use a larger tank.

Alternatively, you can get the job done by controlling the propane flow to the fire pit using a regulator or valve.

Finally, avoid using the fire pit every night. But if you utilize it on weekends, you can expect your propane tank to last longer.

FAQs

How Long Will My 20LB Propane Tank Last on The  Fire Pit?

You can expect your 20lb propane tank to last for four to four and a half if you use the fire pit continuously with maximum output.

If you want to make the fire pit last longer, buying a larger tank or controlling the amount of gas flow to a fire pit is alright.

What Are Pros and Cons of Fire Pits?

Here are the pros and cons of having the fire pit in your backyard:

Pros

  • Easy to install.
  • Give you a feeling of coziness.
  • Make your backyard look nicer.
  • Allow you to sit in your yard in winter.
  • Allow you to enjoy fun evenings outside.
  • Your backyard would feel like additional living space.
  • Wood fire pits can be the perfect alternative to your grill.
  • Allow you to choose between portable and permanent fire pits.

Cons

  • Your pets can get into trouble.
  • Installing a fire pit can be expensive.
  • Need some space to install a fire pit.
  • You kids may not be aware of the risks.
  • The backyard fire pit can be dangerous.
  • Your neighbors may be unhappy about the smell.
  • Local regulations may prohibit you from using a fire pit.

Does The Propane Fire Pit Use More Propane Than The Gas Grill?

Yes. The propane fire pit may use more propane than the gas grill.

Is 40000 Btu Good for a Fire Pit?

For a propane fire pit, 40,000 BTUs or more is a good starting point.

Do People Use Fire Pits in the Winter?

Yes. It can be just as enjoyable as long as one has a warm, cozy, and nice spot.

In A Nutshell 

There are many good reasons for adding a fire pit to your backyard. 

It can be a fun place that you can have in your house. Moreover, you can use it for barbecues, camping, and more.

You’ve got the answer, “How long does a propane tank last on a fire pit?” It can last 3 to 6 hours if you use a 20-pound propane tank with 430,000 BTUs.

However, it is not feasible to determine the exact time because it depends on many different factors, both environmental and non-environmental.

Are you satisfied with the content of this article? Do you have any experiences to share with us? We would be happy to talk more with you on this topic.

If this article was helpful to you, please share it! Thanks for stopping by!

James Lopez

James Lopez is a lifestyle journalist. In addition to working as a journalist, he also takes courses in landscape design. He is pretty focused on the outdoor space, especially the backyard.

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