How to Choose a Grill for Your Outdoor Kitchen - The Summerset Outdoor Kitchen Planning Series

Here it is - Grill Time! Many have sunk time and money into an outdoor kitchen design by beginning with the high-end grill they have been drooling over for years before adequately planning. The Summerset Outdoor Kitchen Planning Series continues how to choose a grill for your outdoor kitchen.

This series has taken nine phases of planning and strategizing before considering grill options, which is a recipe for success in finishing the outdoor space on time and budget. The grill is the most important outdoor kitchen feature and an excellent place to invest a big chunk of the budget, but you should never rush it.

Think Through What You Need and Want from a Grill

When researching grills, beyond budget and space, it is necessary to catalog needs and wants before shopping:

• Preferred type of cooking?
• Grilling periodically or several times per week?
• Grilling outdoors all year or only summer months?
• Planning to cook for family or entertain large crowds in the backyard?

How to Choose the Right Grill

When using the grill often and enjoying new recipes or cooking techniques, basic grills may not have enough power or features to satisfy. Side burners, power burners, and built-in griddles are also great additions to have near the grill. With a side burner, sauces or side dishes can easily be prepared while grilling, and built-in griddles add tremendous versatility. For entertaining, it would be best to consider at least a 36" or larger grill, allowing ample cooking space to feed a crowd without spending all day grilling.

Grill Construction

Durability and longevity are definite considerations when choosing a grill because virtually all grills are of different sizes and dimensions. If a lower-end grill is selected, it will be just a matter of time till it needs replacement, and there will always be some modification necessary to the island or countertops to fit the new grill. There is a better chance of sticking to a budget by going with a high-quality, more expensive grill from the beginning that is well made and will last for years. Look for models constructed from #304 stainless steel on the interior and exterior, so they can weather the elements and last for years without rusting.

Grill Fuel Options

Gas and propane grills are among the most popular options. Although these grills may cost more upfront to purchase, the ongoing costs to operate them are lower than for a charcoal grill.  While charcoal grills can be messy and more time-consuming to light, it’s hard to beat the taste of meat grilled over a charcoal flame. Available in a wide range of prices and styles, opt for a primary charcoal grill or choose to purchase a smaller, portable model as a secondary grilling option. If the budget allows, look for a multi-fuel grill that offers both options in one unit.

Find Your Grill at Summerset Grills!

Summerset Grills is your partner for a luxurious outdoor cooking experience with plenty of choices of models and features to consider. Every grill is designed to provide years of service, high-end features, and sleek style. Summerset Grills are engineered with an additional heat barrier between the firebox and the interior cooking area to help ensure longevity for many years of responsible outdoor cooking.

Explore our wide range of grills, appliances, and accessories today, and find the grill of your dreams!