Ever found yourself in the middle of a snowy Michigan winter, dreaming of a piping hot, homemade pizza?
#Me. #MidwestLife 🏔️ ❄️
You might be tempted to bring your Ooni pizza oven indoors, but hold your pepperonis! There’s a LOT you need to know before you even think about firing up that bad boy inside your cozy abode.
So can Ooni pizza ovens be used indoors?
Bottom line: Most Ooni pizza ovens, especially propane and wood-burning ones, should not be used indoors due to fire hazards and carbon monoxide risks. However, the Ooni Volt electric pizza oven is a safe option for indoor use. Always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines to ensure safe operation and proper installation.
As much as I’m all about that cheesy goodness, it’s super important to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines to avoid turning your kitchen into a disaster zone.
So, buckle up and join me on this dough-filled adventure as we explore whether using an Ooni pizza oven indoors is a recipe for success or a half-baked idea.
Why Most Pizza Ovens Should Not Be Used Indoors
Now, I know what you’re thinking – “But, I just want to make a pizza!” Trust me, I get it. But before you let your pizza-fueled dreams run wild, let’s talk about the risks of using propane and wood-burning ovens indoors.
The Two Huge Risks:
- Fire hazards: Imagine your favorite pizza joint, but with flames everywhere. Not ideal, right? Using a propane or wood-burning oven indoors can lead to disastrous consequences, with the potential for fires, burns, and even explosions. Save the fireworks for the Fourth of July, and keep these ovens outside.
- Carbon monoxide poisoning: You know that silent, odorless, and tasteless killer that’s always lurking in the shadows? It’s called carbon monoxide, and it’s a byproduct of burning fuel. Without proper ventilation, using propane or wood-burning ovens indoors can cause carbon monoxide to accumulate, posing a serious risk to you and your family’s health. Nobody wants to be the star of their own tragic Lifetime movie (lol), so let’s keep those ovens where they belong – outside!
Related: Don’t forget that your normal oven has several oven modes that can help cook pizza!
Proper Ventilation And Installation:
I can’t stress this enough: proper ventilation and installation are absolute must-haves if you’re even considering using a pizza oven indoors. Whether it’s a gas or wood-burning oven, you’ll need to ensure that all those nasty fumes are safely vented to the great outdoors, where they can’t wreak havoc on your lungs or your home. When in doubt, consult a professional – they know a thing or two about keeping your pizza-making adventures safe and sound.
Safe Options For Indoor Pizza Ovens
Fear not, fellow pizza enthusiasts! Just because some ovens are a no-go for indoor use doesn’t mean you have to brave the elements to get your pizza fix. There are safe options for indoor pizza ovens that won’t put your home or your health at risk. Let’s dive in!
The Ooni Volt Electric Pizza Oven:
Benefits and safety features: The Ooni Volt is like the superhero of indoor pizza ovens – it swoops in to save the day when propane and wood-burning ovens just won’t do. This electric-powered marvel is designed specifically for indoor use, with no open flames or harmful fumes to worry about. Plus, it heats up super-fast, so you can satisfy those sudden pizza cravings in a jiffy.
And yes, the Ooni Volt (and similar electric ovens) can get up to 900F degrees!
More than enough to cook your Neapolitan or NY-style pizza.
Natural Gas Pizza Ovens:
Checking manufacturer guidelines: Some natural gas pizza ovens can be used indoors, but it’s essential to check the manufacturer’s guidelines before you fire up that bad boy. Natural gas ovens can be a safer option compared to propane or wood-burning ovens, but they still require proper ventilation and installation to ensure you’re cooking up a storm without any unwanted surprises.
Professionally Installed Wood-burning Ovens:
You’ve seen wood-burning pizza ovens in restaurants. What gives?
Venting and safety requirements: There’s something magical about a wood-burning pizza oven, isn’t there? If you’re determined to bring that rustic charm indoors, you can do so with a professionally installed wood-burning oven. These beauties require a little more TLC, with special venting and safety measures in place to keep your home and family safe. Don’t go the DIY route with this one – leave it to the pros to make sure your indoor pizza dreams don’t go up in smoke.
Pizza Oven F.a.q.s
What’s The Best Indoor Pizza Oven?
When it comes to the best indoor pizza oven, the Ooni Volt electric pizza oven takes the cake (or should I say, pizza?). It’s specifically designed for indoor use, has no open flames, and heats up quickly for those spur-of-the-moment pizza cravings. However, there are several budget-friendly options on Amazon, but these don’t have all the fancy features that Ooni provides.
Can I Use My Pizza Oven Under A Porch?
Using your pizza oven under a porch is possible, but you should still exercise caution. Make sure there’s plenty of open space and ventilation, and always follow the manufacturer’s guidelines. It’s best to consult a professional to ensure a safe setup for your specific oven.
What Type Of Ventilation Is Needed For Pizza Ovens?
Ventilation is essential when using pizza ovens, especially for propane, natural gas, and wood-burning models. Proper ventilation helps prevent the buildup of dangerous fumes like carbon monoxide. The type of ventilation required depends on the specific oven and fuel type, so always consult the manufacturer’s guidelines and a professional installer.
How Do You Vent An Indoor Pizza Oven?
Venting an indoor pizza oven typically involves the installation of an exhaust system, such as a chimney or a hood, that directs fumes and smoke outside. The venting requirements and setup will depend on your specific oven model and fuel type, so it’s essential to consult the manufacturer’s guidelines and work with a professional installer.
Related: Do pizza ovens need a chimney?
Can You Use Ooni In The Winter?
Yes, you can use Ooni pizza ovens in the winter, but it might take a bit longer to heat up, and you’ll need to protect it from the elements. Electric models like the Ooni Volt are great for indoor use during the colder months, while propane and wood-burning models should remain outdoors with proper precautions. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and bundle up for some frosty pizza-making fun!
Takeaway
In the end, it’s all about safety when using pizza ovens indoors.
While we all want to indulge in that scrumptious Neapolitan pizza cooked at 900F degrees, it’s CRUCIAL to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines and ensure proper ventilation to avoid any hazards like fires or carbon monoxide poisoning.
So, go forth and explore the wonderful world of indoor (electric) pizza oven options! From the Ooni Volt electric pizza oven to professionally installed wood-burning ovens, there’s a safe and delicious solution out there for everyone.
Else just go outside 😉
Happy pizza making, and may your crusts be crispy and your cheese be melty!