Propane vs Natural Gas Fire Pit Tables: Choosing the Right Fuel Type for Your Fire Pit Table
Propane vs Natural Gas Fire Pit Tables: When upgrading your outdoor space with a fire pit table, one of the first decisions you’ll face is fuel type: propane or natural gas. Both offer clean flames, beautiful ambiance, and reliable performance, but each one fits different patios, lifestyles, and installation needs. In this guide, we break down the differences, benefits, and best use cases for both—featuring premium Napoleon fire pit tables available at DDR BBQ Supply.
Jump Links
- Propane vs Natural Gas: Quick Overview
- Benefits of Propane Fire Pit Tables
- Benefits of Natural Gas Fire Pit Tables
- Heat Output & Performance
- Installation Requirements
- Cost Comparison
- Our Recommended Fire Pit Tables
- Which Fuel Type Is Better for You?
- Conclusion
Propane vs Natural Gas: Quick Overview
Both propane and natural gas are excellent choices for outdoor fire pit tables. They burn cleanly, produce consistent flame patterns, and are more convenient than wood-burning fire pits. The key differences mostly come down to:
- Installation preference
- Mobility needs
- Long-term fuel cost
- How often you use your table
- Your patio layout
Benefits of Propane Fire Pit Tables
Propane is the most common and flexible option for homeowners today. Nearly all Napoleon Patioflame tables come propane-ready right out of the box, making setup simple and fast.
1. Easy Setup
Propane fire pit tables require no professional installation. Just connect a standard 20-lb tank and you’re ready to enjoy the flame.
2. Portable & Versatile
You can place propane tables almost anywhere on a patio, deck, or porch—perfect for renters, small patios, or spaces where you may rearrange furniture often.
3. Cleaner Than Wood
No smoke, no sparks, and no ash. The flame is instant, adjustable, and mess-free.
4. Hidden Tank Options
Several Napoleon models hide the tank inside the table’s base for a clean, seamless look.
5. Works Even Without Hard Gas Lines
If your home doesn’t have an outdoor natural gas hookup, propane is the easiest choice.
Benefits of Natural Gas Fire Pit Tables
Natural gas is ideal for homeowners looking for a permanent, low-maintenance fire feature.
1. Unlimited Fuel Supply
Your fire pit table connects directly to your home’s gas line—no tanks to change or refill.
2. Lower Long-Term Fuel Cost
Natural gas is significantly cheaper per hour of burn time than propane.
3. Ideal for Permanent Installations
If your fire pit table is staying in one place, natural gas offers the best convenience.
4. Consistent Flame Output
Because the supply line is steady, natural gas tables often maintain a more uniform flame.
5. Cleaner Storage Space
No propane tanks means a cleaner look and more room around the table.
Heat Output & Performance
Both propane and natural gas fire pit tables deliver strong, comfortable heat—but propane often offers slightly higher BTUs on portable models.
- Propane: hotter flame, ideal for open patios
- Natural Gas: steady flame, ideal for built-in spaces
Every Napoleon Patioflame table is designed to maximize heat output regardless of fuel type.
Installation Requirements
Propane Installation
Installation is simple—connect a tank, place the table, and turn it on. No contractor required.
Natural Gas Installation
Requires:
- Existing or new gas line
- Licensed gas technician for hookup
- Table placement that will remain permanent
Several Napoleon Patioflame models can be converted to natural gas. Check with your installer for compatibility.
Cost Comparison
Upfront Cost
- Propane tables: usually lower upfront cost
- Natural gas: installation may cost more depending on gas line distance
Fuel Cost Over Time
- Propane: higher price per hour but extremely convenient
- Natural gas: lowest long-term cost, best for frequent use
Our Recommended Fire Pit Tables
All models below come propane-ready, with natural gas conversion options available depending on installer recommendation.
Napoleon Hamptons Square Patioflame Fire Table
Clean modern lines with a low, lounge-friendly height.
Shop the Hamptons Square Table
Napoleon Kensington Rectangle Patioflame Fire Table
Perfect for longer seating arrangements or large patios.
Shop the Kensington Rectangle Table
Napoleon Kensington Square Patioflame Fire Table
Traditional design with timeless detailing.
Shop the Kensington Square Table
Napoleon Kensington Round Patioflame Fire Pit Table
A round flame centerpiece ideal for conversational seating groups.
Shop the Kensington Round Table
Napoleon St. Tropez Rectangle Patioflame Fire Pit Table
Contemporary and sleek—perfect for modern patios.
Napoleon Uptown Rectangle Patioflame Fire Pit Table
Bold architectural design with tiered surfaces.
Shop the Uptown Fire Pit Table
Which Fuel Type Is Better for You?
Your ideal choice depends on your outdoor setup:
Choose Propane if you want:
- Maximum portability
- No installation costs
- Freedom to rearrange your patio
- Immediate setup
Choose Natural Gas if you want:
- A permanent patio installation
- Lowest long-term fuel cost
- No tanks to refill
- Always-available flame at the turn of a knob
Conclusion
Whether you choose propane or natural gas, a fire pit table instantly elevates your outdoor space with warmth, ambiance, and a stunning visual centerpiece. Propane offers unbeatable ease and flexibility, while natural gas brings convenience and affordability for long-term use. Whichever you prefer, every Napoleon model at DDR BBQ Supply is built for performance, durability, and year-round enjoyment—making any choice a great one.
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