Grilling meat at home has been a tradition for generations, but not everyone has a large backyard to cook in. If you are in the same boat, you might be thinking, “Can I use charcoal grill in an apartment?”
First of all, gas and electric grilling is the eligible way to grill meat in an apartment. However, if you intend to use a charcoal grill in your apartment, the state, the neighbors, and your apartment has a lot to say about it.
In this article, let’s find out if charcoal grilling is allowed on an apartment balcony and the reasons behind it.
Can I Use Charcoal Grill in Apartment?
The answer to this question is a big NO. You cannot use a charcoal grill in your apartment. Keep readings to learn the potent reasons behind it.
Why You Cannot Use Charcoal Grill in Apartment?
Reason#1: Prohibited by Rules and Regulations
There are specific rules regarding the use of the charcoal grill. Your community sets these rules. According to one rule, you cannot use a charcoal grill in your apartment. It must be at least 15 feet away from the building.
In a few cases, rules for using charcoal inside the apartment also depend upon the building material. Rules are strict for buildings with more woodwork.
Reason#2: Complaint by Neighbors
If you assume that you can use a charcoal grill and your neighbors will not be bothered by it, think again. The aroma and precisely the smoke will definitely reach your neighbors within minutes.
What can your neighbors do?? Unfortunately, your neighbors have the right to complain against you. Then the local council will act against you after a formal investigation.
Remember, neighbors have the right to be concerned with your use of a charcoal grill in the apartment. They, too, will be victims of the damage (if any done by the grill).
Reason#3: Release of Carbon Dioxide
You are aware of the fact that burning coal releases carbon dioxide gas. It is not a problem when you are grilling openly. However, in the apartment, enough space is not present for its escape. This will result in its accumulation in the apartment.
This gas is harmful to you. You will feel dizziness, suffocation, headache, and tiredness due to this gas. Moreover, it will also increase your heart rate. Therefore, it is better not to use a charcoal grill in the apartment.
Reason#4: Release of Carbon Monoxide Gas
Carbon monoxide is not produced as a result of the burning process. However, in a close apartment, the oxygen supply to charcoal is deficient. It results in incomplete combustion of charcoal. It ultimately results in producing carbon monoxide gas.
Carbon monoxide is more dangerous than carbon dioxide. It causes poisoning, which leads to irritations, nausea, and fatigue. Prolonged exposure to this gas will cause you to lose consciousness.
Reason#5: Smoke
When you try to use a charcoal grill in an apartment, it will cause smoke production. This smoke is due to the lack of sufficient supply of oxygen for burning. It will irritate your eyes and make it difficult to breathe.
Moreover, this smoke will indicate to your neighbors that you are grilling indoors. As a result, they will complain against you.
Reason#6: Fire Hazard
Though charcoal grills are not included in open fire grills, it is still dangerous. Coals can come out of the grill, and any nearby thing will catch fire. The risk is even higher when the floor or shelf is wooden.
Moreover, nearby hanging clothes or curtains are at significant risk of catching fire. Therefore, using a charcoal grill in the apartment is considered dangerous.
Preventive Measures When Using a Charcoal Grill
It’s straightforward that you cannot use a charcoal grill in the apartment. However, when using it in your backyard, you must handle it with care. Following are preventive measures to keep in mind when using a charcoal grill.
- To avoid risks, place your grill 10 to 15 feet away from any fire-catching thing. These fires will be dangerous for you, so try your best to avoid them.
- Always use a chimney to start a charcoal grill. Make sure the coal has burnt thoroughly before pouring them into the grill.
- Always use heat-resistant gloves when working with a charcoal grill. Otherwise, your hands will get burned and injured.
- Don’t place the grill in your apartment soon after using it. It contains poisonous gases, as discussed above. Leave it out for some time after emptying, and then take it inside.
Conclusion
We hope this article has proven beneficial in solving your query, “can I use charcoal grill in apartment?” Also, we expect that you will avoid using a charcoal grill indoors and suggest the same to others.
Because first of all, it’s against community laws, and action will be taken against you in case of violation. Secondly, the neighbors will surely get offended and complain. Lastly, it is dangerous for your health because of smoke, poisonous gases, and fire hazard.
Therefore, using a gas or electric grill in an apartment is better.
