There are pros and cons to both gas and charcoal grills. Figure out what you need, what features you want and what you're willing to put up with to figure out which type is right for you.
- Look at the finish carefully. Painted grills aren't going to weather as well as stainless steel ones. Stainless cost more, though, so think about how much exterior maintenance you want to do.
- Look for shelves when purchasing grills, which can be incredibly handy for the backyard chef.
- Side burners on gas grills are great for sauces and side dishes.
- Consider price. Charcoal grills are usually much less expensive than gas grills.
- Figure out how much total cooking area you need. If you'll only be grilling hot dogs for three, you can get away with a 75-square-inch grill. The kind of food you grill and the number of people you're cooking for are important factors in choosing the size of the grill.
- Remember that the total cooking area listed on the sticker includes the warming rack if there is one. That means your actual cooking surface is smaller.
- Try to get wheeled barbecues of either variety. Wheels will make life much easier when it comes time to move the grill.
- Find a charcoal grill with an igniter. Charcoal grills usually require lighter fluid, but with this option, you won't need it and you won't miss fumbling with matches or lighters.
- Decide if time is a factor in your grilling. Charcoal grills are lit and then left to heat up over a period of time. They also require a long cool-down before they can be cleaned. Gas grills, on the other hand, are hot almost immediately and tend to be much easier to clean.
- Spend the extra cash on a gas grill if you want the convenience of instant flame and heat control knobs.
- Make sure the grill you choose has easy access to the ash pan (charcoal grill) or drip tray (gas grill). These make cleaning up a lot less messy.
- Insist on charcoal models with lids, which keep the smoke inside with the food and shorten cooking time.
Many city fire codes don't allow grills of any type within 15 feet of a building or on patios or decks. If you live in an apartment or condominium, make sure you can use and store your grill in the space you have.