Propane vs. Natural Gas Fire Pits: Installation, Cost and Performance

When you're ready to add a fire pit to your backyard, the first choice isn't always about style or size—it's about fuel. Propane and natural gas are the two most common options for outdoor fire features, and each has real tradeoffs that affect your wallet, your installation, and how you actually use the thing. The right choice depends on your setup, your willingness to refill tanks, and how much you're willing to spend upfront and over time.

BTU Output and Heat Performance

Natural gas delivers about 1,000 BTU per cubic foot, while propane delivers around 2,500 BTU per cubic foot—meaning propane packs more heat into a smaller space. For fire pits, that matters less than it does for grills, but you'll still notice the difference. A natural gas fire pit runs at steady, predictable output once you've got the gas flowing. Propane burns hotter and brighter, which some people prefer for ambiance and actual warmth.

In real terms: both fuels produce enough heat to be comfortable sitting around in mild weather. If you're expecting your fire pit to heat a whole seating area in fall or early spring, natural gas is the more reliable long-term solution because you won't run out of fuel. Propane tanks do run dry, and they run dry when they're inconvenient.

Installation Requirements and Complexity

Propane fire pits are the easier install. Propane kits come pre-assembled with a tank, regulator, hose, and burner ring. Most portable models just sit on the ground—unbox it, connect the tank, light it up. If you're building a custom fire pit with a propane burner kit from Living Outdoorsy, you'll run a hose from the tank to the burner, which takes about an hour and basic tools. No permits, no permanent changes to your property.

Natural gas fire pits require a dedicated gas line. Your local utility company needs to run a line from your meter to where the pit sits—sometimes hundreds of feet. This is a job for a licensed plumber or gas fitter in most jurisdictions. Expect $500 to $2,000 in installation costs, plus permit fees. That said, once it's in, you never think about it again. You never run out of fuel. You can't move it, but you also can't forget to fill it.

If your property doesn't have natural gas service, the utility company may need to install infrastructure just to get gas to your yard. Call them first. Some neighborhoods don't have natural gas lines at all, which makes natural gas a non-starter no matter what.

Fuel Cost Comparison Over Time

Natural gas is usually cheaper per unit of energy than propane. A typical propane tank costs $35 to $50 to refill and lasts 8 to 12 hours of fire pit use (depending on the burner size). That's roughly $3 to $6 per hour. Natural gas usually costs $1 to $2 per hour based on typical utility rates, though prices vary by region and season.

Here's the catch: if you only use your fire pit occasionally—a few weekend evenings a month—you might spend the same either way. Propane sits in the tank. Natural gas keeps flowing on your meter. But if you're using the pit regularly through fall and winter, natural gas costs less and offers better value over multiple seasons.

Budget at least $300 to $400 annually for propane if you're a regular user. Natural gas users might spend $200 to $300 annually for the same usage, but factor in the $1,000-plus installation cost, which takes several years to recoup through fuel savings alone.

Portability and Flexibility

Propane wins here decisively. Move your fire pit three feet to the left? Done. Take it to a friend's house? Load it in the truck. Want to store it during winter? Disconnect the tank and wheel it into the garage.

Natural gas is rooted to the ground. You decide on the location, install the line, and that's where it stays. If you like to rearrange your backyard or rent your home, natural gas is a commitment.

Which Fuel Is Better for Different Scenarios

Go with propane if:

• You rent or might move in the next few years
• You don't have natural gas service at your property
• You want the fastest installation with zero permits
• You're building a custom fire pit and want flexibility on location
• You use your fire pit sporadically (weekends here and there)
• You want a portable option that can move with you

Go with natural gas if:

• You own your home and plan to stay several years
• Natural gas is already available at your property
• You use your fire pit regularly (most weeks)
• You want one permanent, low-maintenance installation
• You prefer the fuel cost savings of natural gas
• You want a built-in fire feature that matches your outdoor kitchen aesthetic

Safety and Maintenance

Both fuels are equally safe when properly installed. Propane requires careful handling of the tank—keep it upright, away from heat sources, and protected from physical damage. Check hose connections yearly for leaks using soapy water (bubbles mean gas is escaping).

Natural gas lines need inspection if you suspect a leak (you'll smell it immediately), but routine maintenance is minimal. The main risk is digging in your yard years later and hitting the line without knowing it's there. Mark it on a map or paint the ground above it.

Both systems have shut-off valves near the burner. Test them occasionally so you know they work if you ever need to turn off the gas quickly.

Fire Features at Living Outdoorsy

We carry both propane and natural gas fire pit options across our catalog. Browse our fire features collection for standalone models and custom burner kits. Brands like The Outdoor Plus and Patiofyre offer both fuel options so you can pick what matches your setup.

The Bottom Line

If you need a fire feature right now, have no natural gas line, or want flexibility, propane is the practical choice. If you're installing a permanent outdoor kitchen and natural gas is available, natural gas pays off over time and simplifies your backyard experience. Both deliver real heat and ambiance—the fuel choice is about your situation, not which burns better.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does a propane tank last for a fire pit?

A standard 20-pound propane tank typically runs an outdoor fire pit for 8 to 12 hours, depending on the burner size and flame setting. Larger burners with high BTU output drain tanks faster. For frequent use, many homeowners keep two tanks on hand—one in use and one being refilled.

Can I convert a propane fire pit to natural gas?

Most burner kits are designed for one fuel or the other, and swapping is not recommended. Different orifice sizes, regulators, and safety controls are optimized for each fuel. Some manufacturers offer models that run on either fuel with specific conversion kits, but it's not a simple swap. Check the manufacturer specs before attempting any conversion.

Does natural gas cost less than propane?

Yes, natural gas usually costs less per unit of energy—roughly $1 to $2 per hour versus $3 to $6 per hour for propane. However, natural gas requires expensive upfront installation, so the cost advantage only matters if you use the fire pit regularly over multiple seasons.

Is it safe to keep a propane tank outside year-round?

Yes, propane tanks are designed for outdoor storage. Keep the tank upright, in a shaded spot if possible (extreme heat can raise internal pressure), and secure it so it won't tip. In winter, snow and ice won't damage the tank, though you may need to clear around the valve to connect or disconnect it.

What permits do I need for a natural gas fire pit?

Most jurisdictions require a permit for any gas line installation, and a licensed professional must do the work. Contact your local building department or your gas utility to find out what permits apply in your area. The utility company typically handles the installation and inspections at no permit cost to you.