What To Look For in a Charcoal Grill
Okay, you've got the fever. But do you have the right grill? Remember, your food's only going to be as good as your grill, so make sure a one-time bargain doesn't turn into a long-term disappointment. Invest in a good grill and you can focus on dinner, not your toolbox.
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 heavy-duty plated steel 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, and 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.
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