Gas Grill Buying Guide

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Choosing the perfect gas grill can feel overwhelming with so many options out there. Gas grills are a favorite for quick and even cooking, whether you opt for propane or natural gas.

Our guide simplifies your decision, covering everything from types to features, ensuring you find the right grill for delicious outdoor meals. Get ready to become a grill master!

Key Takeaways

• Check the type of gas grill you want; natural gas grills are cheaper over time but can’t move, while propane is flexible but needs refills.
• Look at grill size and BTUs; bigger isn’t always better if it doesn’t fit your space or needs. About 72 square inches per person is a good size rule. Aim for 80 to 100 BTUs per square inch.
• Pick durable materials like stainless steel or cast iron that last longer and clean easily.
• Think about extra features you may want, such as BBQ thermometers for cooking accuracy or side burners for extra cooking space.
• Choose a reliable brand with good reviews, warranties, and customer service so your grill will work well for years.

Types of Gas Grills

When it comes to gas grills, there are several types to consider. From natural gas vs. propane grills to portable and built-in options, each type offers its own unique features and benefits for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

Natural Gas vs. Propane Grills

Natural gas grills need a fixed line from your home’s supply. This means you can’t move the grill around easily. But, they are cheaper to run over time than propane grills. You won’t have to refill natural gas as often as propane tanks.

Propane grills offer more flexibility since you can place them anywhere on your patio or backyard. They heat up quickly and are ready for outdoor cooking in minutes. However, keep an eye on the fuel level so you don’t run out in the middle of barbecuing.

Moving onto freestanding and portable gas grills, let’s explore how they cater to different outdoor entertaining needs.

Freestanding and Portable Gas Grills

Freestanding gas grills are perfect for larger outdoor spaces and offer more cooking area. They often come with side shelves, making them convenient for food prep. Look for durable materials like stainless steel for longevity and easy maintenance.

Portable gas grills, on the other hand, are ideal for picnics or tailgating due to their compact size. They usually use small propane canisters or have adaptors for larger tanks.

When choosing a freestanding grill, consider factors such as the number of burners and the cooking space required. For portable gas grills, prioritize ones with sturdy legs and secure latches to withstand transportation.

Built-In Gas Grills

In the realm of gas grills, built-in gas grills are a popular choice for outdoor kitchen setups and patio grilling. These sleek and stylish grills seamlessly integrate into your outdoor space, offering a seamless, customized look that adds value to your outdoor cooking area.

With options ranging from compact to expansive cooking surfaces, built-in gas grills provide flexibility in design and functionality. Additionally, they often come with features like rotisserie burners, infrared searing stations, and integrated smoker boxes.

Considered a luxurious addition to any outdoor cooking space, built-in gas grills offer durability and high-performance cooking capabilities. Many models come equipped with stainless steel construction for longevity and resistance to the elements.

Flat Top and Infrared Gas Grills

Flat top gas grills are versatile and suitable for cooking a wide range of foods such as pancakes, eggs, bacon, and vegetables. The flat surface provides even heat distribution and allows for easy maneuvering of food items.

With their large cooking area, these grills are ideal for outdoor gatherings and can accommodate multiple ingredients simultaneously, making them perfect for hosting barbecues with family and friends.

Infrared gas grills use infrared technology to provide intense direct heat that locks in juices and enhances flavor while preventing flare-ups. These grills preheat faster than traditional gas grills and offer precise temperature control.

Factors to Consider when Buying a Gas Grill

Consider your budget, the size of the grill, desired features, BTUs for heat output, and the durability of the grill before making a purchase. Read on to learn more about finding the perfect gas grill for your grilling needs.

Budget

When buying a gas grill, it’s crucial to consider your budget. Gas grills come in a range of prices, so it’s essential to set a clear budget before starting your search. Consider the features you need versus those that are nice-to-have and ensure they align with your allocated budget.

Keep in mind that higher-priced models often offer more durable materials and advanced features, but there are still quality options available at lower price points.

Consider researching different brands and models within your budget to find the best value for money which meets your needs. You can also look for sales and promotions to maximize your budget without compromising on quality or features.

Understanding what you’re willing to spend will help narrow down the options and make the purchasing decision easier.

Size

Gas grill size is crucial when choosing the right one for your needs. Consider the cooking space required to cater to the number of people you’ll be grilling for. Typically, a good rule of thumb is to allow 72 square inches per person when determining the perfect grill size.

This ensures ample space and flexibility to cook various foods simultaneously without overcrowding.

Factors such as budget, available outdoor space, and storage should also influence your decision on gas grill size. Larger grills are ideal for feeding larger groups and accommodating more diverse menus but may not be practical for smaller spaces or budgets.

On the other hand, smaller grills are easier to maneuver and may suit those with limited outdoor area or fewer people to cook for.

Features

Gas grills come with a variety of features to enhance your outdoor cooking experience. When considering features, focus on the grill’s materials and durability, as they impact its lifespan and performance.

Look for durable stainless steel or cast iron grates that distribute heat evenly for better cooking results. Additionally, consider grills with built-in BBQ thermometers to monitor the cooking temperature accurately, ensuring perfectly grilled food every time.

Troubleshooting guides for rusted burners can also be a valuable feature to extend the life of your gas grill. Some models offer innovative options like infrared technology for searing meats at high temperatures while maintaining juiciness.

Another exciting feature is the ability to grill fish over citrus slices directly on the cooking grate, infusing your food with delicious flavors while preventing sticking.

BTUs

Gas grills come with different heat outputs measured in BTUs (British Thermal Units). When choosing a gas grill, consider the number of BTUs it produces. A higher number of BTUs can indicate that the grill has more heating power, which is useful for cooking larger quantities or for searing meat.

Consider the size and cooking area of the grill along with its BTU output. A common rule is to look for around 80 to 100 BTUs per square inch of cooking space. This ensures that the grill has enough power to evenly cook all areas without excessive hot spots or uneven temperatures.

Understanding the relationship between BTUs and cooking area will help you select a gas grill that suits your specific outdoor cooking needs while optimizing energy efficiency during use.

Durability

Gas grill durability is crucial for long-term use. Stainless steel or cast aluminum construction enhances the grill’s longevity, making it resistant to corrosion and rust. Look for durable cooking grates made of sturdy materials like porcelain-coated cast iron or stainless steel to withstand high temperatures and frequent use.

Additionally, consider the warranty coverage as an indicator of the manufacturer’s confidence in the grill’s durability, helping you make a wise investment.

When choosing a gas grill, prioritize durability to ensure its longevity and reliability during outdoor grilling sessions. A well-built grill with superior materials will withstand various weather conditions and continuous use, providing value for your investment while reducing maintenance needs.

Grill Brand

Consider the grill brand’s reputation and longevity. Look for brands with a history of quality and reliability. When choosing a grill, remember to check customer reviews and ratings for insight into brand performance and customer satisfaction.

A well-established brand often ensures better warranty support, availability of replacement parts, and ongoing customer service.

Now let’s delve into the different types of gas grills available in the market.

Different Types of Gas Grills

Gas grills come in a variety of sizes, from portable options perfect for picnics and tailgating to small, midsized, and large grills suitable for backyard cookouts. Each type offers its own set of features and benefits to fit different needs and preferences.

Portable Gas Grills

Portable gas grills come in various sizes to suit different needs. They are convenient for picnics, camping, and tailgating. These grills are powered by small propane canisters or disposable cylinders, making them easy to transport and use in outdoor settings.

Some portable gas grills also offer the option of using natural gas with an adapter, providing flexibility for different situations. When purchasing a portable grill, it’s essential to consider factors such as size, BTUs, construction material for durability, and additional features like foldable legs or side tables.

Grill maintenance is crucial even for portable gas grills; regular cleaning and care ensure their longevity. Additionally, investing in accessories like quality grilling utensils and thermometers enhances the overall cooking experience.

Small, Midsized, and Large Gas Grills

Small gas grills are perfect for intimate gatherings or small families. They typically have a cooking surface of around 200 to 300 square inches and offer convenience without taking up too much space on your patio.

Midsized gas grills, with a cooking area of 300 to 600 square inches, are versatile enough for moderate-sized parties and family dinners. Large gas grills, boasting a cooking surface of over 600 square inches, are ideal for entertaining large groups or hosting backyard barbecues.

When choosing between small, midsized, and large gas grills, consider the number of people you typically cook for and the frequency of your outdoor gatherings. Small gas grills provide portability and efficiency for smaller groups, while midsized options offer versatility without being too bulky.

Gas Grill Features

Grill materials and durability, BBQ thermometers, troubleshooting guide for rusted burners, and grilling fish over citrus are some important features to consider when buying a gas grill.

Grill materials and durability

Gas grills are commonly made of durable stainless steel, cast aluminum, or enameled steel. These materials offer longevity and rust resistance, making them ideal for outdoor use in various weather conditions.

When considering grill durability, stainless steel is a popular choice due to its resilience against corrosion and heat damage. Moreover, cast iron cooking grates are known for their excellent heat retention and are often porcelain-coated to prevent rusting, enhancing the overall durability of the grill.

Durability plays a crucial role in choosing a gas grill because it directly impacts the longevity of the appliance. High-quality materials ensure that your grill can withstand frequent use and exposure to outdoor elements without deteriorating quickly.

BBQ Thermometers

When considering grill materials and durability, it’s essential to also pay attention to BBQ thermometers. Accurate temperature monitoring is crucial for achieving perfectly grilled meats, ensuring food safety, and preventing overcooking or burning.

A good BBQ thermometer can provide precise temperature readings, allowing you to adjust the heat accordingly. When shopping for a gas grill, look for built-in thermometers with clear displays and durable construction that can withstand high temperatures.

BBQ thermometers play a vital role in maintaining control over the grilling process. They help prevent undercooked or charred food while ensuring optimal flavor and juiciness. Investing in a reliable BBQ thermometer ensures consistent cooking results and enhances your overall grilling experience.

Troubleshooting guide for rusted burners

Gas grill burners can rust due to exposure to moisture and high temperatures. To troubleshoot this issue, start by turning off the gas supply and disconnecting the propane tank or natural gas line.

Remove the rusted burners from the grill and inspect them for significant corrosion or damage. Use a wire brush to scrub away any surface rust, then rinse the burners with water and allow them to dry thoroughly before reinstallation.

After cleaning, check for any blockages in the burner holes caused by rust buildup. Use a small wire or pipe cleaner to clear these obstructions. If there are severe signs of rust that compromise the integrity of the burners, it may be necessary to replace them with new ones to maintain safe and efficient grilling performance.

Grilling fish over citrus

When dealing with grilling fish over citrus, it’s important to consider the aromatic and flavorful aspect of this cooking technique. The acidity from the citrus not only adds a zesty flavor but also helps tenderize the fish, resulting in a delightful dish that can impress guests at your next barbecue.

Combining keywords like “grilling tips” and “cooking appliances,” you might want to explore gas grill features such as side burners which allow for easy preparation of the citrus marinade while grilling the fish simultaneously.

Additionally, using stainless steel grill materials is essential for preventing rusting and maintaining durability when preparing such dishes.

Conclusion

In summary, when purchasing a gas grill, consider factors like types, fuel options, and cooking space. Gas grill buying guides offer valuable information to help you make an informed decision.

Take your grilling experience to the next level with the right equipment and accessories. Embrace the convenience and versatility of a gas grill for all your outdoor cooking needs!

FAQs

1. What should I look for when buying a gas grill?

When shopping for a gas grill, check for BBQ grill features like burner quality, size, and grilling equipment included. Also think about whether you want a natural gas barbecue or one that uses propane.

2. How do I choose between a charcoal grill and a gas BBQ grill?

Choose a charcoal grill if you enjoy smoky flavors and hands-on grilling. Pick a gas BBQ grill for quick heating, easy control of temperature, and simple cleanup.

3. What are some essential grilling accessories to buy with my new barbecue?

Look for essential grilling accessories such as tongs, spatulas, brushes for cleaning, and protective covers to keep your cooking appliances in good shape.

4. Are there any tips on how to maintain my gas grill?

Yes! Follow these maintenance tips: clean the grates after each use; check for leaks regularly; cover it when not in use; empty grease traps often.

5. Can you give me some quick grilling tips for using my new barbecue equipment safely?

For safe use of your barbecue equipment always cook outside in an open area; keep the lid open when lighting it; never leave it unattended while hot; have tools ready within reach before starting.