Can outdoor pizza oven be used for fireplace?

Using an outdoor pizza oven as a fireplace is absolutely possible, but there are some important considerations to keep in mind. In this article, we’ll explore the pros and cons of using a pizza oven for a fireplace and provide some tips for how to do it safely and effectively.

The Benefits of Using a Pizza Oven as a Fireplace

There are a few potential advantages to using an outdoor pizza oven as a fireplace:

• Pizza ovens are designed to contain and withstand fire. The walls are thick and made from heat-resistant materials like brick, stone, or metal that can handle prolonged exposure to flame.
• The domed or vaulted shape helps radiate heat and contains sparks safely. This makes a pizza oven a bit safer to use as a fireplace than an open pit.
• Pizza ovens come with built-in smoke vents or chimneys to funnel smoke and gases outside. This helps prevent smoke from filling up the area around the oven.
• The oven’s thermal mass absorbs and radiates heat over time. So even after the fire dies down, it will keep emitting warmth for a while.
• Pizza ovens are designed for high temperatures. So they can accommodate a roaring fire for ambiance, if desired.
• It provides a gathering place and focal point for entertainment. The oven can be used for cooking pizzas and other dishes in addition to serving as a fireplace.

The ability to safely contain a fire and the aesthetic appeal of an oven/fireplace combo are the main advantages of using a pizza oven in this way.

Potential Drawbacks and Challenges

However, there are also some downsides to consider:

• Pizza ovens are not designed for optimal fireplace combustion and airflow. They may not draw air well or vent smoke effectively if not designed properly.
• The fire could produce a lot of heat that makes the area around the oven unbearably hot.
• Some ovens aren’t large enough to accommodate bigger logs.
• Cold air can be drawn into the mouth of the oven and circulate cold drafts around the space.
• Pizza ovens aren’t designed with adjustable dampers to control the fireplace draw.
• Burning wood directly on the oven floor can damage the surface over time.
• The smoke and creosote buildup will need regular cleaning to prevent damage.
• Wood-burning in the oven produces smoke that can taint food cooked afterward.

The main challenges have to do with getting the airflow and smoke output right. If the oven isn’t designed well for fireplace use, it could be inefficient, unsafe, or uncomfortable for gatherings.

Tips for Effectively and Safely Using an Outdoor Pizza Oven as a Fireplace

Here are some tips to optimize a pizza oven for safe, effective use as a backyard fireplace:

• Choose an oven with at least 46-61 cm (18-24 inch) interior diameter to have room for larger logs.
• Pick an oven with substantial thermal mass – thick stone, brick, or clay walls work best.
• Make sure the oven has an effective chimney or venting system to direct smoke and gases out.
• Use a grate, clay bricks, or metal stand inside the oven chamber to hold the fire off the floor.
• Keep fires small and don’t overstuff the oven to allow airflow.
• Have fire screens or glass doors on the oven opening to contain sparks.
• Install a rain cap on top of the chimney to keep moisture out of the oven.
• Use seasoned hardwood for a cleaner burn with less creosote buildup.
• Let the oven fully cool before using it to cook food again.
• Inspect the oven interior regularly for damage and creosote buildup.
• Clean out ashes and soot frequently to prevent damaging accumulation.

Taking precautions with setup, materials, ventilation, and maintenance will provide the best experience and safety using an outdoor pizza oven as a fireplace.

Best Outdoor Pizza Oven Designs for Use as a Fireplace

Here are some of the outdoor pizza oven designs that work especially well as backyard fireplaces:

• Wood-fired brick ovens – Traditional domed masonry ovens with thick brick or stone retain heat very well for radiant warmth. Just be sure they have adequate chimney draws.
• Barrel ovens – These rounded ovens hold heat and direct smoke out the mouth efficiently. Models with chimneys work even better.
• Wood-burning stainless steel ovens – Insulated double-walled steel contains the fire safely and has adjustable vents.
• Portable propane pizza ovens – Some propane ovens allow wood pellets or chips for smoky, fireplace-like atmosphere.
• Earth oven designs – Modern earth ovens with shelving can bake and smoke simultaneously for full use as an oven and fireplace.

The key is look for durable, thermal mass elements like masonry or thick metal, proper ventilation, and customizable features to control the fireplace experience.

Setting Up the Oven for Fireplace Use

When getting a pizza oven ready for use as a fireplace, keep these setup tips in mind:

• If built-in, position the oven against an non-flammable wall away from overhangs.
• Place a metal screen 2+ feet in front of the oven opening to block sparks.
• Install a chimney extension to direct smoke and heat up and away.
• Put in a baffle overhead to radiate heat back downwards.
• Use high-temp sealant to seal any openings that could leak smoke or air.
• Set up a durable, heat-safe hearth for people to stand on near the oven.
• Keep an ember rake, shovel, extinguisher, and cover nearby for safety.
• Stack wood off to the side so it’s easily accessible.

Taking steps to redirect heat and smoke while making the fire accessible will help create a comfortable, safe ambiance for gathering around the oven.

Choosing Fuel for An Outdoor Pizza Oven Fireplace

The best fuel for a fire in a pizza oven depends on the type of oven and flavor preferences:

Fuel Type	Benefits
Seasoned hardwood (oak, maple, etc.)	Traditional wood smell and crackle Long-lasting heat when well-seasoned
Wood pellets	Affordable and widely available Easy to store with no mess Give steady, controllable heat
Wood chips	For short smoky fires Easy to load for quick ambiance
Propane or gas	Convenient and adjustable flames More permitted in some fire danger areas

For wood-burning ovens, well-dried hardwood logs are ideal for lasting warming fires. Consider gas or propane if wood burning is prohibited in your region.

Safety Tips for Operating a Pizza Oven Fireplace

To safely run a fire in a pizza oven, keep these precautions in mind:

• Keep the fires small and don’t overfill the oven with logs.
• Always use a fire screen in front of the oven opening.
• Have tools like an ember rake and extinguisher nearby.
• Don’t leave the fire unattended or let it burn overnight.
• Allow the oven to fully cool before using it for cooking again.
• Install CO and smoke detectors if using an oven indoors.
• Keep an eye on weather to avoid using during high winds or dry conditions.
• Have a cover to place over the oven opening when not in use.
• Keep children and pets safely away from the fire.
• Avoid wearing flammable or flowing clothing around the oven fire.

Exercising caution with flammable materials, ventilation, weather, and supervision will keep the oven fireplace safe.

Maintenance for a Pizza Oven Fireplace

Regular maintenance is crucial for keeping a pizza oven fireplace in good working order:

• Check for creosote buildup monthly and clean out as needed.
• Remove ashes frequently to prevent accumulation.
• Inspect the interior surfaces for damage after each fire.
• Watch for cracks or damage to chimney mortar or bricks.
• Have the chimney cleaned professionally at least annually.
• Seal any air gaps with high-temp mortar or sealant.
• Lubricate metal chimney caps and dampers as needed.
• Check firebricks and replace any that are crumbling or damaged.

With close monitoring and cleaning, a well-made pizza oven can provide many years of service as an efficient backyard fireplace.

Conclusion

Repurposing a backyard pizza oven as an outdoor fireplace is totally doable with the right setup and safety practices. Choosing an oven with ample interior space, thermal mass, and proper ventilation will provide the best experience. Operate it cautiously, fuel it appropriately, and keep up with cleaning and maintenance for safe, effective fires. With some strategic planning and precautions, a multipurpose pizza oven and fireplace can be a beautiful backyard addition that extends the seasons of use.