Ethanol Fire Pits Vs. Gas and Wood Fire Pits: Pros and Cons You Need to Know

Ethanol Fire Pits vs. Gas & Wood Fire Pits: Which Option is Best?

Are you looking for the perfect fire pit to add to your backyard or outdoor space? This decision can be tricky! Generally, there are three options to choose from: wood fire pits, gas fire pits, and ethanol fire pits. But which type of fire pit is the best option?

 

In this article, we’re taking a look at the pros and cons of each type of fire pit to help you decide which option is best for you.

Wood Fire Pits

Wood-burning fires are one of the most traditional fire pits. The smell of firewood burning makes them nostalgic in nature, and for a long time, they have been a backyard staple. The dancing flame, aesthetic, and simplicity have been their redeeming features, but there are pros and cons to having a wood fire pit.

The Pros of Wood Fire Pits

When it comes to the pros of wood-burning fireplaces, there are plenty that you could focus on. There are many reasons why individuals choose wood fire pits instead of other alternatives.

Feels like a Traditional Campfire

One of the biggest reasons that wood-burning fire pits are chosen is that they evoke that campfire feel. Gathering around a campfire is one of the oldest social gathering points. Whether it’s the smell of burning wood, the crackling, and pops of the fire, or the warmth of the dancing flame, it brings back those nostalgic feelings.

Good Source of Heat

Wood-burning fire pits are a great source of heat. On average, the burn time is approximately 3-4 hours, depending on how many logs you add. Wood-burning fires are a fantastic way to stay warm and have a great ambient feel all year round.

The Cons of Wood Fire Pits

With all that being said, wood-burning fire pits do have a number of cons. Although heavily nostalgic, times are changing, and wood-burning fire pits do begin to show their age.

Safety Concerns

Although wood-burning fire pits are lovely, they pose a big safety concern. Open fires are an issue because they can cause burns. The ash and embers of a wood fire cannot be left unattended, even after the initial fire is out, as the embers can reignite. Wood fire pits retain their heat even once the flame dies, which increases the chances of burns if you are moving certain components, like a metal cover. Aside from burns, there is also the potential for injury with firewood. Whether you cut it yourself or buy it pre-cut, splinters and cuts can be common.

Smoke & Sparks

As much as we love the crack and pop of the fire, sparks and embers have been known to potentially start other fires without warning. Wood fire pits also have harmful emissions. They are associated with the emissions of toxic compounds such as nitrogen oxides and chlorinated dioxins, which are harmful to the environment. Smoke inhalation is another con of wood fire pits since the wood burns and releases harmful compounds into the air. Inhaling this smoke for an extended period of time is not good for your health. Health Canada advises caution since smoke inhalation can irritate an individual’s eyes and throat.

Gas Fire Pits

One of the more common choices for fire pits, especially in modern times, is gas fire pits. Gas fire pits can come in a variety of different shapes and sizes and run on natural gas or propane. Gas is not only a beautiful choice but also has the versatility that is desired by many.

The Pros of Gas Fire Pits

Gas fire pits boast a variety of pros. From cleaner burning when compared to traditional pits to the ease of ignition, or even their indoor/outdoor versatility, there are plenty of reasons why gas fire pits can be a fantastic option for specific individuals.

Easy to Light

One of the best features of gas fire pits is the instant gratification you get from lighting them with a flick of a switch. Since gas fire pits have a line of gas running to them, they can easily be lit day or night, sunshine or rain.

Relatively Clean Burning

Unlike their wood-burning cousin, gas fire pits are more efficient. Gas burns more cleanly and has fewer emissions into the atmosphere. Compared to wood, natural gas produces 99% fewer emissions than a wood fire pit.

The Cons of Gas Fire Pits

Now gas fire pits can be a great option, but there are a couple of pitfalls that need consideration. Although gas fire pits boast some flexibility in design, there are other cons, like heat production, expenses, and installation.

Produce Less Heat

Gas fire pits can run on two types of fuel: natural gas or liquid propane. Both types provide a similar amount of heat, but natural gas fire pits tend to have a lower BTU output rating, meaning they don’t produce as much heat. It is also worth noting that a natural gas fire pit will use more gas than a propane fire pit to achieve the same amount of heat.

More Expensive

There is a more costly price tag when installing a gas fire pit since it has a lengthy installation process and requires professional involvement. Another factor with gas fire pits is that you will need to pay for maintenance. The burner and fixtures, such as valves and pipes, must be regularly inspected to ensure safety and efficiency.

Difficult Installation

Gas fire pits require professional installation since gas lines and an electrical connection must be installed. A licensed professional will be required to ensure that the connection, ventilation, and gas supply are all installed correctly.

Ethanol Fire Pits

Finally, we have ethanol fire pits. Ethanol fireplaces have been increasing in popularity for a number of reasons over the years. Whether it’s the benefit of the ecosmart fire pod or their portability, ethanol fire pits are a wonderful alternative to other similar products.

The Pros of Ethanol Fire Pits

The pros of an ethanol fire pit can be a lengthy list, so we have simplified it to four key points in the summary below. Since they can be customized in many different shapes, sizes, and finishes, there are many benefits to having an ethanol fire pit.

Environmentally-friendly

One of the most prevalent benefits of ethanol fires is that they are one of the most environmentally friendly solutions. Ethanol is a renewable resource created from earthy materials, like plant by-products. These by-products come from harvesting crops like sugarcane, corn, and even grapes.

Low Maintenance

Another redeeming feature of ethanol fire pits is that they are extremely low maintenance and don’t make a mess with soot. Since most ethanol fire pits are made of stainless steel and don’t have any big moving parts, their cleaning and maintenance are minimal compared to other fire pits like gas or wood.

No Venting Required

When ethanol fire pits are lit, bioethanol fuel doesn’t emit any smoke or harmful toxins. When you purchase an ethanol fireplace, you don’t have to worry about costly ventilation, leaving the chimney, vent, and flue in the past.

Affordable

As demonstrated in the elements above, ethanol fire pits are a great affordable option. Aside from being wonderfully low maintenance, they are also one of the simpler installations and do not require professional installation. One of the only costs associated with ethanol fire pits is the purchase of fuel, but biofuel is very affordable and lasts a while!

The Cons of Ethanol Fire Pits

The purpose you want your fire pit to serve will heavily dictate whether an ethanol fire pit is the right option for you.

Not a Primary Source of Heat

Ethanol fire pits are not meant to be a primary source of heat. Instead, they are meant to supplement it. You would need to have a massive ethanol burner to heat a room adequately. The BTU output of ethanol burners is on the lower end, meaning they have low heat radiation. It is best to use ethanol burners as a supplemental heat source.

Why Ethanol Fire Pits Are the Best Option

Compared to their other fire pit alternatives, ethanol fire pits take the cake by far. The combination of being low maintenance, versatile, stylish, affordable, and eco-friendly makes ethanol fire pits a great choice with few disadvantages.

How to Create Your Own Ethanol Fire Pit

Having a gorgeous-looking warm fireplace isn’t as hard as many people think! You can create your own bio-ethanol fireplace unit with just a few simple steps. All you need is an ethanol burner and non-flammable materials.

To get started, you first need to narrow down the type of burner that suits your project. Burners can come in various sizes and styles, so finding one that fits your vision will be a key factor in choosing the right burner and style. Once you have your design in mind and have picked your burner, all that is left to do is contact Bio Flame to order yours today! We have a great selection of ethanol burners to choose from to build your perfect ethanol fire pit.

Once you receive your burner, you can simply install it and enjoy a cozy evening in your backyard.