Using Your Gas Fire Pit: What You Need to Know Today’s homeowners seem to be just as focused on outdoor entertaining as they are indoor entertaining. Expansive and elaborate decks, patios, and even outdoor kitchens can take any backyard to the next level. And there’s nothing quite like a fireplace or fire pit to encourage a cozy gathering with friends, family, and loved ones. Many homeowners are adding gas fire pits to their outdoor entertaining spaces because they’re easy to maintain, customizable, and absolutely beautiful (especially when made with quality stone products like Liberty Hill granite slabs). Still, some work goes into caring for a gas fire pit; by informing your clients on these important maintenance aspects, you can help them enjoy their new gas fire pits for many years to come. Increase Temperatures Gradually Perhaps the best advice you can give to a client with a newly installed gas fire pit is to always increase temperatures gradually when using the fire pit itself—especially during times of very cold temperatures. The reason for this is that cranking up a gas fire pit to its highest temperature right away can be harsh on the stone around the fire pit itself. Even natural stone (such as granite) can crack under significant temperature changes within a short period of time. It’s best to play it safe and increase temperatures gradually instead. By allowing the fire pit to warm up slowly before increasing temperatures further, the stone has time to acclimate to the environment. Clean and Remove Debris as Needed Occasionally, a gas fire pit may need to be cleaned. One of the great things about choosing a gas fire pit over a wood-burning fire pit, of course, is avoiding the accumulation of ash and soot. Still, gas fire pits can wind up covered in dirt and other debris over time. Before cleaning a gas fire pit, it’s essential to shut off the gas supply or remove the propane tank that feeds the fire pit itself. From there, a simple solution of soap and water is generally best to clean burner pans, tabletops, vents, and other accessories. This is also a good time to sweep away any rocks, leaves, or other debris from vents and other parts of the fire pit. Invest in a Quality Cover The best way to avoid further accumulation of debris when a gas fire pit is not in use is to invest in a quality cover that will protect it from exposure to the elements. There are many types of covers available, ranging from vinyl and canvas to stainless steel. Clients should be encouraged to invest in a fire pit cover and to always place it over the top when it is not in use; before putting the cover on, the fire put should have a chance to cool down. Outdoor Fire Pits and More from Connecticut Stone By providing your clients with these fundamental care and maintenance tips for outdoor fire pits, you can help them enjoy them for years to come. And remember, when you need the highest quality stone products for your clients’ outdoor fire pit designs, fireplace designs, and more—Connecticut Stone has you covered. Contact us today to learn more about our quality stone offerings or to schedule a consultation for your client’s next project.
