How to Light a Gas Fire Pit: Step-by-Step Guide for Every Ignition Type

There's something intimidating about lighting a gas fire pit for the first time—all that talk of propane, ignition systems, and safety. But here's the truth: it's simpler than most people think. I've walked through this process with hundreds of customers, and by the end of it, they're lighting their pit without a second thought.

The catch is understanding which ignition type you have. Match-lit, spark, and electronic ignitions all follow similar principles, but the execution differs. Let's walk through each one.

Before You Light: Safety First

Every ignition type starts the same way:

• Check your propane tank – Make sure it has fuel. A simple way: feel the side of the tank. It should be cold at the liquid level, warm above. No temperature difference usually means empty.
• Verify gas connection – Make sure all fittings are tight (hand-tight, not wrench-tight; you don't want to damage the connection). A small propane leak smells like rotten eggs—you'd smell it immediately.
• Clear the area – No blankets, decorations, or anything flammable over or immediately around the pit.
• Read your manual – Every fire pit is slightly different. Your owner's manual has the specific sequence for your model.
• Turn on gas slowly – Whether it's the main tank valve or the pit's control valve, open it gradually. Fast opening can flood the system.

Match-Lit Fire Pits (Manual Ignition)

Match-lit pits are the simplest design—no electronics, no spark module, just gas and fire. These are popular in smaller pits and budget-friendly models. Many Primo and basic Coyote fire pits use this system.

Step-by-Step: How to Light a Match-Lit Gas Fire Pit

1. Turn gas off – Start with the control valve (or main tank valve) completely off.
2. Wait 5 minutes – If the pit was recently in use, let any residual propane disperse. This prevents oversaturation.
3. Locate the burner opening – You need a direct line of sight to where the burner ignites. Most match-lit pits have a visible burner port or opening.
4. Get your ignition ready – Long-handled lighter or wooden matches. A regular lighter often doesn't reach far enough safely.
5. Open the gas valve slowly – Turn the control knob counterclockwise to the lowest setting. You should hear gas flowing (a faint hiss).
6. Light immediately – Bring the flame to the burner port. Light the gas as it flows. Don't wait; you want ignition to happen quickly.
7. Adjust flame height – Once lit, you can adjust the control knob to increase or decrease flame height.

Match-Lit Troubleshooting

If it doesn't light on the first attempt:

• Did you wait 5 minutes? – Propane buildup in the chamber prevents easy ignition. Turn off the gas, wait, and try again.
• Is your match reaching the burner? – You need direct flame contact or very close proximity to the ignition point. Long-handled lighters are worth the investment here.
• Check propane supply – Feel the tank. If it's warm everywhere (not just above the liquid level), the tank is likely empty or very low.
• Smell gas but no ignition? – The burner itself might be clogged. Turn off gas immediately and contact us for a burner inspection.

Pro Tip for Match-Lit Pits

Keep a long-handled lighter or a pack of long matches stored in a weatherproof container near the pit. Matches aren't always reliable outdoors (wind, moisture). A butane lighter with a 2-3 inch flame extension is more reliable and safer than trying to reach with short matches.

Spark Ignition Fire Pits (Manual Spark Ignition)

Spark ignition is the middle ground. You still control the gas flow manually, but a piezo spark igniter generates the spark automatically. You just push a button or turn a dial. Many Blaze, Delta Heat, and mid-range Summerset models use this system.

Step-by-Step: How to Light a Spark-Ignition Gas Fire Pit

1. Turn gas off – Control valve closed completely.
2. Wait 3-5 minutes – Slightly shorter than match-lit since you're using a spark, but still good practice to avoid oversaturation.
3. Locate the spark button or ignition switch – Usually on the control panel or control valve itself. Check your manual for the exact location.
4. Open the gas valve slowly – Turn the control knob counterclockwise to the lowest setting. Again, a faint hiss means gas is flowing.
5. Press the spark button repeatedly – Most spark igniters require 3-5 presses. You should see a spark or hear a clicking sound. Keep pressing while gas flows.
6. Watch for ignition – The flame should appear at the burner within a few seconds of successful spark contact.
7. Adjust flame height – Once lit, turn the control knob clockwise to increase the flame or counterclockwise to lower it.

Spark Ignition Troubleshooting

The spark is clicking but the pit won't light:

• Is gas actually flowing? – You should smell propane. If not, the gas valve isn't open enough or the tank is empty. Check the tank first.
• Has propane pooled? – If you've been clicking the igniter for 30+ seconds, propane has oversaturated the chamber. Turn off gas, wait 5 minutes, and try again.
• Is the spark reaching the burner? – Sometimes the burner assembly shifts slightly and the spark electrode no longer faces the ignition point. Check if the burner is properly seated.

No spark or clicking at all:

• Battery dead – Some spark systems use AA or AAA batteries in a compartment on the control panel. Replace them and try again.
• Moisture damage – Wet weather can corrode the igniter. Dry it out completely and try again, or call for service.
• Spark electrode gap – The distance between the electrode and the burner opening matters. If it's off by more than 1/8 inch, the spark won't reliably hit the gas. This requires professional adjustment.

Pro Tip for Spark Ignition

Always have a long-handled lighter as a backup. Even the best spark systems can fail, especially in wet conditions. With a lighter in hand, you can manually light the pit if the spark system acts up. This is also your troubleshooting test: if the lighter works but the spark won't, you know the issue is the ignition system, not the gas supply.

Electronic Ignition Fire Pits (Automatic/Remote Start)

Electronic ignition is the premium option. You flip a switch, push a button, or use a remote, and the pit lights automatically with zero manual intervention. Most high-end models from Fire Magic, Summerset Premium, and Bromic use this system. It's the safest and easiest method.

Step-by-Step: How to Light an Electronic Ignition Gas Fire Pit

1. Check your remote or control unit – Make sure batteries are fresh. A weak battery won't send a strong signal to the ignition module.
2. Verify the main gas valve is on – Some pits have a main tank valve and a separate control valve. The main tank valve should be open (or at the wall-mounted supply, it should be on). The pit's control valve can be off initially.
3. Press the ignition button on the remote or wall control – This simultaneously opens the gas valve and triggers the spark/igniter.
4. Hold the button for 3-5 seconds – The pit should light within this window. Some systems require you to hold the button continuously; others have a "one-and-done" button press.
5. Release the button – Once the pit is lit, you can release. The gas flow should remain on.
6. Adjust flame height – Use the control knob or a separate remote function to set your desired flame height.

Electronic Ignition Troubleshooting

Remote or button doesn't respond at all:

• Replace batteries – This solves 80% of electronic ignition issues. Grab fresh batteries and try again.
• Check the main gas valve – Is the tank valve open? Is there propane in the tank (cold feeling at the liquid level, warm above)? If the main gas isn't on, nothing happens.
• Is the control module powered? – If your pit has a plug-in ignition module, make sure it's plugged in and receiving power. Check for a light indicator.

Remote works but pit doesn't light:

• Check gas odor – Do you smell propane? If yes, the ignition system isn't sparking. If no, gas isn't flowing (tank empty, valve closed).
• Wait and try again – If you've pressed the button repeatedly, propane has oversaturated the chamber. Turn off the main valve, wait 10 minutes, then try again.
• Inspect the ignition electrode – Some electronic systems have accessible spark electrodes. Make sure they're not corroded or bent out of position. A Q-tip can clean light corrosion; bent electrodes need professional replacement.

Pit lights occasionally but inconsistently:

• Battery is dying – Even if the remote responds, a weak battery won't send a strong-enough signal for reliable ignition. Replace it proactively.
• Spark electrode gap drifting – This is a service issue. The spark module may need recalibration or the electrode may need repositioning.

Pro Tip for Electronic Ignition

Mark your calendar to change the remote batteries every fall (before heavy use season). Even if they seem to work fine, this one-minute maintenance task prevents ignition failures in the middle of entertaining. Fresh batteries cost $3; waiting for parts and service costs time and money.

General Gas Fire Pit Lighting Best Practices

• Never force anything – If the valve feels stuck or you're straining to turn it, stop. Forcing can damage the valve. Let it sit, maybe apply some penetrating oil, then try gently again.
• Light in daylight first – Your first few times lighting the pit, do it during the day. It's easier to see and troubleshoot, and you'll feel more confident for evening use.
• Keep the manual handy – Every pit is slightly different. Having the manual nearby saves time and prevents mistakes.
• Test your backup ignition method – Whether it's a lighter or matches, make sure it works before you actually need it. A lighter that doesn't work when you need it is worse than having no backup.
• Inspect your burner regularly – Debris, spider webs, or corrosion on the burner can prevent proper ignition. A quick visual check monthly keeps things running smoothly.

FAQ: Gas Fire Pit Lighting

How long should I wait between lighting attempts?

If the pit doesn't light on the first try, wait at least 5 minutes before the second attempt. Propane accumulates in the chamber and can prevent ignition. If you've tried 3+ times without success, wait 10 minutes and check your gas supply first.

Is it dangerous to light a gas fire pit?

Not if you follow the process. Modern gas fire pits have safety features (anti-tip, flame failure sensors, etc.). The biggest risk is ignition oversaturation (waiting too long between tries without turning off gas). Stick to the steps and you're fine.

Why is my fire pit hissing but not lighting?

Gas is flowing but not igniting. Check your ignition source (lighter, matches, spark system). If those work elsewhere, the problem is the burner or spark electrode positioning. Contact our service team for diagnosis.

Can I use any propane tank with my fire pit?

As long as the connector fits and your tank is properly filled, yes. However, check your manual. Some pits are designed for specific tank sizes or valve types. When in doubt, ask us—we can confirm compatibility and avoid mistakes.

How often do I need to replace my spark igniter battery?

Depends on use. For regular summer entertaining, replace batteries annually (fall). Heavy users might change them twice a year. It's a cheap preventive maintenance task.

Conclusion

Lighting your gas fire pit is straightforward once you understand your ignition type. Match-lit is the simplest but requires a lighter. Spark ignition adds convenience. Electronic ignition offers the full experience—just press a button and enjoy the fire.

Still unsure about your pit's ignition system? Check out our fire pit sizing guide for more options, or reach out to our team for personalized guidance. We can walk you through the specifics of your model and make sure you're confident before your first light-up.