Homemade Christmas Gifts

It's one of the oldest disagreements in the barbecue world. Which is better—gas or charcoal? Charcoal die-hards will tell you that only charcoal can do food justice, but that's just not true. Once you try gas, you'll never go back. Here are four reasons why.

1. Gas grills are easier to control.

Controlling the temperature of a charcoal grill is a skilled art. There are people who can master it, but even they have to compensate for unexpected fluctuations in temperature. You can't just turn down the thermometer on a charcoal grill; the temperature depends on how many coals are burning, how much air they are getting, and the shape of the grill. With a gas grill, on the other hand, there's a thermostat. If the grill is too hot, you turn the gas down a little. If it's too cool, you turn the gas up. 

2. Gas grills require less cleanup.

After a nice backyard party, the last thing you want to do is spend hours cleaning up. If you grilled on charcoal, you have to figure out what to do with the messy, dusty, ash from the coals. With a gas grill, on the other hand, there's no leftover debris. Just give the grill grates a quick wipe, and you're done for the night.

3. Gas grills can be permanently installed.

Because they are easier to clean and maintain, you can install a gas grill in your outdoor kitchen and make it a part of your permanent setup. You never really have to move it! Since charcoal grills have to be dumped and cleaned, your only option is a portable setup, which will always look sloppier and is also harder to store.

4. Gas fuel is cheaper than charcoal.

Although prices vary regionally, it is usually a lot cheaper to power a gas grill than a charcoal one. A bag of charcoal is about $10 and will last you two grilling sessions—if you're lucky. You can usually get your propane tank filled for $30 at the very most, and it will last you half the summer. Keep an extra tank on hand, and you won't have to worry about running out of fuel.

So, are you convinced that a gas barbecue grill is right for you yet? Contact an outdoor kitchen contractor such as Thompson's Gas Inc to have one installed in your outdoor kitchen. You'll love the convenience during grilling season.