What are BTUs and how Important are they?

Appears in

Published 1998

About

ABTU (British thermal unit) is a measure of energy—specifically, the amount of energy required to raise one gram of water one degree Celsius. Practically speaking, it refers to the heat output of a gas grill. Most gas grills put out between 10,000 and 12,000 BTUs per burner, with some going as high as 15,000 BTUs. The monster Dragon Burners in the Kalamazoo grills put out 50,000 BTUs.

Checklist for Grill Shopping

With more choices than ever, buying a grill can be almost as daunting as purchasing a car or a computer. Here’s what I look for when buying a grill.

Charcoal Grills

Essential features (applies to hibachis, kettle grills, table grills, and 55-gallon drums)

Sturdy, nonwobbly legs
A heavy-gauge metal bowl or firebox with a tight-fitting lid—except for hibachis, which have no lid
A grate at the bottom of the grill for holding the charcoal
Air vents in both the bottom and the lid for temperature control
A solid-feeling cooking grate; for a hibachi or table grill, one that’s easy to raise and lower
Wooden or heatproof handles
Desirable optional features
A built-in thermometer
Slotted metal or wire side baskets to hold the coals for indirect cooking
A hinged grate that offers easy access to the fire, so you can add coals as needed
An ash catcher on the bottom for easy cleaning and disposal
A side table for additional workspace
Fittings for a rotisserie

Gas Grills

Essential features

Sturdy construction
A thick, heavy firebox and tight-fitting lid for even heat conduction
Electric ignition
At least two, and preferably three or more, separate heating zones
Adjustable controls that enable you to set the grill on high, medium, and low. The high setting should give you a consistent grilling temperature of 600°F. This usually (but not always) means a grill with at least 10,000 to 12,000 BTUs per burner.
A gas gauge
A built-in thermometer

Desirable optional features

Side tables for extra workspace
A gas burner on one side for heating sauces and accompaniments
Fittings for a rotisserie and smoker box
A warming rack
A spider guard for keeping insects out of the burners

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Grilling Basics Answers to Frequently Asked Questions

The Grills

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