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Selecting the Grill

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Since the grill is the main component of an outdoor kitchen the information below in intended to assist you in choosing this important feature. Whichever grill you choose, you'll get the best price by shopping end of the outdoor-cooking season or just before it starts. Another option is to make sure the grill you buy can be detached from its storage cart. Use it this year and then buy the surround next summer.
 
  • Charcoal units which can range from $80 to $500 with the high end models including work shelves, charcoal storage and auto ignition systems.
 
  • Gas units offer more advantages and provide greater control over cooking temperatures. Many can be built into an incombustible surround for a more permanent appearance. Good-quality grilling/using-a-gas-grill/">gas grills start at about $200 and top out in the $4,000 range. That's a big spread, but you can narrow it once you determine what you need. Remember, the price of a grill rises as the size of the cooking surface, BTU output and extras increase.
                       
                        For $200 you can expect 350 sq. in. of cooking surface and 22,000 BTU of cooking power. That compares with 10,000 to 12,000 BTU for the typical indoor range or cook top. Grills in this price range usually come in an aluminum housing attached to a portable cart.
 
                        $4,000 will get you a built-in unit that pumps out 60,000 BTU and has more than 800 sq. in. of cooking surface. It also includes conveniences like side burners and a built-in rotisserie.
 
  • If you like the built-in look, smaller versions of premium units are available. Traditional grill companies offer stainless-steel or porcelain-enamel units that are appropriate for built-in installations. These produce 40,000 to 50,000 BTU, have 400-plus sq. in. of cooking surface and start at around $1,600. Because indoor-range companies now market outdoor grills, prices should drop in this category. A built-in grill will require a surround.
            If you choose one made of combustible material, make sure the grill is designed for zero-clearance installations where it can touch the surround safely or include a stainless-steel sleeve in your plans.



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