Can Propane Fire Pits Be Converted To Natural Gas?

Backyard fire pits are an awesome addition to enjoying outdoor gatherings. You can’t compromise the warm and cozy environment. Nothing can replace the enjoyment of sitting under the stars with your loving person on a cold night. A fire pit must be there to keep your feelings warm. To make sure that your fire pit needs fuel to burn. There are two most common types of fire pits you can use. One of them is the propane fire pit. Propane fire pits are flexible to use. The fire quality will impress you, but the price may be costly. So, can propane fire pits be converted to natural gas?

Most of the propane fire pits are dedicated to use gas as fuel. That means you can convert your propane fire into natural gas fuel. But, it’s not as easy as it sounds. Before you attempt to do anything about a propane fire pit, you must have reasonable facts to do it. Also, you should know the proper way to convert. You will find all the necessary information about converting your fire pit in this article.

Key Takeaways

• Natural gas is a fossil fuel that is piped directly into the fire pit from a main gas line.
• To resonate converting fire pits into natural gas fueled natural gas like methane and ethane can clean burn and offering a reliable and consistent fuel source.
• Natural gas is more cost-efficient than propane gas fire pit.
• Follow the easy steps to convert the propane fire pit into natural gas.

What is a Natural Gas Fire Pit?

A natural gas fire pit is a type of fire pit that uses natural gas as a fuel source. Now, what’s natural gas?  Natural gas is a fossil fuel for heating, cooking, and powering appliances.

In the case of fire pits, natural gas is piped directly into the fire pit from a main gas line. Natural gas fire pits are also known as permanent fire pits. As they are connected to an endless gas supply and don’t require frequent refilling like propane fire pits.

This provides a convenient and reliable source of fuel for the fire pit. The natural gas fire pit is also referred to as a mains gas fire pit.

Reasons to Choose Natural Gas for Fire Pit

Natural gas is a fossil fuel composed of methane and ethane. It’s a mixture of gases that are rich in hydrocarbons. It is piped directly into homes and businesses from a main gas line. It is a fuel source for heating, cooking, powering appliances, and producing electricity.

Natural gas can be used to fuel the fire in fire pits, much like propane. To do that, a gas line is connected to the fire pit that controls the valve that is used to adjust the size of the flame.

Like propane gas, the natural gas is burned in the fire pit to create heat and light, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere in your outdoor space. But, natural gas fire pits are convenient and easy to use, offering a reliable and consistent fuel source.

Natural gas is considered a cleaner-burning fuel than other fossil fuels, and its widespread availability makes it a popular choice for many people. However, not all homes are connected to the main gas pipe network.

Propane and Natural Gas Costs Compared

In general, in pure fuel terms, natural gas will be cheaper than natural gas. But, other factors to consider are installation and maintenance costs.

Propane is sold in portable tanks, which cost propane can be affected by factors such as transportation and storage. The cost of propane can also be affected by the demand for the fuel, and prices can fluctuate.

On the other hand, natural gas is piped directly into homes and businesses from a main gas line. And the cost is often more stable and predictable than propane. Yet, market conditions can still affect natural gas, and prices vary.

The cost of installing a propane or natural gas fire pit can vary depending on several factors. It includes the fire pit type, the installation’s complexity, and the location.

But, installing a propane fire pit is often considered much less expensive than installing a natural gas fire pit. A propane fire pit can be placed in the garden and hooked up to a gas propane bottle that you are ready to fire up.

A natural gas fire pit requires the installation of a main gas pipe to the location of your fire pit. It also requires installation by a gas engineer and a yearly gas inspection. Though, once connected, the inconvenience and cost of propane refills are more than offset.

8 Steps to Convert Propane Gas Fire Pit into Natural Gas

Converting propane gas fire pit into natural gas might seem complicated. But, with proper instruction, it can be done in no time.

Let’s see how you can convert on your own:

Step 1: Check the manufacturer’s instructions

First, read the manufacturer’s guidelines for fire pit conversion. Ensure that the fire pit can be converted to natural gas.

If it doesn’t support and can’t be converted then you might have to stick with propane as fuel or get a new fire pit that can be converted.

Step 2: Obtain the necessary tools

To convert your fire pit, you need dedicated tools and equipment. It is better to use the suggested kit provided by the manufacturer rather than a generic kit that supposedly works for all fire pits.

The recommended kits suggested by the manufacturer are made to match the fire pit design, which reduces risks.

Step 3: Turn off the gas supply

After that, simply turn off the propane gas supply. Shut off the propane tank by using the valve and remove the hose from the tank.

Step 4: Disconnect the propane hose

Then, take out the hose and all other propane-specific nozzles and connectors from the fire pit connector.

Step 5: Install a natural gas regulator and orifice

Once the old parts have been detached, you can install the new natural gas regulator and orifice according to your fire pit’s manual instructions.

Step 6: Connect the gas hose

Nest, add the natural gas hose to the regulator and orifice. Secure the connection with gas line tape.

Step 7: Check for leakage

Now, this part is very important. You have to check for any leakage in the pipe, regulator joints, and hose connection area. Any sort of leakage can lead to a dangerous accident.

Step 8: Turn on the natural gas supply

Finally, after all, this, turn off the natural gas supply line with safety.

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Benefits of Converting a Propane Fire Pit to Natural Gas

There are benefits of converting a propane gas fire pit into natural gas. The benefits are obvious as the fueling option changes.

Let’s discuss:

• The key difference between a natural gas fire pit and a propane fire pit is the fuel source. Natural gas is naturally supplied through an existing gas line, while propane needs to be stored in a tank or cylinder.
• Natural gas also tends to burn cleaner than propane due to its consistent flame and lower emissions. There are zero greenhouse effect for natural gas. This means less soot and less cleaning for your fire pit.
• Also, natural gas is more affordable than propane gas cylinders. Propane costs more upfront but may become cheaper over time if used in large amounts.
• Natural gas is a source of constant supply of gas. But, propane gas fuel comes with a cylinder. So, the natural gas line is competitively a good and unlimited source.
• Natural gas is a safer option compared to propane. It operates at lower pressure levels, reducing strain on pipes and connectors. Also, natural gas quickly disperses into the air, minimizing the risk of fire or explosions. There’s no need for bulky tanks filled with potentially hazardous materials near your home.

You must ensure that your outdoor fire pit model can be switched from one fuel type to another before making any changes.

Factors to Consider Before Converting a Propane Fire Pit to Natural Gas

If you’re planning to convert your propane fire pit to natural gas, understand the implications of making such a change. Let’s see what those are:

Availability of natural gas supply

Before renovating, you should read your local regulations and ensure you have a natural gas supply.

Cost

Converting to natural gas can be a costly attempt. In addition to the fixing cost, you may have to pay for permits and labor costs associated with the project.

Tools & experience

Any renovation project requires specialized tools and knowledge. So evaluate your abilities before attempting the job. If you don’t have the necessary skills or experience, it’s best to hire an expert.

Compatibility of the fire pit

Not all fire pits are not designed to be convertible. So always check with the manufacturer

FAQs

What is the cost of converting a propane fire pit to natural gas?

The cost varies greatly depending on how much of the fire pit must be renovated and what materials are needed. Typically, you’ll need a recommended kit containing the necessary items needed to make the switch. This includes the burner, igniter, and pan. A conversion kit will cost around $2,000.

What is the highest efficiency gas fire?

Glass-overlooked gas fires are some of the best fire pits on the market. This fire pit loses far less heat up the chimney they are fitted into which means they are more efficient than open-fronted fires.

What is the alternative to propane for fire pits?

The best alternative for propane is Bio-Ethanol. This natural gas has several advantages over other commercial fuels. One of the advantages is its clear flame. This gas burns pretty well and gives a bright shiny fire. Also, it has zero smoke or soot compared to other cylinder gases. Ethanol is considered the best fire fuel.

Final Thoughts

After all this discussion, you have come to an understanding that propane fire pits can be converted into natural gas by following rules and instructions. I think it is a good idea for a more efficient outcome and to save money. The process of converting a fire pit’s fuel source is handy with the steps discussed above. Natural gas is elegant and clean, without the pollution and fire hazard risks of an open wood fire. Most propane fire pits can be converted to burn natural gas. But, this requires a conversion kit installed on the fire pit. Converting to natural gas will also take the portability of the fire pit away. In return, you will have a limitless warm evening without worrying about the gas tank.

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