Braai FAQ's

    SYAM Distributors was started in 2004, and is a family run business, who has built the company up into one of the leading brands in South Africa. With distributors all over the country and neighbouring countries, SYAM has the opportunity to provide the best, most affordable and elegant products, to compliment your home where ever you may be. If you have a question that is not covered in this list below, get in touch and we will certainly give you an answer.

    As a safety option on our Braai/BBQ’s with back burners, there is a safety control valve which will have to be pressed in simultaneously when the turning of the rotisserie control knob, in order to ignite the back rotisserie burner. A thermocouple is fitted to the back infra-red burner and once this gets hot (aprox 20 seconds) then the safety valve can be released as the valve will now remain open.

    Where our products can operate on a 9 kg LPG cylinder such as a mobile Braai/BBQ then a gas installation is not required. For all products which require a gas installations the law requires that this shall be carried out by a Registered SAQCC Gas Practitioner. The best is to visit the LP Gas Safety Association website for a list of registered practitioners in your area. Always check credentials and get references before taking on an installer. You are also required to be issued with a COC (Certificate of Compliance) once the installation is complete.

    Yes, our Braai/BBQ has been designed to be easily cleanable, whereby you can take out all cooking grills, flame tamers, burners and drip tray. You can then use sunlight liquid and hot soapy water to clean your Braai/BBQ. Do not use cleaning detergents which contain chlorides, ammonia and other harsh chemicals as this will react with the stainless steel and damage your Braai/BBQ. Microfibre clothes are great to use on our stainless steel products.

    You can certainly view and decide online and then telephonically finalise with a consultant. It is highly recommended that you view the product itself -touch and feel – operate and take advantage of the skill and experience of our sales staff to correctly advise you. But you certainly can order should you feel you have defined the product for you!

    All SYAM gas products have been tested by an accredited SANAS laboratory for compliance with SANS 1539 and carry permit issued by the LPGSASA according to the “Safe Appliance Scheme” and prides itself on been members of IID (Institute of Interior Design Professions), SASSDA (Southern Africa Stainless Steel Association), and the LP Gas Safety Association.

    Standardly, every Braai/BBQ comes with an Operators Manual. Product dimensional drawings and Built-In plans are also available for each SYAM product.

    Our Braai/BBQs are constructed of 304 stainless steel. This material possesses an especially useful characteristic in resisting corrosion in that it performs much better under those oxidizing conditions which are harmful to ordinary steels and too many of the non-ferrous metals and alloys. With proper care and maintenance your SYAM Braai/BBQ should last you for many years.

    No, our Braai/BBQ does not have a warmer draw, although the dome lid can be used as a warming option as well as an oven in order to bake pizza, cakes or pastries.

    Yes, we do have all spares available for our Braai/BBQ’s and an excellent Technical team to assist you with the servicing of the Braai/BBQ.

    Toolboxes FAQ's

    SYAM supplies quality mobile Toolboxes to industry, in various drawer configurations and sizes. Keep your tools or prize possessions neatly stored in these compact units. Should you not find your question here, feel free to drop us a line and we will gladly answer your question/s – it may even find itself on our FAQs page.

    Yes they do! A standard 12 month warranty against defective parts and workmanship.

    Yes, we do carry all spares which are available to purchase or we can repair for you.

    Yes, we do carry all spare keys, which are available to purchase. All we require is the lock identification numbers and proof of purchase or ownership. We can only supply spare keys under these conditions.

    This is a very difficult thing to determine, as there are many things to consider here. The operating conditions, weather and temperature, humidity, indoors or outdoors operation and so on. If cared for properly your unit will last for many years to come.

    As the powder coating is an integral part of the production line, minimum quantities are required. The minimum quantities depend on the various models. Please feel free to discuss with your SYAM Consultant.

    No, this will imbalance the chest and will cause it to fall forward, in turn damaging the unit and also may cause harm to user. We strongly advise against this practice.

    It is always a good idea to use non-abrasive cleaning agents and always apply a rinsing cloth after washing – to get any soapy residue off – as this attracts a stickiness to the unit. A dishwashing liquid such as Sunlight would work perfectly. Make sure to dry thoroughly.

    SYAM has been designing and importing high quality Stainless Steel gas Fireplaces, Outdoor Gas Firepits, Braais/BBQs and LP Gas Cylinder cages since 2005. You can access the sidebar to link to these separate websites.

    Indoor Gas & Bio Fireplace FAQ's

    SYAM Distributors was started in 2004, and is a family run business, who has built the company up into one of the leading brands in South Africa. With distributors all over the country and neighbouring countries, SYAM has the opportunity to provide the best, most affordable and elegant products, to compliment your home where ever you may be. If you have a question that is not covered in this list below, get in touch and we will certainly give you an answer. Should you not find your question here, feel free to drop us a line and we will gladly answer your question/s – it may even find itself on our FAQs page.

    Absolutely, Yes! The scheme operates on the basis that permits are issued by the Liquefied Petroleum Gas Safety Association of Southern Africa (LPGSASA) in respect of the appliance(s) and serves as proof that the product(s) have been tested by an accredited testing authority and then verified by the LPGSASA as complying with the requirements of SANS 1539 – Appliances Operating on Liquified petroleum gas (LPG) or natural gas (NG) – Safety aspects. All gas appliances supplied by SYAM carry permits issued by LPGSASA.

    Absolutely yes. Every SYAM Gas Fireplace can be used with either LP Gas or Natural Gas. The only thing with Natural Gas is that we need to know beforehand as a NG conversion kit needs to be fitted.

    Defnitely. Bio Fuel is an alternative energy option for your SYAM fireplace. Our fireplaces are either gas (LP gas or Natural gas) OR Bio Fuel. The firegrate/ burner differs one from the other. So if you intend to use Bio Fuel, please let your Sales Consultant know, and you will be supplied with the Bio Fuel option.

    This is certainly an option for you all you need to do is provide us with a colour spec (RAL etc.) to match to and we will colour your facia to match your decor theme exactly. We need a lead time of 2 weeks though, and there will be a surcharge – Talk to your Sales Consultant as these differ based on size.

    Yes, (FOR GAS ONLY) you can have remote control fireplaces We offer our fireplaces with remote control functionality. Please advise your Sales Consultant so that this option can be supplied. The control box is powered by a low voltage transformer and has a battery backup in case of power outages.

    Yes, it certainly does and this is one of the standard features of a SYAM fireplace!

    All SYAM fireplaces are standard with an Oxygen Depletion Sensor (ODS) and Flame Failure Device to shut down the gas supply on detecting low room oxygen levels and/or pilot failure.

    Standardly, our fireplaces are flueless, but can be flued if necessary. For this however a flue adapter/attachment (optional accessory) is required and needs to be fitted to the firebox prior to building in your fireplace.

    NO, flueless fireplaces are not permitted in bathrooms and bedrooms. They are only permitted if flued. SYAM fireplaces are able to be flued with an optional flue attachment. Talk to your consultant.

    As fires consume air (oxygen) from the room in which it is in and this produces Carbon Monoxide / Dioxide, adequate ventilation is vital for combustion and efficient performance of the fireplace as well as the escape of the product of combustion from the area it is installed. This will also ensure the safety of the people in the room.

    Optional double sided aluminium vent grills in anodised as standard, or to your specific colour is available from SYAM.

    Yes, and they should be best positioned so that they can be accessed easily and safely in case of emergency.

    YES, this is most important. Wrong gas cylinder selection will cause problems with the gas supply to the fireplace. Check that the vaporization rate of the cylinder is capable of supplying the required gas for the appliance rating. Under designed gas piping sizes, and incorrect regulators and cylinders will result in your fireplace not being able to receive the gas demand that your appliance requires. Poor combustion is a result of an “under designed” gas systems.

    LP Gas cylinder cages are manufactured from 430 brushed stainless steel and are designed to house your gas cylinders safely.

    Gas Cages FAQ’s

    All of our Gas Cages and Gas Cabinets conform to the requirements of the Health and Safety Executive. Please refer to our Health and Safety Executive Guidelines section for further information.
    Please refer to the product description for our suggested usage or ask our experienced sales reps for what would best suits your requirement.
    The finish is depending on your application. A galvanised finish is best suited to withstand the weather conditions of external use whereas a powder coated finish is more suitable for use indoors. Many people will still choose a painted finish to be used outdoors. When used outdoors a powder coated cage may show signs of surface corrosion after time.
    Our Gas Cages at Syam are very easily constructed and depending on the size will take 1 – 2 people between 10 – 30 minutes to build with a pair of spanners or socket set. Contact us if you require specifications on installation requirements.

    Gas Cages and Gas Cabinets are available in a Stainless steel or Black powder coated finish. If you have a specific requirement please Contact Us. We hold stock of Gas Solid Cabinets Stainless steel.

    All of our Gas Cages / Cabinets are supplied with Health & Safety Signage. Alternative signage available at additional cost. Please check availability.
    Standard Size Gas Cages this could also depend on if we have stock, approximately 5 working days.

    Gas Cages will arrive boxed and packaged. Unless specified by the client.

    Please see our HSE Guidelines page for more information and guidance on the storage of LPG and compressed gas cylinders/bottles.
    We have a wealth of information on our website, see HSE Guidelines. There are also links to other websites which you may find useful.

    Pizza Ovens FAQ’s

    When the wood fire begins to slow down, the flame becomes more sluggish and the dome becomes a clear color, it is a sign that the initial combustion is complete and the oven temperature exceeds 250° C.
    Everyone who has tried to make pizza in a wood fired oven can verify that inserting the pizza, baking, rotating in the oven, and then removing it when cooked is an easy and pleasurable experience. Usually, the first two or three pizzas are not perfect, but the oven is very forgiving and you will be making pizzas like a pro in no time!
    If the oven is used regularly, say 2-4 times a month – it should only take 30-40 minutes to heat the ovens with refractory domes (Modular Ovens, Forno Fiesta, Forno Vero) and 10-20 minutes for those with stainless steel domes (Forno 5 Minuti, Forno 10 Minuti and, Forno 4 Pizze).
    The oven floor is made of a high-quality refractory material that guarantees more genuine and perfect cooking. In fact, the refractory floor releases accumulated heat gradually this cooking the food without burning it. How should the oven dome be made? The ideal oven dome should be high with a low smoke exit. This can be achieved by keeping the oven opening small, so the hot air and smoke are forced to travel the course of the dome, heating it quickly and trapping heat in the dome. A high dome ensures that more heat remains trapped in the oven, allowing the oven to keep high temperatures and reducing the amount of wood needed to cook! All ovens Alfa follow this basic rule.
    The job of the refractory materials in a wood-fired oven is to produce and manage heat. The task of the insulation is to not allow the dispersion of heat from the oven. All Alfa mobile, kit and monobloc ovens come insulated. For modular oven installations, we strongly recommend insulating the oven with 6 layers of Alfa ceramic fibre. With a good insulation, the oven will retain a surprisingly large amount of heat, allowing you to cook the next morning with the oven at 200° C.

    For three reasons:

    1. the wood imparts the great taste of tradition to the food, which is unmistakable, it is even possible to choose woods with different scents to give foods a particularly delicate taste;
    2. in wood-fired ovens cooking temperature is uniform thus food is cooked evenly without undergoing sudden cooling;
    3. with wood-fired ovens, you can reach higher cooking temperatures suitable for cooking roasts and pizza.
    The more you use a wood fire oven, the less time it takes to start up before baking. For people using the oven every day, you will need about 15-20 minutes to heat the oven. Usually, the oven needs about 30-40 minutes of flame in order to reach temperatures high enough to make pizza. For woodfire ovens with stainless steel domes, heating times are cut in half, since the steel domes heat up much more quickly than refractory.
    The dome of the oven heats the cooking surface. It is surprising but true! The cooking surface of the oven is heated by the refraction of heat from the oven dome, which immediately becomes hot and reflects heat downward heating the oven floor. For this reason, high domed metal wood fire ovens capture more heat in the oven dome thus more effectively heating the oven floor!
    The first fire is lit near the mouth using thin sticks. At the front of the oven, the fire has more oxygen and the flue is normally directly above which creates a suction of air through the fire. Once the fire has started burning, add larger pieces of wood gradually to keep the flame alive. After about 10 minutes, when one has created a beautiful fire, move the wood to either the back or one side of the oven (depending on your oven type) and continue to feed it wood gradually. In wood-burning ovens and particularly in high-domed metal cart wood-fired ovens, moving the fire to one side of the oven is the best solution to heat the oven quickly and well, taking advantage of all the warmth of wood.
    All types of wood are good for firing the oven. However, we do not recommend using conifers (pine, spruce). In the rural tradition, the wood-burning oven was reserved for small cut wood, kindling, prunings, dead leaves, etc. To start the fire a dry softwood kindling should be used and after about 5 minutes of burning slightly larger pieces of a hardwood should be added. Australia has an abundance of ironbark timber which is a great wood to use in a pizza oven. With most woods there is normally an option for a kiln-dried version, this is wood that as it says, has been kiln dried and removes a great deal of moisture from the wood. This creates a very dry wood which burns super efficiently and will create a fire that is hotter quicker than non-kiln dried. Kiln dried wood will cost more and expect to pay anywhere from 10%-30% more, but it is totally worth it. Getting to temperatures of 500 degrees Celcius with kiln-dried wood can be expected in around 20 minutes!
    A wood oven is a formidable machine of cooking! All foods can be cooked in the oven. Just imagine that until a century ago, the only method of cooking was a traditional wood-fired oven. Wood fired ovens offer you the ability to maintain a consistently high temperature for optimal cooking results.
    Wood fired ovens are also the best barbecues! Here is why: you can grill in an oven, but you cannot light a fire on the barbecue. The reason is simple: the oven is an efficient cooking machine and does not disperse heat, instead of using it all for the goodness of the barbecue.
    If the furnace is a refractory-type dome (Jamie Oliver Dome 60 & 80, Valoriani, The Pizza Oven Store Kit, Alfa Pro) and is well insulated, just close the door and the next morning you will have a temperature for the small bread and scones, cakes, legumes, etc.

    Hood Extractor FAQ’s

    Air is replaced 6 times per hour. This can be calculated by multiplying the volume of the room (kitchen only) by 6. For instance: for a room of 5 x 4 x 2.5 metres, a minimum of 300m3 is required.
    Hood chimney must be attached as short as possible and with as few corners as possible. Most Boretti extractor hoods must be connected at 150 mm, please refer to the manual for the correct information. Reduction of the chimney results in a lot of resonance (noise) and decreases the suction capacity.
    Mounting is possible through 6 wires that are twisted into the ceiling. Securing it can be done by removing the spotlights. It is also possible to secure the hood into a cove all around, without using the wires. See also the user manuals.
    A 220V cable, a cable for use with a plasma filter (1 metre) and a connection for an external motor (1 metre).
    The length of the cable is max. 7 metres.
    The length of the cable is 0.5 metres.
    Every 3 to 6 months.

    Gas Pipes and Fittings FAQ’s

    PEX-AL-PEX is cross-linked polyethylene. Through one of several processes, links between polyethylene molecules are formed to create bridges (thus the term “cross-linked). This resulting material is more durable under temperature extremes, chemical attack, and better resists creep deformation, making PEX-AL-PEX an excellent material for hot water and other applications. HOWEVER only piping marked to LPGas may be used and the ASTM 1282 explains the markings required on the piping. Therefore the plumbing white piping may not be used for gas applications. Internationally YELLOW is used for gas piping.

    PEX-AL-PEX was developed in the 1960s. PEX-AL-PEX tubing has been in use in many European countries for plumbing, radiant heating and snow melt applications since that time. PEX-AL-PEX was introduced in the United States in the 1980s, and has seen significant growth in market demand and production for various applications.

    PEX-AL-PEX’s flexibility and strength at temperatures ranging from below freezing up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit makes it an ideal piping material for hot and cold water plumbing systems, service lines, hydronic radiant heating systems, snow melting applications, ice rinks and refrigeration warehouses.

    PEX-AL-PEX is ideally suited for potable water and fuel gases applications. It is flexible, making it easy to install and service. PEX-AL-PEX is able to withstand the high and low temperatures found in plumbing and heating applications, and is highly resistant to chemicals found in the industry environment. Flexible systems are quieter than rigid piping. The smooth interior will not corrode which can affect other materials long term pipe flow characteristics. PEX-AL-PEX is also very freeze- break resistant. PEX-AL-PEX systems have fewer joints and are easier to install providing a lower cost installation over traditional steel and copper materials.
    PEX-AL-PEX is manufactured and tested according to stringent national consensus standards: ASTM F 876, F 877, AWWA C904 and CSA B137.5 and as4176.Both the product manufacturer and independent third party testing agencies conduct routine quality control and quality assurance evaluations to insure the product meets ASTM, ANSI/NSF International and CSA Standards. Compliance with the standards ensures the end user of safety and quality. Additionally, PEX-AL-PEX is included in all of the major model plumbing codes used in the United States , Australia and Canada; NPC, UPC, IPC and NSPC, and approved by HUD for hot and cold potable water plumbing and gas use.
    PEX-AL-PEX is an approved material in all the current model-plumbing codes; however, some jurisdictions using older versions of these codes may not have amended the code to include PEX- AL-PEX tubing. Contact the local authority and the LPGas safety Association to verify the acceptance of PEX-AL-PEX tubing for LPGas vapour applications in your area.
    Yes. The flexibility of PEX-AL-PEX allows it to be supplied in coils meaning installations under the slab can be made in a single, continuous length without the need for fittings. PEX-AL-PEX is not affected by concrete, (it is commonly encased in concrete for radiant floor heating).
    Yes. Although the high temperature resistance of PEX-AL-PEX makes it particularly suitable for hot and cold plumbing applications, it also excellent reticulation gas service piping. It has proven itself as extremely robust due to the aluminium layer. Under tests it was found to be less prone to leaks when abused due to the PEX layertrengths.PEX-AL-PEX can be installed using the same fittings recommended for copper tube sized SDR-9 polyethylene tubing.
    YES , but must be protected from direct sunlight with sleeving. Short exposures to sunlight during construction are permissible, but should not exceed the manufacturer’s recommendations. PEX- AL-PEX should be stored under cover, shielded from direct sunlight or in the original packaging. In the future, PEX-AL-PEX products rated for outdoor use may be developed.
    Can PEX-AL-PEX save me money?
    There are several methods of connecting PEX-AL-PEX, all of which involve mechanical fittings. However the use of mechanical fitting are not allowed for underground or imbedded use. The crimp fittings specified in ASTM F1807 are the most widely used for embedded use. Other fitting systems, including insert and outside diameter compression fittings, are also available, but are not allowed is South Africa for gas use.
    PEX-AL-PEX tubing is not intended for outdoor applications and must be stored in a covered environment not exposed to direct sunlight. Refer to manufacturer’s instructions as to how long your pipe can have UV or sunlight exposure.
    PEX-AL-PEX tubing can be used up to 95° degree for heating applications. Temperature limitations are always noted on the print line of the PEX-AL-PEX tubing.. PEX-AL-PEX systems are tested to and can be used with standard gas appliances ,but are limited for the use inside the fireplace boxes.
    Standard pressure testing using gas , nitrogen and air are mostly used. The PEX-AL-PEX piping and crimp fittings has been tested in SA to 80 Bar and also certified internationally to that level.
    PEX-AL-PEX plumbing systems can be tested immediately after the installation is complete but follow manufacturer’s directions.. There is no wait time for glue to dry or joint to cool off. Manufacturer’s instructions should be followed in cold climates.
    PEX-AL-PEX is available through most gas wholesale distributors throughout South Africa. The white piping supplied to plumbing outlets may not be used and will fail under gas use. Piping and fittings are commonly available in ¼” and sizes up to 1” also supplying larger sizes up to 2.” Because the wall-thickness is proportionate for each size, the pressure ratings are the same for all sizes.
    PEX-AL-PEX is available in 1/4″ through 1″ and is packaged in coils of 200 to 100 m. Some manufacturers tubing is color-coded for easy identification of LPGas use.
    Manifold, parallel or home-run plumbing systems are much like a breaker box for the electrical system in the home. The manifold provides a common location from which all the gas appliances are supplied. Some high-end manifolds also feature fixture shut-off valves allowing the user to shut off the gas to individual appliances from one location.
    PEX-AL-PEX systems are sized using both the inner and outer diameter of the piping. For example, the 1216 piping is 12mm inside diameter and 16 mm outside diameter. Therefore the piping sizes are: 1014, 1216, 1620, 2025, 2532, etc.
    No. PEX-AL-PEX expands less than other plumbing materials, due to the aluminium layer within the composite pipe structure. It only expands 59.6 mm ofer a 50 meter length at 50 degree Celcius.
    No. PEX-AL-PEX cannot be joined with solvent cement, glues or heat fusion. PEX-AL-PEX is installed using only mechanical fittings or compression fittings. When applying heat for electrofution the HDPE melts away well before the PEX-AL-PEX reaches melting temperature.

    Outdoor Fires and Torch FAQ’s

    Easy – with just a wall switch – you can switch on and off. The control, ignition system and electronic gas control valves operates on a 24v low voltage supply.
    Yes – Our Outdoor firepits are designed and manufactured in 304 stainless steel for better corrosion resistance to the elements. They are also supplied with an outdoor cover and should be used when not in use.
    Yes and No. For natural gas users, a burner pan is highly recommended- but not necessary. A burner pan will not only keep your burner supported within your enclosure, but it will also reduce the amount of fire pit media you need to use. A properly mounted fire pit pan can greatly increase the life and performance of your fire pit burner ring, it’s better for drainage- keeping everything in your fire pit drier, while also making the maintenance of your fire pit easier. For liquid propane applications, a burner pan is necessary. LP applications require an air mixer in order to operate, in order to ensure the highest level of performance and safety you must provide adequate space around the air mixer provided by the pan; additionally LP systems must be configured in a way to minimize fuel settling below the pan.
    If you plan on using propane for your gas fire pit you will need an air mixer and a burner pan, while also making sure your propane line is regulated. An air mixer is necessary because propane needs to mix with air in order to create a clean, efficient fuel. The burner pan is necessary to ensure the proper amount of spacing for your air mixer to gather air in order to mix with the propane, allowing proper burning. Also, the pan is designed to be installed in a way so that it prevents fuel from settling below the pan and burner; failure to do so could result in personal injury or explosion.
    With a standard 20 lb. propane tank you are limiting the amount of BTU usage to between 90,000 and 100,000. For this reason, the largest ring recommended you use would be 18”, you will also need a regulator and an air mixer along with the other standard supplies necessary (e.g. fittings, valve, key, and piping.)

    Fire pit media includes fire pit glass, lava rock, and fire pit log sets. Each of these forms of fire pit media are intended as a decorative addition to your fire pit; however, we strongly recommend using either fire glass or lava rock to cover your fire pit burner. We recommend this for two reasons:

    1. Fire pit media protects your burner from the elements and other debris, while also hiding it from viewers, increasing its aesthetic appeal.
    2. Fire pit media also helps better distribute the flame, creating a broader, fuller flame for your enjoyment.

    Gas Water Geyser FAQ’s

    No you must have access and a visual contact so that if there is a gas leak which catches fire it is seen immediately.
    Yes providing only one tap is used at a time. Ideally you should have one unit to run the bathrooms and an 8lt for the kitchen. This because in the bathroom you would set the unit to supply water at 40 degrees and in the kitchen 55 degrees. Our new 16lt constant temperature unit does allow you to now run two taps at the same time.
    It will use the gas quicker but will produce more hot water. A liter of water require a certain amount of gas to heat it regardless of the size of the unit.
    A 20lt, but this is not suitable for home use other than to heat a Jacuzzi as its minimum flow is 10lt/min which is faster than a basin tap will cope with. This means that it will shut off if the required flow is not there. It also takes 2 x 48kg cylinders and a 4kg regulator to operate it.
    If you often use the bath then a 16lt, If you mainly shower and occasionally use the bath then a 12lt, If you only shower then a 10lt or an 8lt for an outbuilding shower or a kitchen. Click here to view our guide.