So, you’re building a gas fire pit and have come across the terms “burner plate” and “burner pan.” What are they, and why are they important? This article will break down everything you need to know about these essential components for your fire feature.
What exactly are Burner Plates and Pans?

Burner plates and pans are the unsung heroes of your fire pit, acting as the foundation for the entire setup. They serve the crucial role of holding your chosen fire media – be it lava rocks, fire glass, or other decorative elements; which not only conceals the burner but also adds to the visual appeal of your fire feature. Think of them as a stage for your fire’s performance! But they’re not just about aesthetics. Like the hood of a car, these plates and pans can be easily lifted to reveal the inner workings of your fire pit, providing convenient access to the gas line and key valve during installation, or for any necessary maintenance or repairs.
Why is a Plate or Pan Necessary?
While you might be able to get away without one in certain situations, a burner plate or pan is highly recommended for most gas fire pit builds. Why? Convenience is key! They streamline the installation process and make future maintenance tasks a breeze. Like mentioned above, imagine easily lifting the plate to access the burner for cleaning or adjustments – it’s a game changer. Beyond that, they provide a stable and level platform for your burner, ensuring optimal performance and safety. And let’s not forget the visually appealing benefits. A plate or pan contributes to a clean, polished look for your fire feature, concealing any unsightly components and creating a cohesive design.
Material Matters: Why Aluminum is the Go-To Choice
When it comes to burner plates and pans, aluminum reigns supreme. Why? Its properties make it the ideal choice for fire features. First, aluminum’s rust-proof nature ensures durability and longevity, even when exposed to the elements. No need to worry about rust compromising the integrity of your gas fire pit! Secondly, aluminum is lightweight, making handling and installation a breeze. This means you can easily maneuver the plate or pan during setup and maintenance without breaking a sweat.
Attaching the Burner: A Quick Guide

In some cases, the burner will attach directly to the plate or pan. But it’s not required. You can also set the burner directly on the plate/pan. But keep in mind that this will reduce the height of the burner by three fourths of an inch. This might be beneficial if you want to cover your fire feature with a flat cover. When you order a fire pit package, it often includes a threaded fitting welded onto the plate/pan, allowing you to easily screw the burner on. Remember the golden rule: “righty-tighty, lefty-loosy” when attaching or removing the burner. Don’t forget to reapply pipe dope or tape to ensure a secure and leak-free connection! If your burner sets directly on the plate or pan, we recommend having a two inch hole in the center to allow the gas line to fit.
Plate vs. Pan vs. Drop-In Pan: What’s the Difference?
- Plates: These are flat, without sidewalls, and suitable for most fire pit builds where the burner sits recessed a few inches below the finished top. You can use cinder blocks, bricks, or pavers to support the plate inside the fire feature cavity.
- Pans: These have 2-3 inch sidewalls to contain the fire media more effectively. Pans are ideal if your fire table top overlaps the opening or if you need extra height to accommodate the burner and media.
Drop-in Pans: These have sidewalls and a lip, making them perfect for portable fire features where you can’t stack blocks underneath for support. Keep in mind that the lip will be visible on the top edge of your fire feature. Drop-in pans are also available from Montana Fire Pits as a custom order. (link here)

Installation Tips: Getting it Right
Getting your burner plate or pan installed correctly is crucial for both the look and function of your fire pit. First, think about depth. Aim to place it about 4-5 inches below the finished edge of your fire pit. This creates a balanced look, ensures the flames are nicely visible, and keeps your fire media (like lava rocks) neatly contained.

To achieve that perfect depth, use sturdy materials like cinder blocks, bricks, or pavers to support the plate or pan. You can fine-tune the height by adding some filler material or digging out a bit underneath. And finally, don’t forget about size! Make sure your chosen plate or pan fits comfortably within the fire pit opening, with about half an inch of wiggle room around the edges for easy installation.
Troubleshooting Plate/Pan Size Issues
If your fire feature is already built and you can’t use a standard sized plate, you have a few options:
Too Big? You can trim the plate on-site using a jigsaw with a metal blade or a grinder with a cutoff wheel. Remember your cut doesn’t need to look pretty.
Too Small? Consider using concrete board to extend the plate’s size or order a custom-sized plate or pan. You can find round and square custom plates/pans here. Rectangular custom plates/pans here, and drop-in pans here.
Key Takeaways

When it comes to building a fire pit, burner plates and pans are essential pieces of the puzzle. They provide a solid and stable base for your burner and the attractive fire media you choose, while also allowing easy access for maintenance. Think of them as the unsung heroes that keep your fire pit running smoothly and looking its best.
Remember to select the right type of plate or pan – whether it’s a flat plate, a pan with sides, or a drop-in style – based on your specific fire pit design and how you plan to install it. Getting the installation depth right and ensuring your burner is securely attached are key factors in achieving both optimal performance and a pleasing look for your fire feature.
By understanding the role and importance of burner plates and pans, you can confidently build a gas fire pit that is both beautiful and functional. If you have any further questions or need assistance with your fire pit project, don’t hesitate to contact us!