For most people, BBQ and grilling are best done under the open skies.
Not only is outdoor grilling easier and more enjoyable, but it also helps you reduce your energy bills and enhance the value of your house.
However, not all grilling enthusiasts prefer – or have access to –a backyard or any other outdoor space.
These enthusiasts still conduct their grilling and BBQ activities under covered patios, using smaller electric grills rather than larger, gas ones.
So, the question is, can you have a gas grill under a covered patio? In this blog, we will answer this question, along with a number of other related ones.
Can You Have a Gas Grill Under a Covered Patio?
Yes, you can have a gas grill under a covered patio.
The only exception to this would be if the patio is extremely crowded or small, in which case, you might want to consider not using a gas grill at all.
It is important to set up the grill in an area that provides adequate ventilation, as no or poor ventilation can lead to the development of dangerous smoke or fumes.
Another essential thing is to keep the gas grill supervised at all times. Leaving the grill unattended leaves you vulnerable to fires or heat flare-ups.
There are different kinds of gas grills: some are designed for backyards or other open spaces, while others are intended for indoor use.
If you plan to use your grill under a covered patio, make sure that you buy one that is suited for that purpose.
Clearance Requirements for a Gas Grill:
As per the NFPA (National Fire Prevention Association), a gas grill should at least be 10 feet away and 3 feet above any inflammable objects.
However, it is important to remember that this is just a guideline and should not be treated as fire code.
Make sure to contact your building department, as they might require you to have additional room between the grill and railing.
Where Should I Place a Gas Grill on My Patio?
Like we mentioned, a gas grill should at least be 10 feet away from any inflammable objects, and at an equal minimum distance to any buildings that may catch fire.
Can You Grill Under an Awning?
Generally, the fabric used in awnings is resistant to flames.
Such flame-resistant fabrics can endure contact with flames created by kerosene lamps, burning candles, et cetera.
Having said that, this fabric is NOT designed to endure extremely high temperatures, such as those associated with grilling.
So, if the grill is less than 3 feet below the awning, or does not have any other separator (such as a masonry surface or a brick wall), then we strongly recommend that you avoid grilling under an awning.
Can a Gazebo Be Used to Set Up a Grill?
This will depend upon the specific kind of gazebo.
For instance, if the gazebo is a shade structure with wooden frames, containing ventilation panels or open screens, there might be sufficient ventilation to minimize the risk of smoldering embers igniting the roof.
As long as such a gazebo has been properly treated, it can be used for grilling.
However, if the canopy is made completely using fabric and offers no routes for oxygen circulation, grilling can be a problem.
This is because there is a chance that the heat might accumulate and settle in a particular spot, increasing the risk of fire.
Can you Grill Under a Carport?
Yes. In fact, a lot of people grill under carports with absolutely no problems.
Of course, caution is always the name of the game.
Once again, we recommend not using a charcoal or gas grill in areas where the ventilation is not up to the mark.
Can you Grill Under a Tree?
If you plan to grill under a tree, make sure that the grill – whether gas or charcoal – is a minimum of 10 feet away from large plants or any other flammable structures.
While trees offer shade, they are not the safest backdrop for your grilling endeavors.
On windy days, it does not take much for an overhanging branch to catch fire.
Pergolas and Gas Grills:
You should refrain from setting up your grill against a pergola beam.
This is because the heat produced by the grill might cause the beams to warp or become brittle.
How Far Should I Place a Grill?
If your house does not have a permanent chimney installed, a freestanding grill should be placed at least 10 feet away, according to the Building Code Jurisdictions.
It is, of course, vital to stick to your local regulations.
Regardless, make sure that the distance between the grill and your house is such that, should the grill catch fire, your house or building will not be at risk.
Can a Gas Grill Explode?
Once again, this will depend upon the kind of grill that you are using.
A gas grill is popular due to its convenience – not only is it simple to operate, but it does not require a lighter fluid or charcoal.
However, the downside is that, if things go south, gas grills can become quite dangerous.
Under the right conditions, a propane tank can make the perfect potential bomb.
Add to it an open flame, and it is quite easy to see why and how your grill might be vulnerable to an explosion.
If your tank has a leak – because of faulty equipment, for example – this leakage, if left unattended, will eventually cause an explosion.
Can you leave Your Grill Outside?
You can certainly leave your grill outside, provided that the temperature is at least -44 degrees Fahrenheit.
A temperature below this threshold might prevent the grill from producing the required vapors.
Wrapping Up:
To sum up, it is indeed possible to have a gas grill under a covered patio – as long as you implement all the precautions and use a gas grill that has been designed for indoor use.
To learn more about grills and grilling, please feel free to check out some of the other blogs on our website.