Outdoor Living Revolution: How Smart Fire Pits Are Changing the Game
Posted by NFI Gas Certified Fire Pit Expert on Mar 21st 2025
Introduction
At Flame Source, we're dedicated to enhancing outdoor living experiences with innovative solutions. One of the latest trends transforming outdoor spaces is the advent of "smart" fire pits. These modern marvels are not only convenient but also add a new level of safety and sophistication to your outdoor living area. So, what is a "smart" fire pit exactly? Read on and we will tell you!
Traditional Fire Pits vs. Smart Fire Pits
Fire pits have traditionally been lit with a match or lighter and a gas valve. While this method has its charm, many people find it cumbersome and unsafe due to the lack of automated safety features. Many of us have experienced the sudden burst of flame when unburned gas has built up and ignites while struggling to light a fire pit. This type of experience is not only dangerous, but it discourages people from using their fire pit. With proper education and the right ignition components, this type of unenjoyable experience is completely avoidable.
Enter smart fire pits, which come equipped with electronic ignition systems that can be controlled in a variety of ways.
What Makes a Fire Pit "Smart"?
Without overcomplicating things, to have a "smart" fire pit, you simply must have a fire pit that is operated via an electronic ignition system and can therefore tie into a "smart" control system. These electronic ignitions typically run off 110v power, but can also be low voltage, and in some cases battery operated.
- Control Options: Many of our fire pits and burner kits feature electronic ignition systems that can be integrated with smart outlets, pool controllers, and home automation systems. This means you can light your fire pit with the touch of a button or a voice command. Don't need to get quite that fancy? Electronic ignition systems can also be tied into a simple wall switch or timer.
- App Control: Imagine controlling your fire pit from your smartphone. With our smart fire pits and burner systems, you can have access to options such as turning the fire pit on and off, adjusting the flame, and setting timers, all from an app. If you are building your own fire pit structure and only need the ignition and burner components, we can help set you up with everything you need. Just remember to select the electronic ignition option when building your burner kit on our website or give us a call and we can guide you along.
- Safety Features: Enhanced safety features, such as automatic shut-off and temperature monitoring, ensure that your fire pit is not only easy to use but also safe. Worried about leaving your fire pit burning unattended, having it installed near the water and getting splashed, or a gust of wind blowing out your fire pit without you knowing it? An electronic ignition system equipped with a flame sense will automatically shut off the gas to your burner in these instances, preventing the flow of unburned gas, keeping you and your family & friends safe.
Benefits of Smart Fire Pits
- Convenience: The ability to control your fire pit remotely adds a level of convenience that traditional fire pits can't match. Whether you're inside your home or lounging in your backyard, you can easily manage your fire pit.
- Safety: Smart fire pits reduce the risk of accidents with features like automatic shut-off and temperature monitoring. You can enjoy your outdoor space with peace of mind.
- Integration with Modern Living: As more homes become smart homes, integrating your fire pit with your home automation system makes sense. It adds to the seamless, modern living experience.
What does an electronic ignition or "smart" fire pit cost?
In most cases, the biggest cost factor on a fire pit or burner system will be the ignition option. If you are wanting to add an electronic ignition system to your fire pit burner system, you can typically count on it being in the ballpark of a $1500-$2500 upgrade.
If you want more than a simple key valve and match lit setup but you don't want to upgrade to a full electronic ignition system, there are options between them that we offer. Battery operated spark ignitions and valves with flame sense features are great middle of the road options that add convenience and safety without having to jump all the way to a smart fire pit with electronic ignition.
Check out some Smart Fire Pit examples
At Flame Source, we offer a range of fire pits that can be ordered with an electronic ignition system to turn it into a smart fire pit. Here are a few examples of products that have electronic ignition options available which allow for a smart fire pit transformation:
- Del Mar Linear Fire Pit 48": The Del Mar is a classy California coast inspired GFRC Concrete fire pit that works well in almost any outdoor setting. Its coffee table height and ample width is perfect for sitting around the fire with others.
- Cazo Fire & Water Bowl: The Cazo fire & water bowl draws influence from Spanish-style architecture and is the perfect complement to your pool or water feature.
- Round Paver Kit Burner System: Whether you are a DIY'er or a Professional Hardscaper, our Paver Kits are an all-in-one solution for building your own gas fire pit with a paver construction, making it faster and easier than ever before.
- Square Burner & Pan Kit: These "Flat Pan" style burner kits have a pan that is meant to be hidden once installation is complete and provide you with a secure place to hold your fire pit media.
Support for Professional Installers and Homeowners
We understand that our clients may be unfamiliar with this technology or have had bad experiences with electronic ignitions in the past. At Flame Source, we're here to help. We offer support and guidance to make the installation process easy and efficient, especially for trade professionals.
Conclusion
Smart fire pits are revolutionizing outdoor living by adding convenience, safety, and modern functionality. Don't miss out on the best technology and innovation because you don't know where to start, we are here to help! Explore Flame Source's smart fire pit offerings and get in touch with us for personalized solutions that will transform your outdoor space.
Interested installers can apply through our Pro Application here.
Want to speak to a gas certified fire pit expert about your project? Simply give us a call at 947-941-4111