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 Propane
Gas Grills verses Natural Gas Grills
Before beginning our discussion, it is important to distinguish
the difference between propane gas grills (those with gas bottles
as the source of gas) and natural gas grills (those with gas being
delivered from the local natural gas company). Propane is under
a higher pressure and thus uses smaller orifices on the burner jets.
Natural gas is much lower pressure and a larger orifice is necessary
to obtain the needed gas flow to heat the grill. Some grills have
adjustable orifices and many do not. Most gas grill manufacturers,
however, offer replacement orifices to convert from propane to natural
gas. Simply contact them. Make sure that you get a clear, blue flame
with not any or very little yellow.
Cast Iron, Aluminum or Sheet Metal
A Gas Grill worth the investment will be constructed of Cast Iron,
Cast Aluminum or Sheet Metal. Obviously the cast iron unit will
tend to last longer, be more durable and cost more than the other
two types. The grill should also have a lid (or hood) with adjustable
air holes for heat control.Cast Aluminum Gas Grills are the best
for all round durability and strength.
Two, Three or Four Gas Burners
Look for a grill having a minimum of two to three gas burners which
will allow for greater control of heat. For instance, indirect heating
may be accomplished by using the gas burner on one end of the grill
and placement of the meat on the other. You may also add a water
pan directly beneath the meat to make it perform similar to a water
smoker/grill. On those days when things are not going in your favor,
utilize the burners that are working and remember to fix the ones
which are not!
Lava/Pumice/Ceramic/Metal
Gas Grills require a diffusing material between the meat and the
direct heat from the gas. This material, in addition to diffusing
the heat, contributes to the amount of smoke generated and protects
the burner elements. These substances may consist of Lava Rocks
(less common), Compressed Pumice Rocks (or briquettes), Metal Plates
or Ceramic Materials. Grease buildup on these diffusing elements
is a potential flare-up hazard!
CERAMIC DIFFUSERS
Package of Ceramic Material - Ceramic diffusers
can come in all shapes. Usually your grill will have a bag of material
such as this to spread on the lower grate to help prevent flare-ups.
Racks of Ceramic Diffusers - An ingenious idea to place the ceramic
diffusers in separate trays which allow for easy management. Another
view showing easy removal of the trays to reach the burners below.
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