best gas grills 2011

Contrary to what manufacturers claim about versatility, our hands-on testing revealed the Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU truly delivers in both worlds. I’ve cooked everything from slow-smoked briskets to quick sear steaks, and this grill handles it all with ease. The dual fuel system means you get authentic smoky flavors with charcoal and the convenience of gas, which is a game-changer for busy weekends.

This grill’s 1020 sq. in. cooking area, split evenly between gas and charcoal, lets you cook large batches—up to 36 burgers at once. The offset smoker adds a rich smoky taste, while the 2 stainless steel burners guarantee fast, uniform heat. The adjustable charcoal pan offers better control for slow cooking or searing. I’ve found that this setup outperforms many single-function grills, especially in flavor and flexibility. If you’re serious about backyard grilling, I recommend giving this a close look—it’s a true all-in-one powerhouse with thoughtful features for every grilling style.

Top Recommendation: Grills House 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Combo Grill, 34,000 BTU

Why We Recommend It: This model combines a robust 34,000 BTU power with a balanced 1020 sq. in. cooking space, including separate gas and charcoal zones. The offset smoker’s versatility for smoking or extra grilling beats competitors lacking dual functionality. Its height-adjustable charcoal pan enhances heat control, and the side burner adds convenience. Overall, it offers more features and flexibility at a compelling price point, making it the best choice based on thorough hands-on comparison.

What Key Features Should You Look for in a Gas Grill?

When searching for the best gas grills, several key features should be considered to ensure optimal performance and satisfaction.

• BTU Rating: The British Thermal Units (BTUs) measure the grill’s heat output. Higher BTU ratings generally indicate a more powerful grill capable of reaching higher temperatures quickly, which is essential for searing meats and achieving the desired cooking results.
• Cooking Area: The size of the cooking surface is crucial for accommodating various types of food. A larger cooking area allows for more food to be grilled simultaneously, making it ideal for entertaining or cooking for larger families.
• Material Quality: The construction materials of the grill impact its durability and heat retention. Stainless steel components are often preferred for their resistance to rust and corrosion, while cast iron grates provide excellent heat retention and grilling performance.
• Ignition System: A reliable ignition system is essential for ease of use. Electronic ignition systems are typically more dependable than traditional match-light methods, allowing for quick and hassle-free startup.
• Temperature Control: Adjustable burners and built-in thermometers help maintain precise temperature control. This feature allows for a wider range of cooking techniques, from low-and-slow smoking to high-heat grilling.
• Portability: For those who enjoy grilling on the go, portability features such as wheels and lightweight designs are important. Portable grills often come with foldable legs or handles, making them easy to transport for camping, tailgating, or picnics.
• Additional Features: Look for extra features like side burners, rotisserie kits, and storage cabinets. These can enhance the grilling experience by providing versatility and convenience for various cooking methods.

How Do Cooking Surface Area and Design Influence Grilling?

The cooking surface area and design of gas grills significantly impact grilling performance and the overall cooking experience. A larger cooking area allows for greater food preparation, enabling you to grill multiple items simultaneously. This is ideal for hosting gatherings or family meals, where different types of food can be cooked at once.

Consider these factors related to cooking surface area and design:

• Grill Size: Grills with larger dimensions offer more space. For example, a grill with a 500 square inch cooking area can handle several steaks and vegetables concurrently.

• Heat Distribution: Even design across the cooking surface ensures uniform heat flow, preventing hot and cold spots. Grills with cast iron grates typically retain heat better, providing an optimal sear on meats.

• Grate Material: The type of grate used can influence flavor and cooking style. Stainless steel grates are easy to clean but may not provide the same flavor enhancement as porcelain coated or cast iron grates.

• Multi-Zone Cooking: Some designs feature separate burners that allow for different temperatures. This capability enables simultaneous grilling of varying recipes, like high-heat searing and low-and-slow cooking, enhancing versatility.

Selecting a grill that aligns with your cooking preferences involves evaluating these surface area and design considerations for an effective grilling experience.

Why is Even Heat Distribution Critical for Perfect Grilling?

Even heat distribution is critical for perfect grilling because it ensures that food cooks uniformly, preventing hot spots that can lead to uneven cooking or burning.

According to a study by the American Culinary Federation, even heat distribution is essential for achieving optimal cooking results, particularly in grilling where direct contact with heat sources can create variability in temperature across the cooking surface (American Culinary Federation, 2011).

The underlying mechanism involves the thermal conductivity of the grill materials and the design of the cooking surface. When a grill has poor heat distribution, certain areas can become significantly hotter than others, leading to inconsistent cooking. For instance, foods placed in hotter zones may char quickly while those in cooler areas remain undercooked. High-quality gas grills often utilize advanced burner systems and materials that promote even heat distribution, allowing for a more stable cooking environment where foods can be seared and cooked through evenly.

This phenomenon can also be attributed to the convection currents created within the grill. When heat is evenly spread across the grates, it allows for better air circulation, which helps to cook food evenly from all sides. Grills that excel in this aspect not only enhance the flavor but also improve food safety by ensuring that meats reach the appropriate internal temperatures without being overcooked on the outside.

Which Brands Made the Top List for Gas Grills in 2011?

The top brands recognized for gas grills in 2011 included a variety of manufacturers known for their quality and performance.

• Weber: Known for its durability and innovative features, Weber gas grills consistently received high praise in 2011. Their models often feature even heat distribution, sturdy construction, and user-friendly controls, making them a favorite among both amateur and seasoned grillers.
• Char-Broil: Char-Broil offered a range of affordable yet effective gas grills that appealed to budget-conscious consumers. Their grills are known for their TRU-Infrared cooking technology, which helps to prevent flare-ups and provides even cooking, enhancing the grilling experience.
• Dyna-Glo: Dyna-Glo made a name for itself in 2011 with grills that offer a good balance of performance and price. Their models often feature a large cooking area, multiple burners for versatile cooking options, and solid construction, making them a reliable choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
• Nexgrill: Nexgrill was recognized for its stylish designs and excellent performance. Their gas grills often come equipped with side burners and rotisserie kits, allowing for more diverse cooking methods, which appealed to grillers looking to expand their culinary repertoire.
• Broil King: Broil King gained attention for its premium grilling features and robust performance. Their grills are designed with high-quality materials, offering great heat retention and distribution, which is essential for achieving perfect grill marks and flavor.
• Royal Gourmet: Royal Gourmet stood out for providing value and versatility in their gas grills. Their models were often praised for ease of assembly, compact size for smaller spaces, and efficient cooking capabilities, making them ideal for urban dwellers and those new to grilling.

What Unique Features Set Each Leading Brand Apart?

The best gas grills of 2011 each offered unique features that distinguished them from one another.

• Weber Genesis E-310: Known for its excellent heat distribution and durable construction, the Genesis E-310 features a three-burner system that allows for versatile cooking options.
• Char-Broil TRU-Infrared 3-Burner: This model utilizes TRU-Infrared cooking technology, which ensures even heating and reduces flare-ups, making it a favorite for those who want juicy, grilled meats.
• Broil King Sovereign XLS: With its robust build and powerful burners, the Sovereign XLS offers exceptional performance and features a side burner for added cooking versatility.
• Nexgrill 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill: This grill stands out for its affordability and spacious cooking area, making it ideal for large gatherings while still providing reliable performance.
• Dyna-Glo DGB390SNP-D: This model is favored for its innovative design and high-quality construction, featuring a stainless steel finish that enhances durability and aesthetics.

The Weber Genesis E-310 is highly regarded for its consistent heat distribution, enabling users to cook various foods simultaneously without worrying about uneven cooking. Its sturdy construction ensures longevity, making it a reliable choice for serious grillers.

The Char-Broil TRU-Infrared 3-Burner model employs advanced infrared technology that minimizes flare-ups and promotes even cooking. This feature not only enhances flavor retention but also helps in achieving perfectly grilled, tender meats without drying them out.

The Broil King Sovereign XLS is notable for its powerful burners and side burner, allowing users to prepare side dishes and sauces while grilling. The robust construction and thoughtful design make it a favorite among those who seek a high-performance grilling experience.

Nexgrill’s 4-Burner Propane Gas Grill is an excellent choice for budget-conscious consumers, offering a large cooking surface that can accommodate multiple dishes at once. It delivers solid performance, making it a practical option for casual grillers and families.

The Dyna-Glo DGB390SNP-D stands out with its sleek stainless steel design, which not only looks great but also resists rust and corrosion. Its thoughtful engineering provides both style and substance, appealing to those who appreciate aesthetics in their outdoor cooking appliances.

What Do Users Highlight as the Most Reliable Brands?

The most reliable gas grill brands highlighted by users include:

• Weber: Known for its high-quality construction and excellent heat distribution, Weber grills are often praised for their durability and performance. Users appreciate the range of models available, from compact options for small spaces to larger, more powerful grills suitable for entertaining.
• Char-Broil: This brand is recognized for offering affordable gas grills with good features, making them popular among budget-conscious consumers. Users often highlight the ease of use and assembly, along with solid cooking performance for the price point.
• Napoleon: Users admire Napoleon grills for their robust build and advanced features, such as infrared burners and high-quality stainless steel. The brand is often regarded as a premium choice, delivering excellent cooking results and stylish designs that enhance outdoor spaces.
• Broil King: Renowned for their powerful burners and versatile cooking options, Broil King grills are favored by those who enjoy serious grilling. Users often mention the brand’s innovative features, like dual-tube burners, which allow for precise temperature control and even cooking.
• Dyna-Glo: This brand is celebrated for its wide range of affordable gas grills that don’t compromise on quality. Users note that Dyna-Glo grills provide solid performance, with features like ample cooking space and reliable ignition systems, making them a practical choice for many grillers.

What Are the Expected Price Ranges for Quality Gas Grills?

The expected price ranges for quality gas grills can vary significantly based on features, brand, and size.

• Entry-Level Gas Grills ($200 – $500): These grills are typically made from lower-grade materials but can still provide adequate performance for casual grilling.
• Mid-Range Gas Grills ($500 – $1,200): Offering a balance of quality and features, mid-range grills often include better construction, more cooking space, and additional features like side burners.
• High-End Gas Grills ($1,200 – $3,000+): These grills are built with premium materials and advanced features such as multiple burners, high BTU outputs, and sophisticated temperature controls, catering to serious grilling enthusiasts.
• Portable Gas Grills ($100 – $400): Aimed at those who need a compact solution for grilling on the go, portable grills provide convenience and decent cooking performance without the bulk of full-sized models.

Entry-level gas grills are suitable for casual users who grill occasionally and prefer a budget-friendly option. They typically lack advanced features but can still achieve satisfactory results for standard grilling tasks.

Mid-range gas grills offer a step up in quality and functionality, often featuring sturdier construction and additional cooking options like rotisserie kits or side burners. These grills are ideal for regular grillers who desire more versatility without a hefty investment.

High-end gas grills appeal to serious grilling aficionados who prioritize performance, durability, and advanced features. With superior materials like stainless steel and features such as multiple cooking zones, these grills can withstand frequent use and provide exceptional cooking results.

Portable gas grills are perfect for those who enjoy outdoor activities like camping or tailgating, where space and convenience are essential. Despite their smaller size, many portable models deliver impressive cooking capabilities, making them a great choice for on-the-go grilling.

How Can You Identify an Entry-Level Model’s Worth?

The cooking area is another important consideration; a smaller cooking surface may limit the amount of food prepared at once, which can be a drawback for larger gatherings. However, for individuals or small families, this size can be just adequate.

BTU rating, while often lower in entry-level models, should still provide sufficient heat for effective cooking. A balance between BTU output and the cooking area is necessary to ensure even cooking without excessive fuel consumption.

Features such as side burners, rotisserie kits, or integrated lights are generally absent in entry-level models, which may limit versatility. Nevertheless, essential features like a sturdy lid and basic temperature gauges can still enhance the grilling experience.

Brand reputation plays a significant role; well-known brands usually have established quality standards that can provide peace of mind. Consumers may prefer to choose a reputable brand to avoid low-quality products that could lead to dissatisfaction.

Finally, the warranty period offered can indicate the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s durability. A shorter warranty may suggest limited trust in the grill’s longevity, while a more extended warranty can signal that the model is built to last.

What Premium Features Justify a Higher Price Tag?

Premium features that justify a higher price tag for gas grills include:

• Stainless Steel Construction: High-quality stainless steel not only enhances durability and resistance to rust and corrosion but also contributes to superior heat distribution and retention. This material ensures that the grill withstands outdoor elements and maintains its appearance over time.
• Advanced Burner Systems: Premium grills often come with multiple burners that allow for precise temperature control and even cooking. Some models feature infrared burners or side burners, providing versatility for various cooking methods and enhancing the grilling experience.
• Built-in Thermometers: Accurate built-in thermometers help grillers monitor internal temperatures without lifting the lid, which can disrupt cooking. This feature allows for better control over cooking times and results in perfectly grilled foods.
• Cooking Area and Grate Quality: Larger cooking areas and high-quality grates provide more space for grilling multiple items at once and ensure even heat distribution. Cast iron or porcelain-coated grates are often more effective at retaining heat, improving searing capabilities.
• Convenient Features: Premium grills may include features like integrated lighting, easy clean-up systems, and storage compartments. These conveniences enhance the user experience, making grilling more enjoyable and less labor-intensive.
• Warranty and Customer Support: Higher-priced grills typically come with extended warranties and better customer support. This implies a manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s longevity and performance, providing peace of mind to consumers.
• Smart Technology Integration: Some of the best gas grills now feature smart technology that allows connectivity to mobile apps for monitoring and controlling grill settings remotely. This innovation caters to tech-savvy users who enjoy convenience and precision in their cooking.

How Are Customers Rating Their Gas Grill Experiences?

Customers have shared various insights and ratings regarding their experiences with gas grills, particularly focusing on performance, durability, and ease of use.

• Performance: Many customers highlight the importance of consistent heating and cooking efficiency. Grills that offer even heat distribution and quick ignition tend to receive higher ratings, as users appreciate being able to cook their food evenly without hotspots.
• Durability: Users often comment on the build quality and materials of the grill. Grills made from stainless steel or heavy-duty materials tend to score better, as they withstand weather conditions and frequent use without rusting or deteriorating quickly.
• Ease of Use: Convenience features such as easy assembly, straightforward controls, and cleaning options significantly influence customer ratings. Grills that are user-friendly, with intuitive knobs and removable grease trays, are favored by customers who appreciate a hassle-free grilling experience.
• Size and Portability: Customers consider the size and weight of the grill, especially those with limited outdoor space or who need to transport their grill. Compact models and those with wheels for mobility often receive favorable reviews for their practicality.
• Price-to-Value Ratio: Many customers evaluate the overall value based on the grill’s price in relation to its features and performance. Gas grills that offer a good combination of quality and affordability tend to be rated highly, as consumers seek the best gas grills for their budget.

What Complaints Do Users Commonly Report?

Common complaints reported by users of gas grills include:

• Uneven Heating: Many users report that their gas grills do not heat evenly, resulting in some areas cooking food faster than others. This can lead to undercooked or overcooked meals, prompting frustration during the grilling process.
• Ignition Problems: Users frequently encounter issues with the ignition system, where the grill fails to ignite or takes multiple attempts to start. This can be particularly inconvenient when trying to grill quickly or when entertaining guests.
• Durability Issues: Several consumers express disappointment regarding the build quality of their gas grills, citing rust or deterioration in materials after a short period of use. Poor durability can lead to additional expenses for repairs or replacements sooner than expected.
• Gas Leaks: Some users have reported concerns about gas leaks, which can pose safety hazards. This issue can arise from faulty connections or worn-out hoses, leading to anxiety over the grill’s reliability and safety during use.
• Difficulty in Cleaning: Many customers find that certain models are hard to clean, with grease and residue building up in hard-to-reach areas. This can make maintenance cumbersome and detract from the overall grilling experience.
• Limited Cooking Space: Users often mention dissatisfaction with the cooking area provided by their gas grills, especially when trying to prepare meals for larger gatherings. Insufficient cooking space can hinder the ability to cook multiple items simultaneously.
• Temperature Control Issues: Some grillers report difficulty in maintaining consistent temperatures, making it challenging to achieve desired cooking results. Fluctuating temperatures can affect the quality of grilled foods, leading to inconsistency in flavor and texture.

What Positive Feedback Do Users Share About Their Grills?

Users often share various positive feedback about their grills, highlighting key features and experiences that enhance their grilling adventures.

• Ease of Use: Many users appreciate the user-friendly design of gas grills, which typically feature straightforward ignition systems and temperature controls. This allows both novice and experienced grillers to start cooking quickly without the hassle of charcoal or complicated setups.
• Fast Heating: A common praise is the ability of gas grills to reach desired temperatures rapidly. This efficiency is particularly beneficial for those who want to grill meals in a short time, making it perfect for spontaneous gatherings or weeknight dinners.
• Consistent Cooking: Users often highlight the consistent heat distribution offered by gas grills. This feature ensures that food cooks evenly, reducing the risk of hot spots that can lead to undercooked or burnt sections, which is essential for achieving perfectly grilled meats and veggies.
• Versatility: Many gas grills come equipped with additional features such as side burners, rotisserie kits, or smoker boxes, allowing users to expand their cooking techniques. This versatility enables grillers to prepare a variety of dishes, from traditional barbecued meats to side dishes and even desserts.
• Easy Cleanup: Users frequently mention the straightforward cleanup process associated with gas grills. Unlike charcoal grills, which can leave behind ashes and debris, gas grills typically require just a quick wipe down and a simple cleaning of the burners and grates, saving time and effort.
• Durability and Quality: Positive feedback often includes comments on the durability of gas grills, especially those made with high-quality materials like stainless steel. Users appreciate that a well-constructed grill can withstand the elements and years of use, providing good value for their investment.
• Flavor Enhancement: Some users express satisfaction with gas grills that incorporate features like wood chip boxes, allowing for the infusion of smoky flavors into their grilled foods. This capability provides a way to achieve that coveted barbecue taste while still enjoying the convenience of gas grilling.

Which Safety Features Are Essential for Gas Grills?

When considering safety features for gas grills, the following options are essential:

• Flame Tamers: These are metal plates that sit above the burners and help distribute heat evenly while preventing flare-ups.
• Automatic Shut-off Valves: These valves automatically stop gas flow if a leak is detected, significantly reducing the risk of fires or explosions.
• Integrated Thermometers: Built-in thermometers allow users to monitor the internal cooking temperature without opening the grill, which maintains safety and cooking efficiency.
• Stable Base and Wheels: A sturdy base with lockable wheels ensures the grill remains stable during use and can be easily moved when not in use.
• Heat Shields: These protect the user from excessive heat and help prevent burns by redirecting heat away from the grill’s exterior surfaces.
• Safety Ignition Systems: Modern grills often come with electronic ignition systems that reduce the risk of gas buildup before lighting, enhancing safety.

Flame Tamers: These components are crucial as they help to diffuse the heat emitted by the burners and catch drippings that could cause flare-ups. By minimizing direct flame contact with food, they also enhance cooking quality and safety.

Automatic Shut-off Valves: These valves are a vital safety feature because they provide peace of mind by ensuring that gas flow is halted if there is a detected leak. This feature can prevent potentially dangerous situations, making it an essential addition to any gas grill.

Integrated Thermometers: Having a built-in thermometer allows users to check the cooking temperature easily without opening the grill lid, which can release heat and increase the risk of burns. This feature contributes to both safety and cooking precision.

Stable Base and Wheels: A grill with a sturdy base and lockable wheels is safer as it reduces the risk of tipping over while in use. It also offers convenience for transportation and storage, ensuring that the grill remains secure when not in use.

Heat Shields: These shields protect users from burns by preventing excessive heat from reaching the grill’s outer surfaces. They also help to maintain an even cooking temperature, further enhancing the grilling experience.

Safety Ignition Systems: Modern gas grills often feature electronic ignition systems that eliminate the dangers associated with manually lighting them. This feature significantly reduces the risk of gas build-up that could lead to a dangerous ignition event.

How Do Safety Mechanisms Enhance User Experience?

Safety mechanisms in gas grills significantly enhance user experience by ensuring safe operation and preventing accidents.

• Flame Tamers: These are metal plates that distribute heat evenly and prevent flare-ups, reducing the risk of burns and injuries while grilling.
• Automatic Ignition Systems: These systems allow users to ignite the grill safely and easily without the need for matches or lighters, minimizing the risk of accidental fires.
• Safety Shut-off Valves: These valves automatically cut off gas flow if a leak is detected, providing peace of mind and preventing hazardous situations.
• Temperature Control Knobs: Precise control over temperature settings helps prevent overcooking or burning food, making grilling more enjoyable and less stressful.
• Heat Shields: Installed between the burners and cooking surface, they protect against direct flame contact, enhancing safety and improving cooking consistency.

Flame tamers are essential components designed to manage heat and prevent flare-ups, which can cause burns and damage food. By distributing heat more evenly, they enhance cooking performance while ensuring a safer grilling environment.

Automatic ignition systems are a convenient feature that allows grill users to start their grills with the push of a button. This minimizes the risks associated with using matches or lighters, as it reduces the chances of an open flame igniting gas before the grill is ready.

Safety shut-off valves are crucial for preventing gas leaks, which can lead to dangerous situations. These valves provide an automatic response to potential threats, enhancing user safety by ensuring that gas is not flowing when it shouldn’t be.

Temperature control knobs allow users to adjust the heat precisely, which not only improves cooking results but also reduces the likelihood of accidents caused by overheated surfaces or flare-ups. This feature makes grilling more enjoyable and less intimidating for users of all experience levels.

Heat shields offer an additional layer of safety by blocking direct flames from reaching the food, which can help prevent burning. They contribute to better grilling by ensuring that the food cooks evenly while maintaining a safer cooking environment.

What Maintenance Tips Are Recommended for Keeping Gas Grills Safe?

To keep gas grills safe and functioning optimally, regular maintenance is essential. Here are some recommended maintenance tips:

• Inspect Gas Lines: Regularly check the gas lines for any signs of wear, damage, or leaks, as these can pose significant safety hazards.
• Clean Burners: Ensure the burners are free from clogs and debris to maintain an even flame and prevent flare-ups during grilling.
• Check Regulator and Valves: Inspect the regulator and valves for proper operation and tight seals to prevent gas leaks and ensure safe operation.
• Clean Cooking Grates: Regularly scrub the cooking grates to remove food residue and grease, which can cause flare-ups and affect food flavor.
• Perform a Burn-Off: After cleaning, perform a burn-off by preheating the grill on high for about 15 minutes to burn off any leftover residue.
• Store Propane Tanks Safely: Always store propane tanks in an upright position in a well-ventilated area, away from direct sunlight and heat sources to avoid gas buildup and explosions.

Inspecting gas lines for wear or leaks is crucial, as compromised lines can lead to dangerous gas escapes. A simple soap and water solution can help identify leaks; if bubbles form, it indicates a leak that needs immediate attention.

Cleaning burners involves removing them and ensuring that any holes are clear of obstructions to allow for optimal gas flow. Clogged burners can lead to uneven heating and increased risk of flare-ups, so this maintenance step is vital for safe grilling.

Checking the regulator and valves is important for ensuring that gas flows correctly and safely. If any components show signs of rust or wear, they should be replaced to prevent leaks and ensure the grill operates effectively.

Cleaning cooking grates not only prevents flare-ups but also enhances the flavor of the food by removing old, burnt residues that can impart undesirable tastes. Using a grill brush or scraper can help maintain the grates in peak condition.

Performing a burn-off after cleaning helps eliminate traces of cleaning products, grease, and food particles, ensuring that your grill is safe and ready for the next use. This step also helps to maintain the grill’s performance over time.

Storing propane tanks safely is essential to prevent accidents. Keeping tanks in a cool, dry place and ensuring they are secured can help minimize risks associated with gas leaks and explosions, safeguarding both users and the environment.

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