4
G. As much as possible burn fire in the center of
the fire pit and not directly against the walls.
This will allow better airflow for the fire and
help prevent over firing the unit.
CAUTION: Be extremely careful when adding
wood to the fire. Do not permit wood to
be higher than the edge of the fire pit.
Use proper fireplace tools and wear
gloves.
5.0 Cleaning, Inspection and
Maintenance
As is the case with most other equipment,
cleanliness is the best maintenance practice and
will contribute to many hours of pleasure.
A. Disposal of ashes - Do not let ash build up in
the fire pit. Remove it at least after every other
fire. Ashes should be placed in a metal
container with a tight-fitting lid. The closed
container of ashes should be placed on a
noncombustible floor or on the ground, well
away from all combustible materials, pending
final disposal. If the ashes are disposed of by
burial in soil or otherwise locally dispersed,
they should be retained in the closed container
until all cinders have thoroughly cooled.
B. If the fire pit has been lined with firebrick,
spot check the refractory bricks and mortar for
small cracks. It will expand slightly with the
heat, then contract as it cools. Replace
refractory bricks when the cracks open more
than ¼”; or when pits become extensive and
deeper than 3/16”; or when any piece of
refractory larger than 2 inches in diameter
becomes dislodged.
C. Make sure the fire is extinguished before
leaving the area. NEVER extinguish fire with
water or any other liquid. Let the fire die out
naturally or cover opening before leaving the
firepit unattended directly after use until the
fire and coals have completely went out and
have been extinguished.
D. Keep a cover over the fire pit when not in use
to prevent collection of moisture. If the firepit
has been exposed to excessive moisture or
cold temperatures burn a small fire long
enough to slowly dry the moisture absorbed
into the concrete and masonry and slowly heat
the unit up to normal operating temperatures.
Sample Fire pit with cover is shown in Figure
7.
Figure 7. Fire Pit Cover
(Round Fire Pit Shown in This Example)
E. It’s recommended to water seal the exterior of
the fire pit once construction is complete to
protect the unit from absorbing moisture.
