Welcome to the ultimate Grill Buying Guide. We make choosing the best grill for your BBQ simple. Grilling is more than cooking; it’s a way to connect with loved ones, especially in the summer. With so many options, over 200 grill models often appear in Consumer Reports, making it hard to choose.
Consider three key things: your budget, how much you will cook, and the fuel type. Setting a budget helps narrow down your choices. Many top grills cost under £500, but some can go over £3,000.
It’s crucial to know how many people you usually cook for. Gas BBQs can serve up to 16 people, ideal for big parties. Charcoal grills fit around 12. Your choice between gas, charcoal, or innovative pellet grills will change the way you cook.
This guide will help you pick a grill that suits your needs. With our help, your BBQs will be tasty, memorable, and fun.
Understanding Your BBQ Needs
Choosing the right barbecue requires knowing what you need. This means looking at your budget, how much food you need to cook, and the type of fuel you prefer. Thinking about these things carefully will help you have great times with loved ones, enjoying tasty meals and lots of smiles.
Identifying Your Budget
Knowing your budget is key before picking the perfect grill. BBQ prices vary a lot, depending on quality and features. Prices for simple models might start below £100, while high-end grills could cost up to £2,000. Think about what features matter for your cooking. Then, you can set a realistic budget that meets your BBQ wishes.
Determining Cooking Capacity
How much food you can cook at once is important. A small BBQ is fine for 1-2 people, but larger ones can feed 8 or more. Consider a 6 Burner Gas BBQ for busy parties, it can cook 30 burgers at once. If you often host big gatherings, choose a BBQ with a large cooking area, so everyone gets a taste of your dishes.
Choosing the Right Fuel Type
The fuel type affects your cooking and the taste of your food. Gas BBQs are easy to use and cook food quickly, while charcoal BBQs add a special flavour but take longer to heat up. Think about how you like to cook and the time you’re willing to spend starting the fire. Choose the fuel type that fits your cooking style and preferences.
Grill Buying Guide: Choosing the Best for Your BBQ
Choosing the right grill for your BBQ is crucial. You need to think about different grill types. Each kind has its own perks and special features. We’ll look at gas vs charcoal grills, check out hybrid and pellet grills, and talk about important features and extras.
Comparing Gas vs Charcoal Grills
Gas grills are a favourite for many, offering both liquid propane and natural gas choices. They light up fast, usually in less than ten minutes. This makes them great for those who want quick and easy starts. Natural gas is also cheaper and cleaner than propane.
Charcoal grills, however, are known for their classic smoky taste. They work with briquettes or lump charcoal but need more time to heat up. Managing their heat is trickier. Still, each fuel type has its own benefits, meeting different grilling needs.
Exploring Hybrid and Pellet Grills
Hybrid grills let you go between gas and charcoal, giving you flexibility. They suit those who like to change up their grilling style. Pellet grills use wood pellets and can cost from £350 to £2,000+. They handle a wide range of temperatures for various cooking styles but don’t get as hot as gas or charcoal grills.
The grill you pick depends on what tastes you’re after and how you like to cook. If you love smoky flavours and slow-cooked food, pellet grills are a good choice. Gas or charcoal might be better for those who prefer quicker cooking or the charcoal method.
Assessing Key Features and Accessories
Looking at grill features, some extras can make cooking better. Side burners are good for sauces or sides, and wheels make moving the grill easier. Many new grills come with smart tech for better temperature control and cooking from your phone.
The Weber iGrill system, for example, helps track food temperature with an app. This makes your cooking more precise. Grills like the Traeger Timberline 850 also have apps for easy temperature adjustments. Adjustable grates give you more control, and fuel gauges tell you how much propane you have left, so you’re always prepared.
Grilling Tips and Safety Essentials
Successful grilling is more than choosing the right BBQ. It’s about knowing key techniques and safety steps. A top tip is to find the best spot for your grill. Make sure it’s on a steady surface, far from anything that can catch fire, and in a spot with plenty of air. This makes grilling fun and safe.
For gas BBQs, checking the gas connections carefully before starting is crucial. This step prevents accidents and ensures everything runs smoothly. Knowing how to light your grill properly is also important. Use the right firelighters and fuels made for BBQs to make starting the fire safe and easy. Keep matches and fuel away from the grill to stay safe.
Looking after your BBQ matters just as much as the cooking. Different materials need different care to last longer. Stainless steel grills are easy to clean and hard-wearing. But, cast iron grills keep heat well and need oiling to avoid rust. After cooking, wait for the grill to cool completely before cleaning and storing. This keeps you safe and your equipment in good shape. Follow these grilling tips and safety advice for a great BBQ every time.
