Best Outdoor Natural Gas Grills Reviews

Best Outdoor Natural Gas Grills: Reviews and Buying Guide

For homeowners with existing natural gas lines, a natural gas grill offers a convenient and cost-effective grilling solution. Unlike propane grills that require refilling tanks, natural gas grills connect directly to a home's gas supply, eliminating the hassle of running out of fuel mid-cookout. This article provides a comprehensive overview of some of the best outdoor natural gas grills currently available, focusing on their features, performance, and overall value. It also serves as a buying guide, outlining the key considerations when selecting a natural gas grill.

The popularity of natural gas grills stems from their ease of use and consistent fuel supply. This constant fuel flow ensures that the temperature will not fluctuate compared to propane grills, meaning the grill master can focus on the food and not the fuel. While the initial installation might require professional help to connect to the gas line, the long-term convenience makes it a popular choice for grilling enthusiasts.

Key Point 1: Understanding the Advantages of Natural Gas Grills

Switching to a natural gas grill offers several distinct benefits beyond the avoidance of propane tank refills. These advantages can significantly enhance the grilling experience and contribute to long-term savings.

Convenience: The primary advantage of a natural gas grill is the continuous fuel supply. Once connected to the gas line, there's no need to worry about running out of fuel in the middle of cooking. This eliminates the last-minute trips to refill propane tanks and ensures a consistent heat source for extended grilling sessions.

Cost-Effectiveness: Natural gas is generally cheaper than propane. Over time, the savings on fuel costs can offset the initial investment in a natural gas grill and its installation. Homeowners who grill frequently will likely find that natural gas offers a more economical solution than propane.

Environmental Considerations: Natural gas is often considered a cleaner-burning fuel than propane. Although both fuels contribute to emissions, natural gas typically produces fewer greenhouse gases during combustion. This aspect is increasingly important for environmentally conscious consumers.

Consistent Heat Output: Many users report that natural gas grills provide a more consistent heat output compared to propane grills, which can experience pressure drops as the tank empties. This consistent heat allows for better temperature control and more even cooking results.

Key Point 2: Top Natural Gas Grill Models and Their Features

The market offers a wide array of natural gas grills, each with its own set of features and price points. This section highlights several highly rated models, outlining their specific attributes and performance characteristics.

Weber Genesis II E-335 Natural Gas Grill: Weber consistently ranks high in grill reviews, and the Genesis II E-335 is no exception. It features three stainless steel burners, delivering consistent heat across the cooking surface. The grill also includes a sear station burner for achieving restaurant-quality sear marks and a side burner for simmering sauces. The GS4 High-Performance Grilling System ensures reliable ignition and even heat distribution. The durable construction and porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates contribute to its longevity and ease of cleaning. It is known for its consistent temperature as well as its ease of use.

Napoleon Prestige 500 Natural Gas Grill: The Napoleon Prestige 500 stands out for its high-end features and performance. It boasts four stainless steel burners, along with infrared rear and side burners. The infrared technology delivers intense heat, ideal for searing and rotisserie cooking. The WAVE cooking grids create distinctive sear marks, and the Jetfire ignition system ensures a reliable start every time. It also has a warming rack to keep foods hot. The stainless steel construction and illuminated control knobs add to its premium appeal.

Broil King Baron S490 Pro Natural Gas Grill: The Broil King Baron S490 Pro is a mid-range option that offers a good balance of performance and value. It features four stainless steel Dual-Tube burners, providing even heat distribution across the cooking surface. The Flav-R-Wave cooking system vaporizes drippings, adding flavor to the food. The stainless steel construction ensures durability, and the linear flow valves allow for precise temperature control. It offers a slightly lower price point than other high-performing grills.

Lion Premium Grills L7500 Natural Gas Grill: The Lion Premium Grills L7500 is a robust and high-performance grill. Constructed from 304 stainless steel, it is built to withstand the elements. It features four cast stainless steel burners, a rotisserie burner, and a smoker box. The generous cooking space and powerful burners make it suitable for large gatherings. The grill is equipped with interior lights and a temperature gauge for precise cooking. It is known for its high level of craftsmanship.

Blaze BLZ-3LTE2-NG LTE 32-Inch 3-Burner Natural Gas Grill: Blaze grills are recognized for their robust construction and exceptional heat output. The BLZ-3LTE2-NG features three commercial-grade cast stainless steel H-burners, delivering powerful and even heat across the cooking surface. The heavy-duty stainless steel cooking grates and flame tamers contribute to its durability and performance. The grill also includes a warming rack and a removable drip tray for easy cleaning. The lifetime warranty reflects the manufacturer's confidence in the product's quality. It is extremely popular for its powerful and reliable performance.

Key Point 3: Factors to Consider When Choosing a Natural Gas Grill

Selecting the right natural gas grill requires careful consideration of several factors, including size, features, construction, and budget. Evaluating these aspects will help ensure that the chosen grill meets individual needs and preferences.

Size and Cooking Area: The size of the cooking area should be determined by the number of people typically being cooked for. For smaller families or occasional grilling, a smaller grill with around 400-500 square inches of cooking space may suffice. Larger families or those who frequently entertain may require a larger grill with 600 square inches or more. Consider the amount of food that will be grilled at once to determine the appropriate cooking area.

Burner Material and Configuration: Stainless steel burners are generally more durable and resistant to corrosion than other materials. The configuration of the burners affects heat distribution. Look for grills with evenly spaced burners and a design that minimizes cold spots. Grills with multiple burners allow for greater temperature control, enabling the user to create different heat zones for various cooking techniques.

Construction and Materials: The overall construction and materials used in the grill's construction affect its durability and longevity. Stainless steel is a popular choice for its resistance to rust and corrosion. Look for grills with heavy-duty components and sturdy construction. The quality of the cooking grates also matters. Cast iron grates retain heat well but require regular maintenance to prevent rust. Stainless steel grates are easier to clean but may not retain heat as effectively as cast iron.

Features and Accessories: Many natural gas grills come with additional features and accessories that can enhance the grilling experience. Side burners are useful for simmering sauces or cooking side dishes. Sear stations provide intense heat for searing meats. Rotisserie kits allow for slow-roasting larger cuts of meat. Smoker boxes enable the user to add smoky flavor to the food. Consider which features are most important and choose a grill that offers them.

BTU Output: BTU (British Thermal Unit) output measures the amount of heat a grill can produce. While a higher BTU output does not necessarily equate to better grilling performance, it can indicate the grill's ability to reach high temperatures quickly. Consider the BTU output in relation to the size of the cooking area. A grill with a high BTU output and a large cooking area may be more efficient than a grill with a lower BTU output and a smaller cooking area.

Price and Budget: Natural gas grills range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Determine a budget before starting the shopping process and prioritize the features that are most important. Keep in mind that the installation of a natural gas line may also incur additional costs. Consider the long-term cost of ownership, including fuel costs and maintenance, when making a decision.

Warranty: A comprehensive warranty can provide peace of mind and protect against defects in materials and workmanship. Look for grills with warranties that cover the burners, cooking grates, and other key components. Be sure to read the terms and conditions of the warranty carefully to understand what is covered and what is not.

Safety Features: Safety features are paramount when choosing a natural gas grill. Look for grills with reliable ignition systems and safety valves that prevent gas leaks. Ensure that the grill is certified by a recognized testing organization, such as CSA or UL. Follow all safety guidelines and instructions provided by the manufacturer.

Fuel Conversion: It is important to not that most liquid propane (LP) grills cannot be directly converted to natural gas (NG) grills. There are different orifices and regulators that are designed for the different gas types. Make sure that you are purchasing a grill that is designed for your gas type.

By carefully considering these factors, consumers can select a natural gas grill that meets their specific needs and preferences, enhancing their outdoor cooking experience for years to come.