A fire pit is classified as a “Recreational Fire”, much like a ring of rocks, whereas a enclosed chiminea is classified as a “Outdoor Portable Fireplace”. Blue Rooster chimineas may also be classified as “Cooking Devices” due to the cooking grates and enclosed design.
There are many fire pits incorrectly advertised as chimineas. They have mesh wraparounds, multi openings, and faux chimneys that only funnel smoke and have no effect on the fire. Due to lack of proper engineering, a mislabeled fire pit will never draft properly. Fire pits have a tendency to be hard to light and smoke/smolder due to not having proper drafting. Fire pits also have safety concerns regarding the possibility of a sudden gust of wind blowing embers into dry grass, deck, or a neighbor’s property.
The drafting on a well designed chiminea, creates a hotter fire, that burns brighter and more efficient then a fire pit. Better efficiency means a chiminea will have a lot less cleanup and will get the most BTU’s from your firewood. Chimineas will get used more often than firepits due to easy lighting and ability to be lit in windy conditions. A good chiminea is the superior design for the backyard deck or patio.