Fire Pit Guide: Gas vs. Traditional Wood Burning

Creating the perfect outdoor living space involves making several key choices, but few are as impactful as selecting the right fire feature. Everyone loves gathering around a flickering flame, and the fuel you choose changes the entire experience. Sitting by a fire outdoors brings a sense of relaxation and connection, whether you’re stargazing, chatting with friends, or simply soaking in the cozy ambiance. This guide to gas and traditional wood-burning fire pits walks you through the pros and cons of each so you can decide which fits your lifestyle best.

The Allure of Wood Burning

Building a fire from scratch with real logs is a satisfying experience. The crackling sound of dry wood burning and the distinct aroma of smoke create a rustic atmosphere that many people cherish. For some, this classic sensory experience is the primary reason they prefer a traditional wood-burning pit over more modern alternatives.

However, this experience requires work from start to finish. You must source, chop, and store firewood, and then tend to the flames to keep the heat consistent. Additionally, cleaning up ash and soot is a necessary chore that comes with burning solid fuel.

Unmatched Convenience With Gas

Gas fire pits offer an instant ambiance with the simple push of a button or the turn of a key. Homeowners who prioritize ease of use love that they can enjoy a fire for twenty minutes or four hours without any preparation. Consequently, these units are perfect for spontaneous gatherings where you want warmth without the hassle of building a fire.

Another major benefit is the cleanliness and lack of maintenance required compared to wood options. Gas burns cleanly, which means there is no smoke to bother your eyes and no flying embers to burn holes in your furniture. Furthermore, you never have to worry about cleaning out messy ash piles after your guests have gone home.

Fueling Your Gas Fire Pit

Most gas fire pits come ready to connect to a standard propane tank, which is the same type you would use for a gas grill. This setup offers incredible convenience, as you can place the fire pit almost anywhere in your outdoor space without needing permanent connections. Swapping out an empty tank for a full one is a quick and straightforward process that takes just a few minutes.

Some gas fire pits also include a natural gas conversion kit. This allows a certified professional to connect your fire pit directly to your home’s natural gas line, providing an endless and economical fuel supply. A natural gas connection eliminates the need to ever refill or replace a propane tank.

Controlling Heat Output

To control heat output in a wood-burning fire pit, you can adjust the amount of wood you add and the airflow around the fire. Larger logs and open airflow create a hotter, more intense fire, while smaller logs or dampening the airflow can reduce the heat. Tools like fire pokers and screens also help regulate the flame and heat distribution.

Gas fire pits make heat control simple and convenient with built-in controls. Flame height can be adjusted instantly, allowing you to increase or decrease warmth as needed. This ease of use makes gas fire pits a popular choice for those who want consistent, customizable heat.

A Note on BTUs

A fire pit’s heat output is measured in British Thermal Units (BTUs), which quantify the energy required to raise one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. The higher the BTU rating, the more heat the unit can produce. For example, a fire pit with 75,000 BTUs provides substantial warmth suitable for most gatherings, creating a comfortable environment without becoming overpowering.

Safety and Local Regulations

Compared to gas fire pits, wood-burning fire pits pose a greater risk due to uncontrolled sparks and shifting logs. Embers can pop out of the bowl and land on nearby dry grass or deck surfaces, posing a potential fire hazard. As a result, many municipalities have strict regulations or even outright bans on wood burning, particularly during dry seasons.

Gas fire pits are generally safer because the flame is contained and predictable. You can instantly turn off the fire if the wind picks up or if you need to leave the area abruptly. Moreover, because they do not produce sparks, gas units are usually permitted on wooden decks and covered patios where wood fires would be prohibited.

Design, Size, and Configuration

Gas fire tables typically offer more versatile designs compared to traditional wood-burning fire pits because they don’t require bulky wood storage or ash cleanup. This simplicity allows for sleeker and more modern styles. Their flexibility in materials, shapes, and sizes makes them easier to integrate into a range of outdoor aesthetics, from rustic to contemporary. You can find outdoor fire tables in various configurations to suit different spaces and seating arrangements.

Here are a few popular options and their best uses:

• Square: Features a central burning area with free edges along the sides, perfect for placing drinks and creating a cozy gathering spot.
• Linear: A rectangular design with the fire running down the center.
• Offset: Positions the fire pit at one end of the table, leaving the rest of the surface area free for use.
• Custom: These tables from Stono Outdoor Living are available in square or linear configurations, tailored to fit the exact dimensions and style of your patio.

Air Quality and Guest Comfort

When you’re enjoying your outdoor living space alone or with friends and family, you want to breathe clean air. Unfortunately, wood-burning fire pits, while charming, produce smoke that can irritate the eyes and lungs, especially if the wood is wet or not properly seasoned. This can make it challenging to enjoy a relaxing evening, as guests may need to shift seats to avoid the smoke.

Gas fire pits, on the other hand, offer a much cleaner burn, producing virtually no smoke or particulates. This ensures a more pleasant atmosphere for socializing, free from the discomfort of shifting winds or smoky air. For those who frequently host gatherings, a gas fire pit offers an alluring centerpiece that keeps the focus on fun and connection.

A fire pit serves as a stunning focal point that enhances the ambiance of any backyard or patio. Gas fire tables are easy to operate and produce a clean, controllable fire. Throughout the year, the flickering flames add a magical touch to time spent outdoors. We invite you to browse Stono Outdoor Living’s selection of beautiful fire tables to find the best furniture for your home.