How to Choose an Outdoor Grill
If you’re in the market for an outdoor grill, you’ll find a variety of fuel types – gas, charcoal and electric – as well as different styles. How do you decide what grill is the best for your home? Learn about the options in this Home Depot video:
Choosing an Outdoor Gas Grill for Your Home
Outdoor gas grills offer the convenience of instant heat and easy clean-up as opposed to charcoal or propane grills. If you’re in the market for a gas grill, you’ll be able to find one with the size and the features you want, regardless of whether you’re a grilling novice or pro. The following checklist will help you find the perfect grill.
Materials: A lid and firebox made from cast aluminum or stainless steel is more durable than those made from other metals. Grates that are porcelain-coated are rustproof (unless chipped) and easy to clean. Stainless steel grates are rustproof and sturdy.
Size: The actual cooking surface is the most important measurement.You’ll need 300-450 square inches for 2-4 people, 450-600 square inches for 5-8 people and at least 600 square inches for 8 or more people. In terms of gas burners, you will need two for a family of four, more for a larger cooking area. You will need to measure the overall unit size to make sure that it will fit your outdoor space.
Features: Your choice of features depends on whether you plan on grilling just hot dogs and hamburgers or if you intend to do gourmet grilling. Here are some options to consider.
- Warming rack: Every well-made grill will have a warming rack to keep food warm or toast buns.
- Side shelf and burner: A frequently used feature, a side shelf provides extra space for holding seasonings, cutting vegetables and putting plates down. A side burner allows you to heat sauces or cook side dishes without having to run back and forth between the outdoor area and the kitchen.
- Rotisserie: This feature is a must if you roast on the grill or cook whole chickens. A rotisserie can be built in or added to the grill later.
- Temperature settings: Individual burner control will improve your grilling.
- Smoke hood: The hood turns a regular grill into a barbecue. Trapping smoke and heat inside allows your food to reach a higher temperature and become more flavorful.
- Infrared burner: An infrared burner uses less fuel and cooks more quickly than a traditional gas burner. High-end grill will usually include both infrared burners and burners for “low and slow” cooking.
