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Gas Grill Features and Purchasing Tips

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The most noticeable difference between grilling/using-a-gas-grill/">gas grills exists in the features that different models offer. As you shop for a gas grill, you might come across some of these features:

• An interior rack provides a secondary location where you can keep food warm without continuing to cook it.

• Side burners give you extra cooking space outside the lid so that you can monitor items as they cook and/or cook them at a different temperature.

• A deep fryer, electric rotisserie, and smoker drawer offer you other cooking methods besides simple grilling.

• Lighting holes allow you to light your grill using a match when the ignition switch fails.

• The color of your grill largely depends on your personal preference; black is the most common choice.

Manufacturers advertise many other features, but you might want to simply ask friends and neighbors who own grills what features they use and like to determine the features for which you want to pay extra. In addition, consider how often you grill, as well as how many people you serve when you grill. Gas grill sizes range from small (fewer than 330 square inches) to average (340 to 490 square inches) to large (more than 500 square inches), but even the small grills work well for family dinners and small grilling parties. Whatever size grill you purchase, look for grills with parts made from quality material.

• Grate: Cast-iron and stainless steel grates are the best, and porcelain-coated steel grates work well also.

• Lid and Firebox: Steel construction is preferable to aluminum.

• Cart and Wheels: Is the cart sturdy or does it wiggle and shake?

• Ignition: Electronic ignition buttons are the best, followed by knobs and push buttons.

• Burners: Stainless steel, cast-iron, and cast-brass are the best material.

• Manufacturer Add-Ons: Is a propane tank or a fuel gauge included? Will the manufacturer deliver and install your grill? If not, is it easy to assemble yourself? Is there a comprehensive warranty?

Consumer Reports named models from five different brands as its “Quick Picks,” and Char-Broil was the only manufacturer that had two recognized models. Remember, however, to consider how much you grill; if you only use your grill on occasion, you are less likely to need all the fancy features and the sturdiest construction.

Next Page: Should I purchase a gas grill or a charcoal grill?

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