Neighbor Fire LabNeighbor Fire Lab
Maya Chen

Maya Chen

Smokeless fire pit thermofluids, airflow, and instrumented testing

About

Engineer-turned-outdoor-tester who builds rigs to quantify heat, smoke, and noise on small patios. I maintain a backyard test pad with controllable airflow and logging hardware to evaluate real-world hosting scenarios.

Core Beliefs

If you control variables and measure outcomes, neighbor-friendly fires become repeatable.

Background

During a winter test, I built a data logger that graphed heat flux and PM2.5 minute-by-minute while neighbors were dining outdoors nearby. One brand claimed 'smokeless,' but my plot showed spikes with every rushed refuel. After slowing feed rate and adjusting airflow, the graph flattened—and the neighbor texted, 'Thanks.'

Perspective

I optimize for measurable performance over aesthetics and brand reputation.

Author Articles

Verified Smokeless Fire Pits: Sensitive Users Tested

Verified Smokeless Fire Pits: Sensitive Users Tested

Sensor-backed testing identifies the fire pits that truly keep PM2.5 under 35 µg/m³ for asthma-sensitive, neighbor-friendly burns. Apply wood moisture targets, 8–12 minute refuels, and smart wind placement to minimize smoke and protect deck surfaces.

3rd Oct7 min read
Top 5 Premium Fire Pits: Verified Smoke Control & Safety

Top 5 Premium Fire Pits: Verified Smoke Control & Safety

Make a neighbor-friendly choice using data from instrumented PM2.5, wind, and heat tests that separate marketing from measurable performance. Find clear criteria and top picks that deliver reliable smoke control, stable heat, and safer clearances for tight patios and decks.

3rd Oct10 min read
Fire Pit Grill Cooking: Data-Backed Safety & Technique Guide

Fire Pit Grill Cooking: Data-Backed Safety & Technique Guide

Master fire pit grilling with a test-verified protocol: control wood moisture and airflow, set safe clearances, and use defined heat zones to cut smoke and cook consistently. Replace guesswork with measurable steps for neighbor-friendly warmth and deck-safe hosting.

3rd Oct5 min read