Discover everything you need to know about Wood and Gas Fired Pizza Ovens in Australia. Our guide covers prices, types, buying tips, maintenance, and more to help you make an informed decision
Key Takeaways
- Price Range: The cost of a wood/gas-fired pizza oven in Australia can range from $2,000 to over $15,000, depending on the type, size, and brand.
- Types of Ovens: Common types include wood-fired and gas-fired, with some hybrid models offering both fuel sources.
- Size & Capacity: Ovens can range from small (4-6 pizzas) to large (up to 15 pizzas), impacting cooking times and space requirements.
- Operational Considerations: Wood-fired ovens provide that authentic, smoky flavour but require more effort for temperature control and fuel management. Gas-fired ovens are easier to operate and maintain with consistent heat.
- Maintenance & Parts: Regular cleaning, fuel storage, and occasional part replacements (like burners or stones) are required to ensure longevity.
- Financing & Warranties: Many suppliers offer financing options. Warranties typically cover 1-2 years for parts and labour.
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Introduction
If you're looking to buy a wood or gas-fired pizza oven in Australia, there are a few key factors to consider. Whether you're setting up a new restaurant, food truck, or simply enhancing your at-home pizza-making setup, understanding the different types, prices, operational requirements, and compliance regulations is crucial. This guide will help you navigate the complex landscape of wood and gas-fired pizza ovens available on the Australian market.
Types of Wood/Gas Fired Pizza Ovens
1. Wood-Fired Pizza Ovens
- Description: Wood-fired pizza ovens use wood logs or pellets as the primary fuel source to cook pizzas. They are known for the unique, smoky flavour they impart to the food.
- Advantages:
- Authentic wood-fired flavour.
- High cooking temperatures (typically3 370°C to 480°C), which result in faster cooking times and crispier crusts.
- Typically more affordable upfront than gas-fired ovens.
- Considerations:
- Requires consistent attention to fuel management and temperature control.
- Longer preheat times (up to 30 minutes or more).
- More frequent cleaning and maintenance due to ash and soot build-up.
2. Gas-Fired Pizza Ovens
- Description: Gas-fired pizza ovens use natural gas or LPG (liquefied petroleum gas) as a heat source, offering more precise and consistent temperature control.
- Advantages:
- Easy to operate with consistent heat and precise temperature control.
- Shorter preheat times (usually 10-15 minutes).
- Requires less frequent maintenance compared to wood-fired ovens.
- Considerations:
- Generally higher initial investment.
- Lacks the distinctive wood-fired smoky flavour that many pizza enthusiasts crave.
3. Hybrid Wood/Gas Ovens
- Description: Hybrid models offer the flexibility of using both wood and gas as heat sources, allowing you to enjoy the best of both worlds.
- Advantages:
- Versatility: switch between wood and gas based on your needs (authentic flavour vs. convenience).
- Can be used for multiple types of cooking beyond just pizza (roasts, breads, etc.).
- Considerations:
- Higher upfront cost compared to single fuel models.
- Requires managing both fuel types, which may complicate usage.
Price Range and What Affects the Cost
The cost of a wood/gas-fired pizza oven in Australia can vary widely based on the type, size, features, and brand. Here's a breakdown of typical price ranges:
- Small (1-2 pizzas): $2,000 to $4,000
- These ovens are typically suitable for small residential kitchens, backyard setups, or food trucks with low demand.
- Example: Small, portable wood-fired ovens or compact gas models, such as those from Ooni or Zio Ciro.
- Medium (4-6 pizzas): $4,000 to $7,000
- These are more common for small restaurants or catering businesses that need a moderate pizza capacity.
- Example: Mid-range hybrid ovens like Forno Bravo or Wood Fired Ovens.
- Large (7+ pizzas): $7,000 to $15,000+
- Large, high-capacity ovens designed for high-volume commercial operations, including pizzerias and large-scale food production.
- Example: High-end brands like Marra Forni or Alpha Ovens.
- Some custom-built models can exceed $20,000 based on material and customisation.
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Additional Factors Affecting Price:
- Brand: Well-known brands like Ooni, Forno Bravo, and Wood Fired Ovens come with a premium.
- Materials: Ovens made with high-quality steel, ceramic stones, or refractory bricks tend to be more expensive.
- Size: Larger ovens with greater pizza capacity or dual-fuel options will push the price higher.
- Features: Some ovens come with rotating decks, insulation layers, or advanced temperature controls that increase costs.
Operations and Maintenance
Operational Considerations
- Wood-Fired Ovens:
- Requires attention to fuel sourcing and managing the fire to maintain the right cooking temperature.
- Takes longer to preheat, and you will need to continuously monitor the fire throughout the cooking process.
- Best for high-temperature cooking and authentic pizza, with some ovens reaching temperatures of up to 480°C.
- Gas-Fired Ovens:
- Gas ovens are easier to use, with precise temperature controls and quicker preheating (usually within 10-15 minutes).
- Offers consistent heat throughout cooking.
- Better for those needing higher throughput with minimal fuss.
Maintenance Tips
- Wood-Fired Ovens:
- Clean the ash regularly to maintain airflow and avoid fire hazards.
- Check and replace bricks or stones if they become cracked or degraded.
- Seasoning the interior of the oven with a thin layer of oil can help preserve the materials.
- Gas-Fired Ovens:
- Check for gas leaks annually, especially after installation.
- Keep the burners clean to ensure efficient heating.
- Replace parts like the gas regulator or burners if they show signs of wear.
Parts, Warranties, and Financing
Common Parts That May Need Replacement
- Cooking Stones: Over time, the stones can wear down, especially in wood-fired ovens where the temperature is higher and more variable.
- Burners: For gas-fired ovens, burners will need to be replaced as they wear out or clog.
- Thermometers: Digital or analogue thermometers can lose calibration over time, which is important for temperature control.
Warranties
- Warranties typically range from 1 to 2 years for parts and labour, depending on the brand and model.
- Some brands offer extended warranties for specific components like the burner or cooking stones.
Financing Options
- Leasing: Many suppliers offer financing options through leasing arrangements. This allows you to spread the cost of the oven over several months.
- Installment Payments: Payment plans can also be arranged, making it easier for small businesses or personal buyers to manage the cost.
- Third-party Financing: You can apply for financing through external institutions if the supplier doesn’t offer direct options.
Compliance and Certification Considerations
Before purchasing a wood/gas-fired pizza oven in Australia, ensure the oven complies with local safety standards and regulations. Here are key areas to consider:
Gas Ovens:
- Australian Standards: All gas-fired pizza ovens must comply with the Australian Standard AS 1927 for gas appliances. This ensures safe operation and installation.
- Licensed Installers: Installation must be carried out by a licensed gas fitter to meet legal requirements and ensure safety.
Wood-Fired Ovens:
- Australian Standards AS 2906: This standard governs the use of solid-fuel appliances like wood-fired ovens. Compliance ensures that your oven is safe to use and doesn’t exceed emission limits.
Environmental and Safety Regulations:
- Gas Safety: Gas ovens should be fitted with flame failure devices to shut off the gas supply if the flame goes out, ensuring safety.
- Emissions: Some wood-fired ovens are subject to local regulations on emissions. For example, councils in Australia may impose restrictions on wood-fired appliances in residential areas due to concerns over air quality.
Common Questions About Buying Wood/Gas-Fired Pizza Ovens
1. How long does it take to preheat a wood-fired pizza oven?
- Preheating a wood-fired pizza oven typically takes 30 minutes or more, depending on the oven's size and the wood used.
2. Can I use both wood and gas in hybrid models simultaneously?
- No, hybrid ovens typically allow you to use either wood or gas, but not both at the same time.
3. How do I maintain the temperature in a wood-fired oven?
- To maintain temperature, continuously add wood to the fire and rotate the pizza to ensure even cooking.
4. What is the ideal cooking temperature for pizza in these ovens?
- Wood-fired ovens typically reach 370°C to 480°C, while gas ovens operate at a slightly lower temperature of 315°C to 425°C.
Conclusion
Choosing the right wood/gas-fired pizza oven for your needs requires a clear understanding of your cooking volume, budget, and the features you require. Whether you prefer the authenticity of wood or the ease of gas, the right oven will make all the difference in your pizza-making experience. By considering factors like price, maintenance, compliance, and financing, you’ll be well-equipped to make a smart, informed purchase that aligns with your goals, whether for personal or commercial use.
