With spring right around the corner it’s time to purchase that new gas grill you have wanted for so long. Don’t be intimidated by the process. The key is to shop prepared. Shopping for a new gas grill is simple if you follow three simple guidelines.
The first thing to consider when shopping for a new gas grill is the size. People say size doesn’t matter but when shopping for gas grills it does. It is important to differentiate between direct cooking surface and total grill surface. Direct cooking surface is the cooking area that has direct heat. It does not include warming racks. If you usually cook for 1-4 people a grill with 300-500 square inches of direct cooking surface is usually adequate. If you typically cook for 5 or more you will usually need 500 square inches or more of direct cooking surface. You also need to consider the space which the grill is going to occupy. Make sure that the grill will fit in the area that you have designated for it.
The second thing you want to consider when shopping for a new gas grill is the features. Different grills will have different features. Some grills have built in lights, built-in smoker trays, electronic igniters, spring assist hoods, etc. You will need to identify what features are most important to you. If you like pan frying fish or cooking a pot of beans outside then a side cooker might be an important feature for you. If you like to cook turkeys or tenderloins on the grill, than a designated rotisserie burner and spit kit might be an important feature for you. High heat infrared burners are becoming more popular and are ideal for searing steaks or tuna. Keep in mind that your grill and will be exposed to the elements and the more bells and whistles your grill comes with means you will have more grill parts that will need to be maintained.
The third thing to consider when purchasing a gas grill is the quality of the grill construction. The best grills are made of 16 and 18 gauge 304 stainless steel. These grills will fall in the upper price range but the materials used are far superior in reliability and durability. They withstand the weather elements and the heat generated from the grill. The best burners on a grill will be either cast stainless steel like the burners on the Aurora series from FireMagic, extruded stainless steel like the burners available on DCS gas grills or cast brass burners like those used on Lynx grills. Cast aluminum grill heads will also last in the elements as long as the base is made of stainless steel like the Broilmaster P-3.
Size, features and construction are the things that will mater most when buying your new high-end gas grill. If you remember these three steps you will be able to make a good decision and bring the right grill home that will not only further your grilling experience but last for many years to come.