Charcoal vs. propane for grills is an endless debate for people who grill on a regular basis. However, this debate often leaves those who are new to grilling confused as to whether they should purchase a charcoal or gas barbecue. The fact is that there are benefits to both options, and it comes down to personal preference whether one is better than the other. To help you in making your decision, here are a few reasons to consider purchasing a gas grill.
Operating Costs
For the everyday griller, one of the greatest benefits of using a gas grill is the cheaper operating costs. With a charcoal grill, you will end up spending about $3.00-$3.50 in charcoal each time you use your grill. This could add up quickly if you end up using your grill frequently. Propane on the other hand is much more affordable as it costs about $1.00 to operate a gas grill for one hour (which is the average amount of time most individuals run their barbecue).
Ease of Use
Barbecuing using a charcoal grill can be quite a hassle. Not only do you have to get the charcoal set up, and get it to light, before you can use it, but then you will have to wait roughly 20-40 minutes before the coals will be ready to use. For individuals who tend to be in a hurry, gas grills make the better option. With a simple switch of a knob, your grill will be turned on and ready to go.
Wider Range of Features
Gas barbecues tend to have more options available for additional features. While charcoal grills tend to be plain and straightforward, a wide range of extras can be added to a gas barbecue including a rotisserie and a side burner for additional cooking space. Some gas grills even come with built-in thermometers, multiple burners for precise temperature control, and even smoker boxes for those who want to add a smoky flavor to their meats.
Environmental Impact
Another factor to consider when choosing between charcoal and propane grills is the environmental impact. Charcoal grills produce more carbon emissions compared to propane grills. Propane burns cleaner and produces fewer particulates, making it a more environmentally friendly option. For those who are environmentally conscious, this can be an important consideration in their decision-making process.
Flavor Considerations
One of the main arguments for charcoal grilling is the flavor it imparts to the food. Many grilling enthusiasts swear by the smoky, rich flavor that charcoal provides. However, modern gas grills have made significant strides in this area, with some models offering smoker boxes and wood chip trays that can mimic the flavor of charcoal grilling. While traditionalists may still prefer charcoal, many find that gas grills can deliver comparable flavors with the added convenience.
Maintenance and Cleanup
Cleaning up after a barbecue can be a daunting task, and this is another area where gas grills have an advantage. Charcoal grills require the disposal of ashes and leftover coals, which can be messy and time-consuming. In contrast, gas grills have a straightforward cleanup process, usually involving a simple brush of the grates and emptying a drip tray. This ease of maintenance can be a significant factor for those who want to spend more time enjoying their meals and less time cleaning up.
There are many benefits to both charcoal and gas grilling. Thusly, it is unlikely that the debate as to which is best will end anytime soon. However, for the average griller, the additional features available on gas grills, as well as the ease of using these grills, generally makes them the superior option. Contact us at Lawn & Leisure to find out more about the benefits of using a propane grill and to explore our wide range of options available to suit your grilling needs.