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Fire pits are an excellent multi-purpose landscape feature. As people flock to enjoy the light and warmth of the flames, they create a natural gathering spot for evening entertaining. They also provide a stunning focal point from other areas of the garden and even indoors when placed properly. While there are numerous variations in style and design for an outdoor fire pit, there are generally only four fuel options, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages: wood, natural gas, propane, and Bioethanol.
Wood Fire
For good reason, wood fires are classic. They can generate a significant amount of heat, which can mean the difference between enjoying your landscape and staying inside on chilly evenings. Woodfire pits can be placed almost anywhere, as there is no need to run supply lines or electricity to the unit. Nothing compares to the crackling pops and smoky scent of a real wood fire.
Those same classic characteristics, however, are also the most significant drawbacks of a wood fire. Anyone who has spent an evening outside around a fire has most likely spent that evening constantly moving in order to avoid getting a face full of smoke. Meanwhile, the fire's sparks and embers can be extremely dangerous in the right conditions.
Natural gas
Natural gas fire pits are a much safer alternative to wood-burning fires while retaining many of their benefits. It burns cleanly, and the fire starts easily thanks to a fully automatic electronic ignition. For fire pits and fireplaces, natural gas is a popular fuel source. This fuel is less dense than air. This means it will dissipate more quickly. Many homes now have natural gas connections and so no additional utility connection is necessary, but a hard-line must be run for your fire. To ensure that all lines are safely installed to protect your loved ones, a certified gas technician will be required to install a hard-line system.
Propane Gas
This fuel source, also known as liquid propane, is a popular choice. Propane burns the brightest and produces the most heat. The most difficult aspect of gas fire pits is the infrastructure required, gas must typically be piped to the unit.
Propane is delivered via a hard-line, also known as HLP, or via a refillable tank. The tank is versatile because it can be exchanged for a new tank at local suppliers when it is empty, but it may take some ingenuity to keep the tank hidden. Some fire pits are designed with an access door to allow for hidden propane tanks in their bases or may require a specifically sized tank, whereas others are not. This can be fixed with a simple tank cover that also functions as an end table or seat. The tank options also provide some flexibility if you want to move your fire pit to another part of your outdoor living area.
Bioethanol
Bioethanol fire pits provide a middle ground between wood and gas. Bioethanol fire pits, like wood-burning fire pits, are self-contained units that can be placed anywhere without the need for running utilities. Bioethanol, like a gas-burning fire pit, burns cleanly with no smoke, ash, or soot. It burns cleaner than gas, producing only water vapour and carbon dioxide, allowing it to be used both indoors and outdoors. Bioethanol is a plant-based, renewable and environmentally friendly fuel.
There is no one-size-fits-all solution for fire pits, but over the years, Lucent Decors has assisted our customers in selecting a variety of fire pits, fire tables etc. If you're thinking about installing a fire pit in your home, contact us to discuss your options. Finally, your decision should be based on your specific requirements. Whatever you decide, lucent decors are ready to help you find the best option. We can help you find the perfect fire feature, whether it's a custom fire pit, fire table or a freestanding feature.
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