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.
Quick Tip – If you live in a coastal area then look for a model that has cast iron hotplates as they are rust resistant and durable (plus they’re easier to clean, bonus!)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.
Safety Tip – If you live in an apartment or you are renting, make sure to check if you are allowed to use LGP. LPG BBQs shouldn’t be used in really windy weather; the bottles must always be standing upright; LPG bottles are never to be stored in a car.Which Type Of BBQ Is Right For You?
Portable BBQ
Fuel: Charcoal, electric, gas, hybrid (gas + charcoal)
Where: Balconies, picnics, camping
This type of BBQ is compact and lightweight. Some models come with folding side shelves and detachable stands for easy storage. Feed 4-6 people at once.
Flat Top BBQ
Fuel: Gas
Where: Balconies, decks, backyard, courtyard
The good ol’ traditional Aussie “barbie” and how the beloved school sausage sizzle began. Flat top, gas fuelled barbeques are perfect for the classic Australian BBQ of steaks, sausages, fried onions, rissoles and the traditional Aussie breakfast.
Hooded BBQ
Fuel: Gas
Where: Balconies, decks, backyard, courtyard
With a hood to trap the heat, this type of BBQ provides the flexibility to not only grill and fry but also to bake, roast and smoke. Most of the time the cart that houses the BBQ also provides you with shelving and storage options, including a safe spot for the gas bottle to stand. Many models have an optional rotisserie as an accessory. The hooded type is a great fit for the BBQ connoisseur who likes to entertain often, with a generous menu for their guests.
Charcoal Grill & Smokers
Fuel: Charcoal, wood, heat beads
Where: Backyard, decks, large courtyard
This type of BBQ is what offers you to achieve the distinctive, wood smoked flavour in your food. They don’t have any other features and are the most simplified, old-style of BBQ cooking, but if you have plenty of time and patience on your hand to endure the slow cooking it will be well worth it. Good ventilation is an absolute must and you may want to consider extras like a grill and hotplate, as well as wheels for ease of portability.
Hooded Built-In BBQ
Fuel: Gas, hybrid (gas + charcoal)
Where: Built into an existing or new structure
This popular type chosen by frequent BBQ chefs can be built into your outdoor entertainment kitchen, creating the ideal space for you to relax and spend time with friends and family… and of course the BBQ! While cooking with the hood closed, you have the capability to produce beautiful, juicy meals just like what you would get when cooking in an oven, while still also being able to flame and grill meats like you usually would.
Quick Tip – If you are installing your BBQ under cover, you should consider installing a rangehood. Legally in some states you need to have a rangehood installed and flame failure devices on the BBQ and if you have more than 50% of the area enclosed, this can be by walls or even roll down blinds.
Flat Top Built-In
Fuel: Gas
Where: Built into an existing or new structure
Just like the freestanding flat top BBQ, this type can be built within your outdoor entertaining area and perfect for the backyard chefs who prefer to keep things simple and don’t require the grilling functionality.
Wok
Fuel: Gas
When you’re designing your outdoor kitchen, it’s a good opportunity to consider whether you’d like to include a built-in wok, allowing you to toss some delicious stir fries and veggies over the flame while working over the BBQ. This is a great option when you’re entertaining and don’t want to be rushing back and forth to and from the kitchen. If you are installing a Wok Burner as a separate side burner on your built-in BBQ, ensure it’s on the opposite side to any rotisserie boxes otherwise you cannot use them both at same time. If you’re shopping for a Freestanding BBQ, some models feature a Wok Burner on the side, providing cooking versatility when cooking for a crowd.
Quick Tip – while browsing rotisseries, consider the source of power to the motor. If it’s battery powered, it will provide less turning power. Good tip if you’re thinking of piercing a whole chicken or big chunks of meat is to consider an electric motor.While you may have been a bit uncertain at the start, we are confident that you now have more of an idea of the type of BBQ you are after. To help you feel confident with your final decision and best prepare your purchasing journey, click here to view the wide range of BBQs available on the market, read consumers reviews and find your local retailers to purchase from.
Happy grilling!
