Frequently Asked Questions:

What tools do I need for setup?

Setup is fairly simple and will require basic hand tools.  A Phillips screwdriver is needed to install and adjust hardware such as door handles and hinges, and an adjustable wrench may be needed for adjusting the built-in levelers.

How many people are needed to assemble my kitchen?

It is recommended that two people are involved in setup.  The cabinets are somewhat heavy, so one person should tilt the cabinets while a second person adjusts the built-in levelers.

How long does it take to setup my outdoor kitchen?

Our cabinets come preassembled, making setup simple.  Depending on the number and style of cabinets purchased, setup can take less than an hour and up to about half a day.  This includes installing hardware and leveling your cabinets.  Each cabinet, on average, takes about 45 minutes to set up, including unpacking.

What utilities do I need to have installed?

Our grill and side burner cabinets accommodate a standard 20lb propane tank that sits in the pull-out tank caddy inside the cabinet.  If your kitchen includes a sink, a licensed plumber will need to install a water hookup and connect the drain to your house’s plumbing.  Check local ordinances for proper installation.  If your outdoor kitchen includes any electrical appliances such as a refrigerator, you will need an electrical hookup as well, which should be handled by a licensed electrician.

What else should I consider when planning my outdoor kitchen?

The first step is to measure the space you have.  Our cabinets are designed to be configured in different layouts so there are options for various spaces. You will also need to consider the floor surface.  Whether it is a wood deck or stone patio, make sure it can handle the size and weight.  Additionally, for grills and side burners, the manufacturer may have requirements for distance between the gas appliance and combustible surfaces, such as walls and ceilings.

Which style is best for me?

Outsider™ outdoor kitchen cabinets come in two thoughtfully selected styles, Driftwood Shore and Castle Lake.  Driftwood Shore uses a hand applied wood-look finish which blends in with a natural backyard filled with trees and other wood features.  Castle Lake features a gray color that fits with stone or brick architecture.

Do I need to cover my outdoor kitchen?

If you live in a harsh climate or you want to get the most out of your outdoor kitchen, we recommend covering it.  Outsider™ kitchens utilize powder coated marine-grade aluminum, stainless steel hardware, and granite countertops.  All of these materials have been selected with durability and longevity in mind.

How long will my outdoor kitchen last?

Outsider™ kitchens come with a 5-year warranty on the cabinets and 1-year warranty on the countertops.  With proper care, your OutsiderTM kitchen will last for years to come.

Do you offer installation services?

Installation services can be scheduled with Lowe’s.

Which is better, fire glass or lava rocks?

Both fire glass and lava rocks are good heat conductors. Fire glass absorbs and gives off more heat than lava rocks, but lava rocks are much more affordable. Lava rocks are rustic and natural looking while fire glass is more modern and reflective looking. It is really up to the customer of the type of look they want for their patio.

Can I layer fire glass over lava rock in my gas fire pit?

Yes, using lava rocks as the base layer and then covering with fire glass can help save you money. Place a layer of lava rocks up to the burner and then cover with fire glass. Be sure to use a smaller size lava rock on the base layer to fill in any voids to prevent the fire glass from falling through.

How much fire glass is needed for my fire pit?

(this can vary depending on manufacturer):

14” Round Pan, 2.5” Depth – 20 lbs

14”Square Pan, 2.5” Depth – 25 lbs

19” Round Pan, 2.5” Depth – 38 lbs

19”Square Pan, 2.5” Depth – 47 lbs

29” Rectangular Pan – 29” Length x 11” Width, 2.5” Depth – 41 lbs

Does fire glass create soot or ash?

Fire glass is designed to withstand high heat without melting and discoloring. It does not produce soot, ash, toxic fumes, or smoke.

Can I burn wood in my propane fire pit?

NO. You cannot burn wood in a propane fire pit. Unlike wood fire pits, propane fire pits are based off of a lower heat output. The intense heat of burning wood would cause damage to a propane fire pit and potentially to it’s surroundings.

Can I use natural river rock in my fire pit?

NO. Never use stones or rocks that are not specifically made for gas fire pits. Natural rocks and stones have a moisture content that will cause them to explode when heated.

What type of media can I use in my fire pit?

There are several types of fire pit heat-resistant media that are available to be used in a fire pit which include lava rocks, fire glass, ceramic logs and ceramic stones. These are available for sale online and at retail stores that specialize in firepits and heat-resistant media.

Can I use glass in my propane fire pit?

Only heat-resistant fire glass that is designed for fire pits can be used in propane fire pits. Regular glass will pop and explode when exposed to high heat.

Can I cook on my propane fire pit?

No you should not cook over a gas fire pit. Food particles and grease can cling to the media and damage the burner.

How do I properly store my fire pit for winter?

  1. Remove all debris from burner pan and area surrounding your fire pit.
  2. Close the propane gas valve, disconnect the regulator hose, and remove the propane tank.
  3. Remove any accessories such as a wind guard and store.
  4. Remove media and follow the manufacturer’s instruction if they need to be cleaned.
  5. Clean the burner, pipes, interior and exterior of the fire pit and cover the burner. You can use heavy duty pipe cleaners and compressed air to clean burner holes.
  6. Cover fire pit with a vinyl and keep raised off of ground to keep water from pooling around base.

How do I care for and maintain my fire pit?

  1. Always cover your fire pit when not in use.
  2. Remove any loose debris from the fire pit media.
  3. Clean the holes in the burner rings with heavy duty pipe cleaners and or compressed air to remove obstructions such as dirt and spider webs.
  4. Check the rubber gas lines for any cracks or damage caused by animals.
  5. Check and replace batteries if needed.
  6. Ensure propane tank is properly filled, not damaged and valve turns freely.

What is a BTU?

British Thermal Unit (BTU) is the amount of heat required to raise the temperature of one pound of water by one degree Fahrenheit. Put simply, it is the unit that measures the heat produced by your burner.

Will wind affect the flame on my fire pit?

Strong winds can make it harder to light a propane fire pit as well as blow out open flames. You should not use a propane fire pit in strong winds.

What if my propane fire pit will not light or stay lit?

  1. Make sure the propane tank is full, properly connected to the fire pit gas supply hose, and that the propane tank valve is turned on.
  2. Push in the spark igniter switch to check that is making a clicking noise. If you do not hear a clicking sound, check to ensure the battery is properly installed. If the battery is properly installed, then replace the battery. If there is still no clicking sound, check to make sure the electrode wire is connected. If the problem still persists, the igniter may need to be cleaned or replaced.
  3. Air may need to be purged from the gas supply hose. You can check if the air has been purged if you smell a faint odor of gas and hear hissing near the burner box. If you do not smell any gas, push in the gas valve knob until the air is fully purged from the gas supply hose.
  4. Check for obstructions around the igniter cage and burner ring. Inspect burner tube holes for spider webs. You can clean the burner holes and pilot cage with a heavy duty pipe cleaner and compressed air to clear away debris.
  5. In cold weather, the gas valve knob may need to be kept pushed in up to a minute after the pilot light is lit to warm up the flame sensor (thermocouple).

How do I light my propane fire pit?

  1. Turn the gas valve on your propane tank to “OPEN”
  2. Push and hold the electronic igniter to create sparks to ignite the burner.
  3. Push in the control knob and turn to “ON”. Once the flame ignites, release the electronic igniter.
  4. Keep holding down the control knob to allow gas to flow for at 20 seconds
  5. After at least 20 seconds, release and turn control knob counterclockwise to adjust flame to desired height

I have a fire pit with an external tank. Where do I place it when in use?

External tanks need to be placed 5 feet away from your fire pit to avoid any unsafe gas exposure. You may consider purchasing a tank hideaway to cover the propane tank.

Can I place a propane fire pit on a wooden deck?

If you are going to place a fire pit on a wooden deck you should place it on a non-combustible fire pit mat or heat resistant tile. As a safety precaution, always keep a fully-charged fire extinguisher nearby.

Where should I place my fire pit outdoors?

Propane fire pits should be placed at least 10 feet away from any building, combustible materials and outdoor material such as trees and branches. You should always check your city and community open-flame ordinances.

Can propane fire pits be used indoors?

Propane Fire pits can only be used outdoors. An increased risk of carbon monoxide poisoning and fire hazard occurs if used indoors or in an enclosed space.

How do I connect a propane tank to my fire pit?

  1. Ensure your propane tank is purchased and filled by an authorized dealer.
  2. Make sure the gas valve on your tank is closed by turning the valve all the way to the right.
  3. If you have an internal tank gas fire pit with a tank ring, place the tank upright into the ring and secure with the side screw(s) to prevent the tank from moving.
  4. Ensure the gas regulator hose from the burner is in good condition without any cracks or holes. Connect the regulator hose by hand securely to the tank. Do not use any tools to tighten the connection.
  5. Open the gas valve on the tank and check for leaks per the following:
    1. Mix a 50/50 solution of water and liquid soap in a spray bottle.
    2. Open the gas valve on the propane tank and spray the entire valve, regulator and hose assembly with the soapy water.
    3. If bubbles begin to form and grow, close the gas tank valve immediately and refer to your owner’s manual for repair or replacement information. If there are no leaks, you are ready to light your fire pit.

If the flame goes out on my fire pit, will gas continue to flow?

Our burners are equipped with a flame sensor (thermocouple). When the flames go out, the flame sensor triggers the gas valve to shut.

Can I use my propane tank on its side for my fire pit?

Never use a vertical propane tank on its side. If a vertical tank is used or stored horizontally, the liquid has the potential to escape posing a great danger.

Is the propane tank included in the purchase of the fire pit?

No, a propane tank is not included.

How many hours will a propane tank last?

  • 15,000 BTUs (1 lb propane tank)
    • High flame: About 1 hour
    • Low-flame setting: Around 2 hours
  • 20,000 BTUs (1 lb propane tank)
    • High-flame setting: About 1 hour
    • Low-flame setting: About 1 hour and 30 minutes
  • 50,000 BTUs (20 lb propane tank)
    • High-flame setting: About 8 hours and 30 minutes
    • Low-flame setting: Around 13 and a half hours
  • 70,000 BTUs (20 lb propane tank)
    • High-flame setting: Around 6 hours
    • Low-flame setting: Around 9 and half hours

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