As more of us are buying BBQs for the first time online, keen to make use of our outdoor space this summer, more of us are realising that we don’t actually know how to light a BBQ safely.
Although many BBQs come with set-up instructions, they mainly just cover how to put the equipment together – rather than how to actually make it work. And with those burgers, steaks and other BBQ foods sat in the fridge ready to go, it can be frustrating not knowing how to get it going.
So with the help of OnBuy’s BBQ department and MyJobQuote, we’ve put together this handy guide on how to get the most out of this hot weather with your new piece of equipment in four easy steps.
If you’ve not yet taken the plunge and bought a barbecue, and are looking for the best ones out there to buy and have delivered to your door, then look no further. Scroll down browse through some of the best barbecues out there, from disposable to top of the range.
This is how to light a BBQ…
These are the instructions on how to light a charcoal barbecue, one of the most common ones out there.
1. Remove the lid and cooking gate, sweeping out any leftover debris from the barbecue.
2. Layer the charcoal at the bottom of the barbecue and scrunch up some old paper on top, before adding another lay of coal into a pyramid shape.
3. Be careful with this step! Carefully pour a generous amount of lighter fluid into the coal, letting it soak for several minutes before then lighting the charcoal.
4. In about 10 to 15 minutes the charcoal should turn white (that means it’s really hot!), so replace the cooking gate and you’re ready to start grilling.
How to light a gas BBQ
If you’re looking for a safer option, gas barbecues don’t require any lighting materials apart from the gas fuel. They’re also much easier to light on the whole, compared to charcoal barbecues.
1. Open the lid and the gas cyclinder valve, making sure that you’ve got the controller on high and then wait for a couple of seconds to make sure that enough gas is in the ignition chamber.
2. Press down firmly on the ignite button. The burner should spring to life.
How to light an electric BBQ
Lighting an electric barbecue is the simplest task of them all and easily the safest – as you don’t need any fuel whatsoever or any lighter fluids.
1. Plug the barbecue into the power socket.
2. Turn the controller up to “high” and then just let it warm up for around 25 to 30 minutes with the lid one.
It’s as simple as that!
Best BBQs to buy online
Sales of barbecues have shot up as more people are using the incoming Great British Summer to spend more time in their garden and eating outside.
If you’ve not yet taken the plunge, are doing some research and want some inspiration then check out these barbecues for a great grilling experience. These are the best barbecues out there to buy online at the moment…
Wilko Party Size Disposable BBQ, £5
Easy to light and family-sized, this disposable BBQ is all you need for an impromptu celebration or afternoon feast. Buy in advance and keep it in storage so it's ready to use when you need it, or get it going straight away! This disposable BBQ is also one of the cheapest out there and just needs one match (included) to get it going!
GardenKraft 19950 Family Size Disposable BBQ with Stand, £12.95
Complete with a stand to elevate the coals off the floor, this family-sized barbecue is big enough to feed the whole family. It can also be bought in a "standard size" for smaller parties. Delivery from Amazon is available in 1-2 days.
Landmann Barbecue, £44.99
Coming in six different colour combinations, a Landmann barbecue will see you through the summer months ahead. It's portable as well, so you can enjoy it from the comfort of your back garden or take it with your on your next adventure. Easy to use and easy to cook on, it's a reliable choice for a barbecue.
Argos Home 43cm Kettle Charcoal BBQ, £25
It's back to basics with this simple BBQ from Argos. A simple charcoal barbecue like this one is good for 4-6 people and has wheels, so you can move it around your garden as the sun starts to set, so you can catch the last of the rays while your food is sizzling away.
Argos Home Charcoal Oil Drum BBQ with Warming Rack, £40
This is a barbecue for all those who want to master the art of the grill this summer. The barrel shape of this BBQ allows you to control the temperature of the flames and the warming rack means you can keep your food warm while the rest is cooking.
Argos Home 2 Burner Gas BBQ with Side Burner, £75
For a gas barbecue, have a look at this one from Argos. Gas barbecues tend to be more expensive than charcoal ones and it's rare to find good ones for under £100. This one for £75 from Argos feeds 6-8 people, is easy to light and easy to use - perfect for a first-time griller!