Outdoor Cooking

Match appliance type to use: charcoal or gas grills for traditional grilling, pellet grills or smokers for low-and-slow smoking, and portable grills for small patios. Consider available space, fuel availability, cooking capacity (primary cooking area in sq. inches), and whether you need side burners or prep surfaces

Prices vary by type and features: basic portable grills often fall under $100, mid-range gas or charcoal grills commonly range from about $200 to $800, and higher-end pellet grills or large gas/charcoal combos can exceed (price varies); the category average price is in the low hundreds

Key features include build materials (stainless steel or porcelain-coated steel for corrosion resistance), BTU or heat output and heat distribution, temperature control (adjustable burners, dampers, or PID controllers on pellet grills), and useful extras like side shelves, warming racks, and integrated thermometers

Regularly clean grates and grease trays, cover the unit when not in use, inspect and replace worn parts like igniters and hoses, season cast-iron grates as needed, and perform annual deep cleaning including burner ports and fuel delivery components

Operate grills on a stable, non-combustible surface away from structures and overhangs, keep a fire extinguisher or water source nearby, follow manufacturer instructions for gas connections and leak checks, and never leave a hot grill unattended

Most units are designed for a specific fuel type; converting between fuel types usually requires a purpose-built conversion kit or a different appliance. Choose the fuel that matches your desired cooking style and the appliance's intended design

Estimate about 80–100 square inches of cooking area per 2–4 people for casual grilling; multiple burners provide more flexible cooking zones for indirect heat and simultaneous searing and warming