How do I light a match-lit gas fire pit?
Turn the gas fully off, wait a few minutes for any gas to clear, then hold a long lighter or extended match to the burner before you slowly open the gas valve — light first, gas second. As the burner catches, ease the valve up to your flame height. If it doesn't light within a few seconds, shut the gas off and wait before trying again.
The Golden Rule: Flame First, Gas Second
A match-lit fire pit is the simplest kind — no battery, no igniter, just a control valve (often a key valve) and a burner. The one rule that matters: your flame source is at the burner before the gas starts flowing, never after. Turning the gas on and then reaching in to light it lets fuel pool and can produce a startling little whoosh. Light first, then introduce the gas, and the burner catches gently every time.
Lighting It, Step by Step
Make sure the valve is fully off and the burner media is dry and clear. Have a long-reach lighter or a fireplace match ready, and keep your hand and face back — not leaning over the pit. Hold the flame just above the burner ports, then slowly turn the key or knob to open the gas. The ring should catch within a second or two. Once it's lit all the way around, adjust the valve up or down to set your flame height. If you're running off a portable propane tank, make sure the tank valve is open first.
If It Won't Catch — Stop and Reset
If the burner doesn't light in a few seconds, turn the gas completely off and wait at least five minutes before trying again. That pause lets unburned gas dissipate so it can't ignite all at once — especially important with propane, which is heavier than air and settles into the bowl. Common no-light culprits are an empty or closed tank, clogged burner ports from bugs or debris after sitting idle, or moisture in the line. If your fire pit consistently won't light, lights unevenly, or you ever smell gas, don't force it — shut it down and call us. We install, convert, and service outdoor gas fire features across WNC. Call (828) 545-0525.
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