Last Updated on July 9, 2023
This is an open thread and contains affiliate links.
If you’ve been to the American Southwest, there’s a chance you’ve seen chimineas. A chiminea is an outdoor fireplace, designed to do what fireplaces do but out in the elements. The flame and smoke can be controlled and contained, and the design makes it easier to keep the fire going even in inclement weather, like rain.
There are certainly plenty of ways to heat up a patio or outdoor space, and this is a potentially solid option. You can sometimes find these in local hardware stores in the spring or summer, but in 2022 Aldi decided to debut one as a limited buy.
What We Know:
The Belavi Wood-Burning Pyramid Chiminea (Product Code: 706496) is an Aldi Find, which means it’s only in stores for a short time. Once it’s gone, it’s gone, at least until it comes back, whenever that might be. Aldi doesn’t have online ordering for products that aren’t in stock at your local store.
At the time of this post, the chiminea costs $179.99. Chimineas online are all over the map on price, ranging from the low hundreds to several hundred dollars. So this one is on the lower end of prices, especially compared to ones that also have wood storage space.
According to Aldi, features include:
- Steel construction for a sleek style
- Powder-coated, rust-resistant finish to complement any décor
- Includes poker and log grate
- PVC cover included
- Built-in log storage area
- Dimensions: 18.9″ x 17.91″ x 59.72″
What We Don’t Know:
We haven’t tested this chiminea, so we don’t know how easily it assembles, how well it works, or how long it lasts out in the elements. That’s why we’ve created this open thread for users to share their experiences.
Do you have experience with this chiminea? Let us know in the comments.
I just assembled this unit over the weekend. Assembly was pretty painless, and took less than 30 minutes using nothing but an ordinary Phillips screwdriver. I have not use this yet, it feels relatively sturdy, the fire grate will not last very long as it is light gauge steel wire. I plan to fabricate or locate a chimney cap for it before use.
Does anyone know the dimensions of the burn box?
I have this item. Assembly was easy, but I did manage to cut my finger on a sharp metal edge unboxing it. There is an area where the paint has worn off during shipping. I find it interesting that it shouldn’t be used on the deck per their warning, yet you can store wood beneath it. I used it once and enjoyed a small fire without issue. When the a screen is opened to add wood, it hangs in front of the wood storage compartment. I was able to purchase it on clearance for about 50.00. It is well worth that, but would not have happy if I had paid full price. I do wish it had a a screen and cap for the top.
I am currently putting it together but the chimney is nestled inside the fire bowl and I can’t get it out. Help! Is there a trick?
Thank you.
One year later – under very light use – this thing is giving signs that it will rust a little too quickly. Hopefully that can be slowed down/stopped with some DIY. BUT the bigger problem was that the chiminea cover was pathetic, terrible, 0% chance of success. It ripped so easily in the wind. I’m not exactly sure if I’m going to be able to find a replacement (even on amazon) because of the unique shape of the chiminea.
But the chiminea design overall is cool. I appreciate how its straightforward style makes it fit so easily in various outdoor spaces.