Outdoor Barbecue Grills & Fireplaces

Backyard barbecuing can range from hotdogs on the very simple charcoal grill or over a portable fireplace to full dinners cooked using an outdoor kitchen. The type of barbecue or fireplace that a family has in their backyard should reflect their grilling needs.

Types of Grills

There are several different types of grills on the market. The gas grill uses a tank of propane to produce an easily controlled cooking flame. A charcoal grill uses charcoal briquettes to provide cooking heat. There are also portable grills on the market that fold up for easy storage or travel. Portable grills are available in both gas and charcoal.

Benefits of a Gas Grill

The key benefits of a gas grill are the ability to turn the flame on and off quickly. Most gas grills also come equipped with a flame control knob so that the barbecue cook can easily adjust the cooking temperature. Larger gas grills will have more than one burner so that the cook can adjust the cooking temperature from one area to the next, allowing her to cook multiple items at the same time.

Benefits of a Charcoal Grill

Charcoal grills are generally much less expensive than a gas grill. Some people contest that meats cooked on a charcoal grill have a better flavor than meats cooked using propane gas. A charcoal grill can only be lit when there is charcoal in the grill bottom, so there is almost no chance that a charcoal grill will be accidentally lit by children.

Types of Fireplaces

Some people prefer to cook their hotdogs over an open flame, like that of a backyard fireplace. There are many different options for a backyard fireplace, like a brick hearth, fire ring, metal fire pit or a clay or stone chimney fireplace. Each type of fireplace serves a different purpose. The brick hearth is the best for cooking, while the clay chimney fireplace is best for couples. A metal fire pit serves as a good centerpiece for a larger family.

Warnings

Whenever fire is present, be sure to take precautions. Always keep grills and fireplaces a safe distance from your home or other buildings. Make sure that there are no flammable materials near any open flame, including trees and low hanging tree branches. Always check local ordinances before installing a backyard fireplace. Talk to local fire professionals about grill and fireplace safety before use.

References

• Consumers Union: Gas Grill Guide
• Tsavo Media Canada: Charcoal Grills
• Family Outdoor Fireplaces: Guide to Choosing an Outdoor Fireplace