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Propane Fire Pit vs Natural Gas Fire Pit: Which is Better For Me?
Deciding which fire pit fuel is best for you depends on your priorities. Are you looking to save time and money in the long run with a more permanent fire pit? Or is it more important for you to have convenience and flexibility? Natural Gas fire pits require a greater upfront cost, but they can save you money (and trips to the grocery store) in the long run. Propane fire pits are easier to install, but their tanks constantly need to be refilled.
Let's dive into the pros and cons of each to help you make the right fuel choice for your perfect fire pit patio table. Either way, adding an outdoor gas fire pit to your backyard is an amazing way to increase your home's value and make the most of your summer nights.
Above: The Outdoor Plus Coronado Fire Pit Table running on a natural gas line in a lake house backyard.
Natural Gas Fire Pit
Natural gas is mainly composed of methane and is known for its efficiency and cleanliness when burned. Compared to other fossil fuels like coal or oil, natural gas emits fewer pollutants, making it a relatively clean option for heating.
For choosing a fuel source for your fire pit, natural gas stands out as a reliable and cost-effective option. Once it's installed, natural gas provides an unlimited fuel supply straight from your home's gas line. While it requires a larger upfront cost to install a permanent gas line, this investment pays off with bigger and warmer fires that last for hours on end.
Natural gas is also a friendlier choice from an environmental standpoint because it emits fewer pollutants during combustion compared to propane. Plus, with its main component being methane, the likelihood of accidental ignition is minimal, offering peace of mind for homeowners. While natural gas flames may be less vibrant than propane flames, their longevity and safety make them a reliable choice for any outdoor space.
Natural Gas Fire Pit Pros
- Unlimited fuel supply directly from your home's gas line
- Produces bigger and warmer fires compared to propane
- Environmentally friendly with lower emissions of pollutants during combustion
- Minimal risk of accidental ignition because of its main component being methane
- Extremely durable and long-lasting fire pits
- Generally safer compared to propane fire pits
Natural gas is less expensive than propane in the long run. Plus, it offers the convenience of an unlimited supply. No more worrying about running out of fuel in the middle of your outdoor gathering.
Natural Gas Fire Pit Cons
- Requires installation of a permanent gas line, which can be a high initial cost
- Lack of portability, as the fire pit cannot be moved once connected to the gas line
- Flames may be less vibrant and harder to see during the day compared to propane
- Lower heat output (BTUs) compared to propane, making it slightly less efficient
Though it may be less expensive overall, natural gas comes with a higher initial installation cost since a dedicated gas line needs to be installed. And it's more of a permanent fixture once it's set up, which can limit flexibility in your outdoor layout.
Propane Fire Pit
Propane—the Swiss Army knife of fuel options for your gas fire pit. Propane offers convenience, versatility, and efficiency all rolled into one. Unlike natural gas, which requires a permanent installation, propane is as easy as hooking up a tank and flipping a switch to ignite your flames. With complete control over fuel usage and flame size, you can customize your fire pit experience to suit any occasion.
Propane Fire Pit Pros
- Easy installation with minimal effort needed to hook up a propane tank
- Complete control over fuel usage and flame size for a customizable experience
- Highly portable with small tanks for easy relocation of the fire pit
- Option for larger tanks with underground connections for permanent setups
- Cost-effective to buy and less expensive installation compared to natural gas
- Higher heat output provides ample warmth (the same volume of propane burns at 2,500 BTUs compared to 1,000 BTUs for natural gas)
- Propane fire pits hold their value well and can be easily sold or passed on
With easy installation and complete control over fuel usage and flame size, propane fire pits offer a unique experience tailored to your preferences. They also boast a higher and more efficient heat output compared to natural gas. With propane, you can count on plenty of warmth for cozy gatherings under the stars.
Propane Fire Pit Cons
- Regular refill trips are often necessary, especially with frequent use
- Limited runtime per tank, a 20lb tank lasting around 4 hours at maximum flame level
- Many fire pits are not tall enough to hide a propane tank inside of them, so you'll have to get creative to find the right place to hide your tank and maintain your backyard aesthetic
- Portable propane fire pits may require more maintenance over time compared to permanent installations
Frequent trips to refill your propane tank can be a hassle. Nothing ruins a night gathered around a fire pit table quite like realizing the propane has run out. Propane fire pits also require a bit more maintenance than their natural gas counterparts.
Fire Table with Propane Tank Inside
Challenges can arise when the fire pit itself lacks the height or design to conceal its propane tank within. In such cases, you might explore options like building a special box or storage nearby, hiding it among plants or within another table, or using it as part of your outdoor furniture. With a bit of creativity, you can make sure your backyard still looks great while keeping your tank handy.
There are some fire pit patio tables, like The Outdoor Plus Tall Unity Fire Pit (pictured below), that come with a built-in tank access door for easy refueling.
Should I Get a Natural Gas or Propane Fire Pit?
Which fuel type is best for you depends on more than convenience. For the flames themselves, propane burns twice as bright as natural gas, giving you a more vibrant and energetic fire. However, natural gas flames burn higher and hotter than propane flames. Each provide a different ambiance for your outdoor space. If you prefer a bright and energetic fire, propane may be the better choice. While natural gas is the way to go for a higher, hotter flame that gives off a cozy and dramatic ambiance.
Pictured Above: The natural gas flame on the left burns taller and hotter (but not as efficient) than the propane flame on the right, which burns twice as bright and is easier to see during the day.
Other Considerations
Before you decide on which fuel type is best for your outdoor fire pit table, it's a good idea to consult with your homeowners’ association and local fire department to ensure compliance with any regulations or bans on open fires, which may include fire pits.
Some communities permit both propane and natural gas fire pits, as long as you stick to all manufacturer instructions and recommendations. It's also wise to reach out to your insurance agent (especially if you live in a more off-grid area prone to wildfires). Informing your insurance company about your fire pit and understanding any potential impact on your coverage is essential to protect your home.
Ignite the Night with the Magic of an Outdoor Gas Fire Pit
In the end, the choice between gas and propane fire pit patio tables boils down to your lifestyle and preferences. Are you looking for convenience and flexibility, or are you willing to invest in a more permanent setup to save money in the long run?
Propane or natural gas. Consider your needs and priorities carefully, but whatever you decide, adding a gas fire pit table to your patio is a magical way to increase your home's property value and make the most out of your backyard gatherings.
For more help to pick the perfect outdoor gas fire pit, be sure to check out our comprehensive guide- Flame On: The Outdoor Plus Lake House Fire Pit Buying Guide. It's full of expert tips and recommendations on selecting the perfect fire pit for your outdoor space.
Or speak with a friendly expert.
We'd be glad to tell you anything more you want to know. Just drop us a line at sales@lakehouseandcottage.com or call us at 854-777-0909 Mon-Fri 9a-5p CST with all your fire pit and fuel type questions.