Why Are Natural Gas BBQ More Expensive: Understanding the Cost Factors and Benefits
Why Are Natural Gas BBQ More Expensive?
Natural gas BBQs are more expensive primarily due to the differences between propane grills and natural gas grills.
Propane grills are portable, allowing for flexibility in placement and use, while natural gas grills require a fixed installation.
Both types of grills are easy to use with electric starters, and they offer a cleaner and easier cleanup compared to charcoal grilling.
However, propane grills require more maintenance as they need their tanks refilled or exchanged, resulting in additional cost.
In contrast, natural gas grills do not require tank exchanges, eliminating this expense.
Additionally, the cost of propane grill maintenance adds up over time.
Installing a new gas line for natural gas grills can also be costly.
The upfront purchase prices for propane and natural gas grills vary widely, further contributing to the higher cost of natural gas BBQs.
Key Points:
- Natural gas BBQs are more expensive due to the differences between propane and natural gas grills.
- Propane grills are portable, while natural gas grills require a fixed installation.
- Both types of grills are easy to use with electric starters and offer cleaner and easier cleanup compared to charcoal grilling.
- Propane grills require more maintenance as they need tank refills or exchanges.
- Natural gas grills eliminate the expense of tank exchanges and have lower maintenance costs over time.
- Installing a new gas line for natural gas grills can be costly, and the upfront purchase prices for propane and natural gas grills also vary widely.
Did You Know?
1. Natural gas BBQs are more expensive than their propane counterparts due to the higher installation costs associated with running a natural gas line to the BBQ area.
2. Another reason natural gas BBQs are more expensive is because they are generally built with higher-quality materials and components, ensuring durability and longevity even when exposed to outdoor elements.
3. Natural gas BBQs often come with additional safety features, such as an automatic shut-off valve in case of a leak, which contributes to their higher price compared to propane BBQs.
4. The higher price of natural gas BBQs can also be attributed to the fact that natural gas is a cleaner-burning fuel, making them more environmentally friendly. The extra cost covers the technology and infrastructure required for this more sustainable option.
5. While initial costs may be higher, natural gas BBQs can save money over time since natural gas is generally cheaper than propane. Additionally, natural gas is supplied through a dedicated pipeline, eliminating the need for propane tank refills, which can add up in cost over time.
1. Portability Vs. Fixed Installation
When comparing propane grills and natural gas grills, one major factor that influences their prices is portability. Propane grills are highly portable, making them a great choice for outdoor activities like camping and tailgating. These grills are typically compact, lightweight, and easy to transport, allowing users to enjoy a BBQ anywhere they go.
In contrast, natural gas grills are designed for fixed installation. They need a dedicated gas line and must be permanently installed in a designated outdoor area. While this fixed installation offers convenience for those with a designated outdoor cooking space, it limits the grill’s portability. The installation process often requires professional assistance and additional costs, making natural gas grills more expensive upfront compared to portable propane grills.
Features:
- Propane grills: highly portable, compact, and lightweight.
- Natural gas grills: require fixed installation, need a dedicated gas line.
2. Electric Starters: Easy For Both Types
Both propane and natural gas grills offer electric starters for easy igniting. These starters eliminate the hassle of manual ignition methods like matches or lighters, making it convenient to start grilling.
Rest assured that whether you choose a propane or natural gas grill, you won’t have to deal with the inconvenience of manual ignition. The electric starters make firing up the grill a breeze, ensuring a smooth and user-friendly grilling experience.
- Electric starters for easy ignition
- No need for matches or lighters
“Electric starters eliminate the need for manual ignition methods, providing a convenient way to start grilling without any hassle.”
3. Cleanliness And Easy Cleanup
One advantage of both propane and natural gas grills is that they offer a cleaner grilling experience compared to traditional charcoal grilling. Propane and natural gas grills produce less smoke and ash, resulting in minimal cleanup after grilling.
With charcoal grilling, ash residue needs to be removed, and it can be messy. Propane and natural gas grills eliminate this hassle, allowing you to focus on the joy of grilling itself. After usage, simply give the grates a quick brush and wipe down the surfaces, and your grill will be clean and ready for future use.
4. Propane Grill Maintenance: Refilling Tanks
One of the maintenance requirements of propane grills is the need to refill or exchange tanks. Propane tanks have a limited capacity, so depending on the frequency and duration of your grilling sessions, you may need to refill or exchange tanks periodically.
The cost of propane grill maintenance primarily depends on the price of propane in your area and the rate of consumption. If you frequently use your propane grill, the cost of refilling or exchanging tanks can add up over time. However, the convenience of easily replacing tanks can outweigh these costs for many users.
5. Natural Gas Grills: No Tank Exchange Required
Unlike propane grills that require tank refills or exchanges, natural gas grills eliminate this maintenance requirement altogether. Having a natural gas grill connected to a dedicated gas line means you will never have to worry about running out of fuel or the hassle of replacing tanks.
While natural gas grills don’t require tank exchanges, the upfront cost of installing a gas line can be significant. If you decide to install a new gas line specifically for your grill, you’ll need to consider the cost of materials, labor, and any necessary permits. However, if you already have a gas line available, the cost of attaching a natural gas grill to it is generally lower.
In terms of cost, natural gas used for grilling tends to be cheaper per unit compared to propane. However, it is important to consider the installation costs and weigh them against the long-term benefits and savings of using natural gas grills.
The higher upfront cost of natural gas grills can be attributed to the fixed installation requirement and the potential cost of installing a new gas line. Propane grills, on the other hand, offer portability and convenience at a lower initial price.
Ultimately, the choice between propane and natural gas grills depends on your specific needs and preferences. Consider factors such as portability, maintenance requirements, installation costs, and the cost of fuel per use to make an informed decision.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are natural gas BBQS so expensive?
Natural gas BBQs tend to be more expensive due to the additional equipment required for their operation. Unlike propane BBQs that come with a short hose and regulator, natural gas BBQs include a longer hose (usually around 10 feet) as well as a brass quick disconnect for connecting to the home’s gas line. The inclusion of these extra components adds to the cost of production and explains the higher price point. Furthermore, the longer hose and set of brass fittings themselves are more costly, contributing to the overall expense of natural gas BBQs compared to their propane counterparts.
Is a natural gas grill cheaper than propane?
Yes, a natural gas grill is typically cheaper to operate than a propane grill. This is due to the significant cost difference between natural gas and propane, with natural gas being 1/3 to 1/6th the price of propane. However, one must consider the upfront cost of installation as well, as a professional may be required to install a natural gas line if it is not already available at the house.
Are natural gas grills worth it?
Investing in a natural gas grill can be a worthwhile choice for many reasons. Apart from the cost advantage it offers over propane grills, as natural gas is less expensive and its usage cost is conveniently included in your monthly gas bill, it also eliminates the need for constantly refilling propane tanks. This provides a hassle-free grilling experience, allowing you to focus more on enjoying your barbecues without the interruption of running out of fuel. Additionally, natural gas is a cleaner fuel compared to propane, making it a more environmentally friendly option for grilling enthusiasts. So, if cost-effectiveness, convenience, and eco-friendliness are priorities for you, a natural gas grill is definitely worth considering.
What is the difference between gas and natural gas BBQ?
When it comes to BBQs, the difference between gas and natural gas lies in their burning properties. While natural gas tends to be cheaper, it burns at a faster rate than propane gas. This means that although you may save money upfront, you will need to replenish your natural gas supply more frequently. On the other hand, propane burns twice as hot as natural gas and requires less usage in the long run, allowing you to make the most of your fuel and minimize refilling needs over time. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your priorities – whether it’s cost-efficiency or the ability to generate higher heat during grilling sessions.