Comparison of Barbecue Gas Grills

Gas barbecue grills come in various sizes and include different features.

Gas barbecue grills are frequently preferred over charcoal grills because they create no ashes or cinders, instantly start with the touch of a button, and have controls that easily adjust the flames and heat. Like most appliances, gas barbecue grills are available in a wide range of styles with different features.

Choosing a Size & Style

If you typically only cook for one or two people, a small portable gas grill with only one or two burners and a small grilling grate will probably meet your needs. In addition to being economical to operate, this style can easily be transported to beach or picnic sites. Cooks who frequently entertain or regularly feed large families need a large grill that has a grate large enough to simultaneously cook six or eight burgers, steaks, fish fillets or chicken pieces and multiple burners. Full-size barbecue gas grills often have casters so they can be easily moved, although the largest models are normally too heavy and bulky to reposition on a regular basis. Gas grills can also be built into brick enclosures in backyards or on porches.

Fuel Sources & BTUs

Homes already equipped with natural gas lines that are accessible from the backyard or porch are ideal for natural gas grills. Installing a special line just for a grill is generally cost prohibitive based on the set up and subsequent utility costs. Propane-fueled gas grills are more portable than natural gas-powered ones and normally more cost-effective to operate. Also consider the BTU rating of the grill, and remember to take into consideration the size of the grill surface and whether the grill will be open or covered, both of which affect the heating power of the BTUs.

Features

Burners on gas grills are made of various types of materials. Brass and cast stainless steel burners are the most expensive, but will likely outlast the life of the barbecue. They will not develop holes in their surfaces or rust like the less expensive sheet metal types. Grills made of stainless steel are most durable and most costly, but will last a lifetime. Porcelain coated steel, wire or cast iron grills are a bit cheaper and are durable as long as the porcelain is not chipped, which encourages rust and deterioration. Cast iron grills are excellent for heat conduction, but prone to rusting and pitting.

Extras

Many high-end gas grills have extra features such as side tables, heating shelves, warming units, built-in smokers, rotisseries and timers. For serious grillers, these may be useful, but if your barbecuing events are limited to just a few times a year, the added cost of these frills may not be worth the money.

References

• The Best Gas Grills: How to Find the Best Gas Grill
• Barbecue Hut: Take Your Time When Comparing Gas Grills. Choosing The Wrong One Can Be Expensive