Installing a natural gas line to a fire pit is a slightly complicated task, but in spite of that, a lot of people still prefer a gas-fueled fire pit because of certain benefits. One of the benefits is less hassles and troubles.
It is easier to operate a gas-fueled fire pit than a wood-fueled one. A gas-fueled fire pit does not require stoking or feeding the flames. It does not use wood, so you won’t need to buy, transport, chop and store logs of wood. You can start a gas fire pit by just flipping a switch.
You can fully control the flame level of your gas fire pit. So, when children and pets are around, you can easily reduce the flame level. You won’t experience any spark while running a gas fire pit.
Generally, gas fire pits are safer than wood-burning fire pits. Gas fire pits burn smoothly, so they don’t produce much smoke, and they don’t leave residue behind. With a gas fire pit, you won’t need any daily cleanup.
With all the benefits listed above, it is not surprising that many homeowners prefer it to other types of fire pits. However, it has a small challenge.
You need to install a gas line to feed it. This is why we came up with this article. So, sit back, relax, and go through the steps involved in the installation of a natural gas line to your fire pit.
Installing a Gas Line to Your Fire Pit:
We must make it clear to you that it is always better to hire a professional for this task for two reasons. First, you must get it right to avoid gas leakage.
We don’t have to remind you of what could happen when your line leaks. Gas is a very flammable substance. Leakages can lead to a serious fire.
Secondly, the chances are very high that you will need the permission of your local authorities for the installation, and you need to follow the gas installation code of your location.
These are the reasons why we think it is better to hire a professional. If you still prefer to go ahead and install it yourself, we wish you good luck. Find the basic installation steps below.
1. Buy the Right Gas Pipes and Fittings
Before you decide on what to buy, you must have determined the route of the line. Chart out the course that it will take from your main supply to the fire pit. This will determine the lengths of the pipes that you will buy.
For domestic use, 1/2-inch to 1 1/2-inch pipes are good enough. You can now choose the most appropriate fittings for your chosen pipes. It might be a good idea to notify the seller of what you need the pipes for. He might be able to guide you in the purchase.
2. Turn off your Gas Source
What you are trying to do is to tap from the gas supply to your house. There’s nothing wrong with the idea. You will only experience an increase in your monthly gas bill.
So, when you get home with the pipes and fittings, turn off the gas supply to your house. It is very easy. Locate the gas meter valve on the side of your house and shut it off.
Are you confused about turning it off? That is simple. When you turn it in a clockwise direction, it is off. Also, when the valve is perpendicular (90 degrees) to the pipe, the gas has been shut off. After that, double check by turning on your gas cooker. There should be no supply.
3. Install a T-Junction Fitting
Disconnect your main house gas pipe at the junction and change the junction fitting to a T-junction fitting. So the supply will be split into two. Then, you can connect the pipes for your fire pit gas line to the T-junction fitting.
4. Run it to your Fire Pit
Run the pipes to your fire pit and connect another fitting to establish a connection between the gas line and fire pit.
5. Test for Leakage
After the installation and connection, you must test for leakages. You have to be sure that your gas line isn’t leaking. Apply a mixture of water and liquid soap to all the seams in your gas line.
If you notice any bubbles on any seam, it means that the seam is leaking. Try and tighten the seam. If the leakage continues, you may need to call an expert.
Precautions and Maintenance Tips for a Gas-Burning Fire Pit:
1. Monitor your Gas Line
Never ignite your fire pit without staying there to monitor it. Also, you should never leave your children and pets alone with the fire pit. Children will always be children. They may throw objects into the fire pit. They may also get too close to it.
2. Clean it Regularly
Although a gas fire pit does not require daily cleaning, it is still important to clean your fire pit at least once a week.
3. Keep it Covered
When your fire pit is not in use, it is necessary to keep it covered to prevent dust or debris from building up inside it. Even after keeping it covered, you should always check for debris before you light it. If any, you can remove it.
Precautions to Take During the Installation of Your Gas Line:
1. Ensure you Chart a Route First
You must determine the route that the gas line will pass from your main supply to the fire pit. If you don’t do that, you may not get the right measurement. Don’t estimate.
2. You must Check for Leakage
Leakage is what makes gas dangerous. So, after the installation of the gas line, you must check for leakage, as explained above. You don’t want to light your fire pit when there’s gas fume all around.
3. Shut off your Main Supply before Installation
You must shut off your main gas supply before you start any installation. We don’t want you to waste your gas during installation.
Conclusion:
With the steps given above, you should be able to install a natural gas line to your fire pit. However, we still need to remind you that it is better to hire an expert. Also, if after the installation, notice that any of the seams are leaking and you can’t fix it, you need to involve a professional.
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