Why Fire Features Often Require Bigger Gas Lines Than Pool Heaters
Fire features add ambiance and luxury to any poolside setting, but they often require larger gas lines than pool heaters. Many pool builders assume that because a pool heater has a high BTU rating, it must need the largest gas line. However, fire features operate differently and can place greater demand on a gas system. This guide explains why and how to size gas lines correctly.
1. How BTU Demand Differs Between Pool Heaters and Fire Features
✅ Pool Heaters typically have BTU ratings between 250,000 - 400,000 BTUs
✅ Fire Features (fire pits, fire bowls, outdoor fireplaces) can each range from 90,000 - 300,000 BTUs
✅ A single fire feature may have lower BTU demand than a pool heater, but multiple fire features add up fast
✅ Unlike a pool heater that cycles on and off, fire features may run continuously for hours, maintaining high demand
2. Why Using the Wrong Pipe Size Leads to Underperforming Fire Features
🚩 Undersized pipes = weak flames, uneven fire, or no ignition
✅ Gas pressure drops when pipes are too small, preventing full flame output
✅ Some fire features require a dedicated gas line to avoid pressure loss when combined with other appliances
✅ Proper pipe sizing is even more important for long gas runs, as distance increases pressure loss
3. The Easy Way to Determine If a Fire Feature Needs a Dedicated Gas Line
✅ Add up the total BTU demand of all gas appliances on the system
✅ Check pipe sizing charts to determine if the existing gas line can handle the load
✅ If fire features and a pool heater are on the same line, a higher pressure system or larger pipe size may be required
✅ Work with a licensed plumber to calculate gas demand and design the system properly
4. How to Make Sure Fire Features Don’t Steal Gas from the Pool Heater
🚧 The most common mistake is running a fire feature on the same undersized gas line as the pool heater
✅ Option 1: Install a dedicated gas line for fire features to ensure consistent performance
✅ Option 2: Upgrade to a high-pressure system with regulators to support all appliances
✅ Option 3: Increase the pipe diameter to allow sufficient gas flow to all appliances
✅ Always perform a pressure test before backfilling trenches to confirm proper gas flow
Fire Feature Gas Line Sizing Checklist
✅ Calculate total BTU demand before selecting pipe size
✅ Check pipe sizing charts for proper gas flow
✅ Consider a dedicated gas line for multiple fire features
✅ Use higher pressure systems where needed
✅ Perform a pressure test before backfilling
✅ Work with a licensed plumber to ensure compliance
Need expert guidance on fire feature gas lines? Contact Wildflower Plumbing & Gas at (512) 292-1966 or email info@wildflowerplumbing.com for expert assistance!