As you embrace a fantastic fall season full of fun activities and time spent around the fire, take the time to learn about these commonly asked questions when it comes to a gas fire feature and its strengths and capabilities as it finds a place in your outdoor room:
How long does a LP tank last?
The science behind a Liquid Propane (LP) tank can be tricky in learning to understand how it works. While it would be easy to strictly define a set amount of time each tank will last when in use, there is no simple answer in addressing the lifetime of a LP tank. There are a few variables that ultimately dictate how long your LP tank will last when enjoying time around the fire.
The first factor in the lifetime of a LP tank is the temperature your region experiences in whatever season you may be in. The humidity and temperature of a particular climate will have an influence on how long the LP tank will last. For example, a significant drop in temperature will cause the LP tank to work harder in pushing out more fuel into your Crystal Fire® Plus burner, ultimately affecting how long the tank will last.
Another variable affecting how many hours a propane-filled tank will last for your gas fire pit table is the level of flame you desire with your collection of beautiful, ambient flames. Having the control panel set to 'high' will burn through a LP tank quicker compared to when the same burner is dialed to 'low'. See below for our chart that outlines the longevity of a tank when considering this variable:
If you hope to be an avid gas fire pit user, one alternative to using a liquid propane tank is to have natural gas be the source of fuel. Natural gas costs less in the long run and removes the need to change out a LP tank once it is empty.
What do I do with my fire pit during winter?
Ready for some good news amidst a shivering season approaching us? Our tables and burners are designed to withstand hard temperatures as they give off some serious heat. If you live in an area where the winter temperatures are cooler, but manageable, you can enjoy the comfort and relaxation of a heart-warming and convenient fire throughout the months of November, December, and January.
As a manufacturer who is headquartered in Minnesota, we understand the need to pack it up and put backyard leisure time on pause until warmer temperatures emerge. If you live in an area where spending time outside requires bundles of jackets and continual hot cocoa to stay warm, we recommend the following in taking care of your gas fire pit for the cold winter:
- Remove any debris (leaves, dirt) from the burner.
- Close gas valve on fire pit base or shut off gas for natural gas.
- Shut off and remove LP tank from base.
- Remove glass guard and store it in your garage or storage room.
- Cover your Crystal Fire® Plus burner with an OGC burner cover.
- Wipe down fire pit top and burner.
- Remove glass gems from burner to clean (this can be done in the winter or spring).
- Cover fire pit table with an OGC protective cover.
We highly recommend purchasing a protective cover to take care of your fire pit bowl or table when not in use. While our products are made to withstand harsh weathers, having extra protection for our gas fire feature is the best way to make it last longer. The durable construction, quality design, and maximum resistance of a protective cover provides extra shelter for your investment.
Where can I use my fire feature?
As you map out your outdoor room in trying to find the perfect spot for your gas fire pit or outdoor fireplace, it's important to consider a few guidelines to ensure safety and ultimate enjoyment as you gather around your unique fire feature. Gas fire tables and outdoor fireplaces made by the OGC are designed to fit in a variety of locations in your backyard. Whether it be a beautiful green lawn, concrete patio space, or wooden deck, your table is safe to operate and ready-to-use as friends and family visit for a night of fun-filled memories.
If you have gazebo space, screened porch, or lanais that makes up your outdoor room, here are a few things to consider when positioning your gas fire table or fireplace:
- A minimum of three walls must be screened and permanently opened. There cannot be windows that close as a part of the screen.
- The screened walls must provide a minimum open area of 30%.
- All appliance ceiling and wall clearances must be met.
- The porch are must be a minimum of 96 square feet.
(NOTE: the unit itself is not UL approved for this application, but there should not be an issue as long as these guidelines are followed)
Another thing to know when choosing the perfect location for your fire pit is the source of fuel you hope to use. While a liquid propane tank will provide a convenience factor of being portable and easily transportable, proper underground construction by a certified technician is required when connecting your Crystal Fire® Plus burner to a natural gas line.
Where you decide to place your fire feature ultimately comes down to the style and design of your gas fire pit. Please refer to your user manual for more information on clearances needed to have a safe distance between your table, ceiling, and surrounding walls.
As a leader in the outdoor living industry, our mission is set on creating the ultimate outdoor experience for you and your family by redefining the experience through innovative products and people. Visit our FAQ page to learn more about how we address common questions asked within the industry and our line of products.
