0% for 15 billing cycles on purchases, and to… Bank of America® Customized Cash Rewards Credit Card for Students Calculators How we make money
VOATLAS
How to Budget for a Backyard Fire Pit

How to · Home

How to Budget for a Backyard Fire Pit

Upgrade your patio setup for less by timing your purchase with end-of-season sales and a manageable payment plan.

VoAtlas editorial Updated · 3 min read
Typical cost $600 before anything else
Across the 0% window $33.33/mo 18 months, no interest

How we got that: $600 spread evenly across the 18-month introductory window on the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card. Checked · at the bank Carry a balance past the window and the standard APR applies to what is left.

Late August is the sweet spot for patio gear. Stores need to clear floor space for autumn inventory, so you can often find that $600 fire pit table for a fraction of the price. Getting it now means you have a warm focal point for the backyard before the first chill hits.

Don't just walk into the first big-box store and grab the first box you see. Check three different retailers online and in person. Compare the burner output and construction materials, then use those prices to see if anyone will match a lower offer.

Remember that the 0% window is a deadline, not a gift. If you still have a balance on the card after those 18 months, you will start paying interest on the remaining amount, which will quickly make the table more expensive than you planned.

The steps

  1. 01

    Set your price ceiling

    Decide exactly what you can afford to spend on the table plus the propane tank. Don't forget to factor in the cost of a cover to keep the unit protected through the winter. Once you have a hard number, stick to it.

  2. 02

    Track the clearance drops

    Start visiting local hardware and home stores in mid-August. Ask a floor manager when they typically mark down outdoor furniture. Checking back weekly helps you catch the price drop before the best models are picked over.

  3. 03

    Use your payment card

    You can use the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card, which offers 0% for 18 months on purchases and balance transfers from date of account opening. This lets you stretch that $600 cost into manageable payments of $33.33 per month over the 18-month window. It keeps your monthly cash flow steady while you enjoy the fire pit.

  4. 04

    Check the logistics

    These tables are heavy and usually come on a pallet. Make sure you have a way to get it home or confirm the store offers delivery. Ask if the price includes assembly, as some units require significant time to put together.

  5. 05

    Automate the payments

    Set up a recurring transfer from your checking account to cover your monthly payment. This ensures you never miss a due date. Staying on top of this keeps your credit habits clean and simple.

  6. 06

    Check the card terms before you commit

    Every figure we publish for the Citi Simplicity® Credit Card carries the date a person verified it against Citi and a link to where they checked. Intro windows and APRs change without notice, so confirm the current terms before applying.

    See Citi Simplicity® Credit Card terms →

Common questions

Should I buy a floor model?

Floor models are often cheaper, but inspect them closely for scratches or missing parts. If the burner is clean and the ignition works, it can be a great way to save extra money.

Is propane expensive to run?

It depends on how high you set the flame and how often you use it. A standard 20-pound tank usually lasts for about 8 to 10 hours of burn time on a high setting.

Do I need a professional to hook it up?

Most propane fire pits are designed for simple DIY assembly and connection. Just make sure you follow the leak-test instructions in the manual to ensure your connections are secure.

Can I leave this out in the snow?

Yes, but you must use a high-quality, waterproof cover. Moisture getting into the burner can cause rust or ignition issues when you try to light it in the spring.