Tool Spotlight: Gas Grills

As the weather gets warmer, it is time to fire up the grill and celebrate cook-out season. Although nothing beats the flavor of a grilled steak or shish kabobs, half the allure of grilling is the action of actually being outside cooking over an open flame.

While many styles of grills are available, if you are making a long-term investment, a gas grill is a wise choice. While gas grills tend to be more expensive than charcoal grills, propane is a cheaper fuel source than charcoal. So if you plan to cook out frequently, the upfront cost will even itself out over the long run. Gas grills can also reach their maximum heat setting in as little as 10 minutes, and you have control over the grill temperature with just a turn of a knob.

The prices of gas grills can vary greatly depending on how flashy you want yours to be. If you aren’t looking to play “keeping up with the Joneses,” it is best to stick with a simple design and avoid the temptation of unnecessary features like a built-in refrigerator or oven. While those add-ons sound like a fun idea, they may increase the risk of costly repairs and aren’t frequently utilized.

Most major styles of gas grills will have at least two burners with their respective heat adjustments, an attached lid, and a secondary shelf for indirect heat. While the options vary greatly, some also include side burners and a rotisserie. When shopping for a grill, you don’t need to spend a fortune. Because there are so many grills on the market, the prices are rather competitive. Look for a grill with a solid structure and safety features like a handle that leaves plenty of distance between the lid and your fingers.

Grilling is a popular summer pastime for American families and is often the heart of a backyard gathering. Approximately 72 percent of all U.S. households have a grill, according to Hearth, Patio and Barbeque Association. Grills can also serve as a backup cooking tool if you lose power to the house. Join in the fun of a summer cookout and add a gas grill to your growing list of cooking tools.