
When the fire pit is not in use, an included steel insert covers the fire bowl to convert it into a regular table for added utility. Once lit, flames dance among 12 pounds of gray fire glass (included) that fill the fire bowl and produce a shimmering flame effect. This square, table-style fire pit produces a hardy 50,000 BTUs of heat on a 20-pound propane tank that tucks neatly out of sight in the sleek steel cabinet beneath the fire bowl.Ī spark ignition makes for a quick fire-up on this gas fire pit table.

Best Overallįor an attractive fire pit that produces enough warmth to keep folks toasty after the sun goes down, check out the Endless Summer 30-inch outdoor fire pit. Check out the reviews to find out how each one performed. Our testing revealed the following models’ capabilities for meeting a variety of heating and design needs. To qualify as a top pick, a gas fire pit should be well designed, easy to operate, and, above all, safe to be around. The most attractive gas fire pits were not always the warmest but did contribute a pleasant flame and delivered some degree of warmth. The best units for warming were those that were lower to the ground.

Since heat output was similar across the spectrum, we typically favored aesthetics and conveniences over warming ability. Finally, we adjusted the flame between the minimum and maximum heights and noted any effects those adjustments made in terms of heating and ambience. We noted whether the unit was more effective heating guests who were seated, standing, both seated and standing, or neither. Then we lit the burner and allowed the lava rock or fire glass to heat up for 20 minutes before making a totally subjective observation of its heating ability. To begin each test, we noted any difficulty we experienced positioning the unit and connecting the propane tank. Rather than attempting to compare them to one another, we looked for overall quality and the outstanding characteristics that might make them most suitable for the individual award categories our readers search for most, such as portability, compact size, ability to warm seated or standing guests, and more. After assembling each one according to the manufacturer’s instructions, we tested them on our patio. We rounded up some of the most popular gas fire pit styles and models to see how they would measure up in real life. However, some gas fire pits connect directly to a whole-house propane tank or natural gas line, both of which require the assistance of a licensed plumber who must seal and test the fittings for leaks. Most gas fire pits run on 20-pound propane tanks that users must refill every time the gas runs out. Still, gas fire pits may not be the right choice for everyone. With automatic ignition systems, gas fire pits are also easier to light. Whether propane or natural gas, these options burn cleaner than wood, meaning they do not produce clouds of smoke. Gas fire pits offer some distinct advantages over wood versions. Photo: Mark Wolfe for Bob Vila Before You Buy a Gas Fire Pit
Walmart propane fire pit portable#

We tested a variety of popular types to find the best gas fire pits for the backyard. Gas burns cleaner and safer than wood, and gas fire pits come in a variety of sizes and designs for all styles of backyard decor. A gas fire pit may be an ideal solution to create ambience and foster the same camaraderie.

But building a fire with logs in the backyard isn’t for everyone, and some communities don’t allow it. Whether it takes you back to camp, the beach, or other summertime memories, there’s something special about gathering around a crackling fire.
