Gas fire pits come in various types, and some models may be more complicated than others. However, they are usually assembled with the same basic parts.
These essential components include an enclosure, pan and burner, burning media, ignition system, and a way to keep the fire and gas under control.
So what are the parts of a fire pit? Let’s dissect an air fire pit to see if they are composed of parts.
Table of Contents
What Are the Parts of a Fire Pit?
Most fire pits feature main components, including media, burner, pan, enclosure, connectors and fittings, and vents.
In addition, fire pits can also come with optional accessories, depending on the owner’s needs.
Main Components
Burner
This component is used to burn gas and is available in materials and shapes.
If you are searching for one specific flame presentation and warmth level, it is necessary to research different kinds of burners and the gas level they can burn at once.
Media
Media sits on the burner and is used to replace the traditional wood log.
It includes fire glass, lava rock, fireballs, firestones, and ceramic log sets. This part is responsible for distributing the gas and creating one natural flame pattern.
Pan
You can find this part directly under the media and burner, separating these components from the open cavity below. The pan is available in many sizes and shapes and is located on the top or recessed into fire pits.
The pan of a fire pit is available in three main shapes, including:
- Pan
- Bowl
- Linear
Enclosure
It is the body of your fire pit. This part is available in many shapes (square, rectangular, round, and more) and heights (bar height, chat height, dining height, and more).
Vents
The built-in vents enable water drainage and airflow. These vents prevent heat and excess gas from building up inside your fire pit’s enclosure and deliver the necessary fresh air for its ignition system to work correctly.
Fittings And Connectors
Fittings and connectors are small components inside your fire pit’s base that are utilized to lead gas to its burner.
These parts can include something like one connector hose with fittings, valve, orifice, and gas regulator. The connector hose is one small flexible pipe connecting the burner and gas valve.
Ignition Types
Control Knob
You can use this knob to open and close the gas valve, switch on or off the gas and the push button igniter generates a spark every time you want to ignite the gas and light the fire.
Key Valve
This valve is typically mounted on a gas fire’s base, and you can use it to control the gas flow into the burner.
Several pits feature a removable key that is used to activate the valve and switch the gas on or off.
Remotes And Switches
Like a remote that you use for your TV, the remote of the fire pit will allow you to enable or disable the fire without having near your fire pit to do the job.
While most remotes only allow you to turn on/off, some models enable you to tweak the flame height.
It is possible to find a fire pit wired to a switch installed on an outdoor room wall, allowing you to enable or disable your fire pit with ease. Switches and remotes come with automatic ignition fire pits.
Control Types
Push Button
You can use this button to generate a spark, light the gas and form a fire.
All you need to do is push this button and turn on your fire pit’s gas valve allowing the fuel to flow out, and the spark will ignite the fire.
Some buttons use a safety pilot system to reignite the fire or turn off the gas entirely if the flame goes out. These systems are considered very safe, making them the best and very safe way to light a fire pit.
Match Lit
As its name suggests, it is where you lit with one match. All you need to do is manually enable the valve to allow gas flow to go out and start a fire using a match. It is the most affordable and straightforward ignition kind available.
Automatic Ignition
The automatic ignition runs by flipping a switch or pushing a button to enable or disable the fire pit.
This part uses one valve system that usually requires one electrical connection, and you can control it with a wall switch or remote.
It is the most user-friendly and safest selection available and is the most expensive option.
Accessories (Optional)
Protective Covers
You can use protective covers to keep your fire pit safe when it is not in use.
These parts will protect your fire pit against unnecessary damage from harsh weather conditions and prevent deterioration and rust from occurring.
Glass Wind Guard
You can set a glass wind guard around the burner and media to protect the flame and allow your fire pit to keep lit on blustery days.
It is unnecessary to prepare wind guards, but they are a great addition to your fire pit if you are in one windy area.
Things to Consider When Buying Components For Your Fire Pit
With various categories and the wide range of parts in each category, it is essential to come into the shopping process with a firm plan and idea of what you are looking to accomplish.
Consider the following key factors when buying parts for your fire pit:
Price
Fire pit parts are available at many price points, and buying the most expensive one is not necessarily a wise choice. Instead, you should buy the best model within your means.
So start by setting an amount you’re willing to pay, then consider products that fall within that range.
Features
Although some parts, like valves and pipe fittings, are unlikely to have “features,” it is essential to pay attention to what each component is capable of, especially for ignition kits and burners.
You also need to know the BTU rating for burners and what kinds of control options an ignition kit can offer.
Compatibility
One of the essential factors is enabling any component you buy will work great with the others in a new or existing fire pit.
If there is doubt, it is best to get advice from the seller or a trusted professional.
FAQs
How Many Types and Styles of Fire Pits Are There?
There are four kinds of fire pits, including:
- Wood Fire Pit.
- Propane.
- Gel Fuel.
- Natural Gas.
Fire pits come in eight styles, including:
- Classic masonry fire pits.
- Prefabricated fire pits and fire bowls.
- Gas fire tables.
- Tabletop fire pits or bowls.
- Chimineas.
- Camping fire pits.
- Fire columns.
- Outdoor fireplaces.
What’s the Best Fire Pit Option for Cooking?
A wood fire pit will be your best bet if you prefer to make occasional smores since cooking over fire bowls or tables is not suggested.
How Many Types of Fuel for a Fire Pit?
Here are some common fuels for a fire pit:
- Ethanol.
- Gel Fuel.
- Seasoned Wood.
- Smokeless Fuels.
- Kiln Dried Logs.
- Propane (LPG).
What Is the Best Fire Pit Fuel Type?
Most fire pits use natural gas and propane as fuel for a good reason.
Propane is the cheapest and most common option for efficient fire fuel, and it is beaten only by natural gas lines if you can access it.
Fire bowls or tables are powered by other fuels, such as gel fuel, which are generally harder to find and fade over time.
The best bet is to get a natural gas-powered or propane fire bowl or table.
What are Safety Tips For Backyard Fire Pits?
Fire Pit Preparation
- Put your fire pit on an even surface.
- Put the fire pit at least ten feet away from any flammable structures.
- Avoid putting it directly on a flammable surface, like a wood deck or grass.
Start the Fire Pit
- Check out the wind direction and ensure it isn’t too windy for a fire.
- Never use anything like lighter fluid, gasoline, or kerosene to form a fire.
- Use a proper fire starter, such as a kitchen lighter or matches.
Maintaining the Flame
- Consider buying a spark screen to maintain the flame.
- Do not wear loose-fitting or flammable clothing.
- Avoid throwing any garbage, paper, or flammable products into the fire.
- Ensure to have a hose or a bucket of water nearby.
Is It Safe to Use a Fire Pit Under One Covered Patio?
Never utilize wood-burning fire pits on one covered patio or deck.
The Bottom Line
With this article, we have shed some light on “What are the parts of a fire pit?”
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