How to Maintain a Gas Fire Table: Seasonal Care and Troubleshooting

A GFRC gas fire table is built to last outdoors year-round. But like any piece of outdoor equipment that runs on gas and sits exposed to the elements, it benefits from basic maintenance. This guide covers what to do each season, how to handle common issues, and what to watch for before they become problems.

Routine Maintenance: What to Do Every Season

Clean the Burner and Media

At least once per season, remove the fire glass, lava rock, or ceramic logs from the burner pan. Brush away debris, ash residue, and any buildup from the burner ports with a soft brush. Clogged burner ports produce uneven flames or ignition issues — clearing them takes five minutes and prevents 90% of performance problems.

Rinse the fire glass or lava rock with water and let it dry completely before replacing it. Wet media can cause popping sounds when the burner is first lit — not dangerous, but avoidable.

Inspect the Gas Connections

Check all gas fittings and connections for tightness. Use a soapy water solution on connections (with the gas on but the burner off) and watch for bubbles, which indicate a leak. If you detect a leak, shut off the gas immediately and have the connection serviced before using the table again.

Check the flex line (if present) for any cracking, brittleness, or visible wear. Flex lines are typically replaced every few years depending on UV exposure and use.

Inspect and Test the Ignition System

Electronic ignition systems can collect moisture or debris over time. Test the igniter and clean the igniter tip if it's not sparking consistently. Most ignition issues are debris-related — a simple wipe fixes them. If the igniter is corroded, replacement igniters are readily available and straightforward to swap.

Clean the GFRC Surface

GFRC fire table tops are durable and low-maintenance, but they benefit from occasional cleaning. Use a mild soap solution and a soft brush or cloth. Avoid harsh cleaners, pressure washers, or abrasive pads — they can damage the sealer and the surface texture.

If your GFRC top looks dull or is absorbing water, it may need a fresh coat of penetrating sealer. A standard concrete or masonry sealer applied every 1–3 years keeps the surface protected and looking sharp.

Winterizing Your Fire Table

In Mild Climates

If you live in a climate where temperatures stay above freezing and heavy snow is rare, you may be able to leave the fire table in place year-round. Cover it with a quality weather-resistant cover when not in use. Disconnect the propane tank if storing the table for more than a few weeks — don't leave a connected tank unattended for extended periods.

In Cold Climates

In areas with hard freezes, snow, and ice, take a few additional steps:

• Disconnect and store propane tanks indoors (not heated spaces — a garage or shed is fine)
• Remove fire glass or lava rock and store it indoors. Water trapped under media can freeze and crack the burner pan
• Cover the table with a purpose-fit cover or marine-grade tarp secured tightly
• If the fire table is on a wheeled base, consider moving it to a covered area like a garage or covered patio for the winter months

What About Natural Gas Models?

Natural gas fire tables don't need fuel management in winter, but the same general care applies. Shut off the gas at the dedicated shutoff valve at the end of the season. Cover the table and burner opening to prevent moisture and debris from entering.

Common Issues and How to Fix Them

The Flame Won't Light

Check the obvious first: Is the gas on? Is the propane tank empty or low? If yes to both, try manually lighting with a long lighter at the burner ports while holding the control knob in the ignition position. If it lights manually but not with the igniter, the ignition system needs cleaning or replacement. If it won't light at all, check for a blocked regulator or a tripped safety shutoff.

Flame Is Low or Uneven

Low or uneven flame is almost always one of three things: partially blocked burner ports, a low propane tank, or a partially closed valve. Clear the ports, check tank level, open valves fully, and retest. If flame is still low after that, the regulator may need replacement.

Yellow or Orange Flames

A small amount of yellow in a gas flame is normal and largely aesthetic. Predominantly yellow or orange flames indicate incomplete combustion — usually from dirt in the burner, poor air-to-gas mixing, or debris in the fire glass. Clean the burner ports and ensure the media isn't packed too tightly over the burner.

Popping or Crackling Sounds

Occasional popping on startup is usually moisture in the fire glass or lava rock burning off. It's normal after rain or a humid period. If it persists well into operation, remove and fully dry the media before replacing.

GFRC Surface Cracking

Hairline surface cracks in GFRC are typically cosmetic and common as the material acclimates. They don't affect structural integrity. If you see them, reseal the surface. Deep cracking or cracking near the burner opening that extends through the material should be inspected — it may indicate water infiltration and freeze-thaw damage.

Covers Are Worth It

The single most impactful thing you can do to extend the life of a fire table is keep it covered when not in use. A quality, form-fit cover keeps moisture, debris, UV, and insects out of the burner assembly. It takes ten seconds to put on. Most fire table manufacturers sell matching covers — they're worth the investment.

When to Call for Service

Do your own cleaning and inspection, but call a licensed gas technician if you have a confirmed gas leak, a regulator that needs replacement, or any issue with the fixed gas line connection on a natural gas model. Gas line work is not a DIY project.

Have questions about your specific fire table? Contact our team — we can help diagnose issues and connect you with the right resources.