Propane fire pits are great equipment to complement your camping and campfire activities. With its enhanced features compared to the traditional types, you might want to consider it. Since this kind of equipment is used outdoors, is it safe for it to get wet?
Propane fire pits can get wet if they are exposed outdoors or left under the rain. Although this is not the trouble you should worry about, the after-effects of moisture inside the equipment can result in rust and build-up that can obstruct the function of the fire pit.
In this article, we will discuss what is a propane fire pit, uncover what happens if it gets wet, the common problems you may encounter with it, as well as tips on how to stop the moisture from damaging the fire pit and how to select a fire pit cover.
What Is a Propane Fire Pit?
The fire pits we commonly know are made of bricks. This kind of structure is purposely designed to burn wood or logs to make a fire outdoors. People who own fire pits usually use them for campfires or as a furnace to provide heat when staying outdoors at night. Since burning logs result in smoke, propane fire pits were created.
There is not much difference between a propane and a traditional fire pit as both provide a similar purpose, which is to make fire outdoors. The major advantage you can get for a propane model is that it does not produce smoke. You also don’t need to light the firewood or logs to create fire as it is powered by propane.
Without smoke being released from the burnt wood, there are no hassles and disturbances in your camping experience with your family or friends. Burnt logs are known to leave a lot of debris, which requires cleaning afterward. On the other hand, if you use a propane fire pit, you don’t need to conduct deep cleaning before you can use it again.
Several manufacturers now design their propane fire pits with a log. It’s an appealing feature that can mimic the atmosphere provided when you burn wood in a fire pit. Since it is driven by propane, it requires a propane tank to supply the fire throughout the campfire or cooking session, which requires you to budget separate costs from the fire pit, making this a bit of a disadvantage.
Mosquitoes are annoying, to say the least. Not only because they spread diseases, but also because they ruin a perfect evening outdoor experience with their constant biting. One way of keeping them away is lighting a fire in your fire pit. But the thing is, not all fire pits can keep mosquitos away. Can a propane fire pit keep mosquitos away? Read our article to find out.
Can Outdoor Propane Fire Pits Get Wet?
Generally speaking, propane fire pits can get wet under the rain. However, it is not a problem for this kind of equipment since it is a common occurrence as they are placed outdoors. The main trouble you have to watch out for is the impact of moisture on the inside parts of the propane burner.
If you forgot to cover your propane fire pit under the rain and the water enters it, you just need to conduct proper maintenance to the delicate parts inside the burner. Why do you need to clean the moisture in it? Because water can cause rust build-up and affect the burners, which can impair their function.
We advise you to keep the propane fire pit inside your house, although it is intended to stay outside. The chores you need to do in bringing in and out of this equipment in your house are also inconvenient. The best thing you should consider is to conduct regular maintenance of the equipment, even if you keep it in your house or leave it outdoors.
Common Propane Fire Pit Problems
Before you decide to use your propane fire pit, take note of the common problems you may encounter. This equipment is at risk to several outdoor elements and pests. Knowing these problems can help you determine the appropriate measures to avoid the damages and deterioration of your propane fire pit.
Rust build-up
Propane fire pits are used outdoors and are exposed to several climates and temperatures. This equipment is also vulnerable to season changes, especially in the summer and winter. If you let your fire pit outside at all times, it can develop rust in several parts, which can alter its function.
As for propane fire pits made of stainless steel, although you can ensure they won’t cause rust, beware of its other parts. The burner may be built with stainless steel but various areas of the pit are probably susceptible to rust. Too much moisture can also decline the quality of the burner, where it can result in malfunction.
If the rust dominates the important parts of the propane fire pit, it will cause the equipment to be frail, and worse, break down. Thus, as early as you can, make sure the water and moisture are thoroughly cleaned up.
Ultraviolet rays (UV)
The outside temperatures and climate are not the only enemies of your propane fire pit. The UV rays can also damage its weak parts. This equipment is built with plastics, rubber, paint, and other materials that may not withstand the effects of UV rays.
The mentioned parts of the fire pit can melt or break if placed under the sunlight. Over time, it can fully deteriorate the burner and cause it to not work anymore. You can figure out if your fire pit is starting to deteriorate if its original color is changing or fading.
Pests
Apart from UV rays and rust, you also need to watch out for rodents and insects that can access the small openings of the propane fire pits. Rodents can leave their wastes and urine, which can damage the vulnerable elements inside the equipment.
Rodents can also munch the rubber lines of the propane fire pit, which will result in gas leaks or malfunction to the burners. This leak is flammable and can create an unexpected fire around your place, ultimately burning down your yard. The worst situation is if the fire runs into the electric lines connected to your house.
Insects can also damage the fire pit itself. They can live in the burners if it is left unused and build web or nests that will accumulate inside. This could ultimately congest the essential lines and ports that help produce the fire.
Tips to Stop Moisture from Damaging Your Propane Fire Pit
The main reason for propane fire pits’ moisture is outdoor exposure. You can protect the equipment with coverings or by placing it under covered areas in your yard. The main solution is to prevent the rainwater from entering the fire pit when unused.
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Put a cover on your fire pit
The only reason why rainwater can access the insides of the propane fire pit is that you aren’t covering it. If it is left open and exposed to the rain and different climates with a cover, it can prevent moisture and build-up from developing inside your propane fire pit.
Propane fire pit covers can protect the equipment not only from the water but also from insects and other pests entering it. This type of cover is sold in markets and online stores. We will discuss more of the features of fire pit covers on the next topic.
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Ensure that it is made of sturdy materials
You can’t use a propane fire pit indoors since it is dangerous and can cause a fire. This is why the materials are naturally made for outdoor settings. These are dependable to resist the elements but can wear out due to too much exposure to the factors that can damage them.
When choosing the ideal fire pit for yourself, ask for advice from experts or people who are experienced and know the durable materials. In this way, you can guarantee the fire pit you’re going to buy is strong and can handle the rain, snow, and other climate and weather.
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Stainless steel propane fire pits are recommended
As the word stainless suggests, these contain elements that can prevent rust from developing. The most vulnerable part of a propane fire pit is the burner. That is why you need to take care of it, even if the equipment is made of stainless steel.
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Propane fire pits with drainage are better
When choosing a propane fire pit for your outdoor activities, pick one that contains drainages. This type of fire pit possesses holes that mainly drain the water from the inside. With such, you can prevent moisture in your fire pit and avoid the unnecessary negative impacts to influence the burning ability of the equipment.
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Keep it under a covered place
If your yard features a covered area, we advise you to place the propane fire pit there. Covered areas can prevent the rain from entering the equipment and developing moisture inside of it. Look for a space where you can hide your fire pit, so the outdoor elements won’t completely deteriorate it.
Is your fire pit not generating enough heat? This will be a problem, especially during the colder months. If you want your fire to burn stronger and generate more heat, check out our 5 ways to get more heat from your fire pit.
Tips in Selecting a Fire Pit Cover
In choosing a cover for your fire pit, prioritize the size and features. Make sure the cover will completely secure the equipment and prevent outdoor components from affecting its important parts. In this part of the article, we have observed and enumerated the things you should consider when buying a fire pit cover.
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Choose a large cover
To ensure your propane fire pits will fit, choose a large cover. Your equipment should have a cover that will sleeve the whole part. Unlike those of smaller sizes, it won’t fully protect the fire pit, which allows the outdoor elements to access it. This technique is advisable if you are going to buy the cover from a different brand since it will likely have different shape and size standards.
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Take note of the propane fire pit’s measurements
Before you buy a cover for your fire pit, make sure you get the whole measurements of the equipment. Measure its height, length, and width, and don’t forget to add extensions. For the round area of the fire pit, which is the common shape, measure its diameter. You can also check the coverings first and ask for advice from the manufacturer or seller so they can help you with the measurement process.
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Look for the best fit
Some covers can be used in different shapes of fire pits. For example, round covers can fit small square-shaped fire pits. As long as the cover completely sleeves the equipment, it’s a good option to consider.
Avoid choosing covers that are tight to the equipment. It will deteriorate as you use it frequently. The fabric can result in rips and tears due to the rubbing motion when keeping and taking out the equipment. Instead, you should choose a cover that will fit the fire pit but also has a supplementary space.
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Pick a cover with an open bottom
The vulnerable part of the fire pit cover is the bottom area. That is why we advise you to choose a cover that doesn’t touch the ground or bottom parts of this burning equipment. The bottom fabric of the cover can also absorb the water from the ground, which we don’t want to happen.
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A drawstring cover is ideal
Drawstring covers are some of the best choices to ensure that your fire pit is completely covered and secured. This kind of cover guarantees you prevent insects and pests from entering your fire pit. Other types of covers don’t have these kinds of features, which are also good. But the fact that you can secure it tight makes it not reliable when it comes to protection.
Conclusion
Although propane fire pits are designed to be used outdoors, if they are exposed to the factors that can damage them, they might no longer work and malfunction at any time. Just like any other kind of equipment that is made of metal, fire pits are susceptible to rust, especially when left wet or moist for an extended period of time.
If you have this kind of equipment at home, make sure it is well-protected and don’t leave it soaking from the rain. One way of making sure that your fire pit is protected is getting a cover that is made of good quality materials. With such, you can guarantee your fire pit’s longevity, which allows you to enjoy more of your outdoor activities with it.
