Nothing beats the warmth and ambiance of a crackling fire, which is why outdoor gas fire pits have become increasingly popular over the last few years.
But one of the most common questions people ask when considering installing a gas fire pit is how much gas they can expect their fire pit to use over time.
Let’s take a look at how gas fire pits work, the different fuel sources available, and what kind of fuel usage you can expect from each type.
Fuel Sources for Gas Fire Pits
There are two main types of fuel sources used in gas fire pits—propane and natural gas. Propane is a liquefied petroleum product that comes in pressurized tanks or cylinders. Natural gas is an odorless, colorless gas composed mostly of methane that is piped into homes from local utility companies. (The “rotten eggs” odor commonly associated with natural gas is actually from an additive called mercaptan, which is added for safety.)
Both propane and natural gas require proper installation by certified professionals for safety reasons. So, it’s important to make sure your installer has all the necessary certifications before beginning any installation project.
Gas Usage with Propane Fire Pits
Propane tanks come in many sizes, ranging from 20-pound cylinders to 500-gallon tanks. For small areas like patios, decks, or balconies, 20-pound cylinders are usually more than enough for your needs.
Depending on the size of your tank, you can expect it to last anywhere from 10 to 15 hours on low heat settings up to 2 to 3 hours on high heat settings.
If you plan on using your propane fire pit frequently over long periods, you may want to consider having larger tanks installed instead so that you don’t have to constantly refill them throughout the season.
Gas Usage with Natural Gas Fire Pits
Natural gas usage varies greatly depending on how often you use your fire pit as well as how long each session lasts.
However, since natural gas typically has lower fuel costs compared to propane (especially if you live in an area with access to city utilities), it can be more cost-effective overall if you plan on using your firepit regularly over extended periods.
In addition, natural gas units also require less maintenance than propane models since there’s no need for refilling tanks when running out of fuel mid-session!
Key Takeaway
Whether you choose a propane or natural gas-fueled fire pit for your home or business, both offer unique benefits when it comes to convenience and usability. With proper installation and maintenance, both will provide years of reliable service with minimal effort on your part.
Ultimately, though, you need to weigh the pros and cons between both options before making a final decision about which type will best serve your needs. By doing this research ahead of time and understanding how much fuel each type uses up per session, then you’ll be able to get the most out of your investment while also staying safe while enjoying those cozy nights around the campfire.
If you’re looking for a way to bring the cozy charm and ambiance of a fire into your backyard, The Gas Connection has you covered. Our singular mission is to install gas lines safely and cost-effectively – always.