Nothing extends the enjoyment of your outdoor space quite like the addition of a fire pit!
Whether you’re relaxing with family or hosting friends, the warmth and glow of a fire pit can transform any gathering into a cosy and inviting occasion.
But with so many options available, how do you choose the best fire pit for your space and needs? Two of the most popular options are wood-burning and gas-burning fire pits, each offering its own unique set of benefits and drawbacks.
Understanding Fuel Types: Wood vs. Gas
The most important difference between wood-burning and gas-burning fire pits is the type of fuel they use.
This difference not only affects how the fire pit functions but also influences its overall design, safety, and maintenance needs.
Knowing which fuel type suits your preferences and space will help narrow down your options quickly.
Wood-Burning Fire Pits
- Authentic Campfire Experience: Wood-burning fire pits create the familiar crackling sound, smoky scent, and visual ambiance of a traditional campfire, making them ideal for those who love the nostalgic experience.
- High Heat Output: These fire pits can generate more heat, making them perfect for chilly nights or larger outdoor spaces where you need to warm a broader area.
- Multi-Purpose: Wood-burning fire pits can be used not only for entertainment but also for practical purposes like burning yard debris or brush.
Gas-Burning Fire Pits
- Clean, Controlled Flame: Gas-burning fire pits offer a controlled, consistent flame without the smoke, ash, or embers that come from burning wood. This makes them a cleaner option for outdoor spaces.
- Ease of Use: Gas fire pits are simple to ignite and turn off, making them incredibly convenient. There’s no need to gather kindling, light wood, or manage the flame.
- Perfect for Smaller Spaces: Since gas fire pits produce less heat and have a cleaner burn, they can be used in more confined spaces like patios, decks, or balconies, provided there is proper ventilation.
Explore our range of gas fire pits for options that combine convenience and style for your outdoor space.
🔑 Key Takeaway: If you’re looking for a traditional campfire feel with high heat output, a wood-burning fire pit is a great choice. For cleaner, easier operation in smaller spaces, opt for a gas-burning fire pit that offers versatility and ease.
Convenience and Maintenance
One of the most significant factors in choosing between wood-burning and gas fire pits is how much time and effort you want to spend maintaining and operating your fire pit.
Both options offer unique experiences, but their level of convenience and upkeep differs.
Wood-Burning Fire Pits
- Requires More Maintenance: After each use, wood-burning fire pits leave behind ash and debris, which must be cleaned out once the fire has fully cooled. Over time, these fire pits can experience wear from the high heat, which may require occasional repairs.
- Harder to Start and Maintain: Starting a wood fire can be tricky, requiring kindling, dry wood, and patience. Additionally, wood must be regularly added to keep the fire going, which involves more active participation throughout the evening.
- Storage of Wood: Wood needs to be stored in a dry, easily accessible area to ensure it's ready to burn. You’ll need a dedicated space for wood, often on a log rack to keep it dry and off the ground.
Gas-Burning Fire Pits
- Low Maintenance: Gas fire pits require minimal upkeep. Occasionally wiping down the surface and ensuring the gas connection is secure is all you’ll need to do to keep your fire pit looking and working like new.
- Easy Ignition: Simply turn a knob or press a button to ignite the fire—no need for kindling or fire-starting techniques. Gas fire pits are ready to use instantly and can be turned off just as easily.
- No Storage Hassle: Since gas fire pits don’t require wood, there’s no need to dedicate space for fuel storage. Depending on the type of gas fire pit you choose, you’ll either connect it to a propane tank or a built-in gas line.
For easy ignition and minimal upkeep, check out our selection of gas fire tables, which offer a sleek, convenient solution for outdoor gatherings.
🔑 Key Takeaway: Gas fire pits are the more convenient option, requiring little maintenance and offering quick, hassle-free ignition. Wood-burning fire pits, while more labour-intensive, provide a nostalgic experience that many find worth the effort.
Safety Considerations
Both wood-burning and gas fire pits are generally safe when used correctly, but each comes with its own set of safety considerations. Depending on where you live, local regulations, climate, and the layout of your outdoor space, one type may be more suitable than the other.
Wood-Burning Fire Pits
- Smoke and Embers: Wood-burning fire pits produce smoke, embers, and ash, all of which can pose potential risks. Embers can fly out of the pit and may ignite nearby items if a proper spark screen isn’t used.
- Local Fire Restrictions: In areas prone to drought or wildfires, wood-burning fire pits may be subject to restrictions or bans during certain times of the year. Always check local fire regulations before lighting a fire.
- Ventilation and Space: Wood-burning fire pits should be placed in large, open areas with plenty of ventilation. They are not suitable for enclosed spaces or areas near overhanging structures or trees.
Gas-Burning Fire Pits
- Controlled Flame: Gas fire pits provide a controlled flame with no risk of flying embers or sparks, making them safer for use in areas where wood-burning fires might be restricted.
- No Smoke or Ash: Because they burn cleanly, gas fire pits don’t produce smoke or ash, reducing air pollution and the need for ventilation.
- Usable in Confined Spaces: Gas fire pits are ideal for smaller spaces like patios and decks, as they don’t emit the same pollutants as wood fires. Just ensure there is proper airflow and a flat, even surface.
🔑 Key Takeaway: Gas fire pits offer a safer, more controlled flame, making them ideal for use in smaller, more confined spaces. Wood-burning fire pits, while perfectly safe with the right precautions, are better suited to larger, open areas.
Experience and Ambiance
The type of fire pit you choose will significantly influence the kind of outdoor experience you create.
Each fire pit style offers a different atmosphere, so it’s important to consider what kind of ambiance you’re aiming to achieve.
The Wood-Burning Experience
- Crackling Flames and Smoky Aroma: For many, the smell of burning wood and the crackling sound of the fire add to the overall experience, providing a rustic, nostalgic atmosphere.
- Great for Cooking: Wood-burning fire pits allow you to cook traditional campfire foods like hot dogs, burgers, and marshmallows. The high heat and natural flames make them ideal for outdoor cooking.
- Larger, Higher Flames: Wood fires tend to produce larger, more intense flames, creating a visually dramatic focal point in your outdoor space.
The Gas-Burning Experience
- Clean, Consistent Flame: Gas fire pits provide a steady, orange flame that’s perfect for socialising. There’s no smoke or ash swirling around, so you can sit close to the fire without the discomfort of changing wind patterns.
- Decorative Design: Many gas fire pits are designed with stylish elements such as lava rocks or glass beads that enhance the aesthetic of your outdoor space. Some models even double as coffee tables or footrests when not in use.
- Perfect for S'mores: While gas fire pits aren’t designed for cooking larger meals, they’re great for roasting marshmallows and making s’mores with the family.
Cost and Installation Considerations
When selecting a fire pit, it’s essential to consider both the upfront costs and long-term investments required for installation and upkeep. Each type of fire pit comes with different financial and practical implications.
Cost of Wood-Burning Fire Pits
- Affordable Upfront: Wood-burning fire pits tend to be less expensive than gas models. A simple wood pit can be installed with minimal costs, and some models are even portable.
- Ongoing Costs: The primary ongoing expense is purchasing firewood. Additionally, wood-burning pits may need occasional repairs due to the wear and tear from high heat and ash buildup.
Cost of Gas-Burning Fire Pits
- Higher Initial Costs: Gas fire pits are generally more expensive, especially if you need to install a gas line. However, once installed, they require less ongoing investment.
- Propane vs. Natural Gas: If you choose a propane-fuelled fire pit, you’ll need to replace the propane tank when it runs out. Natural gas fire pits offer the convenience of never needing to refill but come with higher installation costs.
🔑 Key Takeaway: Wood-burning fire pits are generally more affordable upfront, but gas fire pits, while more expensive to install, offer lower long-term maintenance and operating costs.
Conclusion
Deciding between a wood-burning or gas fire pit ultimately comes down to your personal preferences, space requirements, and lifestyle needs. If you’re seeking a traditional campfire experience with high heat and an outdoor cooking option, a wood-burning fire pit is ideal.
However, if you prioritise convenience, low maintenance, and versatility, a gas fire pit or gas fire table is the perfect solution. Both options provide warmth, ambiance, and a fun place to gather with loved ones, transforming your outdoor space into a cozy retreat.