To light a gas fire pit with a match, you must first ignite a long match or lighter and then, with the flame held at the burner, slowly turn on the gas supply.
Lighting a match-lit gas fire pit requires a careful and specific sequence to ensure safety and proper ignition. Unlike electronic ignition systems, a match-lit fire pit demands manual flame application directly to the burner.
Safety First: Essential Precautions
Before attempting to light your gas fire pit, prioritize safety:
- Check for Gas Leaks: If you smell gas, do not attempt to light the fire pit. Turn off the gas supply, ventilate the area, and inspect for leaks.
- Clear Debris: Ensure the fire pit basin and burner are free of any leaves, paper, or other flammable materials.
- Maintain Clear Area: Keep a safe distance from the fire pit while lighting and during operation.
- Have an Extinguisher Ready: Always have a fire extinguisher or a bucket of sand nearby as a precautionary measure.
Step-by-Step Guide to Lighting Your Match-Lit Gas Fire Pit
Follow these steps carefully to light your gas fire pit:
- Gather Your Tools: You will need a long match or an extended-reach lighter and your fire pit key to turn the gas valve.
- Locate the Burner: Identify the gas burner rings or ports within your fire pit where the gas will emerge and ignite.
- Position Yourself Safely: Get close enough to the fire pit burner so that you can safely and steadily bring the flame to the gas ports without overreaching.
- Light Your Match or Lighter: Crucially, light your long match or extended lighter before touching the gas valve.
- Bring Flame to Burner: Immediately bring the lit match or lighter flame directly to the gas ports on the burner where the gas will exit. Hold it steady.
- Slowly Turn on Gas: While holding the flame at the burner, slowly insert your fire pit key and turn the gas supply valve to the "ON" position. It's critical not to crank the gas open fully before lighting; this can lead to a dangerous buildup of gas.
- Verify Ignition: The gas should ignite almost instantly. Ensure all parts of the burner jets ignite. You should see a consistent flame across the burner.
- Adjust Flame: Once fully ignited, you can adjust the gas valve with your key to achieve your desired flame height.
- Extinguish Match: Safely extinguish and dispose of your match.
Important Considerations & Troubleshooting
- No Ignition: If the gas does not ignite within a few seconds, turn off the gas immediately. Wait for any residual gas to dissipate for at least five minutes before attempting to light it again, repeating the steps from the beginning.
- Weak Flame: A weak flame might indicate low gas pressure or a partially opened gas valve. Ensure your main gas supply and fire pit valve are fully open.
- Weather Conditions: Strong winds can make lighting challenging. Try to shield the flame with your body or a non-flammable barrier.
- Gas Smell: If you smell gas but cannot achieve ignition, or if the smell persists after turning off the gas, do not use the fire pit. Consult a qualified professional.
Key Do's and Don'ts for Match-Lit Fire Pits
For safe operation, remember these essential points:
| Do's | Don'ts |
|---|---|
| Use a long match or extended lighter. | Crank the gas open before you have a flame ready at the burner. |
| Light the match/lighter first. | Stand too far away from the burner. |
| Bring the flame directly to the burner. | Turn the gas on rapidly. |
| Turn the gas valve on slowly. | Ignore the smell of gas; investigate immediately. |
| Ensure all jets ignite. | Leave the fire pit unattended while lit. |
| Keep children and pets away from the hot surface. | Place flammable items near the fire pit. |
Adhering to these instructions will allow you to safely enjoy the ambiance of your match-lit gas fire pit.
