Vicky Sanderson Gathering around a fire is probably humankind’s oldest social activity. We’ve probably been doing it for close to one million years. It’s about time, then, that we got an upgrade! The BioLite FirePit+ is the backyard/outback fire we deserve after all this time. Easy to transport, it delivers the aroma, warmth, and crackle of fire without the smoke. It uses hyper-efficient fan technology, run by a USB-rechargeable power pack that holds up to 30 hours on a single charge. The pack also serves as as a charging dock for other devices.
Flames that dance in the air
The fine mesh body of the firepit means flame can be seen from just about every angle. In the dark, fire seems to hover. Using a grate that’s included, it works as a hibachi-style grill.
There’s also some pretty nifty accessories, including kettles, coffee presses, grills, and carrying bags for utensils.
Lighting options include a foldable fabric lantern that can hang from branches or poles. Set on 15 feet of cord, it’s daisy-chainable, and can be powered with BioLite lanterns or any USB source with included adapter. The SiteLight String is a cute constellation of lights. Strung four to a cord, it can quickly and easily illuminate pathways, decks, docks, campsites, and tents.
A SolarHome 620+ kit includes solar-powered light, charging, and radio functions.
A growing line of sustainable home products
The BioLite product range is expanding beyond the firepit, as part of the company’s commitment to creating affordable, durable items that harness surrounding energy to cook, charge, and light daily life for off-grid households around the world.
They’ve got an interesting back story. which is deeply rooted in respect for sustainable design. Founders Jonathan and Alec, who met in New York City, began work on a camp stove in 2006 because they were frustrated that so many existing models required fossil fuel, Together, they created a portable biomass stove that employed thermoelectrics to create a smokeless fire.
Since then, the company has grown rapidly. In 2021, BioLite marked the milestone of having brought safe and reliable energy to three million people in 23 countries across Africa and Asia. They use a business model they call Parallel Innovation, under which their team incubates core energy technologies and then turns them into products. Revenue is reinvested in building a commercially sustainable business that can bring safe, affordable energy to families living in energy poverty across India and Africa. You can read more about that here.
To get started with the FirePit +
Give the yellow power pack a full charge
Have a Phillips head screwdriver handy for assembly
Start the fire small, and build up to eliminate smoke
Remember that the grill gets hot—use oven mitts when handling.
TIP: This video is really helpful
As always when it comes to fire, safety first!
Note to readers: I was sent a Firepit+ to test. I have plans to use it for an outdoor winter get together up north, and I’ll report back soon on how it goes!
