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Quick Answer
Gas fire pits can use a significant amount of propane gas, depending on the size and how often it is used. A standard propane tank contains about 20 pounds of gas which can last anywhere from 10-40 hours of burn time for a fire pit. Using a fire pit sparingly will make the propane last longer.
How Much Gas Do Gas Fire Pits Use?
The amount of gas a fire pit consumes depends on several factors:
Size of the Fire Pit
Larger fire pits with more burners will use more gas than smaller, single burner fire pits. Large fire pits can have up to 4 burners and consume gas more quickly.
Burner Output
Most propane fire pits have burners in the range of 20,000-80,000 BTUs (British Thermal Units). The higher the BTU rating, the more gas it will burn.
Flame Height
Turning up the flame height will cause the fire pit to use gas faster. Keeping the flames lower will consume less propane.
Duration of Use
The longer you keep the fire pit turned on, the more gas it will use. Using it for many hours daily or leaving it on overnight will deplete the propane tank faster.
Gas Consumption Examples
Here are some estimates for how long propane may last for different fire pit sizes and usage:
Small Fire Pit (1 burner, 50,000 BTUs)
– Used 1 hour per evening = 20-40 hours of burn time
– Used 3 hours per evening = 10-20 hours of burn time
Large Fire Pit (2 burners, 110,000 BTUs total)
– Used 1 hour per evening = 10-20 hours of burn time
– Used 3 hours per evening = 5-10 hours of burn time
Extra Large Fire Pit (4 burners, 200,000+ BTUs total)
– Used 1 hour per evening = 5-10 hours of burn time
– Used 3 hours per evening = Less than 5 hours of burn time
Tips for Conserving Gas
Here are some tips to help conserve propane gas when using your gas fire pit:
Lower the Flame
Don’t turn the fire pit up to the highest setting. The lower the flame, the less gas it will consume.
Use a Timer
Set a timer when you turn on your fire pit to avoid leaving it on unnecessarily. Turn off the gas when not in use.
Clean the Burner
A clean burner without debris or obstructions will burn propane more efficiently.
Check for Leaks
Gas leaks can waste a lot of propane quickly. Routinely check the connections for leaks.
Block the Wind
Wind can disperse the heat from the fire pit and make it work harder. Block the wind with screening or shrubs.
Using a Large Propane Tank
If you use your gas fire pit frequently, refilling 1-pound propane tanks can get expensive. Consider hooking the fire pit up to a larger refillable propane tank through permanent gas piping.
A 100-pound or larger propane tank can supply gas to your fire pit for an entire season before needing a refill. This option is more economical for frequent fire pit users.
Conclusion
Gas fire pits can consume a significant quantity of propane depending on their size and frequency of use. The best way to conserve gas is to only use the fire pit occasionally on lower heat settings. For regular users, a large refillable propane tank is recommended to reduce operating costs. Following gas-saving tips will help the propane last longer.