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When those crisp leaves fall to the ground, and the weather gets cooler, fire pit season is officially here! There are many different fire pits out there (wood, natural, and gel fire pits), but propane fire pits are one of the quickest ways to start a fire. Propane fire pits are also one of the more expensive ones to buy.
However, there are ways to make it cost-effective by reusing a steel fire pit and transforming it to be fueled by propane. With that in mind, learn how to make a propane fire pit!
From a drill bit to lava glass
Image credits: knelson20 via Shutterstock
Whether you already have a steel fire pit or bought a new one, transform it into a propane fire pit with a few tools and materials.
| Materials | Tools |
| Pre-existing or new steel fire pit base | Circular drill bit |
| Lava glass | Quick release drill bit |
| Igniter kit | Tape Measure |
| Air mixer valve for propane (optional) | |
| Propane hose (make sure the length is long enough for your project). | |
| Five-way pipe fitting | |
| Five-way pipe caps | |
| A can of high-heat spray paint | |
| ½ to ⅜ inch reducer | |
| ½ inch FIP ball valve |
High-Heat Spray Is Needed Before Assembling
Resist color fading with high-heat spray
Image credits: Bravomike1969 via Shutterstock
Before starting the project, spray a layer of high-heat spray on all parts of the fire pit. The spray protects the pit's paint and surface. Even if you already have a coated fire pit, a fresh coat of high-heat spray is beneficial.
There are a few different kinds of high-heat sprays on the market; however, select one based on temperature range. Be sure to double-check the highest temperature the spray allows before buying. Look for sprays that withstand at least 1,200 degrees Fahrenheit.
Once you spray your pit, move on to the next step.
Assemble the Burner
The burner is where the flames will release
Image credits:Kristen Prahlvia Shutterstock
Connect each iron pipe to an open fitting using a five-way pipe fitting (or a five-way connector). Secure the pipes by adding caps to each one. For a cleaner flame, you can also add an air mixer. The air mixer adds extra oxygen to the flame to make the gas burn cleaner. Attach it to the pipe that connects to the propane hose.
Once the pipes are capped and lodged in the five-way pipe fitting, move on to the next step.
Drill a Hole in the Pit to Connect Your Burner
The propane hose goes through the hole to fit into the burner
Image credits:J.J. Gouinvia Shutterstock
With your burner in hand, it's time to make sure it fits nicely in your fire pit. Using your tape measure, place the burner in the center of your fire pit base. Measure each side to ensure equal distance, and use a marker to circle where to drill the hole in the center.
Use a circular drill bit to drill a hole in the center of the base. Place your burner in the hole to determine it's a perfect fit before moving on to the next step.
Drill Holes Throughout the Burner for the Flame to Release
Without drilled holes, the gas has nowhere to release
Image credits:evkazvia Shutterstock
Using a quick-release drill bit, drill holes throughout the pipes attached to the five-way pipe fitting. These holes release the gas, which ignites the flame. The number of holes is entirely up to you and dependent on how big or small you want your flame. More holes spread throughout the burner creates a larger, wider flame. Fewer holes close together create a slimmer flame.
If you want holes that are equally dispersed, lay a few pieces of electrical tape on each pipe and mark where you want to drill. Leave the tape on when you drill your holes so no markings are left behind. Take off when you're done.
Test Out Your Fire Pit
The flame should run through each pipe seamlessly
Image credits: Kristen Prahl via Shutterstock
Before you attach your burner to the fire pit, make sure the burner works on its own. Placing the burner in a safe area that doesn't have anything that can catch fire, stand it on its side, and attach it to the propane hose.
When you release the propane nozzle, the gas should run through each pipe, and a flame should release from the holes you drilled. Knowing the flames release properly, you can move to the final step in assembling your fire pit.
Assemble and Decorate Your Pit
Light that fire and get cozy!
Image credits:N. Mitchellvia Shutterstock
Elevate your burner inside the fire pit by placing it on a small frame. A frame allows lava rocks to fit under the burner, creating a more polished look for a DIY project.
The propane hose will fit into the burner under the fire pit. Keep the propane tank out of sight by running a longer propane line to the house. When that's done, go ahead and add some colorful lava rocks or lava glass for a nice aesthetic.
Because propane fire pits are one of the more expensive fire pits to choose from, it's beneficial that you can make one for less in your own backyard. With a few materials and a new or used steel fire pit, you can have the fire pit of your dreams.
Know of anyone who wants to make their own propane fire pit? Share this article for inspiration!
