Winterizing Fire Pits and Fireplaces
Paloform fire pits can be used in various weather and climatic conditions. The best thing you can do for your fire pit is to use it often. Just like a car, leaving a fire pit unused for long periods can be more problematic than using it every day due to the potential for trapped humidity and condensation.
If your fire pit will not be used for an extended period (e.g., weeks or months), we recommend following a few steps to minimize potential issues of disuse.
Given that everything is working normally at the end of the season:
- Burn the fire on a dry day for 15-20 minutes. Let it cool completely, then remove debris from the burner pan (leaves, etc.)
- Check ventilation/drainage holes at the bottom of the unit to ensure they are clear.
- Ensure your fire pit is locked out completely so it does not accidentally turn on.
- Shut off the gas using the manual shut-off.
- For electronic burners, turn off the power at the breaker.
- For propane bottles, close the gas source at the tank or bottle.
- For match-lit, ensure the key is at the full ‘off’ position (see lighting diagram above). Remove the key and store it in a safe location.
However, if your fire pit has any operating issues or you have any doubts, hire a certified gas fitter to inspect and shut down the fire pit.
In addition, take the following measures:
- Cover your fire pit with the fabric cover. Make sure that the fire pit is totally cool and dry when you do this. Secure the bottom of the cover, if applicable.
- Depending on your circumstances, you may need to take additional measures to secure your all-weather cover or protect glass screens from snow loads. Never use the metal burner cover on top of a glass screen. Contact us for more information.
At the beginning of the next use season, have a gas-certified technician inspect and recommission your fire pit to ensure everything is functioning properly before you burn it for the first time.