5 Common Gas Supply Mistakes in Fire Pit Installations & How To Avoid Them
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Adding an outdoor gas fire pit is a great way to enhance your backyard with warmth, ambiance, and an inviting space for gathering. However, even the most impressive fire feature can fail to perform or become dangerous if the gas supply system isn’t designed and installed correctly. At The Mad Hatter, we’ve seen it all, and we know how easy it is for simple mistakes to cause significant issues. Below, we break down five of the most common gas supply mistakes made during fire pit installations and guide you on how to avoid them by working with qualified professionals.
1. Undersized Gas Supply Lines
One of the most frequent issues is using gas lines that are too small for the fire pit’s required BTU (British Thermal Unit) output. This often happens when long distances are involved or when the installer taps into an existing line that wasn’t built to support an outdoor fire feature.
When the gas line is too narrow, it can’t deliver enough fuel to the burner. This results in weak flames, noisy operation, or frequent flameouts. Inconsistent or disappointing performance is often a sign that the gas line diameter doesn’t match the system’s needs.
How To Avoid It
Proper planning begins with calculating the fire pit’s total BTU requirement and matching it to the correct line size, taking into account the pipe material, gas type, and length of the run. A “one-size-fits-all” approach won’t work here. When unsure, it’s always better to overestimate and go with a larger line size. At The Mad Hatter, we utilize professional-grade gas sizing charts and conduct thorough planning before any installation begins, ensuring optimal performance from the outset.
2. Using a Standard 20lb Propane Tank for a High-BTU Fire Pit
It’s tempting to power your fire pit with a standard 20lb propane tank, the kind used for barbecue grills, but for large fire pits, this approach falls short. These smaller tanks simply can’t vaporize propane quickly enough to keep up with the demands of a high-BTU burner, especially in cooler weather.
The result? Flame drop-off, sputtering performance, or complete failure to stay lit after ignition. Basically, not enough fuel for the fire.
How To Avoid It
If your fire feature exceeds 65,000 BTUs, it’s time to upgrade. Larger ASME-rated propane tanks, such as 100lb tanks or permanently installed tanks, offer better performance and more consistent pressure. Proper regulation is also key. The Mad Hatter can help you select the ideal fuel source and install the necessary regulators to ensure safe and reliable performance, regardless of the season or setup.
3. Incorrect Gas Pressure or Missing Regulators
Your fire pit is designed to run within a specific pressure range. Too much gas pressure can damage the burner or create an unsafe flame. Too little pressure can lead to a failure to ignite or a weak, unsatisfying flame. Many electronic ignition systems are susceptible to pressure inconsistencies.
How To Avoid It
Every gas-burning appliance should have a properly rated regulator that matches its specifications. For example, natural gas fire pits typically require 6″–7″ WC (water column) of inlet pressure, while propane units may require 10″–11″ WC. These minor differences make a significant impact. Our technicians at The Mad Hatter ensure that every component, from the regulator to the burner, is installed to spec and pressure-tested for accuracy before operation.
4. Ignoring Local Codes and Permitting Requirements
Homeowners or unlicensed contractors sometimes overlook the need for permits or fail to comply with local building and gas codes. Skipping these steps not only violates regulations but also creates liability issues and increases the risk of fire or injury.
How To Avoid It
Always check local requirements before installing a fire feature. That includes confirming which materials are allowed, whether shutoff valves must be installed, and how far from structures or trees the fire pit must be placed. As licensed professionals, The Mad Hatter handles all permitting and ensures your fire pit complies with local code for safety, function, and peace of mind.
5. Failing to Pressure Test the Gas Line Before Startup
Neglecting to pressure test the gas line or using improper methods can result in undetected leaks. Gas leaks are a serious hazard that can lead to equipment damage, fire, or explosion.
How To Avoid It
Before connecting any fire pit to the gas line, the line should be pressure-tested using a gauge or manometer that follows national fuel gas codes or local building standards. The Mad Hatter adheres to industry best practices, ensuring that every gas line is thoroughly tested and verified before operation.
The Mad Hatter Can Professionally Install Your Fire Pit
Designing a beautiful fire pit is only half the job. The other half, and arguably the most important, is ensuring that the gas supply system is sized correctly, regulated, installed, and tested. At The Mad Hatter, our certified technicians bring years of experience in fire pit installation and gas line configuration. Whether you’re upgrading your backyard or building a new outdoor space, we’ll help you avoid common mistakes and enjoy a flawless fire feature that lasts.
Ready to install your outdoor fire pit? Contact The Mad Hatter today to schedule a consultation and let us bring your outdoor vision to life.