Yes, you can convert a wood fire pit to gas, but you are not just dropping a burner into the ashes. To convert a wood fire pit to gas you need a certified burner and pan sized to the opening, a supply of propane or natural gas, vents and drainage in the base, a ledge that holds the pan about 2 inches below the top, and gas-rated media such as lava rock or fire glass. Once it is converted, it burns gas only. No more logs. Most masonry pits can be converted. A pit dug into the ground, or one sealed tight with no airflow, usually needs rebuilding first.
Below are the conversion steps, based on HPC Fire’s installation manuals and tech articles. To weigh gas against wood first, see our fire pit buying guide.
Can you convert a wood burning fire pit to propane or natural gas?
Usually, yes, if the structure can meet the same rules as a new gas fire pit. HPC’s match lit insert manual (870-MLFPK) requires an enclosure that is above grade, built from non-combustible materials, vented on opposite sides, and drained so water cannot collect around the gas parts. HPC’s retrofit article advises against upgrading when the enclosure cannot be vented, the gas supply cannot be corrected, there is no service access, the structure is deteriorated, or the pit is homemade or uncertified. Then a new pit may be safer.
Here is how a typical wood pit compares with what HPC’s manual asks for:
| Item | Common in wood pits | What a gas conversion needs (HPC manual) |
|---|---|---|
| Base | Dug in, or set on soil or gravel | Above grade on a stable, level surface |
| Inside the walls | Filled with gravel, sand or ash | Open space around the valve box, never filled with gravel, crushed rock or concrete |
| Airflow | Air holes for burning wood | At least two vents of 18 sq in each on opposing sides |
| Water | Drains into the soil | Drainage, plus at least 2 in of clearance under the valve box |
| Top | Open bowl or steel ring | Pan supported about 2 in below the top |
| Fuel bed | Logs and kindling | Approved media only; solid fuels must not be burned |
How to convert a wood fire pit to gas, step by step
1. Clean out and inspect the pit
Remove all ash, charred wood and gravel or sand fill, and check the walls for cracks. HPC’s manual recommends keeping granite, marble and other dense stone away from flame because it can crack, so check your cap material.
2. Measure the opening and pick a gas fire pit insert
Measure the inside of the pit at the top. HPC’s FAQ says its pans hang by their lip from an install collar, or rest on a step or brackets about 2 inches below the cap; the manual adds that this recess keeps wind from blowing out the flame. To match burner size and BTU to your opening, use our fire pit burner size guide.
3. Add vents and drainage
Most wood pits fail here. HPC’s manual requires at least two 18 square inch vents (for example 3 x 6 inches) on opposing sides, low in the walls where they also drain water. HPC’s venting article says vents release trace gas and heat and feed the burner fresh air, and recommends four openings. On a block pit, that usually means leaving out blocks near the base.
4. Choose your fuel and run it the right way
Burners are built for one fuel, so order the version that matches your supply: a natural gas line from the house, or propane from a large tank or a small tank in its own enclosure at least 54 inches from the pit (HPC’s manual). Only select HPC models are approved for small tanks. The manual also requires a gas shutoff outside the enclosure and a line sized for the product’s maximum BTU. For costs and tank sizing, see our propane vs natural gas fire pit guide.
5. Pick an ignition type
Match lit needs no power; electronic ignition needs 120V or low voltage run to the pit. HPC advises match lit units rated no higher than 65,000 BTU. Our match lit vs electronic ignition guide covers the trade-offs.
6. Leak test, then add media
Leak test every connection before lighting (never with a flame). HPC’s manual then allows lava rock just deep enough to cover the burner, or 1/4 to 1/2 inch of fire glass, and warns that over 1/2 inch of glass on propane can cause gas pooling under the pit. Never use gravel or river rock, which can fracture when heated. If lava rock is wet, let it burn 45 minutes before anyone comes within 15 feet.
Fire pit conversion kit options we carry
A complete kit is simplest because the pan, burner and valve are designed together. Prices are from our listings at the time of writing.
- HPC Round Drop-In Match Lit Kit, 25 in pan, natural gas ($1,033.60): a lipped pan for round pits with a ledge.
- HPC Round Flat Match Lit Kit, 24 in pan, natural gas ($809.40): a flat pan with a raised hub that keeps water out of the gas line.
- HPC 30 in Round Fire Ring, natural gas ($276.45) and 31 in Round Bowl Drop-In Pan ($749.55): a component route with drainage weep holes. Call us to confirm the pairing.
- HPC Small Tank LP Kit ($156.75): regulator, hose and bracket for CSA certified FPPK and MLFPK inserts only.
- HPC Small Black Lava Rock, 20 lb ($40).
Browse the full range on our HPC Fire brand page.
Keeping wood instead? The Ohioflame Heavy Gauge Fire Ring ($374.94) is a 3/16 inch steel liner for stone wood pits in 24, 30 and 36 inch sizes. It is not a gas pan, so do not set a burner in it.
Local codes, permits and a licensed pro
HPC’s manual recommends a professional licensed in gas piping and makes the installer responsible for the National Fuel Gas Code (ANSI Z223.1/NFPA 54) and local codes. HPC also notes permits and inspections may apply, so check with your building department and HOA. Clearances apply too; the burner size guide covers them.
Frequently asked questions
Can you convert a wood burning fire pit to propane?
Yes, if it can be vented, drained and fitted with a propane kit. Propane is heavier than air, so venting matters more. Never put the tank inside the pit.
Can I still burn wood after converting to gas?
No. HPC’s manual says solid fuels shall not be burned in the fire pit and wood, sticks and paper must be kept away from it.
Is a gas fire pit insert for an existing fire pit a DIY job?
The masonry and media work can be. HPC recommends a licensed pro for the gas line and leak test, and notes DIY installs may void warranties.
What size fire pit burner kit do I need?
Start from the pit’s inside measurement, leaving the pan about 2 inches below the top. Our burner size guide has HPC’s pairings and BTU figures.
Questions about a specific pit? Call us at 866-777-2590, Mon to Fri 9AM to 6PM PST. Shipping is free on orders of $999 or more, with a $200 flat rate below that. Please read our return and refund policy before ordering.
Sources: HPC Fire 870-MLFPK match lit manual (PDF); retrofitting; venting; 10 things to know.
