Outdoor fire pits have grown in popularity over recent years.
They make a great focal point for social gatherings, and enhance the usability of your outdoor
space.
While a wood fire pit can be a quick and inexpensive solution, the smoke, flying embers and ash
disposal make gas-fueled fire pits a much more desirable option.
In this video we will discuss the components that make up a gas fire pit, and later we'll
demonstrate the construction of one using concrete blocks.
Keep in mind that working with natural gas or liquid propane is extremely hazardous.
This video is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a training
resource.
It's recommended that you hire a qualified contractor to install gas supply lines and
appliances.
Always follow local codes as well as the manufacturer's installation, operation, and safety instructions.
Whether you plan to build a square, rectangular, or round fire pit, there are a variety of
manufactured stone blocks available.
In our demonstration, we'll be assembling a traditional round fire pit using RumbleStone
blocks from Pavestone.
The wedge shape of these trapezoid blocks along with the smaller mini blocks will promote
uniformity as well as give it some flexibility in the final diameter of the pit we build.
Our burner system is from Firegear Outdoors.
We've chosen to go with this manufacturer because of the options that are available
when it comes to the shape and size of the pit being constructed.
More importantly, they offer ignition systems that are UL listed, so we know that they have
met recognized standards to meet safety.
In order to get started you will first need to know the approximate outside diameter of
the fire pit you would like to build.
This will determine what block options are available to create that size without having
to make cuts.
Once you've selected your block style, you can then determine the final inside diameter
your blocks will make.
This measurement is required in order to choose a burner system that properly fits that inside
diameter.
We have selected a burner system that uses a disk as its base.
Since the disk sits between block layers, this option will give us a few more inches
of flexibility with the final inside diameter of our pit.
Another option uses a pan to contain the fire media.
The pan has an outer lip that rests on the top course of the block.
If you choose this style, be sure to select a size that will fit snugly into the inside
diameter of your pit.
The next decision you'll need to make is what type of fuel you are going to use.
Whether you plan to use natural gas or liquid propane, we recommend that you contact your
gas utility company for assistance in locating a licensed contractor to run the supply line
to your pit.
Many of the burner systems manufactured by Firegear Outdoors are set up for natural gas
connections.
A propane conversion kit is required for liquid propane fuel sources.
Since our demonstration fire pit is not intended to be a permanent structure, we will not have
a gas supply line to connect to.
Instead, we use a 20-pound liquid propane tank to provide the fuel.
We'll make the connection to the key valve using a propane hose.
After determining your fuel source you can select the type of ignition system you would
like to use, match throw, or thermocouple.
Match throw is similar to using a gas grill; you turn on the gas while using a lighter
or optional push button spark ignition system to light the flame.
A thermocouple system is a better option, as it provides a layer of safety.
Thermocouples are designed to shut off the flow of gas should the loss of flame cause
the temperature to drop below its operating requirement.
Depending on the burner system you've selected, a face plate specifically designed for block
fire pits will house the key valve, spark ignition system, or thermocouple ignition
controls.
The key valve is used to open the flow of gas from the supply source to the burner system.
It has a removable key to limit the potential for accidental opening of the valve when the
system is not in use.
Once you have your fire pit planned out and materials on hand, you can start putting it
all together.
The location of your fire pit should allow for proper clearance from combustible materials
on all sides.
At least 96 inches of clearance is required above the fire pit, and no less than 36 inches
on any side.
Your fire pit should be built on a level, stable surface with adequate water drainage.
The base course of the block is the most important, since this will determine the levelness and
the final inside diameter of the fire pit.
Check the level of each trapezoid block as you go.
Once you've completed the base course, use a four-foot level to check for accuracy across
opposing sides.
Take measurements to verify that the inside diameter of the pit is consistent all the
way around.
An important safety feature of a gas fire pit is cross ventilation.
Should the flame go out or if a leak occurs in the system, proper ventilation will help
to prevent gas from building up under the pan or disk.
This is especially important if you are not using a thermocouple system.
The main thing to keep in mind is that you have a minimum of 18 square inches of ventilation
across opposing sides of your pit to allow a free flow of air.
As you build each course, be sure that the first trapezoid you put down is centered precisely
before adding subsequent blocks.
Your third course should include the ignition face plate for the burner system.
Before you install the face plate, complete the third course using concrete adhesive to
bond the second and third courses together.
Use just enough to help hold each block in place.
Remember not to use the adhesive on the trapezoid you plan to replace with the face plate.
This particular face plate has an adjustment section that can be attached to better match
the width of the block you were using.
Depending on the height of the block, you may need to trim the top of the ignition face
plate to size, or notch the block itself to ensure a proper fit.
The face plate should sit just inside the outer edge of the block.
Self-tapping screws are included with a kit that will allow you to secure the face plate
to the block it rests on.
At this point you are ready to install the burner system.
Using the included gas flex line, connect the burner to the outflow side of the key
valve.
An additional flex line will likely be needed to connect the supply line to the inlet side
of the key valve.
Be careful not to over-tighten these connections.
Be aware that thread tape or other sealants should not be used on flanged fittings.
Making sure that the key valve is in the closed position, open the shut-off valve to the supply
line.
Next, slowly open the key valve while using a butane lighter or optional spark ignition
system to light the flame.
Once you have verified that the burner system is working properly, close the key valve and
main shut-off valve to extinguish the flame.
When installing the final layer of block, follow the same centering processes in the
previous courses.
After your final course of block has been installed, you can add your fire media.
Fire media includes lava stones, rocks, and boulders, as well as fire glass and logs.
Regardless of the decorative finishing material you may want to use, you will start with a
base of lava rock.
Refer to the manufacturer's product guide to determine the total amount of material
you will need for the size fire pit you have.
In our fire pit we are using lava rock only.
The final step is to test the system again to make certain that you have a good, steady
flame.
A possible reason for failure to ignite or poor burner performance could be an excess
of media inhibiting the burner's ability to function properly.
You can find all the materials that were used today and more at your local Ewing branch.
Our service professionals can help you with design options and determine the materials
you will need to complete the job.
For more information, visit us online at ewingirrigation.com.