Gas grill BTU 101: How many heat units do you need for a grill?
Bigger isn't necessarily better when it comes to buying a propane grill.Other factors can affect how efficient your grill is.The biggest contributors are the BTUs.
The energy output capacity of propane appliances is typically measured in British Thermal Units.The amount of thermal energy needed to raise the temperature of a pound of water by one degree is called the BTU.The outdoor cooking surface area is more important than the maximum heating capacity when it comes to determining the right size heater for your home.
The answer is more about the cooking area and the number of BTUs per square inch than it is about gas grill ratings.
The industry standard for a grill is between 75 and 100 btus per square inch of heating surface.When choosing a grill, shoppers should consider the quality of construction, the desired cooking area, and the ability to generate even heating across the entire cooking surface.
Grills that fall in the lower range can operate at lower temperatures and result in longer cooking times.A grill over 100 BTUs per square inch could cause too much heat and char your meal.A grill with between 80 to 100 BTUs per square inch of cooking surface will provide fast and consistent heat.
It is important that the rating on the grill applies to the grilling surface.Some manufacturers try to boost the rating by including the output for side burners or accessory heating elements.
It could lead to under heating of the primary cooking surface that lacks the ability to meet your demands if it is brought to within the optimal range.A quality grill will give you years of trouble-free use and use the right amount of propane to meet your grilling needs.
An excessive BTU rating on a propane grill might be an attempt to compensate for poor craftsmanship.Before making a purchase, make sure to inspect grills.There are models that have heavy-duty lids that seal around the primary cooking area.Better results for your backyard barbecue can be achieved by using grills with high-quality grates for the cooking surface and well-constructed vents that can help control the flow of air.
Determining how long a 20-pound propane tank might last depends on a number of variables, including the construction and efficiency of your grill, the heat setting, and the amount of time in use.
A 20-pound propane cylinder can hold up to 430,000 BTUs of liquid propane.Each pound of propane contains 21,548 BTUs of potential heat.
Between 19 and 20 hours of cooking time can be achieved with a full 20-pound tank on a grill.
While propane grills have long been popular for outdoor grilling because of their instant heat and even temperature control, another popular option is an IR propane grill.
Unlike conventional propane grills that rely on an open flame to heat the cooking grate, infrared grills use aconductive element that emits heat upward.They can operate effectively at a lower rating of between 60 and 80 BTUs per square inch of surface.Those who prefer the system argue that it offers uniform heat, as well as reduced flare-ups from drippings from the cooking surface.
Finding the right propane grill might be the most difficult part of preparing for your backyard activities.
The fire behind your next cookout is never far away thanks to the wide network of Ferrellgas locations and Blue Rhino tank exchange stations.