How To Install A Grill Into A BBQ Island

by Joshua
(Los Angeles, CA USA)

Don't end up like this. Learn how to install a grill into a BBQ island properly.

Hi Guys,
I am a couple weeks away from having a company build an outdoor island, and install my new grill (its a Cal Flame drop-in grill. The plan is for a cantilevered island, with two vented access doors centered under the grillhead with room for the LP tank and a spare.

The back of the island would then have two 6X4" vents (one top, one bottom). The area under the grillhead would have a heatshield.

I just got the grill today, and I'm flipping thru the manual, and it is very specific about having having only ONE LP tank isolated in a separate enclosure, cross-ventilated, with a vented access door. It also states that the barbeque enclosure should have upper and lower vents (20 sq in minimum each) on both sides of the island.

I realize its generally a good idea to keep the LP tank as far away from the heat/ignition source as possible, but is this a requirement?

Where can I find the code that regulates this? (is there one?)

Thanks,

Joshua

Answer:-

Joshua,

As far as I'm aware there isn't regulatory code however I did speak to my resident expert on these matters Dave Jorde who sells his own barbecue island construction plans (Plans By Jorde) and he was very vociferous on this point:-

"The manual you have is right on. I have been consistent over the years as saying:
1. A separate compartment for the propane tank and each sub components.
2. A 20 sq. in upper and lower vent in each compartment for cross ventilation. Propane is heavier than air, the upper vent is for the cross ventilation.
3. Never place a tank under any component or in the same compartment used for storage of any kind including a spare tank. All it takes is a small leak and a spark to cause the situation in the attached picture."

So please, if you're reading this, heed this advice and you can do a lot worse than visit Dave's site and pick up a set of his plans.

Remember LP Gas is heavier than air, and can flash burn at 1100 deg in less than 1 second! Be safe, think safe and act safe - that way you BBQing days will be safe and fun.

See Also:-

BBQ Safety
More FAQ's