Why isn't my Fire Pit or Fire Table Lighting?

Written by Stephany Phimmasouk

Mar 27, 2024 14-minute read

starfire designs moreno copper fire pit without flames

A fire pit or fire table is the heart of any outdoor living space, providing warmth, ambiance, and a welcoming spot for friends and family to gather. But when your fire feature won’t light, it can quickly put a damper on your plans. Whether you’re troubleshooting a brand-new installation or an old favorite that’s suddenly stubborn, understanding the most common causes and how to fix them can help you get back to enjoying your backyard retreat.

At Starfire Direct, we’re dedicated to helping you create an outdoor space you’ll love, with expert advice and top-quality products for every patio and backyard. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the most frequent reasons your fire pit or fire table isn’t lighting, offer step-by-step troubleshooting tips, and connect you with helpful resources, products, and videos to keep your fire feature in top shape.

Common Reasons Your Fire Pit or Fire Table Won’t Light

If your fire pit or fire table isn’t lighting, don’t worry. Most issues are easy to diagnose and fix. Here are some of the most common culprits:

1. Safety Features Engaged

Many modern fire pits and fire tables include safety shut-off valves, thermocouples, or flame sensors. If these components detect an issue, they’ll prevent ignition. Make sure all safety features are functioning properly and reset any shut-off valves according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

2. Incomplete Installation

Enjoying an evening around the warmth and comfort of a radiant fire is exciting. But it sure is frustrating hearing the "click-click-click" without seeing the glow of a yellow and orange flame. Here are possible reasons why your fire feature may not be igniting.

If this is your first venture into building your own do-it-yourself fire feature, it is easy to overlook any of the many important parts or fittings required for successful operation. Any missing part or fitting can result in your fire feature failing to ignite. For instance, fire pits using propane fuel require an air mixer orifice. as these parts help with proper air flow and ventilation. To ensure the functionality of your outdoor investment, speak with one of our NFI Certified Team Members as they can help guide you through finding the right fire pit parts you need.

A fire pit air mixer is required to be setup correctly in order for your fire feature to ignite propane gas.

3. Ignition System Issues

If your fire pit uses a spark igniter or electronic ignition, a dead battery, corroded connections, or a misaligned igniter can prevent the system from lighting. Replace the battery if needed, clean the igniter tip, and check for loose or disconnected wires.

Watch: The Differences in Your Fire Pit Ignition Systems on the Starfire Direct YouTube channel for step-by-step video guidance.

Looking for the ultimate guide to outdoor fire pit media? Discover how to enhance your backyard experience by reading our comprehensive blog post.

4. Empty or Low Fuel Supply

For gas fire pits and fire tables, the most common issue is an empty or nearly empty propane tank or a disruption in your natural gas line. Always check your fuel source first. If you use propane, ensure the tank is full and the valve is open. For natural gas, confirm the gas line is supplying fuel to the unit.

Pro Tip: Keep a spare propane tank on hand so you’re never caught off guard.

5. Gas Line or Regulator Problems

A kinked, damaged, or improperly connected gas line can restrict fuel flow. Similarly, a faulty or incorrectly set regulator can prevent your fire feature from lighting. Inspect all gas lines and connections for leaks, cracks, or loose fittings. Replace any worn parts with replacement fire pit parts.

6. Environmental Factors

Wind, moisture, or extreme cold can sometimes interfere with ignition. If you’re trying to light your fire pit on a windy day, consider using a wind guard or waiting for calmer conditions. Moisture in the burner or ignition system can also cause issues—ensure everything is dry before attempting to light.

While chilly days usually call for time spent relaxing around the fire, attempting to turn on your fire feature while there is a strong breeze can result in your fire feature failing to ignite. To prevent the wind from blowing out the flames, consider purchasing a glass wind guard. This accessory not only protects the flame display but also optimizes the air flow. This allows you to still enjoy the cozy ambiance of a radiant fire even with those errant breezes.

7. Improper Handling, Maintenance, or Care

Improper maintenance, or lack thereof, can damage your fire pit. If your fire pit was stowed away unused for the winter season or even overnight, check the burner ports of the fire pit burner and the orifice to ensure they are not clogged and are free of blockage from debris. Over time, debris, dust, or even spider webs can clog the burner ports, restricting gas flow and preventing ignition. Regular cleaning is essential for safe and reliable operation. Use a soft brush or compressed air to clear any obstructions from the burner.

If you think there may be an indication of a gas leak if insects (which are attracted to the smell of gas) are nestling inside the ports.

Here is helpful video to help you discover if you have a gas leak:

8. Dirty Fire Glass or Fire Media

If your fire pit is equipped with an igniter and/or thermocouple, inspect it for any blockages or corrosion. If you have fire media, ensure that the media is evenly distributed across the burner. Proper storage, under the safeguard of a fire pit cover, ensures the longevity of your investment as it helps protect the fire pit from harmful outdoor elements such as debris, UV sun rays, moisture buildup, and pests.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Check the Fuel Source:
- Ensure your propane tank is full and the valve is open, or that your natural gas line is supplying fuel.
- For wood-burning fire pits, use only dry, seasoned wood.
Inspect the Ignition System:
- Replace the battery in your electronic igniter if needed.
- Clean the igniter tip and check for loose or corroded wires.
Clean the Burner and Ports:
- Remove any debris, dust, or spider webs from the burner area.
- Use a soft brush or compressed air to clear the ports.
Examine Gas Lines and Connections:
- Look for kinks, leaks, or loose fittings.
- Tighten connections and replace damaged hoses as needed.
Test Safety Features:
- Ensure the thermocouple is properly positioned in the flame.
- Reset any safety shut-off valves according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Try Manual Lighting:
- If your ignition system isn’t working, try lighting the fire pit manually with a long lighter (following all safety precautions).
Consider Environmental Factors:
- If it’s windy or damp, wait for better conditions or use a wind guard to help protect the flame.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve tried the above steps and your fire pit or fire table still won’t light, it’s time to call in a certified technician. Gas and electrical issues can be hazardous if not handled properly. For peace of mind, always rely on a professional for complex repairs or installations.

Important: Starfire Direct always recommends consulting a professional before attempting any installation, repair, or modification to your backyard or patio fire feature, especially when working with gas lines or electrical components.

For more on why professional installation matters, read Why Should I Hire a Professional Installer?.

Helpful Products and Accessories

Keep your fire feature in top shape with these high-converting products from Starfire Direct:

Fire Pit Maintenance Kits – Everything you need for regular cleaning and upkeep.
Replacement Igniters and Parts – Restore your fire pit’s performance.
Fire Pit Covers – Protect your investment from the elements.
Fire Glass and Lava Rock – Enhance both style and function.

For more on protecting your fire feature, read Choosing the Right Fire Pit Cover: The Patio Buyer’s Guide.