5 Electric Fire Pit Ideas to Ignite Your Outdoor Oasis

Collection of illustrated outdoor fire pits.
Make you outdoor retreat the talk of the town with these 5 outdoor electric fire pit ideas. We're here to help you make the right call on this big ticket item.

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Are you tired of the hassle and mess of traditional wood burning fire pits? Dream of transforming your outdoor space into a cozy haven without the need for firewood or good weather?

Despite their charm and appeal, traditional wood fires can be a real headache—sourcing wood, dealing with smoke, and constantly worrying a spark will burn a hole in your new sweater. Wood burning fire pits aren’t for everyone. If you are like me and love a good old-fashioned wood burning fire pit, check out our post on smokeless fire pit options.

In this post, I’ll start by defining ‘outdoor electric fire pit’ – a term that has a ton of people confused. I’ll then share five outdoor electric fire pit ideas to turn up the heat on your next outdoor hang out.

Check out our post on the best fire pits of 2024 for our top fire pit recommendations. 

TL;DR

  • ‘Outdoor electric fire pit’ refers to the electric start function of a propane or natural gas fire pit. Online seaches may also point to electric fireplaces, which use an electric heating coil behind a realistic flame display to generate heat.

  • The two primary fuel sources for outdoor electric fire pits are propane and natural gas. Propane is best for small spaces and portable fire pits. Natural gas is a good option for larger, more permanent fire pit installations where a connection to a gas line is available.

  • Maintenance is essential for any fire pit. Be sure to understand the maintenance requirements of your fire pit to guarentee safety and enjoyment!

The Outdoor Electric Fire Pit - Fact or Fiction?

To start with, let’s let’s tackle the big question: Do outdoor electric fire pits even exist? The answer is that it depends. That’s because ‘outdoor electric fire pit’ is a misnomer that can refer to any of the following:

  1. The electric push button or remote start function on a propane or natural gas fire pit.

  2. Outdoor electric fireplaces, which use a heating coil behind a realistic flame display to generate heat.

  3. Water vapor electric fireplaces (yes – you read that correctly), which use a combination of mist and lighting to give a faux fire look but no heat output.

The bottom line is that you can start a fire with electricity, but you can’t fuel a fire with electricity. That’s because fire is caused by a fuel source (a.k.a. combustible matter) reacting with oxygen. Electricity is not matter, so it can’t react with oxygen in that way.

Now that we’re on the same page, let’s dig into the five things you should know before buying an electric fire pit.

photograph by Celestial Fire Glass

The 5 Types of Outdoor Fire Pit

There are several fuel options for outdoor fire pits. Each fuel type has unique advantages and conisderations. Choosing the right one will largely depend primarily on where you plan on installing your fire pit.

1. Natural Gas

Heat score: 3/5
Safety Score: 4/5
Maintenance Score: 4/5

Natural gas fire pits are a reliable and convenient choice that often come with electric ignition and remote start features. They offer a continuous and relatively burning flame, making them an excellent option if ease of use and a consistent heat source are your primary concerns.

The downside to this convenience is that natural gas produces anywhere from 30,000 to 60,000 BTUs (British Thermal Units) – under half the energy efficiency of propane. Natural gas is also a less clean fuel source than propane.

Natural gas fire pits require an outdoor gas connection. ALWAYS consult a licensed professional for installation.

photograph by Real Flame

2. Propane

Heat score: 4/5
Safety Score: 5/5
Maintenance Score: 4/5

Propane fire pits are known for their versatility and ease of use. They provide an instant flame with the simple turn of a knob, making them an excellent option for spontaneous gatherings. Propane tanks are readily available and can be easily replaced when empty. Propane is also cleaner and more energy efficient than natural gas, producing anywhere from 40,000 to 150,000 BTUs.

You will need to refill your propane tanks when they run out, making propane a less convenient fire pit option for some. Having a backup tank on hand is an easy way to avoid running out of fuel.

photograph by realflame

3. Outdoor Electric Fireplace

Heat score: 2/5
Safety Score: 4/5
Maintenance Score: 5/5

Outdoor electric fireplaces offer the ultimate in convenience. They require minimal maintenance, produce no smoke, and are safe to use. With an electric fireplace, you can enjoy the ambiance of a fire without any of the hassle.

If your are considering an electric fireplace for your outdoor area, be sure to confirm that your choosen model is designed for outdoor use. Also know that despit their realistic appearance, the heat output from an electric fireplace is minimal, typically generating between 4,000 and 10,000 BTUs.

photograph by Touchstone Home Products

4. Water Vapor Electric Fireplace

Heat score: 0/5
Safety Score: 5/5
Maintenance Score: 3/5

If you want the appearance of a realistic fire without the heat, a water vapor electric fire pit is your best bet. These modern fire pit alternatives emit shimmering water vapor lit up with a red or multicolored LED glow from within the unit, giving the impression of a real burning flame.

Water vapor electric fireplaces vary widely in price, with the nicer models costing upwards of $1,000. In my option, these products are a waste of money. Consider an outdoor electric fireplace instead – at least they come with a heater!

photograph by Electric-Fireplace

5. Wood

Heat score: 5/5
Safety Score: 3/5
Maintenance Score: 3/5

If you love the crackling sound and authentic aroma of a wood-burning fire, then a wood-burning fire pit is the way to go. While they require more effort in terms of setup and maintenance, the experience they provide is unparalleled.

Buying and storing firewood requires some planning, and you’ll want to be familiar with handling an axe for splitting wood. Some cities and towns have banned wood fires, so you should check your local bylaws before making a purchase. Still, as far as outdoor fire pits go, it is tough to beat the traditional wood fire. Traditional wood fire pits also burn hot, ranging from 30,000 to 100,000 BTUs.

photograph by Breeo

Now that we’ve covered the basics of fueling your outdoor fire pit, I want to discuss the best fire pit options for specific outdoor spaces like patios, balconies, and cabanas.

On a budget? Check out our post on 25 Backyard Fire Pit Ideas Landscaping on a Budget

Patio Paradise: Electric Fire Pits for Open Outdoor Space

If you have a spacious patio and want to add some flare or extend its use into the cooler months, consider a fire pit fueled by natural gas. These fire features are designed to provide warmth and a captivating focal point in open outdoor settings. Whether you have a backyard patio or a large terrace, a fit pit fueled by natural gas can add style and functionality to your space.

Natural gas fire pits come in various sizes and designs, allowing you to choose one that complements your outdoor decor seamlessly. You can opt for a sleek and modern gas fire table with comfortable seating for entertaining guests or a more rustic look with a stone-built gas fire pit that blends effortlessly with your natural surroundings. Tabletop fire pits are a fantastic choice for larger backyard decks.

To fuel a natural gas fire pit, you will need access to a connection to your home’s nearest outdoor gas supply line. Always consult a licensed professional when installing a natural gas fire pit.

Adding a fire pit for open spaces creates a welcoming and inviting atmosphere. They extend your outdoor enjoyment well into the evening, perfect for gatherings, romantic dinners, or spending some relaxing time alone.

photograph by Chipper Hatter

Balcony Bliss: Compact Fire Pit Solutions

Propane fire pits are known for their ease of use and quick setup. They come in various sizes and styles (fire table, fire bowl, etc.), making it easy to find one that fits perfectly on your balcony. You can further customize the look of propane fire tables by adding your preferred color of lava rocks or glass.

A propane fire pit is highly versatile thanks to its compact size and controllable flame height, allowing you to move it around and store it when not in use. A propane fire pit is also typically equipped with electric and remote start features.

Propane fire pits are my preferred choice for any small space and for settings where a wood fire is impractical, dangerous, or illegal.

photograph by The Outdoor Fireplace Store

Cabana Cham: Outdoor Electric Fireplaces

Outdoor fire pits are not always the best option, especially if your outdoor retreat is partially or fully covered. An outdoor electric fireplace is an excellent choice for cabanas and other protected outdoor hangout spots. While technically not a fire pit, electric fireplaces still make our list of outdoor electric fire pit ideas because they are the epitome of elegance and style, creating a captivating focal point that improves ambiance in a big way.

Electric fireplaces are also warm, although not as warm as propane or natural gas. Their sleek and modern designs seamlessly blend into contemporary outdoor settings while adding a touch of coziness and charm. Look for electric fireplace options for outdoor use, crafted from more durable, water-resistant materials like stainless steel.

One of the most significant advantages of outdoor electric fireplaces is their convenience. They require minimal maintenance, produce no smoke or ash, and can be controlled with a button or remote control. This means you can enjoy the ambiance of a real fire without the hassle of traditional wood-burning or gas options.

photograph by Outdoor Art Pros

Maintenance Made Easy

Maintaining your outdoor fire pit is essential to ensure it continues to function flawlessly. Your specific maintenance requirements will differ depending on your outdoor electric fire pit type. Let’s break down the key maintenance considerations for your fire pit, fire table, fire bowl, or fireplace.

Natural Gas Fire Pit Maintenance

  • Regularly inspect the gas lines and connections for leaks or damage.

  • Keep the burner, ignition system, and lava rock clean and debris-free.

  • Ensure proper ventilation to prevent gas buildup.

  • Use a protective cover when not in use.

  • Schedule professional inspections to check for any issues and ensure safety.

photograph by Starfire Direct

Propane Fire Pit Maintenance

  • Check the propane tank for leaks or corrosion and replace it as needed.

  • Clean the burner, ignition components, and lava rock to ensure a consistent flame.

  • Store propane tanks in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight.

  • Use a protective cover when not in use.

  • Regularly inspect and replace hoses and connectors if they show signs of wear.

photograph by Family Handyman

Electric Fireplaces Maintenance

  • Wipe down the exterior with a damp cloth to remove dust and dirt.

  • Check the power cord for any signs of wear or damage.

  • Ensure that the fireplace’s electrical components are protected from moisture.

  • Test the remote control or control panel regularly to verify all functions are working correctly.

photograph by Vevor DIY Projects and Ideas

Wood Burning Fire Pit

You might wonder why wood-burning fire pits require more maintenance than these options. The answer lies in the nature of wood fires. Wood-burning fire pits demand frequent cleaning to remove ash and soot buildup. You must also constantly source and store firewood, which can be expensive and a hassle.

Wood fires also produce smoke, which may require additional ventilation and can be a nuisance to neighbors. There are smokeless wood-burning fire pits available, which you can check out here. By contrast, a natural gas or propane fire pit or electric fireplace offers a cleaner and more hassle-free experience, cutting down on maintenance time and allowing you to focus on enjoying your outdoor space to the fullest.

photograph by CNET

Final Thoughts

We’ve explored the most common types of outdoor electric fire pits available today. This post was not intended to be an in-depth breakdown of each outdoor fire pit type.

Instead, we wanted to give you a general idea of how to think about your fire pit options when starting to shop for the next upgrade to your backyard, balcony, patio, or deck. You can choose the perfect fit for your lifestyle and needs with natural gas, propane, or electric options.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is an electric fire pit?

‘Outdoor electric fire pit’ refers to the electric start function of a propane or natural gas fire pit OR to electric fireplaces powered by electricity and using a heating coil behind a realistic flame display to generate heat.

Do electric fire pits give off heat?

Outdoor electric fire pits provide convection heat, which is similar to radiant heat. They produce anywhere from 30,000 to 150,000 BTUs, depending on the fuel source and model.

Outdoor electric fireplaces operate on a standard 120-volt outlet and typically provide two types of heat – fan-forced and infrared quartz. Some models can reach up to 10,000 BTUs.

Are backyard fire pits worth it?

Backyard fire pits are worth the investment as they offer multi-season use and make your patio a space to enjoy all year round.

Does a fire pit need electricity?

No, a fire pit does not need electricity to function, as manual ignition systems do not require any form of electricity for operation.

What are the advantages of electric fire pits?

Electric fire pits offer the convenience of use with no smoke and easy installation and maintenance, making them an eco-friendly option compared to traditional wood burning pits.

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