How to Choose a Grill

There are pros and cons to both gas and charcoal grills. Figure out what you need, what features you want and what you're willing to put up with to figure out which type is right for you.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Lighter Fluid
• Meat Thermometers
• Charcoal Lighters
• Barbecue Grills
• Grill Utensils
• Charcoal
• Wire Grill Brushes

1. Consider price. Charcoal grills are usually much less expensive than gas grills.

2. Figure out how much total cooking area you need. If you'll only be grilling hot dogs for three, you can get away with a 75-square-inch grill. The kind of food you grill and the number of people you're cooking for are important factors in choosing the size of the grill.

3. Remember that the total cooking area listed on the sticker includes the warming rack if there is one. That means your actual cooking surface is smaller.

4. Try to get wheeled barbecues of either variety. Wheels will make life much easier when it comes time to move the grill.

5. Find a charcoal grill with an igniter. Charcoal grills usually require lighter fluid, but with this option, you won't need it and you won't miss fumbling with matches or lighters.

6. Decide if time is a factor in your grilling. Charcoal grills are lit and then left to heat up over a period of time. They also require a long cool-down before they can be cleaned. Gas grills, on the other hand, are hot almost immediately and tend to be much easier to clean.

7. Spend the extra cash on a gas grill if you want the convenience of instant flame and heat control knobs.

8. Make sure the grill you choose has easy access to the ash pan (charcoal grill) or drip tray (gas grill). These make cleaning up a lot less messy.

9. Insist on charcoal models with lids, which keep the smoke inside with the food and shorten cooking time.

Tips & Warnings

• Look at the finish carefully. Painted grills aren't going to weather as well as stainless steel ones. Stainless costs more, though, so think about how much exterior maintenance you want to do.
• Make sure the grill you choose has easy access to the ash pan (charcoal grill) or drip tray (gas grill). These make cleaning up a lot less messy.
• Be sure your charcoal model comes with a lid, which keeps the smoke inside with the food and shortens cooking time.
• Look for shelves when purchasing grills, which can be incredibly handy for the backyard chef.
• Find a charcoal grill with an igniter, and you won't have to mess with lighter fluid and matches.
• Side burners on gas grills are great for sauces and side dishes.
• Many city fire codes don't allow grills of any type within 15 feet of a building or on patios or decks. If you live in an apartment or condominium, make sure you can use and store your grill in the space you have.

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on 11/22/2005 Many people cannot stand to smell burning lighter fluid or to taste it in their barbecued food. Use alcohol instead. Even rubbing alcohol works fine. It burns without odor, and does not leave a telltale taste in the food.

on 11/22/2005 BBQ lighter fluid wreaks havoc on air quality and is banned in enlightened communities! Be thoughtful and considerate; while you're preparing to enjoy the taste of grilled meat, you're exposing everyone to smoke and pollution.

on 11/22/2005 Consider a little grill like a hibachi if you usually are cooking for just one person. They're less hassle and use less briquettes. And they fit on a small deck better.