AEI Corporation

Patio Barbecues for Apartments and Condos: A Must-Have Amenity

Posted: October 21, 2024 at 03:48 PM

7 minute read | Grills

In today’s competitive housing market, offering desirable outdoor amenities can set your property apart. Residents of apartments and condos love having access to communal spaces where they can relax and enjoy outdoor activities. One feature that continues to be a hit is the patio barbecue. Whether your property is small or large, installing a patio barbecue not only increases resident satisfaction but also enhances the value of your development.

The Appeal of Patio Barbecues in Multi-Family Properties

For many apartment and condo residents, outdoor space is limited. This makes communal areas even more important, and one of the most popular communal amenities is the patio barbecue. Barbecuing brings people together, and having a designated space for grilling allows residents to enjoy a small taste of outdoor living, even if they don’t have private patios or backyards.

For property developers and owners, this means offering a patio barbecue area can make your property more attractive to potential residents. Happy residents are more likely to stay longer, leading to lower turnover and increased property value. Whether it’s families hosting a weekend cookout or individuals grilling up a quick dinner, barbecues offer a practical, enjoyable amenity that your residents will appreciate.

Types of Barbecues: Which One is Right for Your Property?

When it comes to choosing the right barbecue for your multi-family property, there are several options available. The type you choose depends on the layout of your space, building codes, and the preferences of your residents. Here’s a breakdown of the three main types of barbecues: electric barbecues, natural gas barbecues, and propane barbecues.

Electric Barbecues: Convenient and Eco-Friendly

If your building is subject to strict energy regulations, an electric barbecue might be the only option for you. Electric barbecues are great for new builds that require all-electric appliances or for properties in areas where gas appliances are not allowed.

Electric barbecues are easy to install and maintain, and they provide a safer option because there’s no flammable gas involved in its operation. This makes them perfect for rooftop patios or small outdoor areas. With an electric barbecue, you don’t need to worry about running out of fuel, making them a convenient choice for both residents and property owners. A NEMA 6-30 receptacle is required to power electric barbecue.

Natural Gas Barbecues: Low Maintenance, High Performance

A natural gas barbecue is a great option for larger properties where a permanent installation makes sense. Once a natural gas barbecue is installed, it doesn’t require fuel changes. This makes it cost-effective over time, as there’s no need to purchase propane or worry about refills.

Because they are connected directly to a gas line, natural gas barbecues provide consistent heat and can be used for long periods of time. They’re ideal for communal grilling areas that get a lot of use, like poolside patios or large courtyards.

Propane Barbecues: Flexibility and Portability

If your property doesn’t have natural gas hookups or needs a more flexible option, a propane barbecue might be the best solution. Propane barbecues are portable, making them easy to move around. This is helpful if you need extra grills for overflow or if you have limited space where a permanent installation isn’t feasible.

When mounted on a grill cart with wheels, propane barbecues can be moved out of the way when not in use. They are also perfect for properties where you may not have access to a natural gas hookup but still want to offer your residents a great grilling experience.

Choosing the Right Size patio barbecue for Your Property

The size of your patio barbecue should be based on the size of your property and how many residents will be using it. Here’s a simple guide to help you choose the right barbecue model for your space:

Small Properties: Single Patio Barbecue

For smaller properties like triplexes or small apartment buildings, a single, small-sized barbecue can meet the needs of the residents. Models like the T30 and T40 are great for these types of settings. These cast aluminum barbecues are compact but still offer enough cooking space for a small group.

Medium Properties: Multiple Patio Barbecues

If you have a medium-sized property, such as a mid-size apartment complex, you might consider installing a few small to medium sized barbecues like the T-30, T-40, S27T, or E27T. These grills offer a balance between size and cooking capacity, allowing multiple residents to cook at the same time without taking up too much space.

Large Properties: Gathering Spaces with Multiple Grills

For larger properties, like big apartments or condos with large outdoor areas, multiple barbecue stations may be needed. In areas like a poolside patio or clubhouse, where residents frequently gather for parties or group events, larger grills like the S36T and S48T are ideal. These models provide more cooking space and can accommodate larger groups of people, making them perfect for high-demand areas.

Additional Features That Make a Difference

What sets commercial-grade patio barbecues apart from regular grills? It’s the attention to detail that makes a huge difference in both user experience and maintenance. Here are a few features that make PGS patio barbecues stand out:

• Durability: These barbecues are designed to withstand the wear and tear of frequent use in a communal setting.
• Automatic Fuel Shut-Off: To enhance safety, all models come with automatic shut-off timers, reducing the risk of accidents, and preventing wasted fuel.
• Laser-Etched Control Panels: For ease of use, the control panels are laser-etched with clear instructions, ensuring that every resident can use the grill confidently.
• Anti-Theft Control Knobs: These barbecues are built for shared spaces, so anti-theft control knobs help prevent tampering and theft, keeping the grills in good working condition for longer.

Fuel Source Options and Installation Considerations

When deciding which type of barbecue to install, it’s essential to consider the fuel source and the installation requirements. Here’s a comparison of the main fuel options:

• Natural Gas: Best for permanent installations. Once connected, there’s no need to change the fuel. Great for larger, communal areas.
• Propane: Offers flexibility and portability. Perfect for properties without natural gas hookups.
• Electric: Ideal for properties with energy restrictions or where gas appliances are prohibited. Easy to install.

When installing a patio barbecue, it’s important to ensure that the barbecue is properly connected to the necessary fuel source, and that you’re in compliance with any local building codes or regulations.

Enhance Your Property with Patio Barbecues

Incorporating patio barbecues into your apartment or condo development can greatly increase the appeal of your property. With options like electric barbecues, natural gas barbecues, and propane barbecues, there’s a perfect solution for every type of property. Not only do these grills offer residents a fun and social outdoor experience, but they also add value to your development.

For contractors, developers, and property owners, installing a commercial-grade barbecue is a smart investment that leads to happy residents—and a healthier bottom line. Ready to enhance your property with top-quality barbecues? Contact us today to learn more about the best options for your multi-family development.