A backyard fire pit can be a great addition to any home because not only does it provide a place for cozy gatherings and relaxation, but it can also be a fun and exciting way to spend an evening with friends or family.

However, before you rush out to purchase your very own fire pit, there are some important things you need to know. To ensure the safe installation and use of your fire pit, follow these seven tips.

Do your research

Before you even think about buying a fire pit, it’s important to do your research and make sure that having one is allowed in your area. Some places have restrictions on outdoor fires, so be sure to check with your local municipality first.

You should also inspect if you have enough space, are the installations are up to code, and if you have any trees or other structures that may be a fire hazard close to where you want to put your fire pit.

Types of fire pits

Next, it’s a good idea to read up on the different types of fire pits that are available so that you can choose the best one for your needs.  The most common options are wood, charcoal, or gas, but each comes with its own set of pros and cons. For example, wood-burning pits are generally the cheapest option, but they require more work to get going and produce more smoke.

On the other hand, fire pits that use gas/propane, such as propane or natural gas, are very easy to start and produce much less smoke. According to the Outdoor Fire Pit Ideas, if you live in an urban area and are worried about smoke bothering your neighbors, a gas fire pit is the way to go. However, you need to secure safe, stable, and updated plumbing to support a gas fire pit, which is one of the most important things with these types of pits.

Installation

Once you’ve chosen the perfect fire pit for your needs, it’s time to focus on installation. This is something you want to get right the first time because an incorrectly installed fire pit can be extremely dangerous.

If you’re not confident in your ability to install the fire pit yourself, it’s always best to hire a professional. Otherwise, make sure you follow the instructions that come with your fire pit to the letter. If you install a gas/propane fire pit, it’s also important to have your pit regularly serviced and inspected by a professional to ensure that everything is in good working order.

You need to make sure that the pit is the correct size. It should be big enough to contain the fire but not so big that it’s difficult to control.

Choose the right location

When it comes to picking the perfect spot for your fire pit, there are a few things you need to take into consideration. For one, you want to make sure that the location you choose is at least 10 feet away from any structures or flammable materials.

You also want to make sure that the spot you choose is level so that your fire pit doesn’t tip over, and you need to ensure there is good ventilation so that the smoke can dissipate properly.  And finally, if you have kids or pets, you’ll want to make sure that the fire pit is in a place where they can’t get too close and accidentally hurt themselves.

Prepare the area

Once you’ve chosen the perfect location for your fire pit, it’s time to prepare the area. This involves clearing away any debris, such as dead leaves or twigs, and making sure the ground is level. You should also create a designated fire pit area using bricks, stones, or another type of non-flammable material to contain the fire and prevent any accidents.

On the other hand, if you’re using a gas/propane fire pit, you don’t need to worry about preparing the area as much since these types of pits are usually self-contained, however, you will still need to make sure the area is level.

Additionally, it’s a good idea to have a fire extinguisher on hand, just in case, and to make sure everyone who is going to be using the fire pit knows how to use it.

Plumbing and gas lines

If you’re using a gas/propane fire pit, then you need to make sure that the installation is done correctly by a professional. This means that they will need to run a gas line from your house to the fire pit so that you have a safe and reliable way to fuel it.

If you're DIYing the project, you can find step-by-step instructions on how to run a gas line to a fire pit on reliable and safe websites, and by asking experts.

Make sure that you have all the needed pipes, fittings, and other materials before starting the installation so that you don’t have to stop in the middle and run to the store. This will help to avoid any accidents.

Lighting the fire

Now that your fire pit is installed and ready to go, it’s time to light the fire! If you’re using a wood-burning fire pit, then you can use any type of wood, however, it’s best to avoid treated wood since it can release harmful chemicals into the air when it burns.

You can also use charcoal if you want, but make sure that you only use self-lighting charcoal so that you don’t have to use any type of lighter fluid, which can be dangerous.

If you’re using a gas/propane fire pit, then you need to make sure that the gas is turned off before you light the fire. Once the fire is lit, you can then turn on the gas and enjoy your new backyard addition!

Now that you know how to install a backyard fire pit safely and properly, it’s time to get started on your project! By following the seven tips provided, you can ensure that your fire pit is installed correctly and safely so that you can enjoy hours of relaxation this summer.

And don't forget to have a fire extinguisher on hand just in case and to contact the professionals if needed!