Outdoor BBQ/Grills - Gas
Choosing a Gas Grill

According to Barbeque Industry Association, 4 out of 5 U.S. families own a grill, and most barbecue at least once a week during the summer.

That translates to 85% of American households using grills more than 3 billion times a year!

Most Americans begin their outdoor grilling experience with either an electric or a charcoal grill.

However, gas grills (either propane or natural gas) are now the most popular type of fuel. (80% of all grills in use are gas fueled)

Gas grills are equipped with convenient on/off switches, providing for instant heat, greater temperature control, and quicker cool-down times. And with no burning embers, gas grills do not throw sparks or require a messy clean-up.

Gas burns cleaner and is less expensive per use than charcoal.

Gas grills ignite quickly, with a push-button, rotary or electronic lighter that is integrated into the grill. Cooking can begin after 10 minutes of preheating.

Price Factor
There are literally hundreds of residential gas grills on the market, and prices can range anywhere from $150 to $8,000 and more.

Before you begin grill shopping, decide how much you want to spend. This will help narrow the field.

Types of Gas Grills
There are 3 types of gas grills: drop-in, slide-in and freestanding.

		Drop-In A drop-in grill is designed for use in built-in installations, or combined with a cart to create a slide-in or freestanding models. The body of the grill covers everything but the hood, side burners, and rotisserie.
The main body of the grill is usually made from cast aluminum, sheet metal, cast iron, or stainless steel. Heavy gauge stainless steel is considered professional quality, and is the most expensive.
		Slide-In A slide-in grill combines a drop-in grill with a specially designed cart for installation against and between masonry walls in an outdoor kitchen. It is used where a built-in look is wanted, but without the grill actually being built-in (the same as a slide-in range for the indoor kitchen) It can be removed and taken to another location when you move.
		Freestanding A freestanding grill is a grill that is placed onto a mobile cart and can be moved around, or taken with you when you move. Freestanding gas grills are the most popular.

Quality
An easy rule of thumb to remember, is the heavier the grill the better the quality.
Generally, the better the quality ... the higher the price.

Humidity plays a big part in how well your gas grill will hold up. In areas with high humidity, stainless or thick aluminum will last longer than others.

Salt water is extremely corrosive. If you live in a coastal area, and your grill is stored outdoors it will eventually rust - this includes stainless steel.

Manufacturer Warranty
Read the warranty before you purchase a BBQ/Grill. Make sure you understand what is and what is not covered or you may end up paying extra for what you mistakenly thought was covered.

Next: Types of Gas Grill Fuels

 BACK

See Also:

Was this article helpful?   Yes    No