What Should I Consider When Buying a Barbecue?

There are many things to consider when buying a barbecue grill. One of the first things to consider is the type of grill you desire. You'll need to decide if you want a charcoal grill or prefer a gas version instead. Many people assert that barbecuing on a charcoal grill gives food the most barbecued flavor. This is purely opinion, however, and some people believe the taste difference is negligible.

Besides taste issues, many people choose a grill because of convenience. With a gas grill, there are no messy coals to light and no lighter fluid with which to work. Instead, you can start most gas grills with the simple push of a button or turn of a dial. Gas grills tend to have more features than charcoal versions as well. On the other hand, charcoal grills are considered simpler to use and are generally less expensive. There are even some grills that use a combination of gas and charcoal.

The next thing to consider when buying a barbecue grill is size. If you typically cook for just one or two people at a time, you probably don't need a huge barbecue grill. A good rule of thumb when buying a barbecue grill is to select one with at least 400 square inches (1016 cm) of cooking space. This will allow you to cook decent-sized meals, consisting of meat or fish, vegetables, and bread. It will also give you enough room to cook for company every now and then.

Be sure to consider desirable features when buying a barbecue grill. When you're cooking in the great outdoors, the last thing you want is a bunch of hassle. It is wise to look for features like storage space, shelves, and good-sized food-preparation surfaces. For gas grills, look for models that have stay-cool knobs and buttons. Without going overboard with features you are unlikely to use, it is smart to choose the best grill, in terms of features and options, that you can afford.

One of the most important things to consider when buying a barbecue grill is assembly. Owning a great grill won't do you much good if you can't figure out how to put it together. Look for a model with easy-to-understand instructions. If you really like things easy, shop for your grill in a store that offers free assembly.

Price is important when buying a barbecue grill. Charcoal grills are typically less expensive. Even the high-end models tend to be less costly than comparable gas grills. Still, you can find gas grills at fairly low prices as well. If you're buying a barbecue grill at the end of the season, you may be able to find good bargains no matter what type you choose.

Keep in mind that there are some alternatives to buying a barbecue grill that uses gas or charcoal. Electric versions are less popular, but they can be used both indoors and outdoors and are conveniently portable. In addition, you simply plug them in to get them started. With prices that range from budget-level to a couple of thousand US Dollars (USD), electric grills are popular in locations where the use of charcoal and gas grills is prohibited. Additionally, infrared grills are gaining notice in the premium grill market.