Can I Convert My Propane Fire Table to Natural Gas?
Tired of swapping propane tanks mid-marshmallow roast? 🔥
Short answer: Yes, you can convert your propane fire table to natural gas—but it’s not as simple as twisting a knob. From safety tips to tool kits, here’s what every Fire Table fan needs to know before making the switch.
Understanding the Conversion Process
Differences Between Propane and Natural Gas
Fuel Composition and Pressure
At first glance, propane and natural gas might seem like cousins at a family BBQ—both get the job done. But under the surface, they behave very differently.
Propane packs a hotter punch and is stored in pressurised tanks. Natural gas is lighter, less dense, and flows through a fixed pipeline at lower pressure. So, while they can both fuel your fire table, they do it in very different ways.
You can’t just swap them without some clever tweaks.
Burner Orifice Size and Regulator Requirements
Here’s where things get fiddly. Because natural gas burns differently, it needs a wider orifice to allow the right amount of fuel to pass through.
That means changing out the burner fittings designed for propane. You’ll also need to adjust or swap the pressure regulator, or you might find yourself with a flame that’s more "flicker" than "roaring bonfire."
This is not the moment for guesswork—always follow manufacturer specs.
Safety Considerations
Potential Hazards of Improper Conversion
Improvising with gas appliances is about as smart as juggling matches at a petrol station. Done wrong, a conversion can lead to gas leaks, fires, or dangerous carbon monoxide build-up.
Even if it seems to work at first, invisible issues can creep in. And those are the scariest ones.
Importance of Professional Assistance
Unless you’re a certified gas fitter or have serious plumbing skills under your belt, it's wise to get help.
A licensed technician can make sure everything is up to code, safely connected, and won’t pose a hidden risk down the line. It might cost a bit, but so does replacing a scorched patio set.
Required Parts and Tools
Natural Gas Conversion Kit
Orifice Sizes and Types
You’ll need a natural gas conversion kit specific to your fire table’s brand and model. No universal kits here—every fire table has its quirks.
The most important part? The burner orifices. These determine how much gas reaches the flame. Using the wrong size can lead to poor performance or safety hazards.
Regulator Adjustments
Next up is the regulator. Propane systems are built to handle higher pressure. Switch to natural gas and the pressure needs adjusting—or replacing entirely.
Your kit should come with guidance on what to change and how to do it safely.
Gas Line and Fittings
Proper Sizing and Materials
A natural gas line must be the right size and material—usually stainless steel or copper piping, approved for gas use. Too narrow, and your fire table won’t perform. Too wide, and you might waste money on fittings and flow regulators.
If your line’s coming directly from the house mains, definitely bring in a professional.
Leak Testing Equipment
Before lighting a single flame, you need to test for leaks. Grab a bottle of leak detection spray or, better yet, a digital gas leak detector. And no—blowing bubbles in washing-up liquid doesn't count as a proper safety test.
Step-by-Step Conversion Guide (with Caution)
Disconnecting Propane and Preparing the Fire Table
Safety Precautions and Gas Shut-off
Start by turning off and disconnecting your propane supply. Remove the tank completely and store it safely away from your workspace.
Make sure the area is well-ventilated and clear of anything flammable—this isn’t the time for scented candles or nosy pets.
Removing Propane Components
Carefully dismantle the propane fittings from your fire table. Keep track of screws, fittings, and any washers. You might want to reverse the conversion one day—or reuse the parts elsewhere.
Label things if it helps. A bit of prep now saves a lot of head-scratching later.
Installing the Natural Gas Conversion Kit
Replacing Orifices and Adjusting Regulators
Install the new natural gas orifice, ensuring it fits snugly with no loose gaps. Follow your kit’s instructions to adjust or install the new pressure regulator.
This step is critical. If anything feels unclear or fiddly, stop and get help before you go further.
Connecting the Gas Line
Attach your fire table to the natural gas line using approved fittings and thread sealant rated for gas. Make sure everything is tightened to spec—too loose and you’ll have leaks, too tight and you risk stripping the threads.
Testing and Final Adjustments
Leak Testing Procedures
Once connected, it’s time to do a full leak test. Spray every joint and connection point with your leak detection spray and watch for bubbles. If you spot anything suspicious, tighten or re-seat the connection.
Take your time here—this isn’t the bit to rush.
Flame Adjustment and Safety Checks
Light your fire table and observe the flame. It should be steady, blue, and strong—not sputtering or orange-tipped.
Let it burn for a few minutes and watch for any strange odours or fluctuations. If anything seems off, turn it off and call in a pro.
When to Hire a Professional
Gas Line Installation and Safety Regulations
Local Codes and Permits
In the UK, altering a gas supply—even for a humble garden fire table—may require permits or at least inspections. Always check with your local council before touching your mains supply.
It might feel like a faff, but it could save you a heap of trouble later on.
Importance of Licensed Technicians
Gas Safe registered engineers know how to handle the pressure (literally). They’re trained to spot problems you might miss and can guarantee your setup is safe, compliant, and efficient.
Think of it as an investment in peace of mind—and in keeping your eyebrows intact.
Conclusion
Yes, you can convert a propane fire table to natural gas—but only if you take the process seriously. It’s not a quick Saturday job with a spanner and some elbow grease.
Done properly, it means no more lifting heavy tanks, no more mid-party fuel swaps, and a reliable, cost-effective heating source at your fingertips.
But the switch requires careful planning, the right tools, and often, the help of a professional. If you're not 100% confident, it’s better to spend a little more upfront than risk damaging your fire table—or worse, compromising safety.
Natural gas brings convenience, lower running costs, and a more eco-friendly flame. Just don’t cut corners on your way to getting there.