Fuel Types

There are four main types of fuel for grills: Natural Gas (NG), Liquid Propane (LP), Electricity and Charcoal.

Natural Gas -- Probably the most convenient fuel of the four, it is the cleanest burning of the group. It is more expensive to set up in the yard, however, as it requires a gas line run from the house. If your house is not served by a natural gas service, it would probably rule this out as a choice. Here is a more detailed look at Natural Gas (NG).

Propane -- The next best of the group. It is stored in portable, pressurized bottles and used as needed. It is relatively inexpensive and clean. The downside is that it requires you to drive to the local gas supplier and refill the bottle. Also, the bottle needs to be recertified and replaced occasionally. Although this is fairly cheap, some may find this process more than they wish to handle. Here is a more detailed look at Liquid Propane (LP).

Electricity -- Electric grills can be convenient, and they are especially useful for tailgating parties and other outdoor events where gas units may not be allowed or safe to use. There’s no mess outside of the food; the main issues are the general availability of an electrical outlet and the fact that these are generally cooler grills that take a long time to warm up. Also, you have far less precise control over your heat. As these grills are roughly the same, I refrain from comparing these units here.

Charcoal -- Purists will tell you that there is no replacement for charcoal. I find that the main drawbacks to charcoal is the mess, the expense, limited BTU’s within the fuel source itself, and the lack of control over the BTU output. As there is little to compare from charcoal grill to charcoal grill, I omit charcoal from my reviews. I do, however, make special note of those grills that can handle charcoal as a secondary fuel source.