What is a Built-in Grill
A built-in grill
is designed to be fixed in one place permanently. A grill cavity is made in the
countertop to fit the grill. You can plan where to place it depending on your
outdoor kitchen layout.
Types of Built-In Grill
Built-in
grills are categorized based on the type of fuel they use. The popular built-in grills are:
Natural Gas Built-In Grill
You
need to connect the grill to the natural gas pipeline. It is one of the best
options if you want to cook a meal for a large group. For example, you can
prepare around thirty burgers on a 32 inch long natural gas grill.
Liquid Propane Gas Grill
Propane gas grills are highly popular because they are easy to
install. Once you connect the grill to a propane gas tank, it will be ready to
use. Install a built-in cabinet to store the tank. Once it is empty, you will
have to get the tank refilled.
To
achieve greater flexibility over the fuel source, buy a convertible built-in
grill. You can switch between propane gas and natural gas using a conversion
kit.
Why Opt for a Built-in Grill
A
built-in grill offers a range of advantages over freestanding grills. Let’s
have a look at a few:
Easy to Start
A
built-in gas grill can be started with a push of a button. Unlike freestanding
charcoal grills, you can start grilling without spending time to set it up. You
won’t have to worry about storing, lighting and putting out charcoal each time
you decide to grill.
Easy to Maintain
Built-in gas
grills are easier to clean compared to freestanding grills. Charcoal grills
require you to dispose of the ash after a few grill sessions, but that is not
the case with built-in gas grills.
Allows a Proper Workspace
Built-in
grills are meant to fit on customized countertops. Once you install them, you
get a proper workspace around the grill. This allows you to prep and cook with ease.
You can also install built-in drawers to keep your cutlery easily accessible.
Stability
Built-in
grills are very stable because they are fixed in one place. On the other hand,
small-sized freestanding grills might tip over. This is why you need to be
extra careful with freestanding grills.
What is a Freestanding Grill?
A freestanding
grill is more like a grill cart, which often comes with wheels. Hence,
you can move them around easily. Some freestanding grills feature cabinets
below the grill for storage.
You can
select from a large variety of freestanding grills. While kettle grills are great for smoky-flavored
meals, foldable shelves on freestanding gas grills provide extra space for
preparing and serving food.
Types of Freestanding Grill
Built-in
grills are differentiated based on their fuel type. These grills generally
utilize natural gas or propane gas as their fuel source.
Kamado Charcoal Grill
A Kamado-style
charcoal grill is ceramic and contains a firebox to retain heat from
burning charcoal. You can adjust the inside temperature with the help of air
vents on the lid. It is highly portable and can be taken to any location
easily.
Kettle Grill
Kettle grills are
an affordable option and can be easily taken along as you travel. The porcelain
bowl ensures that the food is evenly cooked. The ash gets collected in the ash
catcher, allowing you to clean the grill easily.
Gas Grill
If you prioritize
convenience and ease of use, opt for a freestanding gas grill. Gas grills come
with a variety of burners, from two burners to as many as gas grills with six
burners. Choose the gas grill based on the number of people you plan to cook
for.
Pellet Grill
Pellet grills
utilize wood pellets as their fuel source. They can be used for both direct and
indirect cooking. Pellet grills allow you to sear, roast, grill, smoke,
char-grill and bake. However, they are
costlier than the other grill types and need regular maintenance. You would
have to ensure a constant supply of pellets in the hopper.
Why Invest in a Freestanding Grill?
A
freestanding grill allows you more flexibility in terms of where you want to
cook. You can push them around easily with the help of the wheels provided.
Affordable Range of Grills
Freestanding
grills have a number of affordable options. You can buy kettle grills if you
want to prepare meals for a small family. Opt for kettle grills made with
rust-resistant materials for durability.
Can Fit in a Small Area
A
freestanding grill would be best if you have a premium outdoor space. For
instance, a barrel charcoal grill would only require an area of nearly 40 by 32
inches. Some of these models also feature foldable shelves to provide a
workspace.
Choose a Grill That’s Best for You
Built-in grills and freestanding grills have their own set of advantages. You must select the one that suits your outdoor space and the meals you will be cooking.
If you have a large outdoor area, build an outdoor kitchen and install a built-in grill. These grills are best for grilling hot dogs, steaks, burgers and chicken.
If you plan to grill while traveling, buy small freestanding grills. While a pellet grill is good for experts, a kettle or kamado grill would be better for beginners.
Ultimately,
the best grill is the one that allows you to prepare meals conveniently while
enjoying the time with your family.