Are Gas Firepits Expensive to Run?

How Much Does a Gas Firepit Cost to Run?

Gas firepits are a cost-effective way to heat and beautify your outdoor space. The exact cost of running one depends on fuel type, heat output (BTU), and the local price of natural gas or propane, which can fluctuate.

Here’s how to calculate how much your gas fireplace will cost to run:

For example, the national average per therm cost of gas is about $1.69 as of June 2026.¹ If your gas firepit has a BTU rating of 65,000, it will cost about $1.10 per hour to run.

So if you run your firepit for a couple hours, that’s only $2.20 for one session—which is cheaper than a cup of coffee! But of course, this cost varies depending on your location and the specific type of firepit you have.

Factors That Influence How Much Gas Firepits Cost to Run

Gas firepits are cheap to run, but some factors can influence this price point. Below are some of the main variables that determine how much a gas firepit costs to use:

Fuel Type

Fuel type directly influences how much your gas firepit costs to run. There are two main options to choose from:

• Natural Gas (NG): Natural gas comes directly through underground city utility lines. It’s cheaper than propane and more convenient, but has a lower heat output.
• Liquid Propane (LP): Propane is stored as liquid in local tanks, making it a great option for off-grid firepits. While it costs more than natural gas and requires regular refills, it has a higher heat volume and requires no direct utility connections.

The right option for your gas firepit depends on your budget, preferences, and access to utility lines.

Heat Output (BTU Rating)

The heat output of your gas firepit plays a major role in how much it costs to use. Heat output is measured in British Thermal Units (BTU). This is the total amount of heat energy that the flames produce per hour.

Larger firepits typically have a higher BTU rating and consume more energy, so they cost more to operate. Liquid propane also has a higher BTU rating compared to natural gas.

To reduce heating costs, before installing your gas fireplace, consider the maximum number of people who might sit around it or the size of the space it needs to heat. This way, you’re only paying for the heat radius that you actually need.

Local Utility Rates

Natural gas and propane prices vary from location to location. They can also fluctuate over time as gas prices shift. While the average per therm price of natural gas is $1.69 nationally, the current rate for the San Francisco Bay Area is $2.28.^1,2 Be sure to keep this in mind when estimating how much your gas firepit will cost to run.

Usage Patterns

The more you use your gas firepit, the more expensive it will be to run and maintain. Leaving the burner on high for multiple hours per session takes a lot more fuel compared to running it on low for shorter periods.

However, that doesn’t mean you have to avoid using your firepit entirely. You can still enjoy its warmth and ambiance with a few mindful usage habits to help minimize the price.

Below are some habits that can help lower the cost of running your gas firepit:

• Use a Lower Flame Setting: Running your gas firepit on a lower flame setting uses less fuel while still providing comfort and heat.
• Set a Timer: Set a maximum budget for every gas firepit session and set a timer to stick to it.
• Track Fuel Usage: Keep a running note on your phone to track the length of each firepit session. This helps you identify usage patterns so you can make adjustments and keep fuel costs under control.

Just a few small changes to your gas firepit usage habits can make all the difference in minimizing fuel consumption and keeping ongoing costs manageable.

Firepit Condition

The condition of your gas firepit determines how efficiently it runs. If your gas firepit needs repairs, cleaning, or maintenance, it will run ineffectively and cost more to operate. Soot, dirt, and other debris can block gas exit points, restrict fuel flow, and weaken flames, making the entire unit less efficient overall.

Below are some tips to help keep your gas firepit in good condition:

• Stick to a Maintenance Schedule: Keep up with regular cleaning and schedule maintenance and repairs when necessary to ensure the firepit runs efficiently.
• Cover the Firepit: Use a properly fitted cover when the firepit isn’t in use to protect it from the elements and reduce maintenance needs over time.
• Keep the Burner Clean: Regularly cleaning the burner and removing debris can help your firepit operate efficiently and consistently.

Ensuring that your gas firepit is in pristine condition is one of the best ways to keep it efficient and cost-effective for years to come.

However, if your gas firepit needs more than a little cleaning, it’s important to never try making repairs on your own. Fiddling with gas mechanisms can be a major safety risk, so always let a qualified professional handle repairs for you.

Schedule Gas Firepit Maintenance & Repairs in the Bay Area

Gas firepits elevate any outdoor space with warmth, beauty, and ambiance. While they are cheap to run, they require consistent care and upkeep to keep them working efficiently and at a manageable cost.

Creative Energy is proud to be the Bay Area’s leading dealer of gas firepits, firetables, fire bowls, fire urns, and fireplaces. We’re also the go-to choice for professional maintenance and cleaning services that keep your unit functional and efficient. If your firepit is in need of repairs, maintenance, or cleaning, we’re more than happy to help.

Request a technician online or call (510) 237-2300 to connect with our service center today.