Last Updated on October 18, 2021
When you’re building or remodeling your pool, having pool fire bowls may not be top of mind. But maybe it’s a good time to consider it now. The addition of a pool fire bowl can elevate your outdoor space and add an element of luxury to your backyard oasis. The ability to use this area all year long is also possible with this amazing addition to your pool area.
What Is A Pool Fire Bowl?
Pool fire bowls are a perfect addition to your swimming pool and can be fitted on the decking or column. From a design standpoint, fire bowls are an excellent way to add ambiance and warmth in the cold winter months. They can also act as centerpieces for social gatherings when they’re lit up.
The bowl, often called a fire pot, is filled with everything from lava rock to colored glass and the output can be gas-powered – natural gas or propane. Fire bowls come in a variety of finishes including copper, cast iron, tile and stone, and steel. Whatever you decide, you should ensure that it complements adjacent features such as the landscaping or patio.
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How Do Pool Fire Bowls Work?
For the average pool owner, you may not know what a pool fire bowl is or how it works. A pool fire bowl is an outdoor fireplace that uses gas to provide warmth and light for your backyard space. It provides a way for people of any age or physical ability to enjoy time outdoors in the cooler months of the year without needing a traditional wood-burning fire pit.
There are two ways you can operate a fire bowl. There is the manual and automatic way of operation, both dependable in their own right. Yet, during the rainy season, water may interfere with electricity if you are not careful.
Pool contractors often fix a gas line from the bowl to a safety shutoff valve. This ensures safety whenever electricity comes into contact with water. In most instances, these fire features have gas lines located next to a control panel that lights up and ignites when turned on by an electric switch or remote control.
Pool Fire Bowls Buying Guide
If you are looking for a way to make your pool more enjoyable and entertaining, then it may be time to consider installing a fire bowl. One of the newest trends in backyard entertainment is installing a fire bowl into your outdoor swimming pool.
Fire bowls can come in many shapes and sizes, but they all provide the same great benefits.
Different Fire Bowl Materials
There are many different fire bowl materials that you can choose from, and it can be difficult to decide which one is the best for your needs. The most common types of fire bowls are stone, steel, copper, and cast iron. These are the pros and cons of each material type.
Stone
Stone bowls are a great option for those looking to add some character and warmth to their outdoor living spaces. The weight of the stone is perfect if you want the fire bowl in one place all season long. Stone doesn’t rust like other metals, so it’s easier to keep your outdoor area neatly clean with this material.
Steel
Steel is a great material for constructing fire bowls because it can be shaped into any design. Just make sure to buy one that’s already been coated with powder so the steel doesn’t rust.
High-end steel fire bowls are often handcrafted by artists and come in a variety of sizes, styles, colors. Less expensive models can be found at your local home depot but their quality is questionable and they may not last as long.
Copper
Copper is an element that adds warmth to your fire pit regardless of whether or not you have a flame burning. Copper can quickly take on a rich green patina when it sits outdoors. If you want your copper fire bowl to keep its warm and shiny look for years to come, you need to do frequent cleaning.
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance material, then you should consider another type of fire bowls like stone or steel instead.
Cast Iron
Cast iron is a versatile material because it’s inexpensive, easy to work with, and light enough to move around. Cast iron is not as strong or durable as wrought iron but it has its own appeal – some people prefer lightweight cast irons over heavier ones because of its lightweight feature.
Propane Fire Bowls vs Natural Gas Fire Bowls
The gas fire bowls are perfect for anyone who just wants to relax. They’re easy, burn cleanly, and require less maintenance than traditional wood-burning fire features. The two types of fuel available include propane and natural gas but before you buy one you must decide which type is best for your lifestyle because they each have their benefits.
Propane fire bowls are a versatile option for outdoor living spaces. You can use them all year round and have the ability to move them from place to place with ease or make them permanent by connecting a gas line underground that goes directly into your propane tank on site.
Natural gas fire bowls have quickly become a popular way to make backyards more inviting. They do require permanent installation of natural gas lines, but for those without access, it’s not as complicated as you might imagine. A qualified pool professional can install your new line and hook up your fire bowl in no time at all.
Once this is done, just turn on the unit and enjoy a lovely evening with friends or family around an always-burning flame–no refills needed!
When it comes to how much you need to spend, natural gas is the clear winner. In some areas, propane can be six times more expensive than natural gas. Plus with a fixed delivery line and no tanks or refills needed, natural gas is also the more convenient option for your pool fire bowl.
Best Pool Fire Bowls
One Stop Outdoor Vivid 30″ Concrete Fire Bowl
- Material: Premium Glass fiber reinforced concrete
- (GFRC).Burner: Stainless steel ring burner.
- Ignition System: Match Throw Key Valve
- Maximum Output: 75 K BTUs.
The One Stop Outdoor Vivid – 30″ Concrete Fire Bowl is made from premium glass fiber reinforced concrete that comes with a stainless steel ring burner. This fire bowl is plumbed for natural gas but can be converted easily to propane if needed.
Each fire pit has been hand-crafted by their expert craftsmen using their custom patina process, this guarantees every buyer will get their own one-of-kind creation with subtle variation.
Prism Hardscapes Moderno 4 Concrete Gas Fire Bowl
No matter the occasion, you can light up the night with this Prism Hardscapes Moderno 4 Concrete Gas Fire Bowl. Its durable and lightweight stainless steel design makes it perfect for outdoor living areas of all sizes.
The 48″ diameter fire bowl provides a beautiful and functional centerpiece for any backyard, patio, or lounging area. The ambient heat from this structure can provide plenty of warmth to multiple people even on the coldest days too. This 65,000 BTU unit operates with a natural gas hookup which is great because it’s so versatile that way.
Ohio Flame 30″ Fire Chalice Artisan Fire Bowl
- Made in USA
- Individually Numbered Piece of Art
- Two Piece Welded Design
- No Assembly Required
The Skillman Signature Series by Ohio Flame features the most universal of all their fire bowls, the Fire Chalice. Crafted with quality and durability in mind—this artfully designed chalice can last a lifetime. This is perfect for those pool owners who want to use wood instead of natural gas or propane.
The bowl itself features thick American steel that will withstand all types of weather conditions year-round without ever needing any type of maintenance whatsoever – it’s been designed with you in mind!
Akoya Outdoor Essentials 34″ Outdoor Propane Gas Fire Bowl
- ♦ MODERN DESIGN ♦ Impress your guests and family at your next outdoor gathering with this striking concrete fire pit. A unique shape and stunning finish enhance the beautiful smokeless fire this...
- ♦ DURABLE MATERIALS ♦ This unit is constructed from lightweight fiber-reinforced concrete with a gray finish over a sturdy steel frame for durable outdoor performance. The burner and lid are made...
- ♦ EFFORTLESS OPERATION ♦ Easy-to-use push-button electronic ignition with flame level control. Can be used with a 20 lb propane tank that is stored externally (*propane tank not included, propane...
- ♦ SAFE TO ENJOY ♦ The heat output of 50,000 BTUs allows for a steady flame at a comfortable temperature. Built to the highest safety standards with multiple fail-safes in place.
The Akoya Outdoor Essentials 34” Fire Pit Square Bowl in Gray comes with a sleek and neutral look that can fit seamlessly with your outdoor oasis. It can serve as the perfect conversation piece for all of your backyard parties.
This fire bowl uses Liquid Propane (LP) to give you up to 28 hours worth of burn time depending on what setting it’s set at. This fire bowl has been cast from lightweight fiber concrete and steel which gives increased durability outside while maintaining its stylish look.
Bond Manufacturing 67504 Mondavi Round Faux Concrete Gas Fire Bowl
- Includes lava rock, cover, 10 feet regulator hose, and tank seat
- 65k BTU heat output provides ample warmth and light.
- Pulse ignition allows easy lighting and extinguishing of the smoke-free flame.
- Adjust the flame to your desired size with the convenient control knob.
The Mondavi 36” Fire Bowl is the perfect way to liven up your pool area, providing a touch of warmth and ambiance in any type of space.
With its faux concrete finish, it’s sure to complement whatever existing décor you have outside already. Plus with no assembly required and an adjustable flame at your fingertips, this fire bowl will be ready for action right out of the box!
The pool fire bowl is natural gas convertible and comes with everything you’ll need to hook up to an external 20 lb. propane tank if that’s what you prefer to use.
Pool Fire Bowl Safety Tips
- Ensure that open burning is allowed in your neighborhood in which you live to avoid any legal troubles.
- The area on which your fire bowl will be placed needs to be stable and fireproof.
- To protect your family and guests, especially those with small children, you must install a safety screen on your fire bowl.
- You must keep a close eye on your fire pit, just as it is for the swimming pool when you have people using it.
- Avoid using the fire bowl when it’s too windy outside. In addition to the potential for physical injury, embers can spread and cause damage to your property.
- Make sure you extinguish the fire when you’re done with it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Pool Fire Bowls
How much do pool fire bowls cost?
The cost of installing a pool fire bowl varies depending on the size and type that you want to be installed in your swimming pool area. The average cost is between $1,000 to $4,000 for both materials and labor, but it may vary depending on what kind of work needs to be done before installation starts. You also have to consider the design and material used on the pool fire bowl that you’re going to install.
What is the best fire bowl material?
Fire bowls are often made of stainless steel or copper. The choice between these two metals comes down to personal preference but both provide great benefits such as protection against water damage or rusting due to exposure from rainwater – not only do they protect your investment over time (and help it last longer!) but also enhance its beauty by adding color variations that fit your landscape design.
Can I place a fire bowl on a wooden pool deck?
The fire bowls can create a magical atmosphere in your backyard, and they’re completely safe for wooden decks. If you’re still hesitant, you can use masonry or a fire pad for additional deck safety.
Conclusion
If you own a swimming pool and want to add some fun to the summer while improving the overall look of your outdoor space, then you should consider adding a fire bowl. This can be a great addition that can help make your backyard feel more luxurious.
However, before committing to this purchase, you must understand how they work and what these options have to offer. We hope that our buying guide here made it easier for you to choose the best pool fire bowl that fits your pool area.