9 things to consider when shopping for a grill

By Laura Daily
Special to The Washington Post

Thinking about adding an outdoor grill to your cooking arsenal, or replacing a well-loved model?

Whether you favor old-school charcoal, the convenience of propane or newer technology, such as a pellet or electric grill, you can find one that fits your budget, needs and cooking style.

Here’s what experts say you should consider:

Grilling styles

Do you barbecue every day or only on weekends? Are you cooking for two or a household of six and guests? What do you cook — steak, fish, or a full meal? Are you going to experiment with recipes and techniques or throw on burgers and call it a day? Do you like to monitor your grill or close the lid and set a timer? These factors can help you decide among charcoal, gas, pellet or a griddle, says Allan Kiezel, owner of the website Fatty Butts BBQ, which reviews outdoor grills.

Budget

An outdoor grill can cost from $200 for a basic charcoal model to $2,500 for a fully tricked-out gas version with Wi-Fi connectivity. Pellet grills, which have built-in electronics, cost $900 to $1,100. Electric grills are $399 to $900. Griddles start around $350. A decent basic propane, stainless steel four- to five-burner grill with cast iron grates can be had for $300 or less, says Matt Moore, author of “Butcher on the Block.” Looking for a deal? The best time to find sales is around Memorial Day, the Fourth of July and the end of summer.

Fuel

Outdoor grills use one of four fuels: charcoal, gas (propane or natural), pellets or electricity. Charcoal, gas and pellets all cost roughly the same: about $20 for a tank or bag. Propane is reasonably cheap and easy to replace, but it pays to have a spare tank handy. Pellets are easy to store and offer that wood-fired flavor. Charcoal can be messy and intimidating to light. And there are environmental considerations. Gas grills produce three times fewer carbon emissions than their charcoal counterparts, but gas is still a fossil fuel. Most charcoal comes from trees, a renewable resource. Electricity is the cleanest way to grill.

Different fuels also yield different results. A charcoal grill offers great flavor, open flames and the flexibility of using direct or indirect heat. But with no dials to control heat, there’s a learning curve to manage the live fire, Moore says. Propane grills are easy to use, reasonably priced and provide consistent heat. Pellet grills — Kiezel calls them the Easy-Bake Ovens of barbecue — offer the best of both charcoal and propane. Fueled by all-natural hardwood pellets, they offer consistent heat and a smoky, wood-fired flavor. An electric-controlled auger moves pellets from a hopper to the fire, while a fan circulates heat and smoke. Electric models are plug-and-grill, but they’re usually small and less durable than propane or charcoal grills, and they don’t provide the same flavor. Griddle grills are new to the market. “They’re phenomenal, like a big sauté pan on your patio, and cook all sorts of food without flare-ups. The only downside is no grill marks,” says Dustin Green, head grill master for outdoor grill manufacturer Weber.

Space

If possible, you want to set the grill at least 5 feet from your home to keep exhaust from damaging the siding, Green says. If you’re considering a pellet or electric grill, you’ll need an exterior electrical outlet nearby. In apartments or high-rises where charcoal and gas may be prohibited, opt for an electric grill.

Size

Space permitting, buy bigger than you think you want. “My rule of thumb is 30% larger. That way you have the extra grill space for when you host friends or family,” Moore says. For gas models, at minimum look for three burners (the tubes of gas that run from the front to back of the grill) and ideally four or five, to allow for both direct and indirect cooking.

Construction

You don’t need to measure the gauge of the exterior metal, which could be stainless steel, cast iron or sheet metal. But lift the cover and note whether it feels sturdy, Moore says. Knobs should be durable and easy to turn. Check the grates. Are they thicker cast iron or porcelain-coated, which retains heat, or are they lightweight plated steel? Look for metal wheels you can lock in place. Don’t be afraid to push and pull the grill to judge how easily it rolls.

Customer service

Kiezel says it’s just as important to research the quality of a manufacturer’s customer service as the grill itself. “Almost every grill I’ve owned has had a small part break at some point. Before you buy, call the customer service line. How long did you wait for a representative and are they familiar with the product?” he says.

Assembly

Ask your retailer whether it provides assembly and/or delivery, and what it charges. Some offer free or flat-fee delivery that includes hauling away your old grill. If you prefer to assemble it yourself, determine if it’s a one- or two-person job, and whether you need any special tools. Also research how long it should take to put together.

Accessories

A grill mat will protect flammable surfaces from sparks and ash and keep grease stains off any surface. Propane users may want a tank gauge, an inexpensive and easy-to-read dial that indicates when the tank is running low. Experts also strongly recommend a digital thermometer — available for around $15 — to measure internal food temperature. And of course, you will need a basic grill cover. Skip the brand name for a generic version at half the price.