Help and FAQs

HELP & FAQS

Which connection kit option do I need?

To ensure a smooth fire pit installation, it is important to understand what your project needs are.

None
A simple burner and pan combo, which includes just that, offers the freedom to customize your fire pit based on your project needs. Optional connection kits (sold separately) are available for purchase should you determine you need it at a later time.

Built-In Connection Kit
A Built-In Connection Kit is an ideal option for fire pits utilizing a natural gas or a direct plumbed propane hard line.

Portable Connection Kit
A Portable Connection kit is a great option for fire pits utilizing a liquid propane tank as it offers the added convenience of connecting or disconnecting from the tank when the fuel source runs out.

Which PSI do I need?

PSI, or pounds per square inch, is the unit of measure used for gas pressure. This influences the BTU output of your fire pit or fireplace. The greater the gas pressure, the higher the BTU output--and vice versa.

To ensure your safety, it is important to determine the gas pressure you are working with so that you may choose the correct AWEIS properly configured to suit your needs. For instance, features utilizing a 2 PSI gas pressure will require a smaller gas orifice to reduce gas flow. If you're still unsure of your setup's PSI requirements, we recommend reaching out to your local professional installer.

What are my options for propane tank storage?

A liquid propane tank (LPT) is a suitable option when a natural gas or propane gas hard line is not available near your fire feature's location. This allows for direct and easy access to your fuel source.

One Access Door
A single access door has the capacity of holding one 20 lb propane tank (sold separately).

Two Access Doors
Two access doors have the capacity of holding two 20 lb propane tanks (sold separately).

One ez-Drawer Door
An ez-Drawer is a solid stainless steel drawer system hidden behind the access door. A single ez-Drawer has the capability of housing three 20 lb propane tanks (sold separately).

Two ez-Drawer Doors
An ez-Drawer is a solid stainless steel drawer system hidden behind the access door. Two ez-Drawers have the capacity of housing up to six 20 lb propane tanks (sold separately). The ez-Drawers have a weight capacity of up to 500 lbs.

*Please note: Propane tanks are sold separately.

Ignition Systems Explained

Match Lit: While holding a long lighter over the burner in one hand, slowly turn the gas valve on to ignite. 

CSA Match Lit: CSA is a commercial certification that is occasionally required for use of a fire pit in business locations but can also be used residentially.

Push-Button (or Spark) Ignition: Push and hold a button, (listen for clicking sound) which generates a spark to ignite pilot flame

AWEIS (All Weather Electric Ignition System): This ignition is wired for use with a switch or remote and includes a safety feature that automatically shuts off the gas when it detects the absence of flame. This ignition system can be used in all kinds of weather. In rain or wind, an AWEIS system will keep your fire feature lit. An electrical connection is required in order to run the unit.

CSA On/Off: (Same as AWEIS above but carries a CSA Certification)  This electronic, remote control operated On/Off switch is certified for industrial use but can also be used residentially. An electrical connection is required in order to run the unit.

CSA High/Low: (Same as above but comes with a handheld remote that offers on/off and high/low flame height control). This electronic, remote control operated rheostat is certified for industrial use but can also be used residentially. An electrical connection is required in order to run the unit.

Do you sell and ship Propane Tanks?

No, we do not sell or ship Liquid Propane Tanks. For fire features we sell that do use Propane, these LP tanks are sold separately. We recommend purchasing your fuel from your local hardware store.

How are the FPPK Inserts powered?

They use an AA battery for spark- this is a good option if A/C power cannot be obtained at the fire pit site.

What are the benefits of the FPPK inserts?

The FPPK inserts are perfect if flame sensing safety is desired, and there is no power available to the fire pit site. The FPPK system also uses a spark generator, so no match lighting is required, and your flame height is adjustable with the use of a manual knob.

Can my Electronic Fire Pit Insert be linked to a whole house system or automated pool controller?

Yes. Ignition boxes are typically 120v powered which is connected to an outdoor GFI outlet. Also, 24v models are built upon request for use in some systems.

How do the Remote Electronic Fire Pit Inserts work?

Once power is applied to the unit (120vac or 24vac), the system will allow gas to flow to the pilot assembly- the hot wire igniter will glow igniting the gas. The thermocouple on the pilot assembly will sense this pilot flame and safely open the valve to the main burner- the pilot flame then ignites the main burner. If at any time the pilot flame is lost, the unit will turn off the gas for safety, and then automatically restart.

How do I maintain the integrity of my table top over time?

Your table top will require different care instructions/guidelines based upon the materials your top is comprised of. Certain materials require more maintenance than others. Below you'll find care details on different materials your table top may be made of.

Porcelain

Porcelain is a hard, fine-grained material that consists essentially of kaolin, quartz, and feldspar. It is compacted and generally fired in kilns at high temperatures greater than 2000 degrees Fahrenheit. Porcelain is relatively non-porous and is a very durable material. If properly maintained, it will last forever. Most porcelain table tops on our fire tables have already been sealed. Maintaining the sealer on the table is very important and requires regular cleaning. Clean tops with a soft, clean cloth (one that won’t bleed color) or sponge. Use warm clean water and mild dish soap. Remember, you are not cleaning the porcelain; you are cleaning the sealer layer on the porcelain. Do not use petroleum-based or abrasive cleaners. Rinse with plenty of clean water to remove any soap residue. Dry thoroughly after cleaning to prevent water spots. Even if your tabletop has been sealed, spills need to be cleaned immediately to prevent staining or damage to the tabletop. Always blot spills with a clean, soft cloth. Wiping could spread the spill. Repeat blotting with the dry area of cloth until the spill is totally absorbed. Rinse with clean, warm water and wipe dry.

Clay

Clay is a material that consists of fine-grained, phyllosilicate minerals from the earth. The clay is pressed into molds, allowed to air dry, and then fired in kilns. After the tile is fired, a glaze is hand applied and the tiles are re-fired at temperatures exceeding 1000 degrees Fahrenheit. The top of the glazed tile is relatively non-porous and clay tile is a very durable material. If properly maintained, it will last forever. The clay top on your table has been sealed, and maintaining the sealer on the table is very important and requires regular cleaning. Clean tops with a soft, clean cloth (one that won’t bleed color) or sponge. Use warm clean water and mild dish soap. Remember, you are not cleaning the clay; you are cleaning the sealer layer on the clay. Do not use petroleum-based or abrasive cleaners. Rinse with plenty of clean water to remove any soap residue. Dry thoroughly after cleaning to prevent water spots. Even if your tabletop has been sealed, spills need to be cleaned immediately to prevent staining or damaged to the tabletop. Always blot spills with a clean, soft cloth. Wiping could spread the spill. Repeat blotting with the dry area of the cloth until the spill is totally absorbed. Rinse with clean, warm water and wipe dry.

Stone

Stone is a durable yet porous material that will last forever if properly maintained. Your stone tabletop has been sealed using a special treatment to resist moisture penetration and staining. The sealer has a very long life, but does require proper cleaning and maintenance to maintain the integrity of the tabletop. Acidic compounds found in many foods such as tomato products, mustard, fruit juices, wines, colas, vinegar, and coffee can leave permanent stains in the stone material. The porous nature of stone also leaves it susceptible to heat retention. Care should be exercised when handling stone that has been subjected to lengthy exposure to the sun, to prevent bodily harm.

Glass

Use mild soap and water or commercially available glass cleaners. Do not use cleansers or abrasive materials.

What do I need to connect my gas fire pit to a standard 20 lb. propane tank?
With a standard 20 lb. propane tank you are limiting the amount of BTU usage to between 90,000 and 100,000. For this reason, the largest ring recommended you use would be 18”, you will also need a regulator and an air mixer along with the other standard supplies necessary (e.g. fittings, valve, key, and piping).
What do I need if I want to use propane for my gas fire pit?
If you plan to use propane for your gas fire pit you will need an air mixer and a burner pan, while also making sure your propane line uses a  regulator. An air mixer is necessary because propane needs to mix with air to create a clean, efficient fuel. The burner pan is necessary to ensure the proper amount of spacing for your air mixer to gather air to mix with the propane, allowing proper burning. Also, the burner pan is designed to prevent fuel from settling below the pan and burner; failure to utilize a burner pan when on LP gas, could result in personal injury or explosion. Please see our instructional video for more details.
Can I fill my gas fire pit with pea gravel?
Yes, but only for natural gas applications. We do not recommend using pea gravel; however, if used properly following the same regulations as you would lava rock, pea gravel may be used for natural gas fire pits.
Do I need a burner pan for my gas fire pit?

Yes and No.

For natural gas users, a burner pan is recommended- but not necessary. A burner pan will not only keep your burner supported within your enclosure, but it will also reduce the amount of fire pit media you need to use. A properly mounted fire pit pan can greatly increase the life and performance of your fire pit burner ring, while also making future maintenance of your fire pit easy.

For liquid propane applications, a burner pan is necessary. LP applications require an air mixer to operate, in order to ensure the highest level of performance and safety. You must also provide adequate space around the air mixer underneath the burner pan, to ensure that unburned propane falloff does not settle below the pan.

Does a larger fire ring mean taller flame height?

No.

Using a larger ring does not mean taller flame height. The height of the flame is dependent on the amount of gas being supplied to the burner itself. If the gas pressure being supplied does not measure up to the BTU requirements of the burner, a larger ring will broaden the flame, but take away from the flame height. Most customers think of a larger flame as equating to the overall flame height, not so much the width. If the delivery of gas cannot be increased, then “reducing” the fire ring size will increase the flame height.

How large should my gas line be for my fire pit?
This is not an easy question to answer, due to the numerous variables involved. The first major item is the size of the fire pit to be installed- or BTU input requirements for the appliance. Other factors such as gas pressure, the length of run, elbows, or other hardware that may affect gas flow, and must be figured into the calculation. Also, what is commonly forgotten are other appliances connected to the gas line that will take away gas from the fire pit. We at Starfire Direct strongly recommend working with your contractor or plumber, so they can account for all the factors to ensure proper gas delivery.

Showing items 1-16 of 16.