How do you choose the fire pit that's right for your home? Our team sees new styles every year, and we compiled this advice on what to consider before you buy. Here are the questions to ask yourself while you shop for fire pits.

  • Where will I use this fire pit?
  • How will I store it?
  • Does it need to move?
  • Will it be used for cooking?

 

How large of a fire pit should I buy?

Consider a fire pit with at least a 30" diameter for small backyard gatherings, especially if you plan to center activities around the fire. Miniature fire pits, especially tabletop fire pits, can also work well as decorative accents. We regularly see fire pits measuring 20-30" at the cheapest prices.

Looking for something to use for warmth instead of s'mores? Consider a fire table. These outdoor heaters usually connect to propane tanks and provide ongoing heat with minimal maintenance. You can buy fire tables individually or as part of a patio set.

Do I need a cover for my fire pit?

Many fire pits come with their own covers and screens, but you'll want to verify that's the case with your chosen style before you order. Even "weather-resistant" styles require moderate care. Prolong the life of your fire pit by waiting for it to cool, clearing out the ash, and covering it between uses.

What is a smokeless fire pit?

We see new ads for smokeless fire pits every season. They advertise a more pleasant backyard experience by eliminating unwanted smoke. They work by guiding heated air up the sides of a double-walled fire pit and creating a second burn near the top.

 

Are they worth it? That depends! We often see smokeless fire pits selling for four or five times the price of a regular fire pit. If you value the trendy "smokeless" feature, then it might be worth consideration.

How much is a built-in fire pit?

Of course, you can always build your own fire pit. These work best when you want to build out a fancy patio and have the budget for proper materials. Hiring a contractor to build a backyard fire pit adds significant cost. Expect to pay $2,500-$5,000 for a professional built-in model, unless you want something more like an outdoor pizza oven. Prices for chimney models cost extra.

Can I use my fire pit for cooking?

If you plan to use your fire pit for cooking, choose a style with a cooking grate. Cooking over in-ground fire pits means you'll need a hanging grate, sold in the camping section of outdoor stores. Many portable metal fire pits come with removable cooking grates. For the best value, consider a style that adjusts for different cooking heights.

The experts at Brad's Deals always keep an eye out for the best deals on fire pits. Looking for more discounts on backyard upgrades? Check out the free Brad's Deals app for immediate access to all the best deals online.

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