How to Compare a Gas BBQ Grill
You have decided to get a gas barbecue grill, but how do you decide which one is the best one for your needs? Before heading out to the local home improvement store, take some time to make a list of what features are most important for your circumstances. Making a list can save a lot of money in the long run.
Size of the Grill
The size of the grill depends on how many people you plan on feeding. If the grill will be used for a lot of entertaining, one of the larger ones is a good choice. When feeding more than eight people, a grill with a 600+ square inch cooking area is a good size. If the grill will be used more for family cooking, a 300-450 square inch grill is good for two to four people. For five to eight people, a 450-600 square inch grill is sufficient. A large grill will use a lot of propane, so the cost of the propane needs to be factored into the choice. Purchasing the largest grill may not make the most economic sense because of this. In addition, some manufacturers include the warming area in their calculations. Subtract the warming area to get the true number of cooking area.
BTU Rating
The BTU rating measures how the heat outputs from the burners. The higher the BTU, the hotter the grill gets, and the faster food will cook. While a high BTU seems like a good idea, the size of the cooking area needs to be considered. When comparing two grills, if they have the same BTU with different size cooking areas, the smaller grill will get hotter. A hood on the grill will also increase the temperature.
Useful Features
Some features on a grill may be useful, or you may never use them for the life of the grill. Decide on what features you think are absolutely necessary for your grill. A side burner is nice, but many people do not use them. A rotisserie spit is nice to have to cook whole chickens, roasts and barbecue ribs. Some grills now have infrared burners. An infrared burner can get the grill to very high temperatures, and is excellent for getting steaks cooked perfectly, but may be too high for regular foods like burgers and hot dogs. A hybrid grill with an infrared burner can be a smart compromise.
Shop Around
Visit the big-box stores, but also visit stores that specialize in grills. Sales people can help you decide what manufacturers make the best grills. Also, check online to get a great price. Remember to factor in shipping, as well as any sales taxes. Compare warranties on the grills. Some makers do not cover all of the parts, while others have lifetime warranties on different parts of the grill.