Do you ever dream of sitting around a warm and cozy fire in your backyard or patio? If so, then converting your propane-powered outdoor fire pit to one that runs on natural gas will make those dreams come true. It is important to know how to convert propane fire pit to natural gas.
Converting an outdoor propane fire pit to run on natural gas is not only more efficient and less expensive, but it’s also easy to do!
In this blog post, we’ll provide step-by-step instructions for swapping out the existing propane tank with a natural gas line from an outside source so you can enjoy the warmth and ambiance of real burning logs all summer long. Read on for more details about how to make this conversion quickly and easily.
Tools You Will Need
- Shut off the valve for the natural gas line
- Pipe thread sealant or joint compound
- Teflon tape, pipe wrench, adjustable wrench
- Natural gas regulator hose and connection kit
- 1/2 inch NPT (National Pipe Thread) female threaded coupling
6 Steps Guide on How to Convert Propane Fire Pit to Natural Gas
1. Turn Off the Gas Supply
The process of converting a propane fire pit to a natural gas fire pit is relatively simple and provides an ideal solution if you’re looking for a more convenient or cost-effective option. Before you commence any conversion, however, it’s essential that you first turn off the gas supply and make sure that the connection between the propane tank and fire pit is securely disconnected.
This minor but important preparatory detail will help ensure safety during the conversion process and save you time in having to restart it, should anything come loose while converting.
2. Attach the Natural Gas Connection Kit’s Regulator Hose
Installing a natural gas line is quite a straightforward process, provided specific steps are followed. Once you have disconnected the propane tank and removed it from the area, attach the regulator hose that comes with your natural gas connection kit to the shut-off valve of your natural gas line.
It is essential to use pipe thread sealant or joint compound on all fittings, as this creates an airtight seal for safe operation. After these specifications have been met, you will be well on the way to installing your new natural gas line.
3. Wrap the Threads of Your Fire Pit’s Gas Control Valve
Ensure your gas control valve is completely sealed and protected from any potential leaking. It’s important to wrap the threads of your fire pit’s 1/2-inch NPT female threaded coupling, as well as any other exposed pipe threads.
With Teflon tape.
This will assist in creating a seal that will help prevent moisture or other contaminants from entering the gas lines and thus leading to a potentially hazardous situation.
Moreover, Teflon tape can also offer additional protection against rusting by preserving the metal joints and helping minimize wear and tear due to its thermal properties. Make sure to properly install the Teflon tape for added protection against leakage when connecting it with Natural Gas.
4. Attach the Regulator Hose
To connect the regulator hose to the gas control valve securely and efficiently, you should select a 1/2-inch NPT female threaded coupling.
When assembling your equipment, use a pipe wrench or an adjustable wrench to ensure the seal is tight when attaching the coupling to the control valve – this step is particularly important when dealing with natural gas.
Some extra caution should always be taken when doing gas connections, as failure to attach them properly can result in hazardous conditions. With attention to detail and proper tool selection, you can create a safe environment for your home or workplace.
5. Turn on the Natural Gas Supply
Turning on the natural gas supply and testing for leaks using soapy water is an important step in ensuring a good seal. When done properly, this process uses a combination of thorough visual inspection and a soap & water solution to detect even the smallest bubbles that may indicate a leak.
After turning on the gas supply and testing with soapy water, it is critical to make sure that all connections were inspected and no bubbles were present before giving the go-ahead to use the line.
While getting professional help is encouraged to ensure safety, knowing proper procedures and protocols can be extremely helpful.
6. Adjust the Flame Height
When lighting your fire pit, the flame height should be adjusted to the ideal height for a good seal to Natural Gas. If it is too low, the fire won’t produce enough heat, and if it is too high the fuel will be wasted and could pose a safety risk.
An expertly-lit fire pit has a pleasantly radiant warmth that extends beyond what’s necessary for cooking or heating a marshmallow. People often forget about this point when setting up their fire pits. Once adjusted correctly, you can look forward to many warm gatherings spent around your enjoyable companion – your gas-powered fire pit!
By following these steps, you can easily convert your propane fire pit to one that runs on natural gas. Enjoy the warmth and beauty of a real wood-burning fire without having to worry about running out of propane or dealing with refills. With your new natural gas connection, all you’ll need to do is enjoy the fire!
Additional Tips to Convert Propane Fire Pit to Natural Gas
- Check your local codes and regulations. Before you begin any work on converting your propane fire pit to natural gas, it is important to check with your local codes and regulations to ensure that this is permitted in your area.
- Turn off the gas supply to the fire pit. Once you have confirmed that it is legal to convert your fire pit, the next step is to turn off the gas supply to the fire pit. This can usually be done by turning a knob or lever located near the gas line.
- Disconnect the propane tank from the fire pit. After the gas supply has been turned off, you will need to disconnect the propane tank from the fire pit. Again, there should be a knob or lever near the connection that will allow you to do this.
- Remove the burner assembly from the fire pit. The next step is to remove the burner assembly from the fire pit. This may require some disassembly, but it is generally not too difficult. Once the burner assembly is removed, you will be able to access the gas line.
- Cut off the end of the gas line that is connected to the propane tank. Using a cutting tool, such as a pipe cutter or a hacksaw, cut off the end of the gas line that is connected to the propane tank. This will allow you to install a new fitting that will connect to your natural gas line.
- Install a shut-off valve in the gas line. Before you connect your natural gas line to your fire pit, it is important to install a shut-off valve in the line. This will allow you to easily turn off the gas supply in case of an emergency.
- Connect your natural gas line to the shut-off valve using an approved fitting. Once you have installed a shut-off valve in your gas line, you can then connect your natural gas line to it using an approved fitting. Make sure that all connections are tight and secure before proceeding.
- Turn on the natural gas supply and test for leaks. Now that everything is connected, you can turn on your natural gas supply and test for leaks at all of the connections using soapy water or a leak detection solution.
Everything You Need To Know Before Converting Your Propane Fire Pit To Natural Gas?
When it comes to comfortably enjoying a campfire, having a propane fire pit is convenient – however, there are now even more ways to do so. Converting your propane fire pit to natural gas makes it easier than ever to enjoy warm evenings outdoors.
But before making the switch, there are a few important things you should know. You will need a conversion kit made for the type of fire pit you own, as well as a proper installation with an outdoor gas connection and venting requirements that need to be done by a qualified technician.
Additionally, while running the conversion has fewer steps than building an outdoor fireplace from scratch, certain safety regulations need to be followed. Make sure to properly assess the process and familiarize yourself with existing laws in your area before beginning a successful conversion project.
How To Convert Your Propane Fire Pit Into a Safe and Efficient Natural Gas Burning Machine?
Converting your propane fire pit to natural gas burning can be a daunting task, but one well worth the effort due to the benefits it can offer. Natural gas is believed to be not only safer than propane, but also more efficient and cost-effective.
If you have access to a natural gas source, the process of converting your fire pit may include running piping from your home to the outside installation as well as proper ventilation and recessed/flanged entrance points into your home.
You must consult a local professional or municipality for any permits or regulations that may apply when installing this type of conversion. Although it’s by no means an easy process, it could potentially yield great rewards in safety, efficiency, and money saved in the long run.
Conclusion
The process of converting a propane fire pit to natural gas is not difficult, but there are a few things you need to know before beginning. You should carefully determine how to convert propane fire pit to natural gas.
Be sure to follow all the instructions in this blog post carefully and contact a professional if you have any questions. With a little effort, you can enjoy your firepit for many years to come!