How to Buy a Gas Barbecue Grill
What better way to enjoy the weather and good company than with a barbecue? For those who prefer the convenience of gas grilling, here's how to choose a grill that will make that barbecue a snap.
- Difficulty:
- Moderate
Instructions
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1
Most gas grills produce considerably less heat than the average charcoal grill, so look for a model with burners placed close to the cooking grate.
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2
Consider how often and how much you'll be grilling. If you rarely cook for more than two people, you'll want to look into a small, portable model. But if you like to entertain for lots of family and friends, then make sure the grill you're considering will hold at least 10 burgers or chicken breasts at once.
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3
Choose a model with wide (not widely-spaced) grill bars. Cast-iron grill bars sear food exceptionally well.
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4
Look for a grill with dual heat control so that you can control the burners separately. You can cook hot dogs and burgers, for example, or grill just one steak on a small area.
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5
Look for a model with a drip tray to make cleanup easier.
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6
Pay attention to quality, even if you'll use your grill only on summer holidays or occasional weekends. A cheap grill won't last and will likely be so frustrating to use that you won't even want to light it up.
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7
Drag the floor model around the store to make sure it will be easy to move on your patio or deck. Wrestling with a grill won't bring you much pleasure.
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8
Avoid side burners, expensive extras that most people don't often use. Side shelves, however, are very handy for plates and condiments.
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9
Think about storage. If your region gets extreme weather, you won't want to leave your grill uncovered in the elements. Make sure the grill will fit in your shed if that's where you plan to store it.
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1
Tips & Warnings
Most grills require some assembly. If you're mechanically inclined and have the time, do it yourself. But remember that for a small charge, many stores will assemble the grill for you.
Many city fire codes prohibit grills within 15 feet of buildings or on patios or decks above the first floor. Because propane is heavier than air, a leak poses a potential threat to neighbors below. If you live in an apartment or condominium, make sure you can use and store your grill in the space you have.
Extras include rotisseries, smokers, warming racks, built-in thermometers, and side burners. Check a consumer's publication or Web site before spending money on extras. Some models are much better than others.
