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Fire Pit Inserts Buyer's Guide

Fire Pit Inserts Buyer's Guide

No matter which part of the world you live - warm, tropical, cold, or somewhere between - most homeowners want a fiery outdoor oasis. It's a bridge from the interior to the exterior, an extension to the scenic beauty of the great outdoors.

Whether you've decided to add a patio, deck, outdoor kitchen, or the like, no outdoor living space is complete without the spark from a fire feature. And, you don't have to be rich to do it! You can host year-round entertainment at a fraction of the cost you'd pay for some of the common prefabricated structures.

Fire Pit Inserts
Hearth Products Controls blue flame specialties

In this article, we'll teach you some ways to create a custom fire feature as the focal point of your backyard using a fire pit insert. We'll explain how fire pit inserts differ from pre-built fire pits. This includes the costs for materials, installation, fuel, and maintenance. We'll also discuss the advantages and disadvantages of getting one.

As more people attune themselves to the trendy outdoor designs, it's easy to get lost in the shuffle. Most people end up selecting from piles of mass-produced products with no originality. But, you do not have to succumb to these basic, ill-fitting fire pit assemblies. Don't fill the void of empty space in your backyard with generic styles that everyone has. All you need is a fire pit insert to create a custom design to fit your unique outdoor space.

What is a Fire Pit Insert?

A fire pit insert or drop-in fire pit includes all the components needed to operate a fire pit, excluding the enclosure or surround. For wood-burning, a fire pit ring is a type of fire pit insert. A gas-fire pit insert consists of a fire pit burner, burner pan, ignition system, flex gas line, a gas valve, and key.

Fire Pit Inserts
Hearth Products Controls fire pit insert with H-burner

Like indoor fireplace inserts must be installed into an existing firebox or structural opening, a fire pit insert works the same way. It must also be built into an appropriate structure. Most contractors install fire pit inserts in landscape projects, water features, or the like.


Advantages

Fire pit inserts, in a sense, are more malleable. They allow you to design masterful creations without the limitations of pre-built fire pits. They are also more cost-effective than purchasing a complete fire pit.

From a more practical standpoint, not every backyard can fit a cookie-cutter fire appliance. Some backyards are larger or smaller than others, and some are far less traditional in shape and size altogether. With this in mind, a fire pit insert serves as an equalizer for all, ensuring everyone has access to the alluring mystique of fire.

But, there are some downsides you may want to consider as well.


Disadvantages

Fire pit inserts call for a bit of technical know-how to install. Thus, the cost-effectiveness associated with them will decrease if you need to hire a contractor to get the job done. While the more basic wood-burning fire pit inserts are easy for even the most novice DIYer, gas models are not quite so simple.

Fire Pit Inserts
Hearth Products Controls custom fire pit insert

In other words, drop-in fire pits need more elbow grease to install. So, these may not be the ideal choice for those with a "set-it-and-forget-it" mindset.

Depending on the scale of your fire feature design, you may need more than one or two fire pit inserts to complete the look that you are going for. And, having to install more than one or two fire pit inserts can increase the cost of the job in a major way. This can far exceed the price you would pay for one standard fire pit unit.

Keep this in mind as you plan out the design of your backyard fire feature. The more ambitious the project, the more money you can expect to spend.

Things to Consider Before You Buy a Fire Pit Insert

When it comes to any major home renovations or remodeling projects, it's always a good idea to do a bit of research on the front end. You want to calculate potential expenses to help you develop a more realistic budget.

Whether you plan on installing the fire pit yourself or hiring outside help, we'll share some general cost estimates. These estimations were retrieved from HomeAdvisor.com and based on different building materials, fuel types, and installation needs.

It's also worth searching at locally-owned shops in your area that sell overstocked source material. These shops often have stones that are more igneous and dense to handle intense heat. In other words, you don't have to overspend to get quality materials for the look that you want.


Custom-Built Fire Pit Materials (Priced High to Low)

  • Techno-Bloc Valencia - This is one of the most expensive building materials for fire pits. Techno Block Valencia can run around $610 per fire pit project since the bricks consist of brand-name paving stones. The material is more versatile than other materials. It can withstand greater temperatures for wood, charcoal, and gas-burning fire pits.
  • Unilock Stones - A fire pit constructed from Unilock stones, also brand-name pavers, typically costs around $500. Like Techno-Block, these pavers can withstand copious amounts of heat produced from wood, gas, and charcoal. They also come in a wide range of colors, sizes, and prices for every budget.
  • Nicolock - Like Unilock stones, this is a type of brick paver designed to handle copious amounts of heat produced by wood, charcoal, and gas-fueled fire pits.
  • Stone or Field Stone Material - This building material comes in a variety of shapes, sizes, and beautiful colors to match a range of natural, Earthtones. This material can be less pricey than other materials. The typical cost per fire pit project using this material is around $300.
  • Standard Brick Paver and Fire Brick - The most commonly used materials to construct in-ground fire pits, fire brick and standard brick pavers often crack under intense heat. If using this material, you'll need to line the inside of the structure with fire bricks and line the outside with pavers for extra support. With proper construction, fire pits built with this material can withstand copious amounts of heat produced from various fuel sources.

Fire Pit Inserts
Assorted brick pavers

  • Concrete Blocks - Perhaps the most economical material used to construct built-in fire pits is concrete blocks. Not only are they inexpensive in comparison to other materials on the market, but they are also larger in size, requiring less material to build a solid construction. They, too, can tolerate heat produced from wood, coal, and gas-burning fire pits.

Fire Pit Inserts
Cement block


Fire Pit Size and Fuel Type

This may be seen as a no brainer, but the size of your fire pit often dictates most of the expenses you can expect to incur. Larger units will inevitably need more material for an enclosure. Also, the fuel type will dictate whether you'll need to hire plumbers or electricians.

Most outside contractors will charge by the hour for labor for full fire pit installations. The average project can run anywhere between four and eight hours. You can look to spend approximately $200 to $500 on labor if hiring an outside contractor. But, if you choose to construct the fire pit yourself, you will save a great deal of money.

Here is a breakdown of the expenses you can expect by fuel cost and labor performed by a professional contractor you may need to hire for assistance.

  • Firewood and Charcoal - These are the least expensive fuel options, running you around $300 for fuel and installation. Plus, your primary maintenance responsibility centers on the cleaning of ash regularly. You may opt to have a contractor install wood or charcoal-fuel fire pit, but you can often tackle this project yourself.
  • Natural Gas - With a natural gas fire pit, you will need to have a gas line routed where you intend to install your fire pit insert. Often times, people seeking to use their existing natural gas will need to have a plumber extend the gas line.

This can become pretty pricey, usually around $600 or so for both the labor cost of the plumber and the gas line components themselves. Not to mention, natural gas fire pits tend to be more stationary structures and are less portable than propane versions.

  • Propane Gas - A cheaper option than natural gas fire pit inserts, propane models offer more flexibility for installation. This means they offer portability that gives you more creative freedom for your fire pit placement. The only cost you will likely incur for fuel and contractor labor is around $300.


Permits

It can be a major blow to your dreams of installing a fire pit for your outdoor living area if it is not permitted in your region or municipality. To prevent wasting time and money, we urge you to check with local authorities to determine the permissibility of fire pits in your areas.

Most freestanding wood-burning or propane units do not need a permit for installation. If you are planning on installing a natural gas fire pit or one with an electric ignition system, you will likely need some type of permit. The permits themselves are inexpensive. But, it's better to follow all laws and regulations to prevent unwanted fines.


Installation Location

Another factor to take into consideration is the location you plan to install. There are some major Do's and Don'ts you'll want to know, for sure. For instance, never install a fire pit near overhanging branches or trees or where there is a significant amount of dry brush nearby. These locations pose serious fire hazards for your home and nearby structures, including nearby homes.

Fire Pit Inserts
Backyard layout

Also, make sure that you plan to install your fire pit on a level surface with significant drainage so that water pooling isn't an issue.

Now that we've discussed some of the major things to consider before purchasing a fire pit insert, you may be wondering about your options.

In the next section, we will cover the different types of burners and flame patterns, burner pan shapes and enclosures. We'll also discuss the common materials from which they are made.

Selecting a Fire Pit Insert and Burner Style

There is a large variety of burner shapes and sizes available for each type of fire pit insert. It boils down to your preferred flame pattern and the look that you're going for in your fire feature.

Let's start by examining eight different burner shapes and the flame patterns each of them produces. Please note that most manufacturers offer customization options for customers, too. So, it is possible to buy specific burner shapes and sizes. Featured below is a list of common shapes and sizes that are mass-produced and readily available.

  • Round Burner - The round burner shape is one of the first fire pit burner designs. It produces a more centralized flame pattern that has the appearance of a torch, depending on the size of the burner. These tend to work well in bowl-like enclosures or enclosures situated in containers around water features. These are also good options for round, above-ground fire pits in a back patio. They range in size from 12 inches up to 54 inches in size.

Fire Pit Inserts
Hearth Products Controls custom round fire pit insert

  • Penta (Star-Shaped) Burner - The star-shaped burner creates a unique and more realistic flame pattern. The flames disperse across the entire burner pan assembly and fire pit. It is often attached to a square or round burner pan for installation in round and square fire pit assemblies. These burners come in a range of sizes from 12 inches to 54 inches.
  • Spur (Inter-linked Spokes) Burner - With a similar flame pattern as the star-shaped Penta burner, the spur burner consists of three interlinked spokes that have the shape of an asterisk mark. These burners also create an authentic-looking flame pattern that covers the width of the burner pan. These burners are often assembled to a round or square burner pan for installation in square or round fire pit enclosures. They range from 12 inches to 36 inches in size.
  • Linear or Trough Burner - If you're looking for a more sleek, modern-looking fire pit that appeals to a contemporary aesthetic, consider a linear or trough burner. These burners project a slender, ribbon-like flame. Many builders or contractors use them to emphasize a perimeter or retaining wall, seating area, or different spaces within the backyard. Most of these burners are rather long, ranging from 24 inches up to 121 inches!
  • H-Burner - The H-burner offers the elegance of two linear burners with more robust flames and heat. These burners are often attached to a rectangular burner pan in a wide range of sizes. Some are as small as 24 inches wide by 12 inches long. Others are as big as 66 inches long by 16 inches wide. If you're looking to add a contemporary design without sacrificing warmth, the H-burner design will not disappoint.

Fire Pit Inserts
Hearth Products Controls lit custom H-burner

  • Square Burner - Offering a more centralized flame pattern, square burners generate a great deal of heat. Yet, these burners are smaller in size with limited options ranging from 12 to 24 inches in diameter. This burner shape works for those who prefer either a rustic or ultra-modern fire pit look. You can add some fire pit logs for something more traditional. Or, you can install this insert into an oversized square enclosure filled with lava or river rocks media.
  • Rectangular Burner - With a similar flame pattern as an H-burner and square burner combined, the rectangular fire pit burner provides a somewhat linear flame pattern in the shape of a rectangular box. Some rectangular burners also have a welded t-shape in the center with extra gas puncture holes to emit more flames. Like its square counterpart, the rectangular burner comes in a limited range of sizes. They range from 12" by 6" to 24" by 12" in size.

Fire Pit Inserts
Hearth Products Controls custom rectangular fire pit insert

  • S-Burner - The S-burner offers a ribbon of flames in the shape of an "S." These burners come affixed to rectangular burner pan assemblies for a linear enclosure. These burners help create division between different spaces in an outdoor living area or help emphasize or highlight perimeter features. They range from 36" by 14" to 78" by 16" in size. Given their slender design, these burners tend to emit less heat than some of the other burners.

How Are Fire Pit Inserts Configured?

Just as fire pit burners come in various shapes and sizes, so do the burner pans that are often attached to them. As mentioned before, all fire pit inserts come fully assembled with all the component parts needed for operation. To accommodate the various customization options, burner pans are configured in different ways.

It depends on the type of enclosure used to encase the fire pit insert and the type of decorative media a person chooses to use.

Given the number of fire feature options available, fire pit burner pans, if attached to the burner, come configured in two ways. They are either flat with welded gas fittings on the surface or recessed with a raised burner, a media retaining wall, and a pan lip surround for secure installation. Both options are made from premium, commercial-grade materials for long-lasting operation. Most are engineered for the greatest water protection.


Common Materials Used To Construct Fire Pit Inserts

  • Black Steel - Made from ungalvanized steel, this low maintenance durable material gets its name from the darkened iron oxide coating covering its surface. It's frequently used to protect electrical wiring and to transport water, steam, air, and gas in both urban and rural areas.

Fire Pit Inserts
Hearth Products Controls round black steel fire pit insert

  • 304-Grade Stainless Steel - This standard 18-gauge stainless steel is considered austenitic stainless steel. This material is known for its extreme versatility, welding capability, toughness, and atmospheric sustainability. Although corrosion-resistant, this material is vulnerable to corrosion when exposed to extremely hot temperatures in chloride environments. In other words, this grade of stainless steel will not last as long in areas near swimming pools.

Fire Pit Inserts
Hearth Products Controls round flat fire pit insert with penta burner

  • 316/316Ti Stainless Steel - If you're looking for an upgraded version of the 304-grade stainless steel, search for a fire pit insert burner made from 316-grade or 316Ti-grade. Both of these types of stainless steel work better in coastal and high-chloride areas.
  • Brass - Another viable option is a burner constructed from brass. Not only is brass considered highly resistant to corrosion, but it's malleable, durable, and heat conductive.
  • Aluminum - You'll find several manufacturers who opt for more cost-effective aluminum burner pans. Despite its lightweight in comparison to other metals, it possesses adaptive strength. It is highly corrosion-resistant, reflective, thermally conductive, non-toxic, and recyclable.

Fire Pit Ignition Systems & Controls

Fire pit inserts have three main ignition systems. These are match-light, push-button ignition, and electronic ignition. Match-lit applies to both wood-burning and gas fire pit inserts since both types need a flame to ignite the fire pit. The primary difference between the two is that gas fire pit inserts use gas for combustion as opposed to kindling and wood logs.


Match Lit

By far the most common and easiest ignition system you can use with any type of hearth appliance is match lit. For gas fire pit inserts, this system is the most cost-effective and basic one you'll find. Unlike more advanced fire pit inserts, these models cannot be used with handheld remote controls or wall switches. They are also not compatible with Bluetooth devices.

Fire Pit Inserts
Hearth Products Controls match lit ignition

You simply use a good old gas valve and a turnkey to turn on the gas and light it with a match or lighter. To turn it off, twist the gas valve to the off position.


Push-Button (Spark Ignition / Flame Sense)

The push-button ignition system is also called a spark-ignition or flame sense ignition. It requires less work to ignite the flames of your fire pit. All you have to do is turn the gas knob to the "On" position and push the ignition button. From there, the system will send spark signals to the thermocouple until it lights the gas pilot.

Fire Pit Inserts
Hearth Products Controls push-button ignition

Once the gas pilot is lit, the unit senses the flame and ignites the streams of gas throughout the burner. If the pilot flame goes out, the gas stops flowing and the fire pit shuts off on its own (all without electricity!)

The best part about push-button fire pit inserts is that there is no need for a match or lighter. These models have a built-in auto-spark switch. But of course, technological advances don't end here. There is yet a grandfather of all fire pit ignition systems - the electronic ignition.


Electronic Ignition

If convenience is your game and money's not a thing, then waste no time on less advanced technologies. With an electronic ignition system, you can ignite the flames of your fire pit on or off and from high to low. You can do this all from a handheld remote control, your Smartphone or Smart device, or a wall switch. It's that simple.

Fire Pit Inserts
Hearth Products Controls electronic ignition

This ingenious technology gives you total control over your gas-burning fire feature. It's like having magic at your fingertips. It's guaranteed to make your home the number one go-to spot in the neighborhood.

At this point, you're probably wondering who makes these top-quality fire pit inserts. Don't worry, we've got you covered.

Top Manufacturers

  • Hearth Products Control (HPC) - A reputable leader in the hearth industry for over 44 years, HPC blossomed as a separate corporation from The Maddox Company in 2001. Shortly after, it launched as an extensive line of outdoor fire pits and fire water features. These high-quality products are crafted from commercial-grade materials and various ignition systems. They offer exceptional durability for both commercial and residential applications. They also include various ignition systems in products beyond their fire pits and fire water features. HPC recently expanded its outdoor line to include TK Torches, portable fire pits, copper water bowls, accessories, and many stainless steel components.
  • Firegear - Much like HPC, with Firegear, you can buy the entire fire pit kit or the pieces individually and build it your way. Firegear offers heavy-duty burners built to last. They may not provide as many choices in burner types as HPC but they make quality, cost-effective products.
  • Warming Trends - Made of all brass components Warming Trends offers CrossFire burners that are hard to pass up. Much like Bobe, a Warming Trends CrossFire burner shoots big flames out. They call this the Venturi Effect because of their Venturi Jet Technology. Warming Trends claims their burners produce twice the flame with the same amount of gas thanks to this method. The company also touts a limited lifetime warranty. Limited because the warranty requires you to use a cover.

Fire Pit Enclosures and Installation

As you're making a decision for the perfect fire pit insert, don't forget about your enclosure. You'll want an enclosure to complement the layout of your backyard and the style of your fire pit insert.

First, decide if you want an in-ground fire feature to blend in with your landscaping or something more traditional. Your decision will depend on local building codes, your fuel selection, and your skillset to carry out a proper installation.

Fire Pit Inserts
Constructing wall out of brick and mortar

If you consider yourself somewhat handy, there are several above-ground fire pit enclosures that don't need too much skill or labor. If you're unsure of your abilities, chances are you lack the skills needed to carry out this mission. Remember, it's better to be safe than sorry. Improperly installed fire pits pose several safety risks.


When To Hire a Professional

Those of you looking for a more elaborate, custom fire feature will need to hire an experienced contractor. Also, plan for some hefty expenses. Custom designs are generally more complex to construct and often rely on the expertise of two or more professionals.

When searching for the right person for the job, we highly recommend you get credible references from previous clients. You also want to review a portfolio of their work. Refrain from signing any contracts before evaluating credentials and learning about liability coverage. To ensure your project is done the right way, eFireplaceStore.com has compiled 10 Free Installation Checklists for you to download.

While fire pit inserts are needed to complete a custom fire feature, the skills and installation needs vary from project to project. This level of customization is beyond the scope of this article. But, in the next section, we provide examples of excellent DIY enclosures that appeal to those with average capabilities.

Installing A Fire Pit Insert

If you're shopping for fire pit inserts, you're more than likely a motivated DIYer, a local handyman, or a general contractor. Most people in this category are looking for cost-effective DIY fire pits options. They want something they can assemble and customize without having to pay someone else for labor. So, if any of these descriptors sound like you, you've come to the right place.

In this section, we will explore some common ways to build your own custom fire pit, including a list of tools and materials you'll need. But note, if you need a gas line run or electrical outlets installed, you will still need to hire a plumber or electrician to complete that part of the job.

Let's begin by taking a look at some equipment you can use for the installation of your fire pit insert. After all, a fire pit insert is a collection of preassembled parts used to combust the flames we see sprouting from a fire pit. Fire pit inserts are rarely if ever, seen without some type of protective structure surrounding them.

That's where your expertise and effort come in handy. You can custom-build your fire pit surround with one or more of the materials listed at the beginning of this article. Or, you can save some time by using a prefabricated fire pit enclosure.


Using Prefabricated Enclosures

There are several benefits when installing your fire pit insert into a prefabricated enclosure. First, these solid enclosures weigh around 150 pounds. They are constructed from heavy-duty 22-gauge galvanized steel. They have a welded exterior frame in various sizes and unique shapes. On the exterior, they have a ½" hardiboard shell for stone, veneer, or stucco finishes.

Fire Pit Inserts
Hearth Products Controls unfinished enclosure

The HPC brand of prefab enclosures all come with a pre-cut hole with dimensions designated for HPC fire pit inserts. You can purchase all the components you need in one location without feeling as though you've forgotten something.

Fire Pit Inserts
Hearth Products Controls round fire pit insert with retaining wall

For instance, if you order this unfinished Hearth Products Controls 60" Rectangle Top with Tapered Bottom enclosure, it can fit a 36" linear trough fire pit insert. But, we make ordering simple and easy by allowing you to select all the components and accessories you'll need to complete the look of your fire pit.

Fire Pit Inserts
Finished linear fire pit

These units make it easier to create the ambiance and design you want.


Using Retaining Wall Package

Another great way to speed up the installation process for your DIY fire pit is by using a retaining wall package like this one from Firegear. These packages include all the components you need to line the interior of your unit. They include a burner, flexframe, vent kit, control panel kit, and media.

Of course, you'll still need the materials to build your structural surround. But, you'll have everything else you need to make the installation a success.

Must-Have Fire Pit Accessories


For Protection

To extend the lifespan of your fire pit and protect yourself and guests, there are some essential accessories you will need to consider. As an outdoor appliance, fire pits are often exposed to the elements, particularly rain, snow, and other harmful debris. Over time, these elements can create a soggy, corrosive mess if not cleaned.

Because of this, it's a good idea to get a protective cover to keep unwanted debris out of the burner component. There are two main types of protective covers. You can get a stretchy vinyl protective cover with a soft-textured interior. Or, you can get a rigid, ready-made metal cover that fits the opening of your fire pit perfectly. Either option works well to protect the fire pit burner ports and other operational components. With the rigid covers, you have more options to match the customized look of your outdoor aesthetics.

Fire Pit Inserts
Fire pit vinyl cover

  • Vinyl or Nylon Protective Cover - Most of these come in a standard black color. They will either have an elastic band or a drawstring to hold them in place at the fire pit base. These are more susceptible to rips, tears, or burns if punctured by falling debris or placed over the fire pit before it fully cools.
  • Rigid (Ready-Made) Protective Cover - The rigid fire pit covers come in a wide variety of styles, shapes, textures, materials, and sizes. They can fit a range of fire pits. Unlike vinyl covers, which are more susceptible to damage and high winds, rigid covers stay firmly in place. You can also cover your fire pit with a rigid cover before it has cooled. Because of this convenience, you are less likely to forget to cover your fire pit.
  • Wind Guard / Shield - Wind guards and shields are constructed from heat-resistant tempered glass. They come in a variety of shapes and sizes to surround the fire pit burner. These accessories prevent disturbance to the flames of the fire pit during operation. Adding a wind guard to your fire pit also ensures that you and your loved ones aren't accidentally burned in windy conditions.
  • Spark Screen - Spark screens are typically constructed from mesh steel and fit over the top of a fire pit. They prevent errant sparks and embers from flying outside of a wood burning fire pit onto you, your guests, or potential combustibles.


For Safety

While it's easy to put fire pit accessories used for protection and safety in the same category, the accessories classified for protection are designed to protect the fire pit and those in close proximity to it during operation. However, fire pit accessories classified for safety are those that prevent disastrous outcomes.

  • Emergency Stop Key - Used with gas fire pits, an emergency stop key functions much like an emergency break in a car. It immediately stops all gas being fueled to the fire pit in the event of a malfunction to the gas valve itself.
  • Automatic Shutoff Timer - Like an emergency stop key, an automatic shutoff timer works with gas-fueled fire pits. It stops the flow of gas to your fire pit at a designated time interval, typically between 15 minutes to 120 minutes.
  • Propane Tank Enclosure - If using propane to fuel your gas fire pit, you'll likely use a portable propane tank that attaches to the fire pit. However, propane tanks are vulnerable to excessive heat. This means they need special protection and shade. Some manufacturers offer propane tank enclosures that store and provide shade for the propane tank. These enclosures are manufactured from the same materials as the fire pit surround and cover.


For Decoration

Equally important for your gas fire pit is the decorative media you use to cover, decorate, and ultimately protect the burner. Not only does the media add decoration and coverage, but it also allows you to customize the look of your fire pit. You'll find many decorative media options to choose from including fire glass, lava or river rocks, assorted stones, lava granules, or a log set. Most fire media is made from ceramic fiber to withstand excessive heat and the elements.

Care and Maintenance

The fire pit burner maintenance for your insert is straightforward. Luckily, these aren't complicated components that need a technician to come out and service on a regular basis. Follow these simple tips, and your burner will have a long and happy life.

However, don't be too alarmed if you have to replace a small component part here and there. Depending on how frequently you use these units, the knobs on push-button ignition systems may experience greater wear and tear which could reduce the lifespan if handled aggressively.


Maintenance Tips

  • Use a cover. Always cover your fire pit when you are not using it. Covers are great at preventing damage. Without a cover, animals can mess around in your fire pit, or water damage can occur. Go without a cover at your own risk.
  • Remove debris. Your outdoor fire pit sits outside 24/7. After a storm, you may have some sticks, leaves, or other debris in there. After a few days of not using it, an animal may have left a few surprises for you. Whatever it is, be sure to remove it before turning the burner on again.
  • Wash it. If you spend all day outside, you no doubt need a wash. Your burner is the same way. While it will not need washing as regularly as you, it is wise to clean it off with soap and water once a season.
  • Check your gas lines. That says it all. Your burner runs on natural or propane gas. Natural gas is lighter than air and will float away. Propane will pool, which can cause an explosion. Prevent this by checking on your gas lines for any loose connections or leaks.
  • Recess your burner pan. The depth of your burner pan inside the fire bowl/table/pit affects the flame output. Do not go any deeper than four inches. The depth will affect the flow of oxygen and gas that feeds the flame and could give you a less than desired fire.

Shipping

Due to the fragility of fire pit inserts, most manufacturers will package them in crates for shipment on pallets via LTL freight. This prevents unwanted damage to the inserts that may be incurred via parcel mail.

The freight company will arrange a delivery time and date with you based on your availability. Depending on the size and weight of your shipment, you may need to have at least one other person at your home to accept the shipment. Upon arrival, be sure to examine the fire pit insert carefully for dents or other damages before signing off on the delivery. If you do notice damages or missing parts, notify the manufacturer immediately to get a replacement unit covered by warranty.

Fire Pit Inserts
Backyard with fire pits

Summary

Finding the right fire pit burner for your outdoor fireplace or fire pit doesn't have to be a hassle. You know more about fire pit inserts than the average person. There are virtually endless options of fire pit inserts available to be installed in a wide range of outdoor fire pits or fire features. The best part about them is that they come in any size and may be customized to the exact dimensions you need. If you would like to talk to one of our certified NFI professionals for additional assistance, please give us a call at 1-800-203-1642.


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About the Author

Collin Champagne

With over 13 years in the industry, Collin is a National Fireplace Institute (NFI) certified technician and managed content for the eFireplacestore and eCanopy brands. He has achieved the highest NFI certification possible as a Master Hearth Professional and is certified in all three hearth appliance fields: wood, gas, and pellet. With experience with sales and in-field installations, his expertise shines through his technical knowledge and way with words.

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