Fire Pit Enclosures And Installation
As you’re making a decision for the perfect fire pit insert, don’t forget about your enclosure. You’ll want an enclosure to complement the layout of your backyard and the style of your fire pit insert.
First, decide if you want an in-ground fire feature to blend in with your landscaping or something more traditional. Your decision will depend on local building codes, your fuel selection, and your skillset to carry out a proper installation.
- Constructing wall out of brick and mortar
If you consider yourself somewhat handy, there are several above-ground fire pit enclosures that don’t need too much skill or labor. If you’re unsure of your abilities, chances are you lack the skills needed to carry out this mission. Remember, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Improperly installed fire pits pose several safety risks.
When To Hire a Professional
Those of you looking for a more elaborate, custom fire feature will need to hire an experienced contractor. Also, plan for some hefty expenses. Custom designs are generally more complex to construct and often rely on the expertise of two or more professionals.
When searching for the right person for the job, we highly recommend you get credible references from previous clients. You also want to review a portfolio of their work. Refrain from signing any contracts before evaluating credentials and learning about liability coverage. To ensure your project is done the right way, eFireplaceStore.com has compiled .
Fire Pit Ignition Systems & Controls
Fire pit inserts have three main ignition systems. These are match-light, push-button ignition, and electronic ignition. Match-lit applies to both wood-burning and gas fire pit inserts since both types need a flame to ignite the fire pit. The primary difference between the two is that gas fire pit inserts use gas for combustion as opposed to kindling and wood logs.
Match Lit
- Hearth Products Controls match lit ignition
You simply use a good old gas valve and a turnkey to turn on the gas and light it with a match or lighter. To turn it off, twist the gas valve to the off position.
Push-Button
The push-button ignition system is also called a spark-ignition or flame sense ignition. It requires less work to ignite the flames of your fire pit. All you have to do is turn the gas knob to the “On” position and push the ignition button. From there, the system will send spark signals to the thermocouple until it lights the gas pilot.
- Hearth Products Controls push-button ignition
Once the gas pilot is lit, the unit senses the flame and ignites the streams of gas throughout the burner. If the pilot flame goes out, the gas stops flowing and the fire pit shuts off on its own
The best part about push-button fire pit inserts is that there is no need for a match or lighter. These models have a built-in auto-spark switch. But of course, technological advances don’t end here. There is yet a grandfather of all fire pit ignition systems – the electronic ignition.
Electronic Ignition
The Only Fire Pit Ring Insert Buyers Guide Youll Ever Need
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Building a backyard fire pit on your own can be fun and exciting, but picking the right materials for the job is likely the most critical decision you’ll make when planning. One item, in particular, you may not want to leave out, or skimp on, is a fire pit ring insert, that is if you want your new stone fire pit to last.
Fire pit ring inserts come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and levels of quality. In many cases, unique features that make an outdoor fire pit more versatile and/or perform better.
With fire pit ring inserts only available in a finite number of shape and size combinations, the size of the stone fire pit you plan to build is going to be limited by this number. You can get custom sizes made to your spec but plan on paying a lot more to have it made than buying one off the shelf or online.
If you can’t find the fire pit ring insert size you want through traditional retail channels or don’t have a vendor nearby that will make one to your liking custom, there is an online one you might consider which I’ll talk about later in the article.
For this article, I’m going to cover three specific brands and the fire ring inserts which were selected because they are what I consider the best value for the money.
As I wrote in a prior article Do You Need a Fire Ring for a Fire Pit? there is generally not a whole lot of difference in price from one fire pit ring insert model to the next, however, there is a wide swing in quality and durability.
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Selecting A Fire Pit Insert And Burner Style
There is a large variety of burner shapes and sizes available for each type of fire pit insert. It boils down to your preferred flame pattern and the look that you’re going for in your fire feature.
Let’s start by examining eight different burner shapes and the flame patterns each of them produces. Please note that most manufacturers offer customization options for customers, too. So, it is possible to buy specific burner shapes and sizes. Featured below is a list of common shapes and sizes that are mass-produced and readily available.
- Round Burner – The round burner shape is one of the first fire pit burner designs. It produces a more centralized flame pattern that has the appearance of a torch, depending on the size of the burner. These tend to work well in bowl-like enclosures or enclosures situated in containers around water features. These are also good options for round, above-ground fire pits in a back patio. They range in size from 12 inches up to 54 inches in size.
- Hearth Products Controls custom round fire pit insert
- Hearth Products Controls lit custom H-burner
- Hearth Products Controls custom rectangular fire pit insert
How Much Does A Fire Ring Insert Cost
Generally speaking, the fire pit ring insert price range is between $50 and $250 depending on size and quality. There are fire ring inserts that are somewhat far out of this range. With that said, the extra price paid brings more options and much better performance.
I’ve included a fire pit ring insert in this range among the three I’ll talk about in detail below. As I mentioned earlier, there’s not a whole lot of difference price-wise for the majority of inserts. However, spending a little more can make the difference between a nice insert and junk at the bottom of the range.
Take a minute to check out what’s out there before you jump in and buy. A few more dollars may make all the difference. You’ll see what I mean as we go on.
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Round Bowl Type Pan Specifications
- Pan is 2-3/8″ deep w/ 1-3/8″ lip
- This style of pan is the most popular available from the small 13″ model to the large 43″ version.
Model # / Description / BTUPENTA13 MLFPK-FLEX13 Pan, 12 Penta Burner, 36 Flex Line, 65k BtuPENTA19 MLFPK-FLEX19 Pan, 12 Penta Burner, 36 Flex Line, 65k BtuPENTA25 MLFPK-FLEX25 Pan, 18 Penta Burner, 36 Flex Line, 65k BtuPENTA31 MLFPK-FLEX31 Pan, 18 Penta Burner, 36 Flex Line, 65k Btu
Ensure Your Fire Pit Stays Operating At Max Efficiency
Control Valves
Ensure the gas flow in your fire pit continues to operate correctly. Find the replacement control valve for your fire pit here.
Control Modules & Parts
Electronic ignition fire pit kits are more complex than a standard manual ignition, but our selection of control modules will keep your fire pit igniting as intended.
Pilot Assemblies & Parts
Having issues with your fire pit’s pilot light? Not to worry. We offer a full selection of replacement pilot assemblies and associated parts.
Transformers
Installing an electronic ignition fire pit kit isn’t always as simple as “plug-and-play.” These transformers will ensure your fire pit receives the correct power supply for your DIY installation.
Thermocouples & Thermopiles
Looking for a replacement part for your safety pilot kit? Our full selection of thermocouples and thermopiles will keep your ignition system operating at the push of a button.
Power Supplies
You obviously can’t run an electric fire pit ignition system without the proper power supply. Find the right parts for your unit here.
Fire and Water Parts
Fire and water systems look unique but require special parts to operate correctly. Ensure you have everything you need to keep your unit operating at full capacity.
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How Are Fire Pit Inserts Configured
Just as fire pit burners come in various shapes and sizes, so do the burner pans that are often attached to them. As mentioned before, all fire pit inserts come fully assembled with all the component parts needed for operation. To accommodate the various customization options, burner pans are configured in different ways.
It depends on the type of enclosure used to encase the fire pit insert and the type of decorative media a person chooses to use.
Given the number of fire feature options available, fire pit burner pans, if attached to the burner, come configured in two ways. They are either flat with welded gas fittings on the surface or recessed with a raised burner, a media retaining wall, and a pan lip surround for secure installation. Both options are made from premium, commercial-grade materials for long-lasting operation. Most are engineered for the greatest water protection.
Common Materials Used To Construct Fire Pit Inserts
- Black Steel – Made from ungalvanized steel, this low maintenance durable material gets its name from the darkened iron oxide coating covering its surface. It’s frequently used to protect electrical wiring and to transport water, steam, air, and gas in both urban and rural areas.
- Hearth Products Controls round black steel fire pit insert
- Hearth Products Controls round flat fire pit insert with penta burner
Does A Fire Pit Need A Ring Insert
The straight answer to this question is no. With that said, if you want to spend the time and money to prep the fire pit site, buy the materials, build the fire pit, and everything else that’s involved AND you want it to last and look good for years to come, you’ve got to have a fire pit ring.
If you like or don’t mind the rustic, dirty, crumbling stone fire pit look, then you don’t need a fire pit ring insert.
Fire pits can generate temps of over 1000 degrees Fahrenheit and that level of heat will break down the masonry structure and what holds it together over time in much less time if you are a regular fire pit user.
It’s generally a pretty small investment on the front end of your fire pit build and will give you a fire pit you’ll be proud of for years to come as well as keeping the costs of maintaining your outdoor living space low.
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In Closing: Buying A Fire Ring Insert
If you are looking to preserve your fire pit investment for the long term a fire pit ring insert is a smart addition to your project.
You don’t have to spend a fortune to get the benefits a fire ring provides to the structure and looks of your fire pit.
If you opt for a fire ring on the lower end of the scale, you can always replace it for not a whole lot of money when it starts showing its age.
Remember though, for a little more money, there are fire rings that may outlive your fire pit in the end.
If you are having a masonry wood-burning fire pit built for you, chances are your contractor will include a fire ring in the estimate or they may offer it as an option.
For those who want the project done professionally, including a fire pit ring insert should be a no-brainer to keep the fire pit looking good and working well for a long time.
To DIY’ers do your homework and decide what’s best for you, your plans, and your wallet. You’ve got a wide selection of fire pit inserts to choose from at a number of sizes, capabilities, quality levels, and price points.
There’s one out there to do the job for your specific needs, you just have to find it.
Consult with your fire pit builder, local fire pit specialty store, or home and garden center for additional guidance on which way to go.
For more on the subject of fire ring inserts, see my article Do You Need a Fire Ring for a Fire Pit?
Thanks for reading and good luck!
John
Why To Restore A Fire Pit Ash Pan
We had a square fire pit purchased at Lowes about three years ago.
Only $20 piece of stainless steel was in the budget when we decided to try to prolong the life of our ash pan by just replacing some of the metal.
It is a heck of a better deal than spending the $150 to replace the fire pit.
Here is what we learned along the way, you cant find replacement ash pans. I think the fire pit manufacturers are in cahoots making the ash pans wear out quickly so that you have to get a new fire pit every few years.
Well, my husband decided to find a way to keep our current fire pit and just replace some of the metal.
This part is really funny because he is always on my case about letting it go and just buying a new one. After all, he is the one who convinced me to spend over $300 for new cushions for our outdoor furniture.
This time it was me that was trying to talk him into just buying a new fire pit. I was convinced this was going to be an epic fail. But my husband proved me wrong!
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What Are Fire Pit Inserts
A fire pit insert has all of the components of a standard fire pit except the enclosure. The fire pit insert is inserted into an existing surround to replace defective parts or if you want to upgrade your current fire pit system.
Fire pit inserts differ from other fire pits they give you a lot more versatility in terms of placement and installation. Although fire pit inserts are easier to install than traditional wood burning fire pits or gas fire pit tables, they still require expert knowledge. Some contractors will incorporate them into water features or decorative landscape projects. A fire pit insert is usually less expensive than a whole fire pit because it does not require enclosure materials.
Fire Pit Inserts come in different forms, which include:
- Fire pit bowl inserts
- Table gas fire pit inserts
- Outdoor electric fire pit inserts
- Propane fire pit inserts
When To Consider A Fire Bowl
Fire bowls are an excellent solution if you would like to enjoy a fire pit without having to build one yourself. You can also choose the style and size to suit the space that you have. It’s also a quick way to add multiple fire features to enliven a pool area or large outdoor space.
Is a fire bowl right for you? Here are some advantages:
- Fully assembled
- Designed to allow for water drainage
- Has built-in storage space option for propane tank
- Both wood-burning and gas-burning models available
- Advanced control options including BlueTooth or remotes for some gas models
There are also some possible disadvantages to consider:
- Limited heat output if used in larger spaces
- More expensive than a standard DIY fire pit
- Can only customize with decorative media accessories
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Titan Fire Pit Ring Inserts
Titan fire ring inserts are made by Titan Outdoors, a Collier, Tennessee-based producer of outdoors and fitness products, and the only fire pit ring producer in this article that is not exclusively in the fire pit business.
- Available sizes: Titan fire ring inserts come in 38 and 46 in. diameters each with a depth of 10 inches
- Features: 19 gauge carbon steel is used for the ring cylinder, and 16 gauge is used for the rim/flange high-temp/corrosion resistant coating comes in four sections to be assembled
- Warranty: 1 year against defects in material and workmanship
Bottom line:
- Solid entry at the low end of the fire pit ring market
- Sizes offered larger, on average than most of the market
- Good value in the $100 range for the 38 in. model and the $150 range for the 46 in. model
- 1-year warranty against material/workmanship defects
Not a fan of fire rings that come in multiple pieces the holes for hardware don’t always line up and when it finally gets together you often have larger than normal gaps on the seams where the pieces come together.
Once the fire pit ring insert is fully assembled, you often get some torquing from ill-fitting shapes working against each other. As a result, the fire ring doesn’t fit flush with the top of the fire pit all the way around.
I’m not saying all of this is the case here but it’s common in mass-produced fire rings that come in pieces.
Alsocheck Out Etsy For A Fire Pit Insertyes Etsy
I haven’t found many vendors on this site yet that make custom-sized fire rings for sale but there are so many size options available you should be able to easily find a size that would fit into the fire pit design you have in mind.
Check out Etsy sellers HigleyWelding and SimondStore for most fire ring insert size and shape needs.
If the sizes they offer don’t work for you, some fabricators will make a custom fire pit ring insert for you. Just go to the shop on Etsy and check out their options and/or message the owner through the Etsy messaging link located at the top left of the seller’s page.
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