Fire Pit BTUs — What They Mean & What POLYWOOD Fire Pit Tables Produce
What Are BTUs?
BTU stands for British Thermal Unit, a unit of measurement for heat energy. In fire pits, BTUs indicate the amount of heat output a fire pit produces per hour, which helps you understand how warm your outdoor space will feel. Higher BTUs generally mean more warmth, but design and outdoor conditions also affect real-world heat performance.
How many BTUs do your fire pit tables produce?
POLYWOOD fire pit tables are engineered to deliver balanced warmth for backyard entertaining.
Our fire pit tables produce between ~50,000 and ~60,000 BTUs.
This range is designed to:
Provide effective heat for typical outdoor seating areas
Create an inviting flame height and ambiance
Balance fuel efficiency with comfort
What This Means for You
Here’s how many BTUs feels in practical terms:
| BTU Output Range | Typical Use / Effect |
|---|---|
| ~50,000–60,000 BTUs | Comfortable heating for most backyard patios and outdoor living spaces |
| Lower BTUs (<40,000) | Cozy warmth for small patios or mild climates |
| Higher outputs (>80,000) | Required for very large spaces or colder areas (not typical for POLYWOOD fire pits) |
Choosing the Right Fire Pit for Your Space
To decide if a fire pit is warm enough for your setup, consider:
1. Outdoor Space Size
Larger areas naturally require more heat to feel warm.
2. Seating Distance from the Fire Pit
The closer everyone sits to the fire, the more effective the heat feels.
3. Wind & Weather
Wind and cold temps can disperse heat — sheltered areas retain warmth better.
Notes on Fuel & Efficiency
POLYWOOD fire pits typically run on propane (20 lb tank) or can be converted to natural gas (with included kit). Heat output remains within the ~50,000–60,000 BTU range in either setup, but fuel type may slightly affect operating time and convenience.