There’s a certain magic to gathering around a crackling fire under a starry sky. It’s a primal experience that connects us to nature and each other. But let’s be honest, the reality of a traditional wood fire isn’t always so romantic. I’ve spent countless camping trips hunting for dry wood, struggling to get a fire started in damp conditions, and then playing a constant game of “musical chairs” to dodge the ever-shifting smoke. Add the risk of stray embers and the growing prevalence of campfire bans in our favorite wilderness spots, and the simple pleasure of a fire can become a significant source of stress. The alternative—going without—means chilly evenings and a less memorable outdoor experience. This is the exact dilemma that sends outdoor enthusiasts searching for a better way to bring warmth and light to their adventures.
- Cast Iron Grate: The propane fire pit includes a rust-proof grate for long-lasting durability. Heat food or liquids in a pot or kettle (not included) while enjoying the outdoors in your backyard,...
- Easy to Transport: This outdoor fire pit features foldable legs for easy transport and storage with a compact folding size of 19″ x 8″. The fire pit includes a preassembled 10 ft gas hose for easy...
- CSA-Certified Outdoor Fire Pit For Camping: Our CSA-approved fire pit can be used during wood campfire bans. The Ciays fire pit is equipped with flameout protection that shuts off the fire pit if the...
What to Consider Before Buying a Portable Propane Fire Pit
A propane fire pit is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for instant, clean, and controllable outdoor warmth. It eliminates virtually all the drawbacks of a wood fire. There’s no smoke to irritate your eyes and lungs, no dangerous embers to worry about, and no messy ash to clean up. With the turn of a knob, you have a beautiful, consistent flame that provides both heat and ambiance, making it perfect for backyard patios, RV sites, and especially for camping trips where fire restrictions are in effect. The core benefits are convenience, safety, and reliability, allowing you to focus on enjoying the moment rather than tending a fire.
The ideal customer for this type of product is someone who values convenience and safety. This includes RV campers, car campers, families with young children, and homeowners with decks or patios where an open wood fire would be hazardous. If you frequently camp in areas with seasonal fire bans, a CSA-certified propane fire pit is practically essential. However, it might not be suitable for those who are true purists, seeking the authentic crackle, pop, and aroma of a real wood-burning fire. If you have a large, dedicated backyard space far from any structures and love the ritual of building and maintaining a fire, a traditional wood pit might still be your preference.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Space: Portability is paramount for a camping fire pit. Look for features like folding legs and a manageable weight (the Ciays model is 23 pounds). Consider the folded dimensions for storage in your car or RV. The diameter of the pit (19 inches in this case) also determines the size of the flame and its effective heat radius for your group.
- Capacity/Performance: Heat output is measured in British Thermal Units (BTU). A higher BTU rating means more heat. The 58,000 BTU of the Ciays model is very impressive for its size, providing ample warmth for a small group on a chilly night. Also, consider the fuel consumption; a powerful fire pit will use a standard 20lb propane tank faster, so factor that into your planning for longer trips.
- Materials & Durability: Look for sturdy construction, typically with an alloy steel body and a stainless steel burner ring, which resists rust and corrosion. The Ciays model includes a cast iron grate, a premium material known for its heat retention and durability. A powder-coated or painted finish helps protect the main body from the elements, but a quality cover is essential for longevity.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: A key feature to look for is the ignition system. Piezo electric igniters are convenient as they don’t require batteries or external lighters, though they can sometimes be a point of failure over time. Long-term care is minimal; simply ensure the unit is cool before covering it and check the hose and connections for wear periodically.
Keeping these factors in mind, the Ciays 19 Inch Propane Fire Pit stands out in several areas, particularly with its high BTU output and included accessories. You can explore its detailed specifications here.
While the Ciays 19 Inch Propane Fire Pit is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
Our Complete Guide to the Best Propane Fire Pits of the Year
- [3 IN 1]: OutVue fire pit is equipped with 2 cooking grills, 1 lid and tabletop. When you fix grills and tabletop to the fire pit, you can enjoy the roast and bonfire. When it not make fire and cover...
- 3-in-1 Fire Pit: Panovue outdoor fire pit can provide inviting warmth for your patio, yard, or garden, also be used as an outdoor BBQ to cook food or as an ice bucket to keep beverages cold. When you...
- [3 IN 1]: OutVue fire pit is equipped with 2 cooking grills, 1 lid and tabletop[No waterproof cover]. When you fix grills and tabletop to the fire pit, you can enjoy the roast and bonfire. When it not...
Unboxing the Ciays 19 Inch Propane Fire Pit: A Complete Package
Our first impression upon unboxing the Ciays 19 Inch Propane Fire Pit was one of surprising completeness. Often, products in this category come with the bare essentials, forcing you to purchase a cover, carry strap, or even a stand for your propane tank separately. Ciays, however, has bundled everything you need to get going right out of the box. The unit itself feels solid and well-constructed, with a clean black painted finish. The folding legs snap into place with a satisfying and secure click. The package includes a generous 10-foot gas hose (preassembled, a nice touch), a propane tank holder to keep it stable and off the ground, a lid, a weather-resistant cover, and a carry strap. It also comes with more than enough lava rock to create a full, natural-looking firebed. The entire setup process, from opening the box to being ready to light, took us less than five minutes, a testament to its thoughtful, user-friendly design.
What We Like
- Powerful 58,000 BTU output provides significant warmth
- Excellent portability with folding legs and a compact design
- Includes a versatile cast iron grill grate for cooking
- Comprehensive accessory package (cover, strap, tank holder) adds great value
What We Didn’t Like
- Piezo igniter’s long-term reliability can be questionable
- Can be susceptible to blowing out in very strong winds
In the Field: Putting the Ciays 19 Inch Propane Fire Pit to the Test
A spec sheet can only tell you so much. The true test of any piece of outdoor gear is how it performs in its natural element. We took the Ciays 19 Inch Propane Fire Pit on several outings, from a backyard gathering on a cool autumn evening to a multi-day camping trip, to see if its real-world performance lived up to its promising features.
From Box to Bonfire in Minutes: Unmatched Portability
The single greatest strength of this fire pit is its sheer convenience. The entire design is centered around getting you from storage to a roaring fire with minimal effort. The folding legs are the star of the show; they are sturdy and lock firmly in place, providing a stable base on uneven ground. When it’s time to pack up, they fold neatly underneath, transforming the 19-inch bowl into a compact, 8-inch-high disc that slides easily into a car trunk or RV storage compartment. We found this design far superior to models that require you to screw on legs or assemble a separate base.
The included carry strap, while a bit snug to attach the first time as some users noted, makes carrying the 23-pound unit a breeze. It’s a thoughtful inclusion that many competitors omit. Another critical feature is the 10-foot gas hose. This generous length is a crucial safety feature, allowing you to place the 20lb propane tank well away from the fire pit and out of the immediate social circle. Setting it up is truly as simple as it gets: unfold the legs, arrange the lava rocks around the burner ring, place the tank on its included stand, and connect the regulator. From there, you’re just a knob-turn and a click away from a beautiful flame.
58,000 BTUs of Smoke-Free Warmth
With a 58,000 BTU rating, we had high expectations for heat output, and the Ciays 19 Inch Propane Fire Pit did not disappoint. Even on its lowest setting, the fire pit produced a surprising amount of radiant heat, enough to take the chill off a small group of four to six people. This was confirmed by multiple users who commented, “This photo is on lowest flame and its plenty hot!” When cranked to its maximum setting, the flames are high and lively, closely mimicking the visual appeal of a healthy wood fire and throwing off serious warmth that can be felt several feet away. The stainless steel ring burner distributes the gas evenly, resulting in a full, dispersed flame pattern that dances through the lava rocks.
The smoke-free operation is a complete game-changer. There’s no more eye-stinging smoke, no more smelling like a chimney the next day, and no more worrying about which way the wind is blowing. This, combined with its CSA certification, makes it an invaluable tool for camping during dry seasons when traditional wood campfires are banned. While one user reported that it could blow out in strong wind, we found that by placing it in a slightly sheltered spot, it performed reliably even in breezy conditions. For anyone who has spent hundreds of dollars on firewood for a single camping season, the long-term savings of using refillable propane are substantial, as one happy camper calculated.
More Than a Fire Pit: The Versatile Cooking Grate
The included cast iron grill grate elevates the Ciays 19 Inch Propane Fire Pit from a simple heat source to a dual-function piece of camp equipment. This isn’t a flimsy, throwaway accessory; it’s a heavy, durable grate that sits securely on top of the fire bowl. We were initially skeptical, but after testing, we became firm believers in its utility. We confirmed one user’s finding by placing a saucepan of water on the grate; it came to a rolling boil in just over four minutes, easily as fast as a dedicated camp stove.
This functionality is a massive benefit for campers looking to consolidate their gear. You can heat water for coffee in the morning, warm up a pot of chili for dinner, and then remove the grate to enjoy the full flame for the evening. We agree with the user advice not to grill greasy foods like burgers or steaks directly on the grate, as the drippings would create a messy situation inside the fire bowl and on the lava rocks. However, for any cooking that involves a pot, pan, or kettle, it performs brilliantly. This single feature can eliminate the need to pack a separate camp stove, saving valuable space and weight on any trip. If you’re looking for a portable fire pit that truly does more, the integrated cooking capability of this model is a compelling reason to choose it.
Built to Last? A Look at Materials and Potential Issues
Overall, the build quality of the Ciays fire pit is solid. The alloy steel bowl feels robust, and the stainless steel burner is the right material choice for resisting the high heat and potential moisture of outdoor use. However, like any outdoor appliance, its longevity depends on proper care. The most common point of concern raised in user feedback revolves around the Piezo igniter. Some users reported that it stopped working after a few uses, forcing them to light the pit with a long-stemmed lighter. This is a common issue across many gas grills and fire pits and, while inconvenient, isn’t a deal-breaker for us. A simple butane lighter is a good backup to have in any camp kit regardless.
We also saw one mention of rust developing after a few uses. This highlights the importance of using the included cover. After each use, once the unit has completely cooled, covering it will protect the painted finish from rain and morning dew, which are the primary culprits of rust. The lava rocks themselves will last indefinitely. There were some conflicting reports about the quantity of rocks included—some felt it was too little, while others struggled to fit them all. Our test unit came with what we felt was the perfect amount to cover the burner and create a full look. For those wanting a different aesthetic, the rocks can easily be supplemented or replaced with colored fire glass for a more modern look.
What Other Users Are Saying
Across the board, the sentiment from other users is overwhelmingly positive. The most frequently praised features are the fantastic heat output, the incredible ease of setup, and the sheer convenience of having an “instant fire.” One user summed it up perfectly, calling it “the next best thing to the real deal” after 40 years of being a campfire enthusiast. Many, like us, were particularly impressed with the value proposition, noting that the all-inclusive package with the grill, cover, and straps was a great deal.
The positive feedback often highlights specific use cases. RV owners and campers repeatedly call it “great for camping life” and praise its ability to provide a safe, warm fire during burn bans. One user mentioned how they saved $100 on firewood during a single trip, framing the fire pit as a sound long-term investment.
The critical feedback, while less common, provides a balanced perspective. The most consistent complaint is the Piezo igniter failing, with one user stating, “the igniter… stopped starting the fire pit and have to use a lighter gun to ignite.” Another point of contention for a couple of users was the amount of lava rock, with one feeling it was “pretty short on rocks.” This feedback is valuable, confirming that while the core function of the fire pit is excellent, some of the convenience features might have long-term reliability issues.
How Does the Ciays Fire Pit Compare to the Competition?
While the Ciays 19 Inch Propane Fire Pit excels in its category, it’s important to understand how it fits into the broader market of outdoor heating and cooking. It’s a specialized tool, and depending on your primary need, one of these alternatives might be a better fit.
1. PAMASE Fire Pit Mat 37.8×39.4in Fireproof Blanket
- Heat Resistant Material: Our carefully selected fire pit mats are all made by high quality fibreglass material and insulation coating, which are heat resistant, oil-and water-resistant. Our fireproof...
- Washable and Reusable: Our fire pit mats have excellent sewing and sealing edges, which are very durable and not easy to scatter. The wear-resistant and wrinkle resistant material makes it can be...
- Perfect Size: The size of our fire pit mats is 37.8x39.4inches, the big size is sufficient to meet your thermal protection needs. Our foldable fire blanket can be organized well in the storage bag,...
This product isn’t a direct competitor but rather an essential accessory for the Ciays fire pit. The PAMASE Fire Pit Mat is a heat-resistant blanket designed to be placed underneath a fire pit to protect the surface below. While a propane fire pit doesn’t drop embers like a wood fire, it still radiates significant heat downwards, which can scorch a wood deck, discolor patio stones, or kill the grass on your lawn over time. If your primary use for the Ciays fire pit will be on any surface other than dirt or gravel, investing in a fireproof mat like this is a crucial step to prevent damage and ensure safety. It’s the perfect companion purchase to make your fire pit usable anywhere.
2. hykolity 31″ 2-in-1 Fire Pit with Grill
- 【2 in 1 Outdoor fire pit with grill】: 31” Dia x 24” H, this wood burning fire pit features a multi-functional design ideal for outdoor heating or grilling. The fire pit with cooking grate is...
- 【Swivel Cooking Grate】: The cooking grate with an 21.06-inch diameter grill area, safe to cook on it. The barbecue grill swivels 360 degrees, making swing it left or right possible. Grill adjusts...
- 【Heat-Resistant & Safe Material】: This fire pit with cooking grate uses powder-coated and heavy-duty steel material, which has excellent high temperature-proof and rust-proof capacity. 4 heavy...
The hykolity 31″ fire pit represents the traditional wood-burning alternative. Its main advantages are size and authenticity. At 31 inches, it creates a much larger fire, making it suitable for bigger gatherings. The swivel cooking grate is also more robust for direct grilling. However, it comes with all the classic drawbacks of a wood fire: you need a steady supply of firewood, it produces smoke and embers, cleanup is a chore, and critically, it cannot be used during a campfire ban. This is a better choice for someone with a permanent backyard space who prioritizes the traditional wood bonfire experience over portability and convenience.
3. Verdeluxe 43 Inch Octagonal Fire Pit
- 【DURABLE MATERIALS】This octagonal fire pit is made of 100% iron, will not deform even after long-term use,sturdy and stable.Its superior rust resistance and durability make it perfectly suited for...
- 【43 INCH LARGE-SIZED】The 43 inch large-sized fire pit can burn more wood and gather more peopel to warm up.This fire pit can create more beautiful memories with friends and family.
- 【 FOOT PEDALS】Octagonal foot pedals of bonfire pit's outer ring designed to help maintain a safe distance between each other and enough room for optimal heating. Endless enjoyment in outdoor...
Similar to the hykolity, the Verdeluxe Octagonal Fire Pit is a large, wood-burning unit designed to be a semi-permanent backyard centerpiece. At a massive 43 inches, its purpose is to create a huge, impressive bonfire for large parties and events. Its decorative octagonal shape makes it more of a landscape feature than a portable utility item. Someone would choose this over the Ciays model if their only goal is to have the largest possible wood fire in their backyard. It completely sacrifices the portability, convenience, clean operation, and cooking versatility that make the Ciays 19 Inch Propane Fire Pit so appealing for camping and travel.
Final Verdict: Is the Ciays 19 Inch Propane Fire Pit the Right Choice for You?
After extensive testing and evaluation, we can confidently say that the Ciays 19 Inch Propane Fire Pit is an outstanding product that delivers exceptional value. It successfully solves the most common problems associated with traditional fires, offering immense heat, smokeless operation, and unparalleled convenience in a compact, portable package. The inclusion of a high-quality cast iron grill grate transforms it from a simple fire pit into a versatile outdoor appliance, adding a layer of functionality that sets it apart from many competitors.
While the potential for an unreliable igniter is a minor drawback, it’s a common issue in this product category and is easily overcome with a simple lighter. For campers, RV owners, tailgaters, and anyone with a small patio who wants the joy of a campfire without the hassle, this fire pit is a top-tier choice. It’s powerful, well-equipped, and designed for life on the go.
If you’ve decided the Ciays 19 Inch Propane Fire Pit is the right fit for your outdoor adventures, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-11 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API