Leaks on Gas BBQs Are Dangerous!
The Sunshine Coast is famous for its outdoor living areas, which usually include either a full outdoor kitchen, or at least a BBQ, built in, or freestanding. Flexible hoses which connect your LPG bottle to the BBQ can perish and split over time, which creates a gas leak on your BBQ that for safety reasons MUST be fixed. If you can smell gas when the BBQ is off, then you have a leak. If you use a 9kg gas bottle, always close the LPG supply after BBQing so that a LPG gas leak cannot occur. Turn the gas bottle off before turning the knobs off on your BBQ so that all gas is purged out of the lines and the flames go out, then turn the bbq knobs to the off position.
Checking for BBQ Leaks
Taking a few seconds to check your gas connections with soapy water is all you need to do to ensure that the sausages are the only thing that's going to get burnt at your next barbecue. The vast majority of barbecues take place without incident, but on average ore than 130 barbecues end with disastrous consequences every summer. The majority of fires are caused by loose gas connections that have not been adequately tightened or perished O rings. Taking a few seconds to check your connections are tight and to squirt some soapy water on the connection between the gas bottle and hose, and the hose and barbecue, will show you if your barbecue is safe to use. If you see bubbles forming, then you have a gas leak. In the case where you see bubbles forming, or even suspect a leak due to smell of gas, call us to arrange an inspection.
Maintenance & Repairs of Gas BBQs
On a LPG gas BBQ, several components are susceptible to rust or deterioration over time, which can impact the bbq's performance and safety. The burners, in particular, are prone to rust due to exposure to heat and moisture, leading to potential clogs and uneven heating. The heat shields or flavorizer bars can also deteriorate, affecting the distribution of heat and causing flare-ups. Additionally, the gas hoses and connections may degrade, increasing the risk of gas leaks. Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the proper functioning of the gas BBQ, including cleaning the burners, replacing any corroded parts, and checking for gas leaks. By addressing these issues promptly, you can enjoy safer and more efficient grilling experiences with your LPG gas BBQ.
Installation of Gas BBQs
When installing a gas BBQ in your alfresco area, there are several important factors to consider. First, it is essential to ensure that the bbq is located in a well-ventilated outdoor area, away from any structures that could potentially catch fire. Additionally, it's important to have a dedicated LPG supply either by flexible hose from adjacent 9kg bottle, or by LPG piped from a bottle source located further away. The installation of a gas BBQ should also comply with local building codes and regulations to ensure safety and compliance. Proper installation and testing will ensure both the safety and functionality of the gas BBQ for enjoyable outdoor cooking experiences.
