Tips for Maintaining Your Smokeless Fire Pit

Keep the Flame Alive: How to Care for Your Helios Smokeless Fire Pit This South African Winter

Winter in South Africa is a season of clear skies, long nights, and cozy moments around the fire. With fewer bugs, crisp air, and a desire to linger outdoors, now is the perfect time to light up your smokeless fire pit and bring warmth to your gatherings.

But to get the best experience from your Helios Fire Pit — or any smokeless model — you’ll want to show it a little love. Just like any premium outdoor appliance, proper maintenance ensures performance, safety, and durability. Whether you're new to smokeless fires or a seasoned flame-tamer, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know to maintain your fire pit like a pro — from the very first spark to your last marshmallow roast of the season.

Why Maintenance Matters

Fire Is a Ritual — Make It Reliable

Smokeless fire pits are marvels of modern outdoor design. They’re sleek, efficient, and produce minimal smoke thanks to a carefully engineered airflow system. But like any finely tuned piece of gear, they require some upkeep to deliver consistent, satisfying results.

• Maximise Performance: Ash buildup or blocked vents can compromise the airflow system and cause your fire to smoke — the opposite of what you want.

• Ensure Safety: A clean fire pit reduces the risk of flare-ups, accidental burns, and embers escaping due to neglected soot or excess debris.

• Protect Your Investment: These are durable units — especially Helios models — but only if they’re cared for correctly. Maintenance prolongs life, prevents rust, and keeps the finish looking sharp.

• Keep It Beautiful: Your fire pit isn’t just functional — it’s part of your lifestyle and outdoor aesthetic. A clean pit is a more enjoyable, more impressive one.

Regular maintenance gives back in every way that matters — safety, performance, beauty, and peace of mind.

Step-by-Step: How to Maintain Your Helios Smokeless Fire Pit

Before the Fire, During the Flame, and After the Glow

A great fire starts before you light the match and continues long after the final ember fades. Below is a full guide to maintenance by phase and how to the fire pit kits can help:

1. Before You Light the Fire

• Check for Moisture: Wipe away any condensation or pooled rainwater. Moisture interferes with ignition and can lead to rust.

• Clear the Bowl: Remove any leaves, old ash, or leftover bits of wood from your last burn.

• Check Air Vents: These are the key to a smokeless flame. Make sure the holes along the base and upper rim are clear.

• Inspect Accessories: If using a grill, lid, or spark guard, make sure everything is clean, dry, and undamaged.

Tip: Always start with a clean slate — it leads to a better fire.

2. During Use: Burn Smart

• Use the Right Wood: Dry, seasoned hardwood (rooikrans, blue gum, black wattle) is best. Wet wood = smoke.

• Mind the Load: Don’t overfill. You need room for air to circulate — that’s how the smokeless system works.

• Start Small: Begin with kindling or firelighters before adding bigger logs. A slow build equals a better fire.

• Watch the Flame: A good smokeless burn will have a strong flame and minimal smoke. If smoke starts increasing, you may need to adjust the wood or airflow.

Tip: A properly tended fire rewards you with consistent heat and fewer refuels.

3. After Use: Cool, Clean, and Store

• Let It Cool Naturally: Wait until the fire is fully out and the unit is completely cool before cleaning.

• Empty the Ash: Use a metal scoop or brush to remove leftover ash. Dispose of it in compost or a safe bin.

• Wipe the Interior: A soft cloth and warm water will do. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the finish.

• Dry Thoroughly: Always ensure the fire pit is dry before covering or storing it.

Tip: Routine clean-up extends your fire pit’s lifespan and keeps it ready for your next gathering.

Deep Cleaning Your Fire Pit

Every 4–6 uses (or once a month during winter), give your fire pit a proper clean:

• Disassemble Accessories: Remove grill plates, spark guards, or lids.

• Soapy Water & Non-Abrasive Cloths: Gently scrub the bowl and parts.

• Polish if Needed: For stainless steel models, use polish to remove burn marks.

• Check the Base: Look for signs of heat damage, cracks, or rust.

This deeper maintenance helps prevent long-term issues and keeps your pit looking showroom-fresh.

Smokeless Fire Pit Seasonal Storage Tips

If you're not using your pit regularly:

• Use the Helios Cover: It’s waterproof and designed to breathe, preventing condensation.

• Keep It Elevated: Avoid standing water or damp grass.

• Store Accessories Inside: Lids, grills, and spark arrestors should be kept dry when not in use.

Tip: Even when stored outside, a properly covered fire pit will last for years.

Maintain Your Helios Fire Accessories Too

• Grills: Clean after every cook with warm water and mild soap.

• Spark Guards: Tap out ash and wipe down the mesh.

• Lids: Rinse if needed, then dry and store upright.

• Covers: Shake off debris and rinse if dusty.

Everything works better — and looks better — when you take care of it.

Smokeless Fire Pit Maintenance: FAQs Answered

Can I leave my Helios Fire Pit outside in winter?

Yes — but cover it properly. Store under a patio or roof if possible. Avoid wrapping it in airtight plastic, which can trap condensation.

What if the fire pit gets wet?

Dry it completely before relighting. Remove water, ash, and allow the unit to air out.

Why is my fire pit smoking more than usual?

Check for:

• Wet or unseasoned wood

• Blocked air holes

• Overfilled chamber

Cleaning and starting fresh usually fixes it.

How often should I clean it?

• Quick wipe after every use

• Deeper clean every 4–5 fires

• Full inspection monthly during winter

Do I need to oil or treat the surface?

No. Just clean it, dry it, and cover it. Helios Fire Pits are built tough.

Keep the Smokeless Glow Going

A fire pit is more than a backyard accessory — it's a hub of connection, comfort, and celebration. Keeping it clean and well-maintained means it's always ready to host your favorite winter memories.

So whether you're braaing on a balcony in Blouberg, sipping wine beside the Apollo in Durbanville, or lighting up an Eros on the beach — know that a little maintenance goes a long way with Helios Fire.

Clean it. Cover it. Care for it. And let it keep you warm — fire pot after flame.