Barbeque Season is Upon Us

This is the time of year where we all get the itch to throw some burgers on the fire and enjoy the evening daylight. Each Spring, consumers venture out to purchase a new grill with high hopes for finding the unit that is perfect for them. Unfortunately, the overabundance of models on sales floors can make that a challenging goal. Prices can range from $300 to $5000. Here are some things to know before you make that decision to purchase your next outdoor cooking appliance.

The first step is determining where you plan on keeping the grill. Will the model you select be a built-in unit? Or will it be a freestanding? Built-in models can really add some flare to the patio area, but will often times guarantee you are purchasing a mid to high-end grill. Be sure that you measure the outdoor area before assuming you can fit the 53” Viking Grill outback.

After you have chosen where you want your grill, it’s time to consider how and what you will be cooking. Is the flavor of a charcoal grill important? Or is the convenience and control of a gas model on your list? Grills can come with enough BTU’s to heat a home. Many models offer infrared “Sear” burners that can achieve temps over 1500 degrees. But is that what you need if your idea of a BBQ is a pack of hotdogs? Rotisseries are available, but are only worth the cost if you cook an entire bird or roast outdoors. Think of how you cooked with your last grill each Summer and decide if you can live without the extra features or could have used them all along.

Convenience is a word we hear more often from consumers, especially as our lives continue to become more cluttered. Some models of grills now offer electronic ignition, much like an indoor stove. Should the wind blow out the flames, they re-ignite on their own. There is no need to worry about the battery going dead on the ignition with some models, because they plug right into the nearest outlet for the power source. Doing so also allows those grills to offer lights over the cooking area, meaning you can cook well into the evening hours. Again, just keep in mind that each of those features will add a cost to the BBQ. Ask yourself if you are an outdoor enthusiast or just spending money.

Finally, the one question most consumers forget to ask is about the warranty. While the high-end manufacturers price their units much higher, they typically follow that up with longer, more inclusive warranties. If you choose to have your grill built into an island, you want to be sure that it will last. Examples of warranties range from 1 year to Lifetime, so be certain to ask. The $3000 grill is expensive, but still cheaper than replacing the $500 every 5 years. It also happens to have many more of the features you might have on your wishlist.

The next time you walk into the grill aisle, keep your needs in mind. Don’t get mesmerized by the looks. Ask about the details. Think about your particular situation and find something that suits you for the price you can afford. Make this purchase something you can enjoy.

This article was contributed by James Bender of Bill Vandegrift, Inc.

Bill Vandegrift, Inc
450 E. Butler Ave
New Britain, PA 18901
215-345-1892
www.billvandegrift.com