5 Questions to Ask Before Buying a Gas Grill

Our buyer’s guide will help you find the perfect Kenmore gas grill — just in time for your first summer cookout.

Summer is almost here — and that means barbecue season! From Memorial Day cookouts to evenings spent out on the patio, a good gas grill is a must. But how do you know which Kenmore grill is right for you and your lifestyle? If you’re planning on buying a new gas grill this summer, check out this buyer’s guide to help find the perfect grill for you. From searing burners and rotisserie sets to the infrared and convection options, this handy list of questions to ask will turn you into a grill master in no time.

Size matters when you’re choosing a gas grill. First, determine how many people you usually cook for. Traditionally, you want at least 72 square inches of room on the main grill grate for each person eating. If you don’t have a tape measure handy, that’s about the size of a dinner plate. Speaking of size, make sure your grill has at least 12 inches of headspace between the cooking grate and the inside of the lid. This extra space will give your grill the versatility to sear steaks or even roast a whole turkey!

2. How many burners should I get?

If you’re cooking for a large group, the more burners, the better. Multiple burners give you more control over the cook temp, especially when you’re grilling for a large crowd. However, don’t spend money on unnecessary burners. A grill with two to three burners should be enough for the average griller. Do you prefer the side dishes to the main course? Some grills come with side burners. They’re great for warming dishes, making sauces and getting that perfect sear on a cob of corn.

3. Infrared or convection?

Infrared technology could be your secret weapon for an amazing barbecue. Convection cooking can dry out food because it heats by circulating hot air. Infrared technology emits infrared waves to heat your food directly and reduce air circulation. What does that mean? Faster cooking time and food that retains more moisture. Worried your new infrared grill will burn your veggies or chicken? Think again. Temperature is still easily adjustable, so you can steam veggies or roast a chicken with no fuss.

4. What will I be cooking most?

Does your mouth water with the thought of a juicy cut of steak? If so, you might want to spring for a searing burner. This high-heat burner will give your meat a beautiful crust on the outside and a medium-rare center, so you can make restaurant-quality dishes right in your own backyard.

If you like roasting your meats and veggies, consider a rotisserie set. This feature slowly roasts your food for juicy, flavor-packed results. Your guests will wonder how you achieved such intense rotisserie flavor with that right-off-the-grill feel.

5. What extra features do I want?

If you’re a barbecue fanatic, you might want to consider adding a built-in smoker to your new grill. More into specialty beers and wines? Flip burgers while enjoying a cold beverage from a built-in fridge. You can even add a small oven to your grill to fire up a pizza or bake desserts!

Bottom Line: Pick a grill with features that best fit your needs and lifestyle.

Check out all the grills at Sears.com for even more ideas.