You love the outdoors and you’ve invested tons of time and energy into creating just the yard and garden you want. But it seems like by the time you’re finished with all the hard work, and satisfied that you have achieved the desired results, the weather starts turning cool, especially after dark. That’s where an outdoor fire pit comes in.
It’s wonderful for spring and fall evenings when the temperature drops to the point where it’s just not comfortable to be outdoors, or even for the winter. With one of these little marvels, you can spend as much time as you want to enjoy the comfort and beauty of your own backyard.
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Last update on 2024-06-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
We reviewed quite a few outdoor fire pits in order to find the best, comparing material, size, design, and ease of use. This should make your job easier if you decide to purchase an outdoor, fire pit for your backyard. It’s a lot to think about, but we’ve whittled down the selections for you.
Landmann Big Sky Stars and Moons Fire Pit
- Big sky firepit with stars and moons design cutouts and black finish
- Sturdy steel construction with black finish
- Includes cooking grate and spark screen with poker
- Safety ring for easy transport
- Large 23-1/2-inch fire bowl
Last update on 2024-06-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Landmann Big Sky Stars and Moons Fire Pit will comfortably fit into any size backyard, regardless of whether it is big or small. It’s 12.5″ deep firebowl will hold all the firewood necessary to keep your family and friends toasty warm for hours on end. Along with it’s unusual moon and star cut-outs it has a high-heat sand paint finish, and a safety ring for easier moving about. A spark screen, cooking grate, and poker are included.
Outland Firebowl Mega Outdoor Propane Gas Fire Pit
- Perfect no mess campfire: with our fire pit say goodbye to dirty ash, expensive firewood, and bothersome smoke and enjoy a clean realistic...
- Compact and easy to transport: Travel size fire pit is lightweight and portable; Easily set up in minutes with no tools required. Lower profile...
- Beat the campfire ban: CSA approved fire pit is safe to use during most campfire bans; Always check with the current fire restrictions in your...
- Complete fire pit kit: Includes cover & carry kit, pre-attached 10-ft hose to keep your standard 20-lb propane tank cylinder (not included)...
- Signature outland living quality: Durable high-quality steel construction with protective enamel finish for dependable longevity; Superior...
Last update on 2024-06-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This portable fire pit has a compact design that is propane-fueled for ease of use anywhere you decide to take it. Not only does it create a smokeless flame, but the Outland Firebowl 883 Mega Outdoor Propane Gas Fire Pit comes with a CSA approved fire bowl, cover and carrying kit, plus a 10 foot hose with a propane tank stabilizer ring and a regulator. Moreover, it can be converted to natural gas, and is constructed of long lasting powder coated steel.
YAHEETECH 32in Outdoor Metal Firepit Square Table
- MULTIPURPOSE - This outdoor fire pit is ideal for cool evenings, providing cozy warmth, lithe light which makes a beautiful, captivating,...
- SQUARE TABLETOP - Premium fire pit built in square shape for stability.The 32-inch wide tabletop around the center fire area allowing for...
- SAFE AND SECURE - Features with mesh lid to prevent burning embers blowing; poker can be used to stoke fire and remove the mesh lid. Please feel...
- DURABLE DESIGN - Constructed of high quality iron mesh and frame. Comes with suitable outer cover to keep clean and avoid getting rusty by water...
- EASILY ASSEMBLED - Simple design, easy to assemble under the manual enclosed
Last update on 2024-06-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This easy to assemble fire pit comes in two different sizes to accommodate most outdoor spaces. Furthermore, the Yaheetech 32in Outdoor Metal Firepit Square Table has a safety mesh screen lid, fire pit cover, and safety hand tool. With the detailed accents it makes an attractive and useful addition to your outside decor.
Perfect for those cool evenings when you still want to be outdoors, but the chill in the air sends you inside. This fire pit will keep you and your guests cozy and warm, and surrounded by an idyllic atmosphere. It has a durable design that uses a special pattern that is fantastic for warmth, and also BBQ, cooling food and drinks out in the open.
Moreover, it’s safe and secure, with a mesh lid to keep burning embers from blowing about; it comes with a poker to stoke the fire and use to remove the mesh lid too.
Endless Summer Fire Table
- LP FIRE PIT: Outdoor fire pit lets you get cozy outdoors without the ashy mess of a classic fire; Propane tank not included
- EASY OPERATION: 50,000 BTU stainless steel burner with integrated electronic ignition for seamless startup; Hidden panel keeps controls safe from...
- SLEEK DESIGN: Contemporary design with included fire glass and handcrafted slate tile mantel showcase a polished look
- DURABLE PROTECTION: All-weather steel fire bowl is built to last every season; Included cover ensures your fire pit is safe from the elements
- EASY ASSEMBLY: Simple, tool-free assembly lets you enjoy your fire table without the stress of complicated install; (L x W x H): 30 x 30 x 25.5...
Last update on 2024-06-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Introduce the ambiance and cozy warmth of a fireplace to your deck, patio, and backyard with the Endless Summer Fire Table. With a beautiful slate tile hearth, this fire pit comes with a stamped steel leaf design base, that only adds to its beauty. There’s also a 50,000 BTU stainless steel burner, brown fire glass, and a protective cover. You want to go back into your house ever again once you start using this fire table.
Just be sure to place your fire pit in an open area that is not near any combustible items. That way you and your family can stay safe as well as cozy and warm.
Best Choice Products BTU Patio Propane Fire Pit Table
- MULTIFUNCTIONAL SIDE TABLE AND TANK STORAGE: The side table can conveniently hold drinks, food, and decor, and doubles as storage for a propane...
- PERFECT FOR ENTERTAINING: Ideal for gathering around with friends and family for warmth, good conversation, roasting marshmallows, and making...
- EASY TO USE: Simply turn the knob to create flames that radiate brightly against the glass rocks to provide a pleasant ambiance. A...
- HIGH-QUALITY COMPOSITION: Simple, elegant rectangular design, made of sturdy steel and cast wood with a natural wood finish to look beautiful in...
- TRADITIONAL FIRE PIT TABLE: The fire pit's classic, farmhouse slab-style design adds rustic style to any outdoor area, with built-in side handles...
Last update on 2024-06-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Best Choice Products Patio Propane Fire Pit Table comes with side table tank storage with a wood finish and includes a pit cover. Ideal for entertaining your friends, gathering around and savoring the warmth, good company, and perhaps roasting marshmallows. It’s also simple to use, as all you need to do is turn the knob to light the flames that dance about, glowing pleasantly against the lava rocks. Sitting back and enjoying this fire pit table with those you care about, you will truly feel like you have the world at your fingertips.
Bond Manufacturing Woodleaf Fire Pit
- 50, 000 BTU heat output
- Matching lid converts the unit to a side table
- Includes lava rock and PVC cover
- Uses 20lb internal propane tank (not included)
- Provides warmth and ambience for outdoor entertaining year-round
Last update on 2024-06-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Bond Manufacturing Woodleaf Fire Pit produces an amazing BTU heat output of 50,000, and uses a 20lb internal propane tank (not included). The matching lid swiftly turns the entire unit into a side table as well. It features lava rock and PVC cover, to help provide warmth and cozy atmosphere for year-round outdoor entertaining. Once you try this fire pit, you’ll wonder how you and your family ever did without it.
BALI OUTDOORS Wood Burning Fire Pit Backyard with Cooking Grill
- Multi-Functional Design: Grill swivels 360 degrees, make swing it left or right possible. Grill adjusts up and down, fixed by screws. Remove the...
- Humanized and Sturdy Steel Construction: The black round fire pit designed with outer ledge around the central fire area allowing for convenient...
- Unique Log Rack: Collapsible triangle frame rack to hold logs for better ventilation, provides plenty space for a raging fire. The Poker and log...
- Safe and Secure:This fire bbq grill with large enough cooking grill area, comply with FDA food grade
- Easy Assembly and Approximately measure dimension: 32inch × 24inch
Last update on 2024-06-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
This is a wood burning fire pit made exclusively for Bali Outdoors. The grill of the Bali Outdoors Wood Burning Fire Pit swivels 360 degrees, either left or right. The black round fire pit was designed with the outer ledge around the main fire area, which permits easy access to roasting supplies and drinks. The durable base has a circular steel ring around the four legs, which increases stability for this fire pit. Furthermore, the collapsible triangle frame rack for holding logs makes for increased ventilation, plus allows for plenty of space for a large fire. Poker and log rack included.
This fire pit makes for easy cooking over charcoal, and is not at all difficult to clean up. Special dual-purpose design made for both heating and grilling. Well made with excellent materials. An extra plus is that it isn’t heavy, so you can move it about whenever you need to.
Hiland GSF-PR-PC Propane Fire Pit
- External Integrated Piezo Ignition. BTU's: 40,000. Uses a 20lb Propane Tank
- Stainless Steel Lid Included
- CSA Regulator and Hose Included
- Fireglass Included
- Thermocouple and Anti Tilt Safety Devices
Last update on 2024-06-04 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Patios are fantastic for cooking, and relaxing and entertaining friends and family. Patio heaters like the Hiland GSF-PR-PC Propane Fire Pit allow you to extend the use of your favorite outdoor space to anywhere from 9 months to all year long. This fire pit will fit in just right regardless of the layout of your patio. It has amazingly durable solid steel construction and a hammered bronze finish that gives it a rustic appearance, ideal for outdoor living. Plus the propane heater emits 40,000 BTU of heat, and the clear fire glass covers the burner, with and creates a feeling of ambiance and class.
Buying Guide For Best Backyard Fire Pits
Many people truly believe that no backyard is complete without the presence of a fire pit. It just seems to change the entire atmosphere into something from a fairytale. You can relax and lounge about with family and friends around the glow of the fire pit. They transform cool summer nights into warm, fun filled evenings, and cold winter nights into cozy times with friends. One of the great things about fire pits is that they’re so easily available to the average homeowner. Meaning that there is usually one that will fit your price range.
If you are doing any landscaping work or designing work on your backyard, one of the first things you learn is the importance of having a focal point. It’s essential to having to feel truly complete and also serves to open up the space. Using a fire pit as your focal point is a wonderful plan.
So here we’re going to discuss the available backyard fire pit options.
Size
The basic fire pit is an outstanding addition to any yard and enhances the appeal of your home as well. They can come in a wide variety of sizes and shapes. They can be as simple as a small fire pit located in a corner of your yard, or as grand as a stone fireplace. The materials that are used the most often are brick, stone, concrete, cast iron and stainless steel. That’s because these metals hold up excellently under high heat and are rust resistant to boot.
Fire Bowl
A fire bowl is akin to a fire pit, but the bowl is a bit more portable than the pit choice. This is perfect if you have a landlord. You see, fire pits normally become permanent features in your backyard. Some landlords dislike having tenants making any changes to the yard, so the fire bowl is a great way around this. These too come in a wide variety of styles.
Furthermore, a fire bowl is amazingly portable, so it’s a lot easier to store when the weather turns bitterly cold. Fire bowls nearly always use propane or natural gas as a source of fuel. There are some that burn wood.
If you should purchase a wood burning fire bowl, be sure to watch it closely. If you want to use one, it’s a good idea to use a screen to contain scattered sparks and embers.
Fire Tables
You don’t usually see a fire table as frequently as some of the other featured fire producing products listed above. That’s really a shame because fire tables are fantastic. It’s not just that the fire supplies warmth, but the table is an ideal place to put your feet up or set down some drinks. There are boundless styles to choose from, so you will find a table that will fit in with your patio decor.
Fire tables are nearly always fueled by propane or gas. Some are wood burning, but these are few and far between. If you’re patio space is on the small side, a fire table is ideal because of its portability and easy storeage. In the interest of saving space, you might consider looking for patio furniture that is dual purpose.
Fire Columns
If you’re interested in something different from your regular fire pit, fire columns are pretty fantastic. Unlike fire pits, fire columns nearly always utilize natural gas or propane for fuel. A wood burning fire column is not a good idea, being just too impractical. Fire columns make superb focal pieces. They are original and seeing one will definitely catch your eye. The various styles are fun too. You will see modern and traditional examples along with many others.
Chiminea
This is a fire feature that’s gradually gaining acceptance. It’s name is Spanish for chimney and these fire features are popular in Mexico and the southwest states. Originally, chimineas were built from fired clay and used for both cooking and heating homes. Nowadays, chimineas are made using materials that are more modern, but the idea stays the same. The tall pipe pushes the smoke upwards and the heat radiates from the front.
With the chiminea, you won’t have to worry about being surrounded by smoke as you sit waiting for dinner. Moreover, they are one of the safest choices available due to their enclosed construction. Nearly all of them are wood burning too. But there are gas and propane choices out there.
Fire Pit vs. Patio Heaters
There are benefits and disadvantages for both using a fire pit and a patio heater. One of the top features a patio heater has is how easy to use they are. They are run by propane or gas and the tanks are fairly inexpensive and not difficult to install. Also, patio heaters are portable can be moved about on your patio, but they are heavy. Lastly, you needn’t be concerned about live fire, which can make some people a little nervous, particularly if you have small children.
Probably the greatest disadvantage of patio heaters is that they don’t emit all that much heat unless you sit right beside them. And of course, while a fire provides instant heat once it’s lit, a patio heater will take longer to heat up and get going.
Fire Pits
Naturally, the use of a fire pit carries a lot more danger than using a patio heater. But, fire pits do have some great advantages over patio heaters. For one thing, they can be just as portable as your ordinary heat lamp, always depending on the type of fire pit you buy. They also will heat up a lot faster than patio heaters. And, let’s face it, it’s a lot nicer to lounge around a fire and laugh and talk than to hang out around the patio heater.
Safety
The temperature of a fire pit is totally dependent upon the fuel source and also the container of the fire. You can reach a wide array of temperatures by using a firepit. The temperature of a firepit is measured in BTUs, meaning British Thermal Units. In general, most fireplaces/firepits heat up to 30,000 — 100,000 BTUs. The higher the amount of BTUs, the warmer the fire will feel.
What You Burn
As for fuel sources, there are three main choices. Bioethanol, propane, and wood. Each source provides it’s own benefits.
For the basic fire pit, wood is the most common source of fuel, but there are also natural gas, propane, and charcoal. Yet another way you can go is an electric fire pit, but if you go with that choice you lose the cozy pleasantness of a natural fire.
Bioethanol
Biodegradable — Produced from the fermentation of sugars coming from products from plant forestry.
Ethanol
- This will give you bright orange flames that flicker and scatter about merrily.
- You need to use this pourable liquid to constantly refill the burner pan.
- 4,000-8,500 BTUs/hr.
- Biodegradable
- Takes 5 hours to burn 1 quart of fuel, although this may vary due to the size of the fuel tray.
- Warm-up time requires 10-15 minutes before the flame reaches its full capacity.
The fact of the matter is that while bioethanol can burn for a long time, and is biodegradable, it’s simply not very effective as a source of heat. The 4,000-8,500 BTUs/hour is basically insignificant, and gives you a flame that’s above all, entertaining more than anything else. The 10-15 minutes required for warm-up time is really meaningless, because it won’t ever provide enough heat to keep you sufficiently warm.
Propane
There are plenty of advantages to opting for propane as a fuel source. To begin with, it’s easy to control how much fuel your fire is getting, and there is practically no clean up to handle. It’s also basically safe due to the contained nature of the fire. Propane fire pits are frequently portable too.
Propane fire pits also provide a vast range of options for heating. The most basic ones will be heating that starts at around 10,000 BTUs. That certainly won’t have you and your guests sweltering, but it will make for a big improvement from the bioethanol. The heat output will generally be from 30,000 — 50,000 BTUs, which is certainly enough to keep you warm on those chilly evenings. On the higher side, you’ll find commercial propane firepits that will run at about 70,000 BTUs.
Wood
While using wood as a source of heat is a good idea, it isn’t right for everyone. It’s more difficult to take care of the fire and keep it going at the proper level of heat. Furthermore, it’s more dangerous and messier than bioethanol or propane. But rest assured that you can make some pretty intense fires if you opt for wood as your fuel source.
For your average wood burning fire, you need at least 60,000 BTUs, with many firepits requiring over 100,000 BTUs.
Wood Burning Laws
First, you need to be aware that you cannot use fireplaces on covered patios or porches. It’s unsafe, and you and your guests would have to leave in minutes because of the smoke. Also, lighting a fire pit in an area with low hanging branches or very windy conditions is not the greatest idea.
The next thing you need to do is have an understanding of the rules and regulations that are in place by your homeowners association, county, or landlord. There are many states where it’s considered too dry and too dangerous to have open wood-burning fires.
Just remember to do some research before making your fire pit purchase.
Fire Pit Location
This means everything when determining where to place your fire pit. There are many factors to take into consideration when selecting the ideal location. You want a large open space so you have lots of room to hold the fire pit and for seating. It’s ideal if this location is away from low branches and bushes. You want to be able to enjoy a nice, blazing fire without having to constantly worry that embers and sparks will alight on bushes and trees. Next, be certain that the area you choose doesn’t get too much of a breeze. Again, you need to be very careful about embers and sparks.
Once you have decided upon the location, place some string or chalk down so you mark out the area and can visualize the size of your fire pit. Under perfect conditions, you want about 7 feet of space surrounding the seating area near the fire pit. This should be enough room for outdoor furniture and traffic. Also, leave a little room behind all of the furniture so that if your guests get overheated, they have room to back up.
Fire Pit Cost
The ultimate cost of a fire pit can undergo a radical change based on what you want. A DIY fire pit can be done on an extremely low budget, particularly if you have materials available. A cheaper fire pit starts at around $500.00 and can amount to several thousand by the time the project is finished, including customization and labor. Usually the more inexpensive options are portable, which is fantistic if you don’t intend to stay for an extended period of time. While this option is indeed a great deal costlier, it will end up increasing the value of your home.
More on Fire Pit Cost’s
Other expenses that you need to think about are fuel. Wood isn’t really free and can be a lot costlier than you might imagine.
Purchasing small volumes of wood from your local grocery store is not a good idea, and you might not have the resources or spare time needed to cut down and split a tree yourself. The best thing to do is to purchase a cord of wood.
There are two common cords that you can purchase. A face cord, which is 4 feet tall by 8 feet long, 16 inches deep. A full cord is 4 feet high by 8 feet long, and 4 feet deep.
A full cord of wood equals about $120-$180. In the winter season and in other areas of the country, a cord of wood can be $220-$400.
While a face cord will be half those prices. However, a full cord of wood should last you quite a while, depending, of course, on how frequently you use your fire pit.
Not only will you have to buy wood, you’ll have to add in the additional expense of building or purchasing a place to keep it. Having a place to store your wood is essential because it is no fun starting a fire with wet wood.
Should you choose to use propane, it will make it easier to figure out your costs and less of a problem than having to store all that wood. If you’re concerned about making your patio look a bit cheap, there are some truly great propane tank covers you can purchase.
Fire Pit Accessories
You’ll require some tools. Some things to help you get started such as a poker, tongs, cooking grates, wood handlers, and skewers for marshmallows. Stock up on these supplies before you get a pleasant fire started and can’t leave, but find out you need some essentials. Also, you might want to invest in a metal screen. It’s not an absolute necessity, but if you’re concerned about sparks and embers, having a metal screen firmly in place will give you peace of mind.
If you are using a wood burning fire pit, then a carrier for all that wood is very helpful. Without a carrier, the best thing you can do is to carry the wood in your arms. And last, but not least, a fireplace cover is a great way to protect your fire pit from the weather. You must commit so much money and time into a fire pit that it’s not a good idea to let get banged up from harsh storms.
Further Safety Tips:
Fire is dangerous! That’s why whenever you have to cope with it caution is extremely important. A bad burn can upset a perfect night. So here’s what you should do.
- Rake and sweep away needles, grass, and other debris that is found within a diameter of ten feet near the fire pit.
- Build your cooking fire downwind.
- Keep some water close by before starting your fire.
- Absolutely never, under any circumstances use a flammable liquid, particularly gasoline to start a fire or get hot coals going.
- Never leave a fire unattended, and there should always be adults present to watch over children when there is a fire going.
- While using grills or going near the fire, wear snug-fitting, tightly-woven, or better yet, short-sleeved garments.
- Do not wear sandals or shoes with open toes while cooking.
- Just in case, make sure that everyone present knows how to put out a clothing fire: the rule is “STOP, DROP and ROLL!”
- Keep a fire extinguisher, bucket of water or shovel nearby.
If you follow the suggestions above and practice common sense fire safety, you, your family, and your friends should all be able to enjoy the fire pit in your backyard contentedly for many years to come.