Best Fire Pit Ignition for Your Backyard: How to Start a Gas Fire Pit

Installing a gas fire pit in your lake house or your quaint cottage opens up a world to you, one of warmth and roasted marshmallows. But there's one crucial decision to make before you order your perfect fire pit: how will you ignite the flames?

Whether you lean towards the timeless charm of a match-lit ignition or crave the effortless convenience of a remote-operated electronic system, your ignition choice sets the tone for those cozy summer nights. Understanding all the options may seem like a lot. But fear not. We at Lakehouse & Cottage are here to illuminate the path and guide you through each ignition type to ensure your fire feature shines with brilliance.

Electronic Fire Pit Ignition Kit

Electronic ignition systems are high-tech marvels that offer convenience and reliability. Ideal for commercial hotspots like hotels and restaurants, an electronic fire pit igniter kit offers superb safety measures and make operating your fire pit a breeze.

Set up is easy—simply install a power line that connects to your fire pit or opt for a battery-operated setup, and there you have it. You're ready to use your fire pit from the comfort of your own hideaway, keeping control settings safe from curious guests.

Another benefit of electronic ignition fire pit systems is that they come equipped with a smart flame sensor. If the fire goes out for any reason, the system tries to relight it. If it cannot relight the fire, it automatically shuts down to prevent potential gas leaks.

110V Plug & Play Smart Weather Electronic Ignition System

The Smart Weather Electronic Ignition System is exclusive to The Outdoor Plus. Tested in mild rain and snow, this system stays lit in winds up to 55mph. In unsafe conditions like severe rain or wind, the unit automatically shuts off for added peace of mind. 

This ignition system plugs into standard outlets and lets you control your fire pit with ease (even from your phone!). You can control it using several methods, including an ON/Off switch, Electric Timers, Emergency Stop Buttons, swimming pool systems, remote controls, smartphone apps, or home automated systems. It's the easiest and most convenient way to ignite and control your fire pit.

Compatible with a 110-volt power source, this system is designed for installations further than 5 feet from water.

12V Low Voltage Electronic Ignition

The 12V Low Voltage Electronic Ignition has all the same benefits and advantages of the Plug & Play Smart Weather Electronic Ignition System, only the low voltage electronic ignition system is designed to be used safely around water features.

If you plan on installing your fire pit within 5ft of a swimming pool, lakefront, or water fountain, the 12V low voltage electronic ignition system is the safest ignition option for your fire pit. 

Above: The Outdoor Plus Sedona Fire Pit Bowl installed around a pool's edge with a safe and convenient 12V Electronic Ignition System.

Helpful Hint: In commercial settings, electronic ignition systems reign supreme as they allow for remote control of the fire from a private location. In residential homes, the flame-sensing feature offers an extra level of safety and peace of mind for homeowners.

Manual Ignition Systems

For those who prefer a classic hands-on approach, manual ignition systems are simple and reliable.

Flame Sense With Spark Ignition

This is a manual ignition system that comes with a push button start and a flame sensor to monitor the safety of the fire and prevent gas leaks.

Whether you're gathering friends for a cookout or simply unwinding by the fire, this system makes lighting up your fire pit safe and simple with its user-friendly design. There's no hassle of matches and lighters—just push the button and the flames ignite. 

Match Lit with Flame Sense Ignition

In this system, the fire pit is ignited manually using a match or lighter, but it comes with the added safety of a flame sensor. The flame sensor is a safety feature that detects the flame once the fire pit is lit. If the flame goes out unexpectedly, the sensor detects the absence of flame and automatically shuts off the gas supply to prevent gas leaks.

This adds an extra layer of safety and peace of mind for users, as it reduces the risk of gas buildup in the event of flame failure.

Match Light Ignition

Sometimes, simplicity is key. With the match light ignition system, all you need is a match or lighter to get the fire going—no fancy gadgets or sensors required.

Match lit ignitions are easy to set up and require minimal maintenance. Match lit ignition system kits come complete with all the essentials: a fire pit pan with a burner, a flexible gas line, a gas shutoff valve, and an air mixer valve for Liquid Propane setups.

Using a match-lit ignition is straightforward. Open the valve on your fuel supply, hold a lighter or matchstick over the burner, and slowly turn on the gas valve. From there, you can easily adjust the flame height to your liking using the key valve. It's a fuss-free way to ignite your fire pit and start enjoying those cozy flames in no time.

What’s the Best Ignition Kit to Start My Fire Pit?

Ultimately, the best ignition system for your fire pit comes down to personal preference and your specific installation location. For convenience, flexibility, and safety, an electronic ignition system is the way to go. If you prefer a more hands-on approach and value simplicity, a manual ignition system could be the right fit.

To help you decide, here are some scenarios where one ignition type has a clear advantage over the others:

For large gatherings or commercial settings:
110V Plug & Play Smart Weather Electronic Ignition System

This is the perfect system if you enjoy hosting big gatherings and you need a fire pit that's easy to operate and can handle frequent use. The 110V electronic ignition plugs into standard outlet, can be operated remotely, has first-rate safety features and handles many weather conditions to keep the flames going all night long. It's an excellent choice for entertaining a crowd.

To set up your fire pit up near water features:
12V Low Voltage Ignition System

The 12V electronic ignition system is ideal if you're setting up your fire pit near your poolside oasis or a fountain. It has the same benefits as the Smart Weather Electronic Ignition System while also protecting against potential electrical hazards in wet environments. This ensures a warm worry-free experience to relax by the water's edge.

For rustic or traditional outdoor settings:
Match-lit Ignition with Flame Sense

If you create a cozy retreat in your backyard, surrounded by natural beauty and rustic charm, a manual match-lit ignition system with flame sense complements this ambiance best. It offers a simple and nostalgic way to ignite your fire pit (with the safety of a flame sensor) that aligns with the serene atmosphere of your outdoor space. 

Still not sure which fire pit ignition system is right for you?

Our team of friendly experts is here to help. For all your questions about compatibility, installation, or maintenance, we're just a phone call away. We'll help you find the perfect ignition system to ignite your outdoor ambiance and elevate your fire pit experience.

Email us at sales@lakehouseandcottage.com or call 854-777-0909 Mon-Fri 9a-5p CST with all your fire pit questions.