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What is a Natural Gas Grill?

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

When it comes to backyard grilling, nothing beats a natural gas grill. As an example of an outdoor grill that is powered by the same natural gas that is used in the home, the natural gas grill is considered to be a cleaner and safer alternative to the use of gas grills that utilize propane tanks. Here are some examples of the benefits of natural gas grills, as well as some tips on how to choose the natural gas grill that is right for you and your family.

One of the things to understand about the natural gas grill is that the fuel source burns clean. This translates into less gunk to clean from the components on the grill itself that help to connect the grill burners and brazier to a heat source. Along with the cleaner burning, it is important to note that there is a good chance that using natural gas to fuel your gas grill will prove to be more cost effective. While it is true that natural gas only produces about half the cooking power that is produced by propane, it is also true that in many parts of the country, natural gas is significantly lower in cost. This means that even though you have to use more fuel to get the same results, you still end up saving money.

Grilled zucchini made on a natural gas grill.
Grilled zucchini made on a natural gas grill.

Selecting a natural gas grill is not terribly different from choosing any type of backyard grill. As is true in all cases, you want to make sure the natural gas grill that you choose is large enough for your needs. One good rule of thumb is to assume that you need at least four hundred square inches of grilling space in order to prepare enough food for a gathering of three to four people. That is enough space to allow for the simultaneous preparation of several hamburgers, hot dogs, and some side dishes, such as grilled vegetables without being cramped. Of course, if the destination of the natural gas grill is on a small side porch, you may want to look for a model that is slightly smaller.

A natural gas tank for a grill.
A natural gas tank for a grill.

Another factor to consider when purchasing a natural gas grill is the amount of control you have over the flame and ignition process. Many of the gas grill models on the market today allow for a simple ignition switch, which makes the process quick and easy. The ability to adjust the flame is also important, and often is accomplished with simple knobs that are very similar to those found on gas ranges and ovens. With some models of the natural gas grill, there are control knobs that allow you to adjust the flames in different sectors of the grill. This means your grilled vegetables can be cooked over a lower flame while your hot dogs are roasting over a higher one.

An outdoor natural gas grill is powered by the same natural gas that is used in the home.
An outdoor natural gas grill is powered by the same natural gas that is used in the home.

One last thing to consider before you buy any natural gas grill. Make sure the unit is stable. If the grill wobbles in the store, it will not be any better on your deck or in the back yard. You need a natural gas grill that is steady and will not be in danger of tipping over at the slightest bit of movement.

Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...
Malcolm Tatum
Malcolm Tatum

After many years in the teleconferencing industry, Michael decided to embrace his passion for trivia, research, and writing by becoming a full-time freelance writer. Since then, he has contributed articles to a variety of print and online publications, including WiseGEEK, and his work has also appeared in poetry collections, devotional anthologies, and several newspapers. Malcolm’s other interests include collecting vinyl records, minor league baseball, and cycling.

Learn more...

Discussion Comments

anon269605

Are natural gas fittings the same as LP fittings?

mdt

Depends on where you live, and what grills are readily available. But if the bottom line is you want to grill out, you go with the best option available. It is certainly possible that going with a grill with a dual fuel setup and using a conversion kit might be the best bet in some cases.

As far as how the food comes out, either method will work. I personally prefer natural gas for cooking, but that does not mean I can't do pretty good with the burgers on a charcoal or electric grill as well.

herbm

Is there an advantage to getting a grill with only a natural gas connection, as opposed to buying a grill with dual fuel and using a natural gas conversion kit? It seems that the selection for only natural gas grills is very small.

mdt

I have seen a few models designed specifically for use on small balconies of apartment buildings, so I am fairly sure you can find something that is functional and will fit in your small space. I would try calling your local gas company to see if they have something in stock. Even if the price they want is not what you want to pay, you will get an idea of based on the brand name and possibly find something similar at a home supply store, hardware store, or even an online retail shop.

anon11976

I just bought a new townhouse, and we ran a natural gas line out to the patio, which is ridiculously narrow-it is only 31 inches wide-is there any decent natural gas grill that we can get into this tiny space?

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    • Grilled zucchini made on a natural gas grill.
      Grilled zucchini made on a natural gas grill.
    • A natural gas tank for a grill.
      A natural gas tank for a grill.
    • An outdoor natural gas grill is powered by the same natural gas that is used in the home.
      By: Ingo Bartussek
      An outdoor natural gas grill is powered by the same natural gas that is used in the home.
    • Natural gas in considered to be a safer grill option than propane.
      By: Jim Lambert
      Natural gas in considered to be a safer grill option than propane.
    • A natural gas grill should be large enough to cook classic summer party foods like hot dogs.
      By: Springfield Gallery
      A natural gas grill should be large enough to cook classic summer party foods like hot dogs.