What Is a Set and Forget Barbecue (And Why You Might Want One)
, by Hot Things, 5 min reading time
There are two parts to great barbecue: the product and the process.
The product is what we’re all after—authentic, delicious, smoky barbecue. The process is how we get there. Traditionally, that meant managing a fire, adjusting vents, and checking your temperature like a hawk. And while that’s still a satisfying way to cook, most of us just don’t have the time anymore.
That’s where Set and Forget Barbecues come in.
🔥 What Is a Set and Forget Barbecue?
A Set and Forget Barbecue is a barbecue that manages the fire for you.
You set your temperature—and the barbecue holds it.
Whether it’s a pellet grill that automatically feeds fuel, a gravity-fed charcoal smoker that regulates airflow, or a smart gas smoker with a thermostat, these barbecues keep the heat steady so you can focus on the food.
In other words: real barbecue flavour, with modern control.
💡 Why Would You Want One?
Let’s be honest—no one’s got time to sit by the fire all day anymore.
You want to barbecue, but you also want to mow the lawn, prep the side dishes, have a drink, or entertain your friends.
Set and Forget Barbecues give you:
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✅ Consistent results every time
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✅ Less stress during long cooks
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✅ More time to enjoy the day
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✅ Precision and control that even some pros love
These barbecues are not just for beginners—they’re for anyone who wants a smarter, easier way to barbecue.
🔍 What Types of BBQs Are “Set and Forget”?
We group a barbecue into this category if it automatically manages its temperature and maintains consistent heat during a cook.
That includes:
1. Pellet Grills
Digital controls, automatic feeding, smoke flavour, and precision.
Think: Camp Chef, Green Mountain Grill (GMG), Traeger-style barbecues.
2. Gravity-Fed Charcoal Smokers
Charcoal burns in a controlled vertical chute while a fan manages the airflow.
Set your temp and let it do the work.
Think: Masterbuilt Gravity Series.
3. Gas Smokers with Thermostatic Control
Gas-powered, with built-in thermostats that regulate heat.
Minimal supervision, great flavour.
4. Electric Smokers
Plug it in, set the temp, add your wood chips, and walk away.
Think: Bradley smokers and similar electric cabinets.
5. Smart Gas BBQs (coming soon)
New models with app connectivity and digital control panels are changing how we grill—even with gas.
Smart Barbecues – The Technology Behind Set and Forget
Smart barbecues take the Set and Forget concept a step further. These grills and smokers feature advanced technology such as WiFi or Bluetooth connectivity, app-based control, integrated meat probes, and precise digital temperature regulation. Some models even adjust fuel feed automatically to maintain perfect cooking conditions.
Whether it’s a pellet grill, a gravity-fed charcoal barbecue, or the latest generation of gas BBQs, smart barbecues give you real-time monitoring and total control from wherever you are. It’s traditional barbecue flavour, powered by modern convenience.
🧠 Is It Still “Real” Barbecue?
Absolutely.
You’re still using wood pellets, charcoal, or gas.
You’re still smoking, roasting, grilling.
The only thing you’re not doing is fussing with the fire.
We’ve walked on the moon, we carry computers in our pockets—we’ve learnt to control the fire.
Modern barbecues let you enjoy the flavour of traditional BBQ with the control and reliability of smart tech.
🔥 Our Top Picks
Want to see which models we recommend?
Check out our Set and Forget Barbecue Collection for our top pellet grills, gravity-fed smokers, gas smokers and more.
🎯 Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a weekend griller or a low-and-slow devotee, a Set and Forget or Smart Barbecue lets you cook amazing food with less stress, more time, and consistent results.
You’re still barbecuing. You’re just doing it smarter.
🚚 Bonus: Free Perth Metro Delivery
At Hot Things we offer fast delivery Australia-wide—and free delivery in the Perth metro area.
Need help choosing? Come into the store or contact us for personalised advice.
