How to Use a Fire Pit (Gas and Electronic Ignition): A Complete Guide
Answers to the top questions: what is a fire pit used for, how to use a fire pit, how to light a gas fire pit manually, and when to choose fire pit electronic ignition systems—through the lens of DreamCast quality.
What Is a Fire Pit Used For?
A fire pit adds warmth, ambiance, and a natural gathering point for conversation, dining, and relaxation. For households that entertain—often with kids and pets—a reliable, low‑maintenance flame matters.
DreamCast’s take: Our integrally coloured fiber‑reinforced concrete fire pits resists fading and doesn’t flake, while powerful brass burners deliver a hot, steady, tall flame—ideal for hosting across the seasons.
How to Use a Fire Pit (Safety & Basics)
Before you light up, clear combustibles, verify proper clearances, and follow your model’s installation and operating manual. Supervise flames, and observe local codes. For gas units, ensure fittings are correctly installed and leak‑tested. Let’s break that down below.
Location and clearances
Follow the specific manual for minimum overhead and side clearances. There is no one size fits all. Every fire pit model will have its own requirements.
Fuel and ventilation
No gas burning fire pits can be operated indoors. Propane can not run effectively on a natural gas burner and vice versa. Double check your fuel before ordering!
Ignition
Use the manufacturer’s procedure—manual or electronic—exactly as specified. Rule of thumb is that the more complex the system the more maintenance you must be prepared to do.
Shutdown
Turn gas fully off; let media and components cool before covering. If you have an electronic ignition it is extra important to ensure the unit is covered through rain or snow.
How to Light a manual Gas Fire Pit with flame sense
- Confirm the area is clear; make sure the ignition knob is at OFF or wait several minutes if gas was recently used.
- Set Ignition knob to Pilot, depress the button to introduce fuel; keep face away.
- Insert an approved long‑stem igniter or lighter near the burner port.
- Once lit, adjust flame height using the ignition knob. Never leave the fire unattended.
Always follow your model’s instructions and local code. If ignition fails, turn gas OFF and ventilate before retrying.
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Fire Pit Electronic Ignition How It Works
Electronic ignition lights the burner automatically and often includes flame monitoring with auto re‑light. It’s ideal for home automation, scheduled operation, and commercial settings to wire in an emergency stop and timer.
Pairing electronic ignition with DreamCast’s corrosion‑resistant, rust‑proof burners provides reliable, bright flames with convenience.
Gas Fire Pit Electronic Ignition Systems vs Manual: Which to Choose?
Electronic Ignition
- Remote convenience; supports timers and automation.
- Flame sensing with auto re‑light helps maintain consistent flame.
- Great for high‑use spaces and commercial installations.
Manual Ignition
- Simpler, fewer components.
- Some models with a pilot light offer flame-sensing to operate in windy areas and offer high heat.
- Requires on‑site lighting procedure.
Why DreamCast
(Built to Last)
Quality
Canada‑built by artisans using North American components; most models ETL‑listed; gas components ICC‑tested.
Service
Professional designers via phone, email, chat, or appointment; CAD support and color samples for easy selection.
Durability
High‑performance, fiber‑reinforced concrete that won’t flake or fade.
Reliability
Powerful burners—corrosion‑resistant and rust‑proof—for a steady, tall, bright flame; lifetime burner warranty.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Pits
What is a fire pit used for?
A fire pit creates warmth and ambiance for entertaining and relaxing outdoors. DreamCast designs for year‑round enjoyment with durable materials and reliable flames.
How to use a fire pit?
Follow the manual: verify clearances, check connections, ignite per procedure, supervise, and shut down properly. DreamCast burners are engineered for a tall, bright, consistent flame.
How do you use a fire pit with electronic ignition?
Use the control to start; the system lights gas automatically and typically monitors the flame with auto re‑light. Ideal for frequent use and windy areas.
Gas fire pit electronic ignition systems—when should I choose one?
Choose electronic ignition for convenience, scheduling, and flame monitoring; choose manual for simplicity and lower cost.
How to light a gas fire pit manually?
With gas off, place a long‑stem lighter near the burner, slowly open the gas valve, and ignite—keeping clear of the burner. Always follow your unit’s manual and local codes.
What makes DreamCast firepits different?
Handcrafted in Canada with fiber‑reinforced concrete and corrosion‑resistant, rust‑proof burners; many models are ETL‑listed with ICC‑tested components; lifetime burner warranty—plus design support with CAD and color samples.
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Inspiration
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As a partner at DreamCast, she has been immersed in the decorative concrete industry since 2007, specializing in fire pits & mantels. With a passion for interior design her expertise drives innovative design and exceptional craftsmanship.
Author
Catherine Traschenko
Fire Products
Design Specialist
Author
Catherine Traschenko
Fire Products
Design Specialist
