What do I need to do to get my gas fire pit running again after it sat unused all winter?
In Leicester, most rural large-lot homes run propane and cold-air drainage drops the valleys 5 to 8 degrees below Asheville on clear nights, so a winter-idle pit gets a propane checkup first: gauge the tank, inspect the hose and regulator for the rodent chew wooded properties invite, then clear the spider-packed burner and venturi before lighting.
Propane and country pests
Leicester's rural, large-property character means many homes run propane, wood heat is popular, and the wooded lots up Sandy Mush and Turkey Creek come with plenty of field mice looking for a dry, gas-scented hose to gnaw through the off-season. Inspect the full flexible line and the tank connection closely, gauge the tank, and check the regulator for cracks. Brush soapy water on the fittings, open the gas with no flame, and watch for growing bubbles that mean a leak.
Cold hollows, simple ignition
Cold-air drainage runs these valleys 5 to 8 degrees colder than Asheville on clear winter nights, which draws a propane tank down and thickens the fuel. Some remote properties here have limited electrical capacity, so match-lit or piezo-spark pits are common, and it's the spark striker rather than a battery you'll want to check. Re-spread the lava rock evenly so the ports aren't choked, and clear the venturi where spiders have settled in over the long, cold idle.
15 minutes west, licensed
We're 15 minutes west. A buried outdoor gas line is licensed work in North Carolina, permitted with Buncombe County and pressure-tested, and a landscaper can't legally connect it. If you find a chewed hose, a bad regulator, or a flame that won't hold, call (828) 545-0525.
Fireplace help in Leicester
We install and service fireplaces throughout Leicester and the rest of Buncombe County — just 15 minutes west from our Asheville-area showroom.
Related questions
- What should I check before lighting my gas fireplace for the first time each fall?
- How do I winterize my gas fire pit at the end of the season?
- How do I light the pilot on my gas fire pit?
- Should I leave the propane tank hooked up to my fire pit between uses?
- How do I use the push-button or electronic ignition on a gas fire pit?

