Eva Solo FireGlobe Fire Pit

Welcome to our comprehensive buying guide for fire bowls, fire tables, and fire pits!

Whether you're looking to create a cozy ambiance in your outdoor space, extend the
usability of your patio during cooler evenings, or enhance your backyard entertainment area, choosing the right fire feature is essential. With a wide array of options available, including different fuel types, materials, sizes, and designs, navigating the market can be overwhelming. Fear not! In this guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to make an informed decision and find the perfect fire feature to suit your needs, style, and budget.

Propane-fueled fire bowls and fire tables, offer a convenient and stylish way to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a fire without the need for traditional wood fuel. Here are the pros and cons of propane-fueled fire bowls and fire tables:

Pros

Convenience. Propane fire bowls and fire tables are incredibly convenient to use. They ignite quickly with the flip of a switch or the push of a button, allowing you to enjoy a fire instantly without the hassle of gathering and storing wood, lighting fires, or dealing with ashes and smoke.

Clean Burning. Propane is a clean-burning fuel, producing fewer emissions and less pollution compared to wood fires. Propane fire bowls produce minimal smoke and ash, creating a cleaner and more comfortable outdoor environment for you and your guests to enjoy.

Controlled Flame. Propane fire bowls and fire tables offer adjustable flame controls, allowing you to regulate the size and intensity of the fire to suit your preferences. This gives you greater control over the heat output and ambiance, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable outdoor experience year-round.

Safety. Propane fire bowls and fire tables are generally safer to use than traditional wood-burning fires. They eliminate the risk of flying sparks, embers, and flying ash, reducing the
risk of accidental fires and burns. Additionally, propane fire bowls and tables typically feature safety features such as automatic shut-off valves and flame sensors for added peace of mind.

Versatility. Propane fire bowls and fire tables come in a variety of styles, sizes, and designs to complement any outdoor space or decor. They can be used on patios, decks balconies, or other outdoor areas, providing warmth and ambiance for gatherings, parties, or intimate evenings at home.

Cons

Dependency on Propane. Propane fire bowls and fire tables rely on propane tanks for fuel, which means you'll need to keep spare tanks on hand or refill them regularly. Running out of propane in the middle of a gathering can be inconvenient, so it's essential to monitor your propane levels and plan ahead for refills. Hint: Always have an extra propane bottle on hand.

Cost. Propane fire bowls andfire tables can be more expensive to operate than traditional wood-burning fires, as propane fuel typically costs more than firewood. Additionally, there may be upfront costs associated with purchasing the fire bowl or table itself, as well as ongoing expenses for propane refills or tank exchanges.

Limited Portability. While some propane fire bowls and fire tables are portable and can be moved to different locations, larger models may be more challenging to transport. They may require a stable base or mounting surface and access to a propane tank, limiting their portability compared to portable fire pits or chimineas.

Lack of Wood Fire Aroma. While propane fire bowls and fire tables offer convenience and clean burning, they lack the distinctive aroma and crackling sound of wood-burning fires. Some people may miss the sensory experience of a traditional wood fire, including the smell of burning wood and the cozy ambiance it creates.

Maintenance. Propane fire bowls and fire tables require regular maintenance to keep them functioning correctly and looking their best. This may include cleaning the burner, checking for leaks, and replacing worn or damaged parts as needed. Additionally, you'll need to ensure that the propane tank is stored safely and securely when not in use.

In summary, propane-fueled fire bowls and fire tables offer convenience, cleanliness, safety, and versatility, making them an attractive option for outdoor heating and ambiance. 

Natural gas-fueled fire bowls and tables offer several advantages and disadvantages compared to other types of outdoor fire features. Here are the pros and cons of a natural gas fueled fire bowl or fire table:

Pros

Continuous Fuel Supply. Natural gas fire bowls and fire tables are connected directly to your home's natural gas supply line, providing a continuous and uninterrupted fuel source. Unlike propane-fueled fire bowls or fire tables that require regular tank refills or exchanges, natural gas fire bowls eliminate the need to monitor fuel levels and ensure that you always have fuel available when needed.

Convenience. Natural gas fire bowls and fire tables are incredibly convenient to use. They ignite quickly with the flip of a switch or the turn of a knob, allowing you to enjoy a fire instantly without the need for manual ignition or refueling. This convenience makes natural gas fire bowls and fire tables ideal for frequent use and impromptu gatherings. Many have automated settings controlled by cell phone apps.

Cost Savings. Natural gas is typically cheaper than propane, so using a natural gas fire bowl or fire table can result in cost savings over time, especially if you use your fire bowl frequently. Additionally, since you're not purchasing individual propane tanks, you avoid the inconvenience of propane refills and associated costs.

Clean Burning. Natural gas is a clean-burning fuel, producing fewer emissions and less pollution compared to wood fires or propane. Natural gas fire bowls or fire tables produce minimal smoke, ash, and soot, creating a cleaner and more comfortable outdoor environment for you and your guests to enjoy.

Safety. Natural gas fire bowls and fire tables are generally safer to use than wood-burning fires or propane-fueled fire bowls. They eliminate the risk of flying sparks, embers, and flying ash, reducing the risk of accidental fires and burns. Additionally, natural gas fire bowls typically feature safety features such as automatic shut-off valves and flame sensors for added peace of mind.

Cons

Installation Requirements. Installing a natural gas fire bowl requires a professional gas fitter to connect the fire bowl or fire table to your home's natural gas supply line safely. This installation process may involve additional costs and considerations, such as ensuring proper ventilation and compliance with local building codes.

Limited Portability. Natural gas fire bowls or fire tables are typically designed for permanent installation in your outdoor space, as they require a fixed connection to your home's natural gas supply line. Once installed, they are not easily moved to different locations, limiting their portability compared to propane-fueled fire bowls or portable fire pits.

Dependency on Natural Gas Supply. While natural gas provides a continuous fuel supply, it also means that your fire bowl's operation is dependent on the availability of natural gas from your utility provider. If there's a natural gas outage in your area, you won't be able to use your natural gas fire bowl until service is restored.

Cost of Installation. Installing a natural gas fire bowl or fire table requires professional installation, which can be costly, especially if you need to run a gas line from your home to your outdoor living space. Additionally, there may be upfront costs associated with purchasing the fire bowl or fire table itself and any additional accessories or features.

Limited Flexibility. Once installed, natural gas fire bowls or fire tables are not easily relocated or repositioned within your outdoor space. This lack of flexibility may be a drawback if you prefer to rearrange your outdoor living area frequently or if you move residences frequently.

In summary, natural gas-fueled fire bowls and fire tables offer convenience, cost savings,
cleanliness. 

Wood-fueled fire bowls and pits offer a rustic and traditional way to enjoy outdoor fires, but they also come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here are the pros and cons:

Pros

Authentic Ambiance. Wood-fueled fire bowls and pits provide an authentic and rustic ambiance that many people find appealing. The crackling sound of burning wood and the aroma of wood smoke create a cozy and inviting atmosphere for gatherings, parties, or relaxation.

Natural Heat Source. Wood fires produce intense heat, making wood-fueled fire bowls and pits ideal for providing warmth on cool evenings or during outdoor gatherings. The radiant heat from the fire can help extend your outdoor entertaining season and keep your company comfortable outdoors.

Versatility. Wood-fueled fire bowls and pits are versatile and can be used for various purposes, including cooking, roasting marshmallows, or simply enjoying the warmth and ambiance of the fire. Some models feature grates or cooking surfaces that allow you to grill food directly over the fire, adding a delicious smoky flavor to your meals.

Cost-Effective. Wood is often readily available and relatively inexpensive compared to other fuel sources like propane or natural gas. If you have access to firewood or wood pellets, operating a wood-fueled fire bowl or pit can be cost-effective in the long run, especially compared to the ongoing expenses of purchasing fuel tanks or refills.

Environmentally Friendly. Burning wood is considered a renewable and sustainable energy source, making wood-fueled fire bowls and pits more environmentally friendly compared to fossil fuels like propane or natural gas. Additionally, wood fires produce fewer emissions and pollutants when burned properly.

Cons

Requires Firewood. Wood-fueled fire bowls and pits require a steady supply of firewood or wood pellets, which may not be readily available to everyone. Sourcing and storing firewood can be time-consuming and may require additional space and effort.

Cleanup. Wood fires produce ash and debris that require cleanup after each use. Removing ashes from the fire bowl or pit and disposing of them properly can be messy and time-consuming, adding to the post-fire cleanup process.

Safety Concerns. Wood fires pose certain safety risks, including the potential for flying sparks, embers, and flying ash. It's essential to use caution when operating a wood-fueled fire bowl or pit and to follow proper safety precautions to prevent accidents, burns, or wildfires.

Regulation Restrictions. Some municipalities or homeowners' associations may have regulations or restrictions on outdoor fires, including wood-fueled fire bowls and pits. Before installing or using a wood-fueled fire feature, check local ordinances and regulations to ensure compliance and avoid potential fines or penalties.

Smoke and Odor. Wood fires produce smoke and odor, which may be bothersome to some people, especially those with respiratory sensitivities or neighbors in close proximity. Additionally, wind direction and atmospheric conditions can affect the dispersion of smoke, potentially impacting nearby properties or outdoor activities.

In summary, wood-fueled fire bowls and pits offer an authentic and versatile outdoor fire experience. 

Ethanol-fueled fire bowls and fire tables offer a modern and eco-friendly alternative to traditional wood or gas-fueled fire features. Here are the pros and cons of ethanol-fueled fire bowls and fire tables:

Pros

Clean Burning. Ethanol is a clean-burning fuel that produces minimal smoke, odor, and ash when burned. Bioethanol-fueled fire bowls and fire tables offer a hassle-free and environmentally friendly alternative to wood or gas-fueled fires, making them ideal for use in urban environments or areas with strict air quality regulations.

Convenience. Ethanol-fueled fire bowls and fire tables are incredibly convenient to use. They ignite quickly and easily with the flip of a switch or the touch of a button, allowing you to enjoy a fire instantly without the need for manual ignition, refueling, or cleanup.

No Ventilation Required. Unlike gas-fueled fire features, ethanol-fueled fire bowls and fire tables do not require ventilation or a chimney to operate safely. This makes them suitable for indoor and outdoor use, as they can be installed in a variety of spaces without the need for costly ventilation systems.

Versatility. Ethanol-fueled fire bowls and fire tables come in a variety of sizes, styles, and designs to complement any outdoor space or decor. They can be used as standalone features or incorporated into existing outdoor furniture arrangements, providing warmth, ambiance, and visual interest.

Flexibility. Ethanol-fueled fire bowls and fire tables are portable and can be easily moved to different locations within your outdoor living space or even taken with you when traveling. This flexibility allows you to enjoy the warmth and ambiance of a fire wherever you go, whether it's on your patio, deck, balcony, or backyard.

Cons

Limited Heat Output. Ethanol-fueled fire bowls and fire tables typically produce less heat compared to wood or gas-fueled fires. While they provide warmth and ambiance, they may not be as effective at heating larger outdoor spaces or providing a significant source of heat on cooler evenings.

Fuel Consumption. Ethanol fuel can be more expensive than other fuel sources like wood or natural gas, especially if you use your fire bowl or fire table frequently. Additionally, ethanol-fueled fire features may require more frequent refueling compared to gas-fueled fire features, depending on the size of the fuel reservoir. 

Flame Size Control. Some ethanol-fueled fire bowls and fire tables offer limited control over the size and intensity of the flame. While you can adjust the flame height to some extent, you may not have as much flexibility or precision compared to gas-fueled fire features with adjustable flame controls.

Safety Precautions. Ethanol fuel is highly flammable and should be handled with care. It's essential to follow manufacturer instructions and safety precautions when using ethanol-fueled fire bowls and fire tables to prevent accidents, spills, or injuries. Additionally, ethanol-fueled fires may pose a risk of carbon monoxide poisoning if used indoors in poorly ventilated spaces.

Regulatory Restrictions. Some municipalities or homeowners' associations may have regulations or restrictions on the use of ethanol-fueled fire features, especially indoors or in densely populated areas. Before installing or using an ethanol-fueled fire bowl or fire table, check local ordinances and regulations to ensure compliance and avoid potential fines or penalties.

In summary, ethanol-fueled fire bowls and fire tables offer a clean, convenient, and versatile outdoor fire experience.

In closing, we trust that this fire bowl/fire table/fire pit buying guide has equipped you with valuable insights to make an informed decision. Remember, thorough research is pivotal to ensuring your satisfaction with your purchase. Additionally, implementing a regular care routine will sustain the optimal performance of your fire bowl or fire table, ensuring countless memorable outdoor moments.

For further assistance or any lingering inquiries, we invite you to explore our comprehensive FAQs, utilize our live chat feature, submit inquiries via our contact form, or reach out to us directly by phone during business hours at 403.536.1778. Our committed team is readily available to offer expert guidance and support.

Don't overlook our extensive selection of fire bowls, fire tables and fire pits as you seek the perfect addition to your outdoor space. Thank you for considering us as your trusted partner in cultivating warmth and ambiance in your outdoor retreat.