Alfresco Areas
These areas are getting very popular in houses now both new and old, but like most appliances, "outdoor" Barbeques used in these areas do have certain legal restrictions. The information below should help clarify some of these concerns..........................................
There are very important points that should be considered when using a Barbeque in your Alfresco area:
The minimum requirements* are that the area must have at least 2 sides / walls permanently open, ie no cafe blinds! The reason for this is that the Barbeque, whether LPG (bottle) or mains must have plenty of ventilation in the event of a leak or smoke/fat build up. These Cafe Blinds block the sides, create a room and the BBQ that is designed for outdoors only is now indoors!
NO BARBEQUE DESIGNED FOR OUTDOOR USE SHOULD BE USED IN AN "INDOOR" AREA
Indoor Barbeques that run on Natural (mains) Gas have safety devices ( flame failure), that do not allow the gas to flow without being lit, ie if the flame goes out the Gas cuts off as well. They are a lot more expensive, and can be up to three to four times the cost of an outdoor BBQ and require commercial-type extractors to remove the smoke and fat from the room, like you see in commercial kitchens in restaurants. These extractors for BBQs start at about $3000. They have to have a capacity to remove the smoke and fat particals from the room at a rate of about 2000 cubic foot per hour and have filters that must be cleaned regularly. Most commercial kitchen companies supply Commercial Grills / Barbeques as well as Extractors.
Note: A Barbeque that has flame-failure fitted does not necessarily mean it can be used indoors, it has to be "approved" to be used indoors. A Sticker stating Outdoors Only means only for use outdoors. It is is approved for INDOOR USE it will have a sticker on it to say so.
As a duty of care to all consumers and for their safety, it is a requirement of any Licensed Gas fitter / technician to report any areas, using barbeques, that do not conform to current regulations.
Having an barbeque designed for outdoors in an area that is "fully enclosed" may affect your house insurance should an incident occur and your BBQ Warranty!
If you are not sure if your area meets these requirements or you need advice before buying your new Barbeque, ring us, we are here to help. We will ensure that not only your "Alfresco" complies but that your family and home are safe. We do charge a consulting fee for "at home" visits, but for your peace of mind it is well worth it!
*(All these requirements are listed in the Western Australian Energy Safety web site and only apply to WA., Check with your local Gas supplier if you are in another state or country).
Go to
http://www.docep.wa.gov.au/EnergySafety/PDF/Publications/Safety_Gas_Barbecues.pdf
if you live in Western Australia.
BARBITEC SERVICE DEPARTMENT, Technical Division
(updated July 2010)
