A grill can be something you buy on a whim, but it can also be an important investment. If you’re looking to become a grill master, then chances are you view them as the later. Understanding the options available to you and how to pick the right one is important to getting the best value for your money and finding a grill that you’ll be happy with. We’ve put together this guide to help you.
The Different Types of BBQ Grills
The first step to bringing home your first BBQ is deciding which type of grill you’ll be buying. Each has a set of pros and cons that depend largely on what your preferences are and how you’ll be using the grill. The types available to you are:
- Charcoal Grills: These are the earliest types of outdoor grills, and still very popular due to the smoky flavor they impart to the food and the traditional feel of cooking out on a charcoal grill. They rely on charcoal doused in lighter fluid and lit on fire to provide the heat for cooking.
- Gas Grills: This is the second most popular option for home grills. Gas grills rely on propane or natural gas instead of charcoal to provide the flame. As a result, the food still gets a little of that flame-kissed flavor, but not as strongly as it does with charcoal.
- Electric Grills: These are popular indoor cooking appliances, but less popular among those looking for a traditional BBQ experience. They require no fuel other than the electricity in your home but don’t provide any of the characteristic flavors of a traditional grill.
- Pellet Grills: Designed to bridge the gap between a smoker and a grill, pellet grills use wood pellets as their fuel. A variety of different woods can be used to impart different flavors to the food as it cooks.
Popular Brands of BBQ
When purchasing a grill, you want to make sure you’re getting something high-quality. Although not an exhaustive list, below are some of the top brands in grilling, known for producing quality products:
- Weber: Perhaps the most common name in grilling, Weber has a diverse product line of gas and charcoal grills.
- Traeger: An early pioneer of wood pellet grills, Traeger is a top name for those wanting the taste of wood-cooked food.
- Blackstone: Blackstone is a renowned grill company known for its high-quality, versatile griddles and outdoor cooking equipment that are popular among outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
Factors to Consider When Purchasing Your First BBQ
Purpose and Frequency of Use
If you’re going to buy the right grill for the job, you need to know what the job is. Will be hosting large backyard parties or primarily using the grill for family dinners? This will determine how large of a grill you need.
How often you use the grill will dictate how durable you need it to be. If it’ll be used every weekend, it’s best to invest in a high-quality grill. Something that will only be used every once in a while doesn’t need to be as durable.
Space and Location
BBQs can range from tiny enough to carry with you on a picnic to part of a full outdoor kitchen setup. Will you be grilling on the back of a tailgate, or making the grill the centerpiece of a backyard hangout? For most people, it’s something in the middle. Either way, you must consider how much space you have available when selecting a grill.
When deciding on where to put the grill, remember that you’ll need a well-ventilated area that’s free from any flammable materials. Also, be sure to check any local regulations or community rules for additional requirements.
Budget
Grills are available for nearly every budget. Make sure to set a budget before you start your search so you’ll be able to narrow down your options. Remember, price is often a reflection of quality; so don’t necessarily go for the cheapest option, especially if you plan on using the grill frequently. If you want a budget option, try some of the cheaper grills from the name-brand manufacturers. This will help to ensure a long-lasting grill even at a budget price.
Features and Extras
Grills are available with more features now than ever before. You’ll even find Wi-Fi-enabled smart grills. Some more common extras include:
- Various storage options
- Built-in thermometers
- Rotisserie kits
- Wheels
As for the grill itself, pay attention to the grill material. Cast iron cooks really well, but is high maintenance. Stainless steel is easier to clean, but might not heat as well. Porcelain-coated grates are non-stick and easy to clean, but can be delicate.
The build quality of the grill is also something to pay attention to. Cheap grills can be wobbly, have poor quality ventilation, and lids that don’t seal well.
Essential Accessories and Tools for a New BBQ Owner
Once you’ve picked out a grill, there are still purchases to be made. Some of the accessories below are helpful when grilling out, and some are required. Either way, each of these items is an affordable way to make sure your grilling experience is a pleasant one.
- Fuel: Whether it’s charcoal, gas, or pellets, make sure you have some fuel for your grill.
- Thermometer: A good meat thermometer will ensure the meat is cooked safely and to perfection.
- Grilling utensils: A spatula and tongs make it easy to flip and move the items you cook on the grill.
- Cleaning tools: Grills require a lot of upkeep. A wire brush and some cleaning solutions will make it a breeze.
Get the Grill of Your Dreams from Builders
If you’re looking for grills in Kearney, Builders has a large selection of top brands. You’ll find pellet, gas, and charcoal grills to fit any budget. After you decide on a grill, stick around and browse the nice selection of accessories for it. You can even get your first cookout off to the right start with sauces and seasonings you won’t find in the grocery store.
