Your questions on gas BBQs answered
What is the best gas BBQ?
Apart from its appealing aesthetics and sturdy construction, the Weber spirit E-425 is the best gas barbecue I tested, offering plenty of power in its four burners, additional sear zones and included plancha, yet takes up minimal space outdoors.
Those on a lower budget would do well with the Uniflame 2 burner gas BBQ, which heats up quickly and evenly, but lacks some of the robustness and accessories you get with premium options.
How I tested gas BBQs
I grilled all the typical barbecue fare on each gas model in this round-up – sausages, burgers and chicken skewers, alongside lighter vegetables such as mushrooms, courgettes, peppers, halloumi and corn cobs. While testing, I paid particular attention to the following aspects:
- Assembly: I assembled each barbecue alone with an electric drill driver, timing how long it took, and occasionally called in help from another adult. I looked for clear instruction manuals and noted which barbecues required further assembly of the firebox and burners.
- Sustainability: I accounted for each unit’s packaging material and size, focusing on how environmentally friendly these materials were.
- Ease of movement: Once built, I assessed how easy and smooth each barbecue was to move around, focusing on wheels, handles and overall weight. I also checked for lockable wheels and foldable side tables to make storage easier after use.
- Gas connection: I kept track of the barbecues that came with a gas regulator and hose pre-attached, and which ones required me to connect these parts to the unit myself. I noted how easy each barbecue was to ignite, and where I needed to look to check those all-important flickering flames had appeared.
- Grilling ability: I cooked a variety of meats and vegetables on each barbecue, aiming for crisp skin and pleasantly charred exteriors that still remained juicy and moist inside. I noted how quickly the barbecues reached optimal temperature, how intuitive the controls were to use, and whether the heat was even across all burners and surfaces.
- Ease of cleaning: Testing each barbecue also meant cleaning up after use. I assessed how easy it was to remove and clean the grills, flame tamers and grease trays.
- Extras: Many gas grills have additional and optional extras like integrated chopping boards, fold-down side tables, planchas, side burners and warming racks. I took note of whether these extras were actually useful when grilling, or if they seemed unnecessary.
Where to buy gas for a BBQ
All the barbecues I’ve tested here used a 27mm clip-on regulator and a 13kg Calor patio gas bottle (£107, Calor.co.uk). Keep in mind that most stores will not deliver gas, though you can click and collect at B&Q or have it delivered by various online companies. Alternatively, look for local stockists; I purchased my gas bottle this way, and the owner graciously delivered it to my house free of charge.
Bear in mind that most gas bottles are purchased either via refill or exchange, with the seller either refilling your empty bottle, or swapping it out for a new, filled one. If you don’t have an empty bottle then the cost effectively doubles, as you’re paying for (1) the new gas, and (2) a £50-£70 deposit/charge on the bottle itself.
How to connect and disconnect a gas bottle from a BBQ
Connecting and disconnecting a gas bottle on your barbecue is relatively simple, but can feel a little unnerving at first. Adam Oldfield, director of StovesAreUs, explains the steps to connect your gas bottle safely:
- Turn everything off: Before you begin, ensure all BBQ burners are switched off, and that the gas bottle valve is fully closed.
- Check the hose and regulator: Inspect the gas hose for any kinks, cracks, or damage that could cause a leak. Make sure the regulator is in good condition and suitable for your gas bottle.
- Attach the regulator to the gas bottle: Place the regulator onto the bottle valve. This is usually done by screwing it on, although some models use a clip-on fitting – for the latter, ensure the switch is set to ‘off’ and press down firmly until you hear a click. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions before connecting to ensure you know which type you have.
- Connect the hose to the BBQ: Attach the gas hose to the BBQ’s gas inlet, making sure to thread the jubilee clip onto the hose first, then tighten it carefully with a screwdriver (don’t over tighten). If the hose is too stiff, dipping the end in hot water for 60 seconds helps to soften the rubber. The gas bottle should be placed upright either beside or underneath the BBQ, depending on the model.
- For clip-on regulators: Turn the regulator switch to the ‘on’ position. This is typically vertical, while the ‘off’ position is horizontal.
- Check for leaks: Before lighting the BBQ, spray a mixture of dish soap and water onto the hose and regulator connections. Slowly open the gas bottle valve and watch for bubbles. If bubbles appear, this indicates a leak and the gas should be turned off immediately.
- Light the BBQ: If no leaks are present, the BBQ can be safely lit and you’re ready to start grilling!
Once you’ve finished using the barbecue, you should always disconnect the gas bottle via the following:
- For clip-on regulators: Turn the regulator switch to ‘off’ – this is usually a horizontal position.
- Turn off the BBQ burners: This allows any residual gas left in the hose to burn off, which is a safer method.
- Turn off the gas bottle valve.
- Depress the button on the clip-on regulator’s valve: This will allow the regulator to pop upwards and off the gas bottle. You might hear and/or feel a small puff of pressure – this is normal!
Why you can trust IndyBest reviews
Flora Baker is a writer who has been researching, testing and reviewing home and garden products since 2020. Whether it’s BBQs, patio heaters or hanging egg chairs, she strives to find all the hidden features and possible pitfalls of any given product so you can choose what’s best for you. Elsewhere, we’ve tested the best charcoal BBQs and the best portable BBQs, so consider your summer sizzling sorted.
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