Barbecue Basics

Regardless of whether you’re a summer sizzler or enjoy cooking on the BBQ all year long, finding a grill that is capable of searing up plate after plate of delicious dishes is no easy feat. There are a number of factors you’ll want to consider such as size, style, and usage before you commit to the purchase. We’ve outlined below the first things you should consider before picking out your dream grill.

Freestanding, Built In, Portable

Freestanding BBQs are easily maneuverable (as they often have wheels) and can be stored in different areas of your backyard or patio depending on the season. For instance, you might want your BBQ a little bit closer to the door when it’s freezing cold out during the winter months but might not mind walking the extra distance in the summer.

Built-in BBQs are physically built into a permanent space in your backyard or patio. Built-ins are a staple item for the outdoor entertainer and those who desire to bring the cooking experience outdoors. They are often much larger than freestanding BBQs, and the possibility for adding exciting extras such as pizza ovens, warming, paper towel, and trash drawers, margarita centres and even breakfast nooks, are endless.

Portable BBQs are an ideal option for those who love to camp or tailgate and bring the grilling experience with them. They’re small in size, making them easy to move around, however, they are also capable of grilling up savoury meats when you crave it most.

All About BTUs

British Thermal Units (BTUs) are simply the way heat from a BBQ is measured. BTUs are measured in terms of how much heat a burner can generate while on high. A general recommendation would be to look for a BBQ that can produce around 100 BTUs per square inch of cooking space, so if you’re looking into a model with 400 square inches of cooking space, it should yield at least 40,000 BTUs.

Typically, the higher the BTUs, the better, as you’ll have more control over the temperature of the burners which in turn can lead to more accuracy when grilling. However, BTUs alone do not guarantee better or faster cooking. What matters most is the actual surface on which you’ll be cooking your food. It’s best to look for a high-quality, heavy, stainless steel or cast-iron grill grate which will hold the heat in and cook more efficiently.

What’s Cookin’?

Consider what you’re planning to cook for most meals. Are you going to be using the BBQ for cooking hot dogs and burgers or are you a foodie who wants to sear roasts or cook chickens on a rotisserie every night of the week? Do you want to be able to grill vegetables or other side dishes as well? Considering how often and what you’re cooking can help determine which grill will best suit your particular needs. There are so many options these days you can find the perfect grill to suit any grill masters needs. 

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