How to Select a Grill

Now that the evenings are longer and the nights are warmer, it seems like there is nothing better than dining outdoors. And nothing says summer like a dinner hot off the grill. Here are several things to consider when making your grill selection.

Grill Size

 Make sure the grill surface area will be large enough to hold what you normally like to cook. Do you want to grill a few burgers and hotdogs? Or an entire turkey? How much prep area do you need? Large side shelves are handy for food prep especially when your grill is located a distance from the kitchen.

Cost

With grills, you get what you pay for. Charcoal grills can offer a less expensive option, but are more basic in design. Gas & propane grills cost more, but offer a wide variety of options to make your grilling experience much easier. The higher end models often offer better construction and quality of materials which give you a grill that lasts.

Fuel Types

Charcoal grills tend to be less expensive and can be portable. All it takes are some briquettes and starter fluid and your grill can be ready in 20 minutes. It can be difficult, however, to maintain heat when cooking larger items like a turkey. Often a second grill is needed to start additional briquettes. Charcoal grills tend to be more basic in design and don’t offer a lot of features. Charcoal is also the least environmentally friendly of all grill fuel sources

Gas grills are divided into two types—propane and natural gas. Propane comes in refillable tanks and is, therefore, portable. Natural gas grills must be hooked up to your home’s gas line but allows you to have a constant supply of fuel. This can be handy if you grill often or cook larger meals. With propane, you must make sure you have enough fuel tanks on hand to get the job done. Gas grills offer a wide variety of features to enhance your cooking experience. Some gas grill features to look for include a rotisserie and basting pan, range-style burners for heating sauces and side dishes, removable drip pan for grease, wide range of heat so you can cook at various levels, condiment tray, additional trays inside the hood for keeping foods warm, and a thermometer.

Electric grills can be a great option for those with limited outdoor cooking space or families living in a place that forbids excessive smoke (like a condo or apartment complex). Electric grills are also the most environmentally friendly of all grilling options because they lack and open flame.