So… you’ve decided that it’s time to buy yourself a new BBQ. Whether it’s your first or you’re replacing an old model, taking into consideration how much the beloved “Barbie” is instilled within our Australian culture, a new BBQ is an important purchase. After all, it’s your backyard pride and joy. However, with the number of barbeques aplenty in the market, it may leave you feeling a bit overwhelmed with where to begin. Thankfully, our BBQ Buying Guide breaks down all the factors that need to be taken into consideration – so you can find the perfect BBQ fit for you.

Exactly how do you see yourself using this barbeque and what does it need to perfectly fit your lifestyle? What style of cooking do you enjoy? How often do you use your BBQ? How much space do you have for your BBQ, will it be under cover? Do you have a preference in fuel? Would you call yourself a BBQ beginner or a steak sizzling extraordinaire? Confidently having the answers to these general questions will help you narrow down the exact type of BBQ that best suits your needs.
get-togethers at home or is less than half a dozen people the most that you cook for at a time? If cooking for many, then you might want to consider a gas BBQ with plenty of burners – see below guide to get a rough idea. Next, you will need to measure and take note of the amount of space you have available for your BBQ to ensure that the product you end up purchasing will fit.
2-3 Burners
+
4-8 Burners
How you like to cook is going to determine the type of fuel that you need for your new BBQ. Do you like to use the grill, or do you prefer the hot plate… or perhaps a bit of both? Getting the right mix is essential. Generally, you’ll find that you get half-half in most models, with some gas BBQs even having optional charcoal if you want that authentic charcoal taste. Ultimately, the larger the BBQ, the greater flexibility you’ll have.
2-3 Burners
+
4-8 Burners
If Built-In, will it be covered or open to the elements? When taking into consideration where you will place it, you need to think about all weather conditions – a spot in the open air might be great on a sunny day, but perhaps not ideal when it rains. A Freestanding BBQ offers more flexibility should you want to easily move it from one spot to another in your backyard. For portable convenience, a Portable BBQ is your best solution, making it great to pack and go when you’re going on holidays or camping.




Which BBQ Fuel Is Right For You?
Are you a charcoal lover or a gas flamer? Do you like to slowly smoke your dish or is an electric rotisserie more your style? If you like to use gas, do you have access to piped natural gas, or will you use bottles? If you’re not sure, our quick guide below will help:

Pros: BBQ like a pro with meat that has a smoked wood flavour; self-lighting; flexibility of slow cooking with low commitment.Cons: Requires plenty of ventilation due to smoke; high maintenance with cleaning of waste left from cinders; takes a long time to heat up and cook food.
Pros: Fast, high heat with instant heat control. You will need to choose between Natural Gas or Liquified Petroleum Gas, also known as LPG. If you wish to change between the two, a conversion kit will help you change from one source to the other.Natural Gas: is affordable and most preferable for outdoor kitchens as it provides a constant supply.
LPG: is available in a variety of gas bottle shapes and sizes, providing portability, making it a great option for Freestanding or Portable BBQs. It does not need to be installed by a licensed gasfitter.
Cons: Natural Gas: you will need an outlet and the BBQ must be installed by a licensed gas fitter. The installation must satisfy certain rules and regulations in your state, for example, the need for partial enclosures.
LPG: burns hotter than Natural Gas, the uncertainty of cooking time when the bottle is nearly empty; costly expense if refilling gas bottle frequently and strict regulations when using LPG.
Pros: Fast heat, constant power and easy to clean; wise choice for those who live in apartments or with limited outdoor space; easy to install.Cons: Lack of authentic BBQ taste, smaller cooking area, must be near the power outlet.
