When operating a gas fire pit table you have two options for fuel: natural gas or liquid propane (LP). How do you decide which is the best fit for you and your fire pit? We outline the benefits of both natural gas and liquid propane below so that you can make the most informed decision.
Natural Gas
Natural gas burns cleaner than LP does, meaning there is less potential for soot. However, because the flame is cleaner, it does not burn as bright of a yellow color. Financially, natural gas may be a better choice because it costs less to operate. Natural gas for fire pits is generally hard piped to your home, meaning you'll never run into an issue with running out of LP and being unable to operate your table. If this is a concern, consider using natural gas. Natural gas is also lighter than air and can dissipate quickly which leaves less room for any accidental ignition.
Liquid Propane
If you are looking for a brighter flame that can be seen even during daylight with the sun shining, LP is your best option. There is no set up or installation cost when using LP because there is no need to hire a certified gas installer, which is necessary when using natural gas. With an LP tank you have more freedom to move your fire pit around your backyard because most LP tanks are portable, instead of being connected to a pipe. If you forget to turn off an LP tank, it will eventually run out and shut off when the tank is empty instead of continuing to run until someone shuts it off.
Both natural gas and liquid propane are generally low cost to operate and safe when safety guidelines are followed. When the BTUs on a unit are rated similarly for each fuel, they will both give off the same amount of heat. Whether you are looking for an easier, more convenient set up or a more permanent fixture for your backyard, either natural gas or LP are a great choice.
