Should You Choose a Smokeless Fire Pit for Your Yard?
Fire pits have become an increasingly popular outdoor element over the past decade. It’s not surprising. With so many folks maximizing their indoor and outdoor square footage the past few years, a fire pit allows your outdoor space to be used year-round with family and friends.
However, you can probably guess the biggest drawback of a fire pit: All that smoke! Not only can a fire pit emit smoke as you use it, but the smoke smell embeds itself into your hair, clothes, and outdoor furniture.
That is why smokeless fire pits are growing in popularity!
What are the benefits of a smokeless fire pit?
The most obvious benefit of buying a smokeless fire pit is the limited amount of smoke that the fire produces. How does it all work?
A smokeless fire pit contains a double wall and secondary combustion system, which includes vent holes. Exterior holes near the base push air directly to the fire to feed the flame and keep it hot. The design of the vent holes simultaneously direct air up so the smoke actually burns off before it leaves the top of the pit.
Smokeless fire pits can burn wood, charcoal, logs, or pellets with minimal smoke. Propane fire pits do not emit any smoke.
Is a smokeless fire pit right for your home? Check out the benefits of choosing this option over a conventional fire pit.
It’s portable.
It’s easier to clean.
It’s better for the environment because it produces less pollution.
You can still roast your favorite treats like marshmallows and hot dogs.
It burns better in windy conditions.
Safer! They don’t produce smoke and ash, so they are better for folks with allergies or smoke sensitivities.
Less smoke smell on your clothes, hair, and outdoor furniture.
Buy and burn less fuel.
Are there any downsides to going smokeless? Smokeless fire pit models on the market can be pricer than traditional models. If you tend to DIY, building a safe fire pit in your yard is easier than trying to create a smokeless system yourself. Finally, there are many more design options for a conventional fire pit.
All in all, I anticipate that smokeless fire pit options will continue to increase as the demand grows.
How do you design a yard with a fire pit?
As you know from my project photos, I LOVE designing an outdoor space with a fire pit (sometimes more than one!).
Fire pits create a warm and inviting atmosphere, and they provide actual heat to outdoor rooms. They allow you to use your backyard more and for longer during the year. It’s critical that you check every applicable regulation for your home (city ordinances for outdoor fires, homeowners’ association rules, etc.) before buying or building a fire pit. Choose a location away from trees, buildings, and anything else flammable. Don’t let the fire pit stick out like a sore thumb; rather, incorporate it into your yard design or update your yard design around this focal point by adding garden spaces, sitting areas, and walkways to that outdoor room.
All in all, fire pits are a highlight in many backyards. They are a fantastic way to gather and connect, and they add fun and function to your outdoor space. If you are interested in learning more about making your backyard more event- and winter-friendly with a fire pit, give me a call!
