What To Look For In A Charcoal Grill

The Elements of a Charcoal Grill

The beauty of a charcoal grill is its simplicity. At the core of a good charcoal grill is a charcoal grate to place the fuel on. Above that is a cooking grate. A lid with air vents tops it off, simple and uncomplicated.

Solid construction

A good, well-built grill will feel solid and sturdy; a poorly made grill will wiggle. If a grill isn’t solid on the sales floor, chances are it will fall apart rather quickly on the patio or deck. Choose a grill made of high grade U.S. steel. Also opt for a baked-on, porcelain-enamel finish. The legs should be sturdy, wheels should roll easily, and the grill should display a good fit and finish.

Cooking grates are generally made from nickel or chrome-plated aluminum. A thicker, heavier-gauge cooking grate will last longer and distribute and retain heat better. Grates coated with porcelain enamel are a common step-up feature. The best grates are made of cast iron, stainless steel, or porcelain-coated aluminum or cast iron.

Assembly

When you buy a barbecue you want to grill, not drill, so fast, easy assembly is a priority. Some grills require hours (and an engineering degree) to assemble. Better brands reduce or eliminate the amount of assembly required by the consumer

Service & Maintenance

Top notch after market service supports any quality made grill, including thorough, easy-to-read information about the product, and a toll-free service line. A good grill is easy to clean and to maintain. Long-life is assured by easy access to replacement parts and service through a well established servicing dealer network.

Safety

A good grill controls heat easily, has handles that stay cool to the touch, and has added safety features.

Long warranty

It makes sense: the best manufacturers can afford to stand behind their products. Don’t settle for less than a 10 year warranty.