Frequently Asked Questions
LP means Low Pressure and requires a separate gas regulator and hose to connect to refillable gas bottles like Calor or Campingaz cylinders, or to caravan external BBQ points. HP means High Pressure and these models have threaded connections that screw directly onto disposable gas cartridges such as 227g bayonet cartridges or 500g EN417 threaded cartridges, eliminating the need for separate regulators. LP models generally produce higher cooking temperatures and suit caravanners with existing gas supplies, whilst HP models offer maximum portability for campers who want to minimise weight and pack size.
Cadac uses a diameter-based sizing system introduced in 2021 where accessories match the numbered series. Series 30 accessories (30cm diameter) fit Safari Chef 30 models. Series 40 accessories (38-40cm) fit Grillo Chef 40, Citi Chef 40 and older Carri Chef 40 models. Series 50 accessories (46-47cm) fit Carri Chef 50, Citi Chef 50 and the older Carri Chef 2 model. This system makes matching straightforward as the product name indicates compatibility. Accessories include paella pans, pizza stones, BBQ grids, flat griddles, ribbed plates, chef pans, roasting pans and smoker boxes specific to each size range.
GreenGrill is Cadac's proprietary ceramic coating applied to BBQ grids, griddles and cooking pans since 2017. The coating is completely PFAS-free, PFOA-free and PTFE-free, containing no toxic chemicals that traditional non-stick coatings release when overheated. GreenGrill is harder and more scratch-resistant than standard non-stick surfaces, withstands higher temperatures, distributes heat more evenly and retains heat better, resulting in lower gas consumption. The coating requires less oil for cooking and allows food to release easily. It needs only warm soapy water for cleaning and should not be scrubbed with abrasive materials or metal utensils. The coating should be lightly oiled after cleaning and stored in provided bags to prevent damage.
Insufficient heat is usually caused by gas pressure drop over long hose lengths, particularly when running smaller models from caravan external BBQ points located far from the gas bottle. Cadac specifies that Safari Chef models work best with gas bottles positioned close by using maximum 1 metre hoses, as longer distances reduce pressure below optimal levels. Using correct regulator pressure is essential: UK models need 28-30mBar for Butane or 37mBar for Propane. Check that burner holes and jets are clean and free from blockages, ensure the gas bottle has adequate contents, and verify all connections are secure without leaks. Shortening hose length or positioning a gas bottle closer to the BBQ often resolves heat issues. Do not change jets unless specifically advised by Cadac as incorrect jets can cause safety issues and damage.
Yes, Cadac LP low-pressure BBQs and stoves are sold without regulators and hoses because they can operate from multiple gas sources requiring different connection types. You must purchase the appropriate regulator separately based on your gas supply: Universal Regulator for standard refillable bottles with 1/2 inch left-hand thread, CG Regulator for Campingaz 901/904/907 bottles, or EN417 Regulator for screw-thread gas cartridges. Regulators include 85cm hoses with hand-wheel fittings or Quick Release (QR) couplings. Models with QR connections allow tool-free attachment and detachment. Gas hoses and regulators should be replaced every 5 years and checked regularly for cracks, wear or porosity. HP high-pressure models like Safari Chef 30 HP have built-in connections and screw directly onto cartridges without separate regulators.
For couples or 2-4 people, the Safari Chef 30 range offers the best combination of portability and cooking space with its 30cm diameter surface and weight under 4kg. The Safari Chef includes four cooking accessories as standard: BBQ grid, flat griddle, pot stand and domed lid that doubles as a cooking pot. For families of 4-6 people, the Carri Chef 50 provides a significantly larger 47cm cooking surface with adjustable legs, built-in thermometer and utility tray for condiments and tools. The Carri Chef accommodates larger joints of meat and more food simultaneously. For flexible dual-surface cooking regardless of group size, the 2 Cook 3 range features two independent burners with separate controls, allowing you to boil water on one burner whilst grilling on the other, or use two different cooking surfaces simultaneously.
Yes, Cadac gas BBQs are widely accepted on European campsites where many sites prohibit charcoal barbecues due to fire risk concerns. Gas BBQs produce no sparks, create minimal smoke, and present lower fire hazards than charcoal grills. Cadac BBQs must always be used outdoors with adequate ventilation and never inside caravans, motorhomes or enclosed spaces. When touring Europe, verify your gas regulator and cylinder type comply with local regulations as gas bottle standards and regulator pressures vary between countries. Campingaz 904 and 907 bottles are widely available across Europe and can be exchanged in most countries. Perform a leak test with soapy water on all connections before each use. Always position BBQs on stable, level ground away from flammable materials and never leave unattended whilst lit.
Food sticking to GreenGrill ceramic surfaces is almost always caused by overheating rather than coating failure. Ceramic heats rapidly and requires only 2-3 minutes preheating on low to medium heat. High temperatures are unnecessary and damage the coating whilst causing food to stick and increasing gas consumption. Before first use, season the surface by rubbing with sunflower or peanut oil (high smoke point oils), heating for 2-3 minutes, then washing with warm soapy water. Bring meat and fish to room temperature before cooking as cold food is more likely to stick. Apply a light oil coating before each use. Cook on low to medium heat settings rather than maximum. Clean surfaces properly after each use because burnt protein residue from previous cooking creates brown spots that cause subsequent sticking. Never use metal utensils, abrasive scourers or steel wool on GreenGrill surfaces.
Yes, Cadac LP low-pressure models can connect to caravan and motorhome external BBQ points using appropriate hoses. You need a BBQ hose with Quick Release (QR) coupling on one end to attach to your vehicle's external gas point, and the correct fitting on the other end to connect to your Cadac BBQ (either hand-wheel assembly or QR coupling depending on your BBQ model). Cadac offers 300cm and 500cm hose lengths specifically for external connections. Be aware that gas pressure can drop significantly when running through long pipe runs from your main gas bottle to the external point and then through another hose to the BBQ. Smaller models like Safari Chef 30 particularly suffer from low pressure over long distances, resulting in insufficient heat. For best performance, position your BBQ as close as possible to the external point and use shorter hoses. Never use HP high-pressure models with external caravan gas points as pressure levels are incompatible.