Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use charcoal to increase the output of my gas stove?

DEFINITELY NOT – It is extremely dangerous to use charcoal on a gas barbecue as it can damage the components due to the heat buildup. Lava rock is used on gas barbecues only. Lava rock is an inert volcanic rock that does not burn. It does heat up but will not glow red.

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How long can I use my lava rocks?

There is no specific length of time for how long lava rock should be used for, it depends what type of food is cooked, and how frequently and what length of time it is used. Lava rock should be regularly turned to burn off any excess fat, but if you notice a decrease in the heat output of your barbecue then this may be the time to replace it. You may wish to change your Lava Rock once a year, for example in the spring.

We do not recommend that you wash Lava Rock as residues of the soap can remain behind and affect the flavour of your food. In extreme cases water can remain trapped in the Lava Rock, which when heated can produce steam that may cause the Lava Rock to explode.

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What are lava rocks/ceramic briquettes?

Lava Rock and Ceramic Briquettes are both inert material which is used to give the food that unique barbecue taste. This is as a result of the food juices and fat dripping on them and vaporising, this combined with the smoke mimics that charcoal barbecue flavour.

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What are the differences between lava rocks and ceramic briquettes?

The chief difference is that Ceramic Briquettes do not absorb fat as much as Lava Rock, so there is less chance of flare ups.

On the downside they tend to be more expensive.

Lava rocks are made naturally whereas ceramic briquettes are man-made.

Lava rocks absorb drippings better thus impart a nice flavor to the grilled foods when it is burnt off.

Briquettes are less absorbent and do not contribute as much in terms of flavouring to the grilled food but they are much durable.

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What advice do you give for cleaning my barbeque?

It is important to regularly clean your barbecue including the burner sections.

For Wooden sections, including FSC wood, there are specific cleaning instructions published in your barbecue’s manual.

In General

Care should be taken in using any steel spatulas or similar tools. Do not use abrasive cleaning products on painted or porcelain painted components.

Body, Hood/Lid – wash with hot soapy water using a soft cloth, stubborn stains can be removed by using a plastic scourer.

Warming Rack – Wash with hot soapy water, coat with cooking oil after rinsing and drying (this will help prevent rusting)

Grill, Griddles/ Baking dishes – There are two methods that Outback have tried and tested the first being Fairy Power Spray – Just follow the instructions (remember to take the solution off after 30 minutes)

Secondly a large plastic container with lid (large enough to cover the grills) can be used. Firstly dissolve 2 handfuls of soap powder in very hot water, and then carefully immerse the grills in the solution and leave overnight.

Any leftover stubborn bits can be removed using a plastic scourer.

Lava Rock – We do not recommend that you wash Lava Rock as residues of the soap can remain behind and affect the flavour of your food. In extreme cases water can remain trapped in the Lava Rock, which when heated can produce steam that may cause the Lava Rock to explode.

Burners – To prolong the life of your burner check regularly, cleaning off excess food debris with a wire brush. Using a piece of wire or a pipe cleaner clean the port holes on the underside of the burner.

For a thorough clean remove burner by either removing burner clip (back of burner) or unscrew bracket on underside of burner, lift upwards, gently pull burner mouth away from valve injector. Turn burner on end; lightly tap against a piece of wood to dislodge any debris.

To re-install burner, work in the reverse.

Drip Trays/Drip Pans – Excess fat and food debris should be removed using a plastic/wooden scraper, wash with hot soapy water. This should be done at regular intervals and before storage.

Excessive fat build up can cause fat fires. Surface rust can be removed with a wire brush and rust inhibitors can then be applied if needed.

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What is the FSC?

The FSC is the Forest Stewardship Council, it is an international, non-governmental organisation dedicated to promoting responsible management of the world’s forests. Outback UK takes its responsibility for ensuring sustainable resources seriously, and as from 2007 all of our products containing or using wood will be FSC certified.

More details about the FSC can be found at www.fsc.org

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How do I perform a leak test?

For the Standard Outback Range (Such as the Elite/Classic Range):

  • Firstly remove control knobs (pull off)
  • Unscrew the control panel – by undoing the 3 screws that are under the panel and lifting off the panel
  • Replace the control knobs, ensuring they are in the off position
  • Open the gas control valve on the gas bottle or regulator
  • Brush solution of ½ water ½ soap over valves and hose connections. If a leak is present bubbles will form on the connections
  • Turn off the gas supply immediately, tighten any joints and repeat test.

For Omega and Excel Range:

  • Remove any loose parts, such as the grill, lava rock etc from inside the barbecue
  • Ensure the controls are in the off position
  • Open the gas control valve on the gas bottle or regulator
  • Then brush solution of ½ water ½ soap over valves and hose connections.

Note: You may find it easier to access the gas valves by tipping the barbecue forwards. If a leak is present bubbles will form on the connections.

DO NOT USE BARBECUE IF BUBBLES RE-APPEAR AND CONTACT OUTBACK OR YOUR LOCAL DEALER IMMEDIATELY.

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What is the size of the gas cylinder I can/should use?

For the Excel 100, Excel 200 and Omega Gas 100, Omega Gas 200 we recommend a Minimum Bottle Size for Butane of 6kg and a Minimum Bottle Size for Propane of 3.9kg.

For Standard Outback (for example Elite Range, Classic Range) 2 burners we recommend a Minimum Bottle Size for Butane of 13kg and a Minimum Bottle Size for Propane of 6kg.

For Standard Outback (for example Elite Range, Classic Range) 3 burners and above we recommend a Minimum Bottle Size for Propane of 10kg.

Suitable regulators for butane must have an outlet pressure of 28/30mbar.

Suitable regulators for propane must have an outlet pressure of 37mbar.

YOU MUST HAVE THE PROPER REGULATOR AND BOTTLE IN ORDER FOR THE BARBECUE TO OPERATE SAFELY AND EFFICIENTLY. USE OF AN INCORRECT OR FAULTY REGULATOR IS DANGEROUS AND WILL INVALIDATE ANY WARRANTY.

If in doubt consult your gas dealer/distributor.

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Can I convert my gas barbeque to natural gas?

NO- Outback barbeques are only approved for use with Butane or Propane gas; any modifications would render the warranty invalid.

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Can I replace my grill with a griddle/hot plate?

Yes, but no more than 50% must be covered with a solid plate i.e.; a griddle as this would allow too much heat to build up underneath, the barbecue could overheat causing damage that is not covered by the warranty.

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Can I put my grills/griddles/BBQ items into the dishwasher?

Outback do not recommend this as the weight of the items could damage your appliance.

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The sleeve of my cast iron burner is dented at the end is that right?

Yes this is correct – this sleeve is to discourage insects from getting in the burner and causing an obstruction to the gas flow. The dent is to retain the sleeve on the burner.

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I have a yellow flame. What is the problem?

Your burners have been preset for optimal flame performance. You will normally see a blue flame, possibly with a small yellow tip when the burner is alight. If the flame pattern is significantly yellow, this could be a problem caused by grease from cooking blocking the burner, or spiders or other insects in the burner venturi.

This can result in the flow of the gas and air mixture being restricted or blocked which may result in a fire behind the control panel causing serious damage to your barbecue. If this happens, the gas should be immediately turned off at the bottle.

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Is it possible to replace rusty burners?

It is quite normal for cast iron burners to rust, please see the cleaning and maintenance instructions. You can also call us at 64735142 to check with us for the parts availability.

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My burner appears to be loose around the valve area, will gas leaked out from there?

No, as the gas is injected into the valve it creates a small vacuum, this then draws air in which is part of the combustion process. There is also a slot in the burner under the mesh to ensure there is an adequate supply of air.

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The control valves seize up especially when the barbeque gets hot. Why is this happening?

It sounds as if the grease inside the valve is breaking down with use and heat. The valves will need replacing.

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I cannot light the barbeque with the igniter but it lights up with a match. What can i do?

There are a number of possible reasons:

  • LP gas bottle is empty – Replace with full gas bottle
  • Faulty regulator – Have regulator checked or replace
  • Obstructions in burners – Clean burners
  • Obstruction in gas jets or gas hose – Clean jets and gas hose
  • Electrode wire is loose or disconnected on electrode or ignition unit – Reconnect wire
  • Electrode or wire is damaged – Change electrode and wire
  • Faulty integral igniter – Replace gas valve complete with integral igniter.
  • Incorrect electrode gap/Bent collector box – The gas collector box around the electrode needs to be in line with the burner with a gap of 3 to 4mm between the end of the gap of 3 to 4mm between the end of the collector box. Realign the collect or box as required.

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I cannot light up the barbeque with the igniter or a match. What can i do?

There are a number of possible reasons:

  • LP gas bottle is empty – Replace with full gas bottle
  • Faulty regulator – Have regulator checked or replace
  • Obstructions in burners – Clean burners
  • Obstruction in gas jets or – Clean jets and gas hose

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There is a low flame or flashback. What is wrong?

A low flame or flashback (where there is a fire in the burner tube – a hissing or roaring noise may be heard) can be caused by the following:

  • LP gas bottle too small – Use large gas bottle
  • Obstructions in burners – Clean burners
  • Obstructions in gas jets or – Clean jets and gas hose
  • Windy conditions – Use BBQ in a more sheltered position

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I have lost or misplaced my manual, where can i get one?

It is possible to download a manual from this website, please see the E-Manuals section.

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Can i buy parts or accessories from Outback BBQ?

It is possible to purchase parts and accessories by come down to our showroom located at these 2 locations. There is a list of all parts and accessories available, free delivery will be provided with any Barbeque stove purchased.

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What is the warranty period of the barbeque stoves?

All of our barbeque stoves are covered under warranty for 1 year.

More details on Outback’s Warranty can be read in the Warranty section of this website.

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