Natural gas outdoor fireplaces are the most convenient fire feature option for Tulsa homeowners connected to ONG’s natural gas service. They ignite instantly with a valve or electronic ignition, require no wood storage or ash cleanup, and can be left unattended safely after shutoff — advantages that make a natural gas fireplace a practical choice for frequent casual use rather than just a special-occasion fire feature. VistaScapes & Design builds natural gas outdoor fireplaces throughout Tulsa and coordinates the gas line installation with licensed plumbers as part of the complete project.
Gas Fireplace Insert Options
Natural gas outdoor fireplaces use a gas insert — a burner system designed for installation in a masonry firebox — rather than wood logs. Two primary insert configurations are available: linear burner systems that produce a wide, low-flame appearance across the width of the firebox, and traditional log set configurations with ceramic fiber logs positioned over a gas burner to simulate the appearance of a wood fire. Linear burner systems with glass media (fire glass) or lava rock produce a contemporary, architectural flame appearance that works well in modern outdoor living designs. Log set configurations produce a more traditional hearth appearance. We discuss insert style preferences with homeowners during the design phase and size the firebox opening to accommodate the selected insert’s dimensions.
BTU Output
Natural gas outdoor fireplace inserts range in BTU output from approximately 40,000 BTU for smaller units to 80,000 to 100,000 BTU for larger outdoor-rated inserts. Higher BTU output produces a larger, more visually dramatic flame and provides more radiant heat to the seating area in front of the fireplace. For Tulsa’s outdoor conditions — where the fireplace is used primarily in fall and early winter evenings when temperatures are in the 40 to 60-degree range — an output in the 60,000 to 80,000 BTU range provides comfortable heat for a typical covered patio seating area. We specify insert output based on the firebox opening size, the covered patio’s size and enclosure level, and the typical use conditions the homeowner describes.
Pilot Systems and Controls
Natural gas outdoor fireplace inserts are available in standing pilot and intermittent pilot (electronic ignition) configurations. Standing pilot systems maintain a small continuous pilot flame — they are simpler mechanically and ignite reliably even after extended periods of non-use, but consume a small amount of gas continuously. Intermittent pilot systems ignite only when the fireplace is turned on and are more efficient over time but require an electrical connection for the electronic ignition module. We specify the control system based on the homeowner’s preference and whether running electrical conduit to the fireplace location is practical within the project’s scope. Remote control systems — handheld remotes or wall-mounted controls — are available for both pilot types and allow flame height adjustment and on-off control without bending to the firebox valve.
Call VistaScapes & Design at (918) 779-1317 for a free outdoor fireplace consultation in Tulsa. We’ll design the firebox dimensions to match your chosen insert, coordinate gas line installation, and deliver a written proposal covering the complete fireplace structure.
