Smokeless fire pits have become increasingly popular in recent years as an attractive and functional addition to backyards and outdoor living spaces. Unlike traditional wood-burning fire pits which produce smoke, smokeless fire pits burn clean and emit very little odor thanks to their unique designs and fuel sources. But with price tags ranging from a couple hundred to a few thousand dollars, are these modern marvels really worth the investment? There are several factors to consider when weighing the pros and cons of smokeless fire pits.
Page Contents
- 1 What are the different types of smokeless fire pits?
- 2 What are the costs of smokeless fire pits?
- 3 What are the pros and cons of common smokeless fire pit types?
- 4 What maintenance is required for smokeless fire pits?
- 5 How can you use smokeless fire pits?
- 6 What safety precautions should you take with smokeless fire pits?
- 7 Conclusion
What are the benefits of smokeless fire pits?
There are several key advantages that smokeless fire pits offer over their smoky predecessors:
- Produce no smoke – Smokeless fire pits live up to their name and burn without emitting plumes of smoke which can be bothersome and irritating to the eyes.
- Minimal odor – The lack of smoke also results in very little lingering “campfire” smell on hair and clothes.
- Usable anywhere – Smokeless fire pits can be safely used in urban and suburban settings since the lack of smoke prevents bothering neighbors.
- Environmentally-friendly – Smokeless fire pits burn clean and are more eco-friendly than wood-burning options.
- Adjustable heat – Many models allow you to control the size and intensity of the flame.
- Quick start-up – Smokeless fire pits ignite quickly at the push of a button and reach full flame faster than wood fires.
- Low maintenance – No need to clean up ashes after use.
For many homeowners, the ability to enjoy a cozy fire year-round without worrying about smoke or strong smells is a huge perk. Smokeless fire pits allow you to gather around a fire for ambiance, warmth, roasting marshmallows, or cooking without the hassle of smoke management.
What features do smokeless fire pits offer?
While styles and options vary among models, most smokeless fire pits share some common features:
- Fueled by gas, gel, or ethanol – Rather than burning wood, smokeless fire pits use alternative cleaner-burning fuel sources like propane, natural gas, bioethanol, or processed solid ethanol fuel canisters.
- Push button or switch ignition – An electric ignition starts the flame quickly and easily.
- Adjustable heat settings – Flames can be customized from ambient glow to roaring fire intensity.
- Portable or permanent – Some smokeless fire pit models are lightweight and portable to move around a patio or yard while others are heavy, permanent fixtures.
- Decorative designs – Ranging from sleek modern vessels to faux-wood tables or realistic looking fireplaces, smokeless fire pits are aesthetically pleasing.
- Optional accessories – From fire glass or lava rock filler to log sets and designer stands, many accessories are available to customize the look.
When shopping for a smokeless fire pit, consider which features would enhance your intended uses for the product. For example, a portable compact fire pit is perfect for camping or small patios while a larger in-ground model transforms a backyard into a cozy oasis.
What are the different types of smokeless fire pits?
There are several categories of smokeless fire pits available, each fueled by different energy sources.
Propane fire pits
Propane fire pits use liquid propane fuel from a refillable tank to produce heat and flames. They are a popular smokeless option because propane tanks are readily available, affordable, and easy to refill or exchange.
- Energy source – Liquid propane gas
- Pros – Convenient fuel source, portable, affordable operating costs, adjustable heat
- Cons – Requires ventilation, risk of gas leakage if not properly maintained, propane tank must be nearby and refilled
Many propane fire pits include sturdy burner construction, lava rock filler, and realistic looking ceramic logs. Portable propane fire pits allow you to create an instant campfire anywhere outdoors.
Natural gas fire pits
Instead of portable propane tanks, natural gas fire pits connect directly to your existing home gas supply line. Installation requires professional hook-up, but the continuous fuel source eliminates having to refill propane tanks.
- Energy source – Natural gas supply line
- Pros – No refilling tanks, permanent fire pit option, climate friendly
- Cons – More complex installation, not portable, upfront installation cost
Stunning fire features like stylish fire tables, fireplaces, fire bowls, etc. are popular choices for luxurious backyard natural gas fire pits.
Gel fuel fire pits
- Energy source – Processed solid ethanol gel fuel
- Pros – No installation required, clean burning, portable
- Cons – Fuel canisters burn quickly, higher operating costs, limited heat output
Gel fuel fire pits offer a portable and convenient smokeless option. Canisters containing processed solid ethanol gel provide the contained flame source. Once the fuel canister is empty, simply replace it with a new one. Gel fuel fireplaces provide the ambiance of a fireplace without need for ventilation.
Bioethanol fire pits
- Energy source – Liquid bioethanol fuel
- Pros – Portable indoor or outdoor use, no installation, low CO emissions
- Cons – Refueling required, potential for spills, flashback risks
Bioethanol fire pits burn clean because they use liquid ethanol fuel made from renewable biological sources like corn and vegetables. Refillable tanks or pre-filled containers supply the bioethanol. Contemporary bioethanol fireplaces bring modern style by producing mesmerizing flames.
What are the costs of smokeless fire pits?
The costs of purchasing and operating a smokeless fire pit vary significantly based on the type, size, features, brand, and fuel source. Here is an overview of smokeless fire pit costs:
Purchase price
- Gel fuel: $200 – $500
- Propane: $400 – $2,000
- Natural gas: $2,000 – $6,000
- Bioethanol: $300 – $1,000
More elaborate built-in fire pits, permanent structures, and luxury designs can cost upwards of $6,000+. Smaller portable smokeless fire pits start around $200.
Installation costs
For permanent backyard fire pits like natural gas models, the installation costs can add a few hundred to a few thousand dollars depending on site requirements like gas line placement, ventilation, permits, etc. Most other types of smokeless fire pits do not require professional installation.
Operating costs
This chart compares estimated hourly operating costs for various smokeless fire pit fuel sources:
| Fuel type | Estimated hourly operating cost |
|---|---|
| Propane | $0.40 – $0.80 |
| Natural gas | $0.25 – $0.60 |
| Gel fuel | $1.00 – $2.50 |
| Bioethanol | $0.30 – $0.60 |
Smokeless fire pits that run on readily available fuels like propane or natural gas tend to have lower operating costs than proprietary gel or liquid fuels. But convenience and portability are also factors to weigh against operating costs.
What are the pros and cons of common smokeless fire pit types?
| Fire Pit Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Propane |
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| Natural Gas |
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| Gel Fuel |
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| Bioethanol |
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When selecting which type of smokeless fire pit to purchase, consider the intended location, portability needs, operating cost, and aesthetics to choose the option best suited to your lifestyle. An in-depth look at the advantages and disadvantages of each style helps ensure your new fire feature provides the functionality and ambiance you desire.
What maintenance is required for smokeless fire pits?
One of the benefits of smokeless fire pits compared to traditional wood-burning fire pits is that they require very little maintenance and upkeep. Here are some smokeless fire pit maintenance tips:
- Keep the fire pit covered when not in use – This protects the components from weather damage.
- Clean the burner and remove debris – Ensure proper airflow by occasionally removing dirt, spiderwebs, leaves, etc. from the burner.
- Wipe down exterior surfaces – Use a damp cloth to remove dirt and dust buildup on frames, glass panels, tubes, etc.
- Check hoses and fittings – Inspect propane hoses and gast line connections for damage or leaks. Replace damaged sections.
- Deep clean interior – For fire pits with glass or rock filler, periodically remove materials and clean interior of fire pit walls and floors.
- Inspect fuel system – Check propane tank connections for damage. Ensure bioethanol burners are free of obstructions.
- Tune up ignition – Replace batteries in electronic ignitions when needed. Clean corroded battery terminals.
- Lubricate parts – Apply high-temperature lubricant to hinges, knobs, handles or other moving parts.
Always refer to the manufacturer’s manual for detailed maintenance schedules and procedures specific to your model. Proper care and upkeep is key to ensuring your smokeless fire pit provides years of trouble-free outdoor fire enjoyment.
How can you use smokeless fire pits?
One of the best aspects of smokeless fire pits is their versatility for creating an inviting glow any time of year both indoors and outdoors. Here are some ways to put a smokeless fire pit to use:
- Backyard gatherings – Smokeless fire pits are perfect for hosting family barbeques, parties with friends, or just relaxing on cool evenings.
- Cooking – Many smokeless fire pit models allow you to grill meals over the adjustable flame.
- Home heating – Portable smokeless fire pits can provide efficient supplemental heat on patios and decks during cooler weather.
- Ambiance – The flickering flame creates cozy, relaxing ambiance for a more welcoming outdoor living space.
- Design element – Integrate elegant smokeless fire pits as a striking focal point in landscaping or patio design.
- Small space heating – Compact portable smokeless fire pits conveniently provide targeted heat for small spaces like patios, balconies, or porches.
- Indoor use – Many smokeless fireplace models are approved for safe indoor use to add warmth and charm to rooms.
- Camping – Portable propane or bioethanol fire pits allow you to bring the fire along when camping or to the beach.
- Emergency heat – During power outages, smokeless fire pits fuelled by propane or natural gas provide vital heat.
With endless options for placement and décor, smokeless fire pits are the modern, versatile way to create an inviting fiery focal point at home or on the go.
What safety precautions should you take with smokeless fire pits?
While much safer than traditional open fire pits, smokeless fire pits still present some potential risks if improperly used or maintained. Follow these important safety measures:
- Read manufacturer guidelines – Carefully follow all set-up and operation instructions.
- Provide ample ventilation – Even without smoke, ventilation is needed to prevent buildup of gases.
- Keep away from combustibles – Maintain a safety clearance from furniture, structures, trees etc.
- Supervise children and pets – Do not leave the fire pit burning unattended.
- Extinguish completely – Ensure the flames are fully extinguished after each use.
- Allow fire pit to cool before handling – Surfaces get extremely hot and retain heat.
- Check for stable, level placement – Don’t position fire pits on uneven ground or surfaces that can burn.
- Keep fuels away from heat – Store propane tanks, bioethanol fuel, etc. at a safe distance when fire pit is in use.
- Clean regularly – Failure to clean can result in gas leakage or blockages leading to unsafe burn conditions.
- Perform routine maintenance – Replace worn parts and fittings when needed.
- Check local ordinances – Many communities prohibit any outdoor fire features in drought conditions.
Following basic safety guidelines and manufacturer’s instructions reduces the risks of burns, fires, and other hazards. Always err on the side of caution when operating smokeless fire pits.
Conclusion
Smokeless fire pits offer many advantages over traditional smoky fire pits allowing you to enjoy the ambiance of a cozy fire anytime without bothering neighbors or sacrificing style. While smokeless fire pits have higher upfront costs ranging from a couple hundred to several thousand dollars depending on the type and features selected, many homeowners find the benefits well worth the investment.
Operating costs are affordable, especially for propane and natural gas options, and minimal maintenance is required. There are styles suitable for nearly any location from backyards to balconies, patios, indoors, or on the go. Just be sure to follow basic safety practices. With the wide variety of options available today, there is a perfect smokeless fire pit to match your budget, lifestyle, and decor.