A gas fire table gives you the glow and warmth of an outdoor fire while still leaving room for drinks, plates and conversation. Unlike a wood-burning fire, it starts at the touch of a button and produces no smoke or ash. Unlike a standalone patio heater, it becomes part of the seating area rather than sitting above it.
This guide explains how gas fire tables work, what to look for when choosing one, how bottled LPG compares with natural gas, and the practical safety checks that matter in a UK garden.
Gas fire tables at a glance
- A gas fire table combines an adjustable gas flame with a usable table surface.
- Many models use bottled propane or LPG, while some are made for natural gas or support an approved conversion.
- Heat output varies by model. Common examples range from about 12 kW to 16 kW, with larger or more powerful designs outside that range.
- Decorative lava rock, glass beads or ceramic logs create the finished look, but a glass wind guard is the accessory that helps protect the flame from moving air.
- Every model has its own clearance, ventilation, fuel and weather guidance. The product manual takes priority over general advice.
What is a gas fire table?
A gas fire table is an outdoor table with a built-in gas burner. The burner sits inside the top or centre of the table and is covered with decorative media such as lava rock, fire glass or ceramic logs. When the burner is lit, the flame appears to rise through the media, creating the look of a fire without burning wood.
Some tables hide the gas cylinder inside a base or matching enclosure. Others connect to an external cylinder with a hose. Neither arrangement is automatically better: an integrated design can look tidier, while an external bottle may be easier to access and replace. Check the product specifications before you buy, especially if the table will sit close to a wall or established seating.
The rock, beads or logs are mainly there for appearance and flame presentation, and can make the table look as stunning when off as when lit. A correctly fitted wind guard also helps shield the flame from moving air and can make the table more practical in an exposed garden.
How do gas fire tables compare with other outdoor fires?
a. Gas fire table versus a traditional fire pit
A traditional fire pit is usually an open bowl or dish. A gas fire table adds a flat surface around the flame, so it can work as both a heat source and a piece of garden furniture. Gas also avoids the sparks, smoke, ash and log storage associated with a wood fire.
b. Gas fire table versus a patio heater
A patio heater normally directs warmth down from above or out from a tall column. A gas fire table creates a lower, more social focal point, with people seated around the flame. It is a better fit when the atmosphere and furniture-like design matter as much as direct heat.
c. Gas fire table versus a wood-burning fire
Wood gives you crackle, changing flames and the ritual of tending a fire. Gas gives you faster control, cleaner operation and a flame that can be turned off without dealing with hot ash.
What are gas fire tables made from?
Materials affect the appearance, weight, price and care requirements of a fire table. Common finishes include:
- Concrete or GFRC: substantial, architectural and well suited to modern patios. Glass-fibre reinforced concrete can provide a stone-like finish without the weight of solid concrete.
- Stone-effect and wood-effect finishes: useful when you want a particular look without the maintenance of natural timber or stone.
- Porcelain or ceramic surfaces: sleek and easy to wipe clean, although spills and staining should still be dealt with promptly.
- Metal frames and bases: often used where a lighter, more contemporary structure is preferred. Check the coating and care instructions before leaving any product exposed year-round.
- Acacia or other outdoor timber: warm and natural, but it needs the maintenance recommended by the manufacturer to keep its appearance.
How much heat does a gas fire table produce?
Heat output is normally stated in kilowatts (kW) or British thermal units (BTU). A higher figure generally means a stronger burner, helping everyone around the table feel the same amount of warmth. Wind, seating distance, table height, shelter and ambient temperature all also make a difference.
As a useful comparison, the GardenHearth examples below include a 13.2 kW square table, a 16 kW porcelain-top table and a 13.2 kW bar-height table. Use the output as one part of the decision, not as a promise of a fixed heating radius.
What fuel do gas fire tables use?
Many freestanding fire tables are designed for bottled propane or LPG. This keeps the table movable and avoids the need for a permanent gas line. Some models are natural-gas versions, while others can be converted only with the manufacturer’s approved kit and components.
Do not assume that a natural-gas conversion is universal. Check the exact model, fuel type, regulator and installation instructions. If a fixed outdoor gas line is involved, use an appropriately qualified professional and follow the appliance and local installation requirements. For a bottled-gas setup, connect only the specified regulator and hose, and follow the supplied manual exactly.
How to choose the right gas fire table
1. Start with the space
Measure the patio or terrace, including the space needed for chairs and for people to walk around the table. A table that looks compact in a product photograph can feel imposing once four chairs and a gas cylinder are added. Check the full product dimensions, not just the burner size.
2. Decide how you will use it
- Relaxing for two or four: a compact bowl or coffee-table format may be enough.
- Outdoor dining: choose a table with a useful ledge and a height that works with your chairs.
- Entertaining: a larger rectangular or bar-height design can give more people a place to gather.
- Flexible layouts: look for a genuinely movable model, and check its weight and wheel arrangement before assuming it is portable.
If you specifically want a genuine bar-height fire table rather than a standard coffee or dining table, the Elementi Lafite Barrel Bar Fire Table stands 109.5 cm high and is designed for relaxed fireside conversation around a raised 122 cm tabletop.
3. Choose a finish that suits the garden
Concrete and stone-effect finishes suit structured, contemporary spaces. Wood-effect and timber-topped tables bring more warmth to a relaxed garden. Premium porcelain and marble-effect tops create a more polished statement look, but should still be cared for according to the manufacturer’s guidance. Consider the surrounding paving, furniture and planting, as well as how much cleaning and seasonal care you are prepared to do.
4. Check the fuel and included accessories
Look for the fuel type, regulator, hose length, ignition method, protective cover and decorative media in the specification. A wind guard, gas-bottle enclosure or matching lid may be included, optional or unavailable depending on the model.
5. Think about where the cylinder will go
If the bottle is external, plan its position before ordering. It should not create a trip hazard, sit where it can be damaged, or be placed in an unsuitable enclosed space. A matching enclosure can make the setup look neater, but it must still be used as instructed so the cylinder remains properly ventilated.
Gas fire table safety and installation
A gas fire table is a live gas appliance, even when it looks like garden furniture. The following checks are a sensible starting point, but the model manual always wins if it gives a different instruction.
a. Use the correct clearance
Keep the table away from buildings, fences, overhanging branches, combustible furniture and anything that could be damaged by heat. Do not rely on a universal distance: the required clearance varies with the burner, heat output and table design. Check the manufacturer’s instructions before choosing the final position.
b. Use a solid, level surface
Place the table on a stable, level, non-combustible surface wherever the manufacturer requires it. Do not put a heavy or hot appliance directly on grass. If you are considering decking, confirm that the specific model is suitable and follow its clearance guidance rather than assuming every fire table can be used there.
c. Allow plenty of ventilation
Use a gas fire table outdoors in an area with good airflow. Never use it in a fully enclosed room, shed, conservatory or other space where gas and combustion products could build up. Covered patios, gazebos and pergolas need particular care because the roof can trap heat and reduce ventilation.
d. Check the hose and regulator
Before use, inspect the hose and regulator for visible damage, cracking or wear. Make sure the parts match the appliance and fuel type. Never force a connection, substitute an unapproved adaptor or test a gas leak with a naked flame. If you smell gas, turn off the supply if it is safe to do so, move away from the appliance and seek qualified help if the cause is not immediately clear.
e. Take care in wind and rain
Strong wind can disturb the flame or blow it out. Use the appliance only in the conditions and position allowed by the manufacturer. A properly fitted wind guard can help with moving air, but it is not a reason to block ventilation openings or use the table in unsafe weather.
Rain can affect burners, controls and electrical ignition components. Follow the product instructions, allow the appliance to cool, and use its cover when it is not operating. Never cover a table while it is hot.
How much do gas fire tables cost?
Prices vary according to the size, material, burner, brand, included accessories and delivery requirements. Compact entry-level designs usually cost less than large concrete, porcelain or premium timber-topped tables. A larger table may also cost more to deliver because of its weight and packaging.
Compare what is actually included before comparing headline prices. A cover, lava rock, ceramic logs, regulator, hose or wind guard can materially change the value of two otherwise similar-looking tables. Also allow for the ongoing cost of LPG, replacement decorative media and any professional work needed for a fixed gas connection.
How to maintain a gas fire table
a. Clean it after it has cooled
Wipe the table surface with the cleaning method recommended for its material. Remove leaves and loose debris from around the burner area without disturbing gas controls or components that are not user-serviceable.
b. Use the cover correctly
A fitted cover helps reduce exposure to rain, dirt and UV light. Let the appliance cool completely before covering it, and remove the cover before lighting it. Do not use a cover as a substitute for storing the cylinder safely.
c. Check it at the start of the season
Inspect the hose, regulator, connections, burner area, ignition and decorative media before the first use after winter. Replace worn or damaged parts with approved equivalents. If a burner, valve or sealed control needs dismantling, stop and arrange model-specific service.
10 reasons people choose gas fire tables
- Fast ignition: you can create warmth and atmosphere without building a fire first.
- Easy shut-off: the flame can be turned down or off when the evening ends.
- No smoke: there is no woodsmoke drifting across the seating area or into neighbouring gardens.
- No ash: the next-day clean-up is simpler than with a wood-burning fire.
- Furniture and fire in one: the table can hold drinks and snacks while the flame is running, within the limits of its design.
- Adjustable ambience: lower the flame for a quieter glow or increase it when more warmth is needed.
- More choice of styles: square, round, rectangular, concrete-effect, wood-effect, porcelain and timber-topped designs are all available.
- Less fuel storage: there is no need to keep a stack of logs dry and close to the seating area.
- Longer outdoor season: a little extra warmth can make spring and autumn evenings more comfortable.
- A strong focal point: even when unlit, a well-chosen fire table can anchor a garden seating area.
Frequently asked questions
1. Are gas fire tables safe?
They can be used safely when installed, positioned and operated according to the manufacturer’s instructions. They still contain a live flame and gas supply, so clearance, ventilation, correct connections and supervision matter every time.
2. Can a gas fire table be used on decking?
Some models may be suitable and others may not be. Check the exact product instructions for the surface, heat protection and clearance requirements before placing one on decking.
3. Can I use a gas fire table under a gazebo?
Only if the appliance and the gazebo arrangement allow it, with sufficient open-air ventilation and clearance. Never use it in a fully enclosed structure or improvise by closing the sides around a lit table.
4. Do gas fire tables need a Gas Safe registered engineer?
It depends on the setup. A bottled-gas appliance connected exactly as instructed is different from an installation involving fixed outdoor gas pipework or a conversion. For fixed pipework or any work outside the product instructions, use an appropriately qualified professional.
5. How long does a gas bottle last?
There is no single answer. Runtime depends on the bottle size, burner output, flame setting, weather and how often the table is used. A larger flame uses fuel faster, so treat any runtime estimate as a guide rather than a guarantee.
6. Can I use a gas fire table in the rain?
Follow the exact weather guidance for the model. In general, avoid lighting or operating it in heavy rain or storms, keep water away from controls and ignition components, and let the table cool before covering it.
7. What is the difference between movable and portable?
Movable usually means freestanding but heavy enough to stay in one place for a season, with occasional repositioning. Portable suggests that it is designed to be moved regularly. Check the product weight, wheels and handling guidance instead of relying on the label alone.
8. What size gas fire table do I need?
Start with the patio footprint and the number of people you want to seat. A compact round or square table suits a smaller seating area, while a longer dining or bar-height table works better for larger groups. Leave room for chairs, walking routes and the cylinder arrangement.
Browse gas fire tables
Ready to compare styles, sizes and fuel types? Browse the GardenHearth gas fire pit collection, then check each product page for its current specification, included accessories, fuel requirements and safety guidance.
This guide is general information, not a substitute for the instructions supplied with your appliance. Always follow the manufacturer’s manual and use qualified help where the installation or repair requires it.
