Propane Grill Buying Guide

Find out what to look for in a propane grill and show off your grilling skills.

With the weather warming up, you’ll probably be grilling your favorite foods out on the deck or patio. If you’re thinking about investing in a propane grill, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.

What you’ll be cooking

If you plan on cooking the typical grill food—burgers, steaks, chicken breast, vegetables, etc.—you’ll want a smaller propane grill. If you’re going to cook bigger cuts of meat, such as a whole birds, you will need a larger grill. If you do plan on cooking whole chickens or turkeys, a rotisserie burner is a great addition for your grill. You will also want a large grill if you plan on cooking for a large group of people.

Another consideration when planning the grilling menu is looking for a propane grill with a side burner. A side burner gives you the ability to cook other dishes with the grill’s main course. You won’t have to run in and out of the house as often with the addition of a side burner.

There are all sorts of grill accessories to help you make the perfect meal on the grill. You can even use some of our great grilling recipes for pork chops, cheeseburgers, salmon and chicken. The possibilities are endless on a quality propane grill.

British Thermal Unit (BTU)

BTU measures how much gas a propane grill uses, and its heating potential. Don’t be fooled. Just because a grill has more BTUs doesn’t mean a grill will cook better or faster. The higher the BTU measurement, the more you will have to fill the propane tank. 80 to 100 BTUs per square inch is a good number for a standard propane grill. Don’t invest in a grill solely on the BTU rating. You should be looking for a sturdy grill that will meet your cooking needs.

Where you’ll be cooking

When you’re picking out a propane grill, you’ll want to make sure you actually have room for it. The last thing you want is to get home and your grill won’t fit. Measure the space where your grill will go before buying it. Also make sure to follow grill safety tips, keeping the grill away from anything flammable.

Propane grill maintenance

Some grills come with a clean setting button for easy cleanup. Clean settings will help to burn off excess grease. You’ll want to keep your propane grill clean to avoid grease and smoke buildup. You will also want to invest in a grill cover. It will protect your grill from harsh weather.