Purpose and Scope
This guide outlines the key considerations for planning a safe, compliant HPC Fire Inspired outdoor gas fire feature installation. Meant for homeowners, dealers, contractors, and project teams.
This guide is for planning purposes only. The current installation and operation manual for the exact model, product rating label, and applicable local codes govern all installation requirements. Where requirements differ, follow the applicable product instructions and code requirements as determined by the local authority having jurisdiction (AHJ).
IMPORTANT SAFETY NOTICE
All gas piping, pressure testing, final connections, and commissioning must be performed by a qualified, properly licensed gas professional where required. Electrical work must be completed by a qualified professional in compliance with applicable codes. Never operate a fire feature if a gas leak is suspected, components are damaged, ventilation is obstructed, or the installation’s safety is uncertain.
1. Verify Codes, Permits, and Product Approval
The first crucial step when planning a fire installation is to consult with the local building department and, as applicable, the fire marshal, gas utility, and homeowners’ association. Confirm permit and inspection requirements, placement restrictions, fuel-storage rules, electrical requirements, and open-flame regulations.
Next, verify that the selected appliance is approved for the intended outdoor application and fuel type. Review the rating plate and product documentation to confirm the model number, certification, approved fuel, and heat input (BTU/h). Approval may vary by model, configuration, and authority having jurisdiction.
Applicable standards may include the International Fuel Gas Code, NFPA 54, NFPA 58, and NFPA 70 in the United States, or CSA B149.1, CSA B149.2, and the Canadian Electrical Code in Canada. The AHJ determines which editions and provisions apply.
Planning priority: Confirm the model, installation location, fuel type, ignition system, clearances, and local requirements before construction begins.
2. Select the Location and Verify Clearances
Install the appliance outdoors following its model-specific installation manual. Maintain all required clearances from combustible surfaces, overhead structures, walls, decks, furniture, vegetation, and other surrounding materials.
Clearances vary by model, burner size, heat input, ignition system, enclosure, and product approval. Never substitute dimensions from another model or a generic installation example.
Avoid enclosed or poorly ventilated areas where combustion products or leaking gas may accumulate. Install beneath roofs or overhangs only when the appliance is approved for that configuration and all clearance and ventilation requirements are met.
Evaluate wind exposure, nearby doors and windows, pedestrian traffic, children, pets, and service access. Ensure the supporting surface and enclosure are level, stable, and capable of supporting the appliance and its heat output. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for drainage, burner-pan placement, and clearances around valves and control boxes.
Maintain access to all valves, wiring, connections, and service components.
Planning Priority: Follow the clearance diagrams for the exact model. If all requirements cannot be met, choose another location or an appliance approved for the intended installation
3. Design the Fuel Supply
Gas Type and Supply Requirements
Natural gas and propane (LP) systems have different pressure, regulator, piping, and installation requirements. Always use the fuel specified on the appliance rating plate. If converting fuel types or modifying regulators or orifices, only do so when expressly authorized by the manufacturer and performed by a qualified professional using approved components and procedures.
A qualified gas professional must size and install the gas supply line based on the appliance’s maximum input rating, fuel type, available inlet pressure, pipe material, total line length, fittings, and other connected loads. The system must deliver the manufacturer-specified pressure and flow under operating conditions.
Install an accessible gas shutoff valve as required by the manufacturer and applicable codes. The valve must remain accessible for servicing and emergency shutoff and must never be used to adjust flame height.
Locate and install propane cylinders and tanks in accordance with the appliance instructions and applicable LP-gas requirements.
Before operation, the installer must verify the fuel type and inlet pressure and complete all required piping pressure tests and leak checks using approved methods. Follow the manufacturer’s testing procedures, including instructions for isolating or disconnecting the appliance during piping-system pressure tests.
Planning Priority: Pipe sizing depends on more than BTU input alone. Never improvise fuel conversions or substitute unapproved regulators, adapters, or fittings.
4. Confirm Electrical Requirements
Match-lit, push-button, and electronic-ignition models may have different electrical requirements. Verify the exact model’s voltage, power supply, grounding, controls, and wiring instructions before construction begins. Do not assume a particular low-voltage or line-voltage configuration is proper without consulting the product documentation.
Electrical installations must follow the manufacturer’s instructions and locally adopted electrical code. Depending on the installation, requirements may include GFCI protection, outdoor-rated enclosures and fittings, grounding and bonding, and approved wiring methods. Pool and spa installations may have added requirements.
Have a qualified electrician verify the required electrical configuration, including supply voltage, circuit requirements, grounding, wiring, and connections, following the appliance specifications and applicable electrical codes. Protect all wiring and controls from moisture, heat, physical damage, and obstruction of service access. Do not energize the system until installation is complete and all required inspections have been conducted.
Planning priority: Coordinate electrical, gas, drainage, and control routing before closing the enclosure.
5. Construct the Enclosure and Provide Ventilation and Drainage
Follow the enclosure drawings and construction requirements for the exact model. HPC guidance calls for noncombustible enclosure construction and permanent ventilation to help dissipate heat and moisture, allow fresh air to reach the burner system, and prevent residual fuel from accumulating.
Published HPC guidance for certain fire-pit enclosures specifies at least two ventilation openings on opposing sides, each providing a minimum of 18 square inches of free ventilation area. Four openings are recommended for the configurations described in that guidance. These dimensions are not universal requirements for every model or enclosure. Take the time to verify the required number, location, and free area of the openings in the current model-specific instructions.
Grilles and screens can reduce the effective ventilation area, so nominal opening dimensions may not equal the required free area. Keep all vents unobstructed after installation.
Provide drainage and maintain the required installation height above grade. Prevent water from accumulating around the burner, valve box, electrical components, or gas connections. Do not fill restricted spaces around the valve or control box with gravel, crushed rock, concrete, or other materials unless expressly permitted by the applicable manual. Maintain all specified access and clearance areas.
Planning priority: Verify ventilation and drainage before completing stonework or other finishes. Never cover or obstruct required vents.
6. Install Approved Fire Media
Use only fire glass, lava rock, ceramic media, or other decorative materials approved for the specific burner and model. Follow the manual for media type, quantity, depth, and placement.
Incorrect or excessive media can disrupt gas flow, flame patterns, ignition, and safe operation. Do not use ordinary river stones, wet stones, gravel, construction debris, or unapproved decorative materials. Some natural stones can retain moisture and fracture when heated.
Keep media clear of pilot assemblies, ignition components, air inlets, and any other areas identified in the manufacturer’s instructions.
Planning priority: Confirm media specifications with HPC or an authorized dealer if the model’s documentation does not clearly identify the approved material and quantity.
7. Complete Commissioning and Leak Checks
Before first use, the qualified installer must complete the manufacturer’s startup and commissioning procedure. This includes verifying the fuel type and inlet pressure, checking connections for leaks using an approved method, confirming ignition and safety controls, and verifying flame performance and shutoff operation. Complete all required inspections before operating the appliance.
Never use an open flame to check for gas leaks. If gas is detected by odor, hissing, or suspected leakage, do not ignite the appliance or operate nearby electrical switches. If safe to do so without entering the suspected leak area, shut off the gas supply. Move people away and contact the gas supplier or emergency services from a safe location. Do not resume operation until a qualified professional has identified and corrected the problem.
Never bypass safety devices or repeatedly attempt ignition after an unsuccessful start. Follow the model-specific lighting, shutdown, and troubleshooting instructions. If the appliance has been submerged, damaged, modified, or exposed to abnormal heat, have it inspected before use.
Planning priority: A visual inspection is not a substitute for required professional pressure testing, leak checks, and commissioning.
8. Operate, Inspect, and Maintain the Appliance
Before each use, verify that ventilation openings are clear, the burner area is free of debris, the appliance and media are in the condition specified by the manufacturer, and combustible materials remain outside required clearances.
Supervise children and pets, maintain a safe distance from flames and hot surfaces, and never leave a burning fire feature unattended. Operate the appliance only as directed. Do not use it in enclosed spaces, during prohibited weather conditions, or when wind or other conditions prevent safe operation. Keep flammable liquids and materials away from the appliance.
Use the specified shutdown controls and close the gas shutoff when required by the owner’s manual or when the appliance will remain unused for an extended period.
Inspect the burner, pilot and ignition components, wiring, gas connections, controls, ventilation, and enclosure at the intervals specified by the manufacturer. Check for corrosion, blockages, damage, moisture intrusion, and wear. Arrange professional service as needed, particularly after seasonal storage, severe weather, repairs, or suspected malfunction. Use only approved replacement parts.
Planning priority: Retain the model number, installation and operation manuals, service records, and qualified service contact information.
9. Installer Handover Checklist
Before handing over the installation to the owner, confirm that the following requirements have been met:
- ☐ The exact model and rating plate have been confirmed, including approved fuel and input rating.
- ☐ The current manufacturer installation and operation manual has been followed.
- ☐ Required permits and inspections have been completed.
- ☐ Model-specific clearances, enclosure construction, ventilation, and drainage have been verified.
- ☐ Gas-line sizing, pressure verification, required leak tests, and commissioning have been completed by a qualified professional.
- ☐ Applicable electrical supply, protection, grounding/bonding, and controls have been verified.
- ☐ Approved fire media has been installed in the specified type, quantity, and placement.
- ☐ Ignition, shutoff, and safety controls have been tested and demonstrated to the owner.
- ☐ The owner understands normal lighting and shutdown procedures, emergency response to suspected gas leaks, and maintenance requirements.
- ☐ The owner has received the applicable manuals and service records.
Questions and Technical Support
For model-specific installation guidance, contact HPC Fire Inspired or an authorized dealer using the current contact information on HPC’s official website.
Dealers: Make HPC Fire Inspired your partner in delivering exceptional outdoor fire installations. Leverage our expertise and product resources to guide your customers toward the right solutions, ensure installation requirements are met, and build lasting customer confidence. Connect with HPC Fire Inspired to strengthen your product knowledge and grow your outdoor fire business.
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