Infrared Gas Grill Pros and Cons | Infrared Gas BBQ Advantages and Disadvantages
Grilling is one of the most popular pastimes in the United States, especially during the warm summer months.
As a seasoned grill master, I’m always on the lookout for new tools and techniques that can help me achieve the perfect grilled meal.
One technology that’s been gaining popularity in recent years is infrared gas grills.
In this article, I’ll share with you the advantages and disadvantages of infrared gas grills, so you can decide whether they’re right for you.
Advantages of Infrared Gas Grills
Lets start with infrated gas grill pros.
Quick and High-Temperature Cooking
When it comes to grilling, one of the biggest advantages of infrared gas grills is their ability to heat up faster and reach higher temperatures than traditional gas grills. This means you can start cooking your food in less time and achieve a delicious sear that locks in the juices and flavor of your meat or vegetables. I love using my infrared gas grill to cook thick steaks and burgers, which come out perfectly seared on the outside and juicy on the inside.
Even Cooking
Another advantage of infrared gas grills is that they offer a more even cooking experience. With traditional gas grills, you often have to deal with hot spots and cool spots on the grates, which can result in unevenly cooked food. Infrared grills, on the other hand, use radiant heat to cook your food more evenly from all sides. This means you can achieve perfectly cooked food every time, without having to worry about adjusting the heat or moving your food around.
Less Smoke
In addition to their even cooking, infrared gas grills also produce less smoke than traditional gas grills. This is because the high heat generated by the infrared burners vaporizes the drippings from your food before they can turn into smoke. This means you can enjoy your grilled meal without having to deal with smoke that can make your eyes water and irritate your lungs.
Juicier and More Flavorful Results
When it comes to the taste of your food, infrared gas grills can also deliver juicy and flavorful results. Because the high heat of the infrared burners sears your food quickly, it locks in the juices and flavor of your meat or vegetables. I’ve found that my grilled meals come out with a delicious caramelized crust and juicy interior, which my family and friends always rave about.
Easy to Clean and Maintain
Additionally, infrared gas grills are relatively easy to clean and maintain. Since they produce less smoke and fewer flare-ups, there is less grease and food debris that accumulates on the grates and inside the grill. This means that cleaning the grill requires less effort and time. I appreciate this feature because cleaning my grill is never my favorite task, so anything that makes it easier is a huge plus.
Durable and Convenient Features
Finally, infrared gas grills are typically made of high-quality materials, such as stainless steel, which makes them durable and long-lasting. They are also designed with various features that make grilling more convenient and enjoyable, such as easy-to-use temperature controls, built-in thermometers, and side burners for additional cooking space.
Related reading: Best Gas Grills Guide
Disadvantages of Infrared Gas Grills
While there are many advantages to using an infrared gas grill, there are also some potential disadvantages to consider.
Higher Price
One of the biggest drawbacks is the cost. Infrared grills tend to be more expensive than traditional gas grills, which may be a barrier for some buyers. Additionally, replacement parts and repairs for infrared grills can also be more expensive, so it’s important to factor in these costs when considering the overall value of the grill.
Higher Maintenance Requirements
Another potential disadvantage of infrared grills is that they may require a bit more maintenance than traditional gas grills. Since the high heat generated by infrared burners can cause more wear and tear on the grill grates and other components, it’s important to clean and maintain your grill regularly to ensure optimal performance and longevity.
Steep Learning Curve
Furthermore, infrared gas grills can be more difficult to use for beginners. Because they heat up faster and reach higher temperatures than traditional gas grills, it can be easy to accidentally overcook or burn your food if you’re not careful. It’s important to get familiar with the temperature controls and cooking times of your particular infrared grill before you start grilling.
Not Universal
Another potential disadvantage of infrared gas grills is that they may not be suitable for all types of food. While they are great for searing meat and vegetables, they may not be the best option for delicate foods like fish or for foods that require a longer cooking time, like slow-cooked ribs or brisket. It’s important to consider what types of food you’ll be cooking on your grill before deciding whether an infrared gas grill is right for you.
Related reading: How To Clean Gas Grill Burner Tubes?
Conclusion
Overall, infrared gas grills can offer many advantages for grill masters who are looking for a faster, more even, and more flavorful grilling experience. However, they do come with some potential drawbacks that should be considered before making a purchase. If you’re willing to invest in a higher-quality grill and take the time to learn how to use it properly, an infrared gas grill may be the perfect addition to your outdoor cooking setup. But if you’re a beginner or tend to grill a wider variety of foods, you may want to stick with a traditional gas grill for now.
As a grill master with years of experience, I can say that I personally love using my infrared gas grill for certain types of foods, like thick steaks and burgers. However, I also have a traditional gas grill that I use for other types of foods, like fish or slow-cooked meats. Ultimately, the type of grill you choose depends on your individual needs, preferences, and budget. Happy grilling!
