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Gas Fire Pit Venting – Propane & Natural Gas

🔥 PURPOSE

Ensure safe operation and longevity of built-in gas fire pits by allowing proper ventilation of unburned gas and heat from within the enclosure.

❗ WHY IT MATTERS

Prevents gas buildup from leaks or delayed ignition.
Reduces overheating inside the structure, protecting ignition components and finish materials.
Required by manufacturers and most gas codes.
Improves flame performance by regulating air flow.

✅ GENERAL VENTING GUIDELINES

Use non-combustible, permanent ventilation components.
Vents must allow cross ventilation—placed on opposing sides of the fire pit.
Vents should never be blocked by framing, insulation, stucco, or decorative cladding.

🧯 PROPANE (LP) FIRE PITS

Vent Placement: At the bottom of the enclosure (within 4–6" of base).
Minimum Size: 18 in² total (e.g., two 9 in² vents).
Reason: Propane sinks and pools in low areas, posing an explosion risk.

💨 NATURAL GAS (NG) FIRE PITS

Vent Placement: Near the top of the enclosure.
Minimum Size: 18 in² total (e.g., two 9 in² vents).
Reason: Natural gas rises and collects near the top of a closed cavity.

🛑 NEVER DO THIS

Never seal the fire pit structure completely.
Never install vents on the same side only.
Never use plastic or wood vents.
Never place vents directly behind flame jet if venting to a tight space.

🧱 TYPICAL CONSTRUCTION CONSIDERATIONS

Integrate vent panels into block, stone, or cladding with sufficient clearance.
Allow space around ignition modules for air movement and servicing.
Consider access doors in addition to vents for match-lit models using LP tanks.

📝 PRATT GUYS STANDARD NOTES

"INSTALL (2) VENTS MINIMUM – TOTALING 18 IN² – ON OPPOSING SIDES OF FIRE PIT ENCLOSURE. LOW FOR LP / HIGH FOR NG."
"ALL VENTS TO BE METAL AND NON-COMBUSTIBLE. DO NOT COVER OR BLOCK."
"IF USING ENCLOSED LP TANK UNDER FIRE PIT, INCLUDE VENTED ACCESS DOOR AND LOW VENT."
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