Electric barbecues for terraces and shared buildings

If you live in a flat with a terrace or in a block with shared rules, you probably know what it is like to fancy a barbecue and not be able to light charcoal or gas because of the building’s regulations. Electric barbecues for terraces have come along to change that: they let you enjoy a proper barbecue with no smoke, no flames and without bothering anyone. In this article we tell you everything you need to know before choosing yours.

Why an electric barbecue on a terrace or in a shared building?

Residents’ associations usually have rules that restrict, or outright ban, the use of charcoal or gas barbecues on terraces and balconies. The reasons are understandable: smoke bothers the neighbours, there is a fire risk and there are local regulations governing emissions. Faced with all that, the electric barbecue becomes the most practical and considerate alternative.

Contrary to what many people think, a good electric barbecue can generate enough heat to sear meat, brown vegetables or cook fish with thoroughly respectable results. It is not the same as the smoky flavour of charcoal, of course, but the convenience and the freedom to use it in almost any situation more than make up for it.

The main advantages of electric barbecues

No smoke and no strong smells

The strongest argument in their favour is obvious: they produce no smoke. You can cook at nine in the evening on your terrace without anyone knocking at your door to complain. The electric elements heat the grill evenly and there is no combustion, so the smell is minimal compared with charcoal or gas.

Safety in small spaces

On a terrace of 8 or 10 square metres, handling an open flame or a gas bottle can be dangerous. Electric barbecues remove that risk, as they need no flammable fuel. All you need is a socket nearby and you are ready to cook.

Easy to light, easy to control

Forgetting the firelighters or the newspaper is a thing of the past. With an electric barbecue you simply plug it in and wait a few minutes for it to reach the temperature you want. Many models have a power dial or a thermostat so you can adjust the heat to whatever you are cooking.

Simpler cleaning

With no ash and no leftover charcoal, cleaning becomes a good deal simpler. Even so, the grill collects fat and food residue that has to be removed properly to keep both the flavour and the hygiene. If you want to do it well, have a look at the barbecue cleaning products on the market: from purpose-made brushes to complete kits that make the job easier.

What should you bear in mind before buying one?

Electrical power

Power is one of the most important factors. Models of less than 1.500 W can fall short when it comes to searing meat properly. Ideally, look for a barbecue of between 2.000 and 2.400 W if you want results close to a traditional grill. Before buying, check that the electrical circuit on your terrace will take that load without tripping the breaker.

Cooking surface

The size of the grill determines how much you can cook at once. For a small terrace or a meal for two or three, a grill of about 40-50 cm in diameter, or the equivalent, is usually enough. If you have the space and want to cook for more people, look for models with a larger surface.

A good spare or replacement grate can make the difference if the original deteriorates over time. Barbecue parts and accessories are key to making your equipment last longer.

The material of the grate

Stainless steel is the strongest and the easiest to clean. Cast iron distributes heat excellently but needs more upkeep to prevent rust. If you choose cast iron, make sure you dry it well after every use and apply a thin coat of oil from time to time.

Stability and design

Terraces sometimes have uneven or wooden surfaces, so check that the barbecue has stable legs and a safe design. Some models have wheels or come apart easily, which makes them simpler to store when you are not using them.

Accessories that make the difference

Having a good electric barbecue is the first step, but the right accessories lift the experience. A quality grate has a direct effect on the result: more even marks, better contact with the food and easier cleaning.

If you are after something more versatile to get the most out of your session at the grill, barbecue utensils are indispensable: long spatulas, tongs, cooking thermometers and drip trays all make cooking easier and safer.

And do not forget the protective cover. If your barbecue is going to stand on the terrace exposed to rain, sun or dust, a good cover will extend its life considerably. You will find models to suit among the protective barbecue covers available in our shop.

And if your building’s rules are not clear?

Many residents’ association rules were written years ago and do not specifically cover electric barbecues. In that case the best thing is to check with the chair of the association or the managing agent before installing one. In most cases, as there is no flame and no smoke, electric barbecues cause no problem at all and are perfectly accepted.

If you live on a development or in a complex with communal areas, it may also be worth proposing that the association install a shared barbecue in the garden or by the pool. In that setting, gas barbecues or even charcoal barbecues may be an option if the outdoor space allows it and the rules permit it.

Maintenance after every use

The most common mistake is leaving the barbecue dirty after the meal and thinking «I will clean it next time». Cooked-on fat carbonises and becomes far harder to remove. Ideally, clean the grill while it is still warm, with a suitable brush, and give it a deeper clean every two or three uses.

A cleaning kit made specifically for barbecues makes the difference: products formulated for the job lift baked-on fat without damaging steel or iron surfaces. It is worth keeping one always to hand.

The best advice before taking the plunge

If you are still unsure which type of barbecue best suits your situation, visit our barbecues and ovens section to compare models, materials and features. A terrace, however small, deserves a proper barbecue now and then. With the right electric barbecue and the right accessories, you have no excuse not to enjoy it.