Fire Pit Buying Guides, Help & How-To Advice

LPG Gas Bottle Advice

LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) is the most common fuel used for UK gas fire pits, offering reliable performance and consistent heat output all year round. Most fire pits run on propane patio gas, typically supplied in 5kg, 10kg or 13kg bottles. For regular use, a 13kg bottle is the most practical option, providing longer burn times and fewer refills.

Always store gas bottles upright, in a well-ventilated outdoor area, and away from direct heat sources. When connecting a bottle, ensure the regulator is fitted securely and check for leaks using a simple soapy water test. Never use damaged hoses or regulators.

Choosing the correct bottle size and handling it safely ensures your fire pit operates efficiently, safely and without interruption — so you can enjoy your outdoor space with complete peace of mind.

Maintaining and Servicing Your Elementi Fire Pit

Elementi fire pits are designed for minimal maintenance, but regular checks will keep them performing at their best. Before each season, inspect the gas hose, regulator and connections for signs of wear or damage. A quick leak test with soapy water is recommended whenever you reconnect a gas bottle.

Keep the burner ports clear of debris, leaves or insects to maintain an even flame. Wipe down surfaces with a soft cloth and mild cleaner — avoid abrasive chemicals that may damage the finish. When the weather is harsh always protect your fire pit with the provided weatherproof cover. However if there is no rain you can leave the cover off. 

Routine care takes only a few minutes but significantly extends the life of your Elementi fire pit, ensuring safe operation and a beautiful flame year after year.

What Are BTUs?

BTU stands for British Thermal Unit and is the measurement used to indicate how much heat a gas fire pit produces. The higher the BTU rating, the more heat the fire pit can generate. Most quality gas fire pits range between 40,000 and 60,000 BTUs, which is ideal for UK gardens and seating areas.

A higher BTU fire pit is better suited to larger outdoor spaces or open, windy environments, while lower BTU models work well in compact patios. Adjustable flame controls allow you to manage heat output and gas consumption easily.

Understanding BTUs helps you choose a fire pit that delivers the right balance of warmth, efficiency and comfort for your outdoor living area.

Choosing the Right Fire Pit

Choosing the right fire pit depends on how you plan to use your outdoor space. Gas fire pits are ideal for convenience, clean burning and easy operation, while wood fire pits offer a traditional look but require more maintenance.

Consider your garden size, seating layout and how often you’ll use the fire pit. Larger spaces benefit from higher BTU outputs, while smaller patios suit compact designs. Style matters too, fire pit tables double as furniture, while stand-alone bowls make a design statement.

Fuel type, safety features and long-term running costs should all factor into your decision. A well-chosen fire pit becomes a centrepiece you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Want to Get Rid of the Gas Bottle?

If you’d prefer not to store or hide an LPG bottle, converting your fire pit to natural gas could be the ideal solution. Natural gas provides an unlimited fuel supply, meaning no refills, no bottle storage and consistent performance.

Not all fire pits are suitable for conversion, so always check manufacturer guidelines. Conversion must be carried out using a certified gas conversion kit and installed by a Gas Safe registered engineer.

Once connected, natural gas fire pits offer maximum convenience and a clean, uninterrupted flame — perfect for frequent use and permanent outdoor setups.

Besides this option, you can no longer ‘get rid’ of the gas bottle, it will be hiding it.

Converting a Gas Fire Pit to Natural Gas

Converting a gas fire pit to natural gas is only possible if the manufacturer offers a certified conversion kit for your model. These kits adjust the burner and gas flow to safely operate on mains gas.

Installation must always be completed by a Gas Safe registered engineer to ensure safety and compliance with UK regulations. Attempting a DIY conversion can be dangerous and may void warranties.

Once converted, your fire pit benefits from unlimited fuel, lower running costs and no gas bottle handling — making it a popular upgrade for permanent garden installations.

Delivery to Installation: What to Expect

From delivery to first ignition, setting up a gas fire pit is usually quick and straightforward. Most LPG models arrive almost fully assembled — simply position the fire pit, connect the gas bottle, perform a safety check and ignite.

Delivery times vary by model, but most fire pits are ready to use within minutes of unpacking. For natural gas installations, a Gas Safe engineer will be required to connect the unit to your supply.

Clear guidance, simple setup and professional installation options ensure your fire pit is ready to enjoy with minimal effort and maximum peace of mind.