HPC Fire Inspired is known for our brilliant full flames; however, there is so much more that underlies the pattern of an HPC flame. Proper flame patterns signify efficient burns, proper functioning guaranteeing safety. If uneven flame patterns are present, in outdoor gas fire features it may signal performance inefficiencies, such as obstructions, or safety concerns. Proper flame uniformity is essential not only for ambiance and aesthetics but also for combustion efficiency and regulatory compliance. In this week’s “Tech Talk” we will provide a guide to diagnosing and resolving uneven flame patterns in the event this occurs in your HPC Fire Inspired fire feature. Here is what every consumer needs to know.

Our HPC Fire experts have broken down potential scenarios offering a quick an easy guide yielding positive solutions. Each scenario reviews symptoms, offers a diagnosis and corrective actions. Check out this guide!

Gas Supply and Pressure: The Foundation of Flame Stability

If a very tall flame is present with loud sound coming fro the burner one might want to check the the gas pressure.

Symptom:

  • Very High Tall flame
  • Noisy loud burner

Diagnosis:

  • Gas Pressure too high.

Corrective Action:

  • Verify gas pressure by using a manometer to confirm pressure at appliance inlet
  • Verify appliances BTU and burner requirements
  • Add regulators where needed to reduce gas pressure through the appliance

Burner Obstructions:

If an inconsistent weak flame is present in portions of the burner or there is audible gurgling noises coming from the unit, this may be an indication that there is an issue with the burner.

Symptom:

  • Weak flame in portions of the burner
  • Only half or certain portions pf burner igniter
  • Audible gurgling noise

Diagnosis:

  • Burner ports blocked or partially blocked with debris, carbon or corrosion
  • Broken or cracked burner
  • Burner is partially blocked or full of water

Corrective Action:

  • Remove media from burner pan and clean all ports with compressed air or a soft brush.
  • Inspect burner for cracks or breaks in the burner. If broken replace the burner do not try to repair the burner. As you know HPC fire inspired offers a true “Hassle Free Lifetime” warranty on all of our burners across all of our products. Simply contact our team and they will confirm diagnosis and provide a replacement.
  • Inspect burner weep holes and remove any debris causing water to collect

Gas Line Sizing/Distance/Pressure

In the event that a weak small flame is present with a sudden drop in flame height or drop out after ignition is engaged, then consumers should inspect the gas source; such as gas line sizing, distance and pressure.

Symptom:

  • Weak small flame.
  • Sudden drop in flame height (small propane tank application)
  • Continued flame drop-out after ignition

Diagnosis:

  • Undersized gas line. Not enough gas volume delivered to the appliance
  • Low, frozen, or tripped tank if using a small propane tank for gas supply
  • Not enough volume of gas to support flame sensing

Corrective Action:

  • Have gas line sized properly by a licensed plumber or gas professional.
  • Replace or refill propane tank and verify proper operation of the tank
  • Verify gas line sizing and inspect pilot orifice for debris or blockage

Media Placement

Improper media placement might yield flames that appear suppressed or result in frequent flame drop out. Check out HPC’s tech talk about proper media placement:  https://hpcfire.com/tech-talks-media-placement/

Symptom:

  • Flame appears choked or suppressed.
  • Very little flame above media.
  • Continued flame drop-out after ignition

Diagnosis:

  • Too much media covering the burner
  • Mixed media (lava rock and glass)
  • Buried pilot box (blow-out box) in media

Corrective Action:

  • Evenly distribute media over burner. Use just enough to cover the burner. If using glass, only add until the burner is ¼”-1/2” above the burner ports. If using a TORPEDO burner keep ports holes exposed to improve flame pattern
  • Use all lava rock or glass do not mix media.
  • Too much media over the blow-out box or buring the blow out box in the media will cause the thermocouple to overheat, lose its temperature difference, and shut the unit down. Be sure to keep media clear from the blow out box allowing proper ventilation.

Uneven flame patterns in outdoor gas fire pits are typically the result of simple mechanical or environmental issues that can be diagnosed and corrected with a methodical approach. By focusing on gas flow, burner cleanliness, and media placement, installers and service technicians can ensure consistent flame performance and safe operation.

 

At HPC Fire Inspired, our engineered systems are designed for maximum reliability—but even the best components require regular inspection and care. When in doubt, consult a licensed gas professional or reach out to our technical support team for assistance.