Liquid Propane VS Natural Gas Grills: The Similarities, The Differences & Myths Dispelled

Summer is everyone’s favorite season, thanks to its warm weather, sunny days, and especially the irresistible allure of barbecues. There are countless ways to prepare your favorite grilled dishes, but nothing beats the performance and versatility of a liquid propane or natural gas grill from AEI. These high-quality commercial grills are crafted using time-tested engineering principles that have made this style of cooking an American tradition. Moreover, each grill offered by AEI is modular and user-friendly, ensuring easy maintenance with top-notch replacement parts readily available to keep your grill functioning smoothly for years to come.

Our gas grills combine power, functionality, and sleek aesthetics. Most importantly, they’re built to last with advanced safety features not found elsewhere. One common question we receive is whether a liquid propane grill or a natural gas grill is better. Both fuel types offer impressive performance, efficiency, affordability, and practical features. However, the ideal choice depends on your specific needs and circumstances. Let’s explore the key differences and similarities between natural gas and propane grills.

Liquid Propane vs Natural Gas Grill

The primary distinction between natural gas (NG) and liquid propane (LP) lies in how the fuel is supplied. Natural gas requires a pipeline installed by your local utility provider, which may be available depending on your location. Liquid propane, on the other hand, comes in portable tanks that can be purchased or refilled at local retailers. These differences affect portability, storage, and installation, as well as the ease of cleaning and maintaining your grill.

One crucial factor to consider is that natural gas may not be accessible in certain regions. Before committing to an NG grill, ensure that natural gas is available in your area. Now, let’s debunk some common misconceptions surrounding these two fuel types.

Myths About NG and LP Gas BBQ Grills

Many people mistakenly believe that one fuel type is significantly cheaper than the other. In reality, prices are comparable depending on your location, with both NG and LP offering similar cost benefits.

Another prevalent myth claims that one fuel type is far more efficient than the other. In fact, any differences in efficiency are negligible.

Some argue that one fuel type is harder to use compared to the other. While personal preferences may vary, both fuel types can be used effectively and safely with proper handling.

Lastly, there’s the persistent belief that one fuel imparts a gas flavor to food. Despite differing opinions, objective taste tests confirm that neither fuel type leaves a detectable gas-like aftertaste.

With those myths addressed, let’s delve into the unique characteristics of each grill type.

Natural Gas BBQ Grill Features

Natural gas grills connect directly to a utility-supplied gas line. If natural gas isn’t available in your area, you’ll need to opt for a propane model instead. Since your natural gas valve is fixed, your NG grill should ideally be installed in a permanent spot, such as on your deck. This setup allows you to create a dedicated grilling station with ample storage for tools and supplies, keeping everything within reach.

While NG grills can technically be mounted on portable bases, doing so limits your mobility due to the fixed gas line. For safety and convenience, we generally recommend a stationary installation for NG grills. Whether you integrate it into a countertop, an outdoor grill island, or a space-saving pedestal, you can seamlessly blend the grill into your patio design. To protect your investment, use a weather-resistant grill cover from AEI to shield it from the elements.

Liquid Propane BBQ Grill Features

LP gas grills offer unmatched portability. Although they can be permanently installed, fewer shelving and storage options are available because the propane tank must remain attached to the grill. The real advantage of LP grills lies in their flexibility—they can easily be mounted on carts with wheels. This mobility makes them ideal if you anticipate moving the grill frequently or hosting events in various locations.

Propane grills are particularly suited for year-round grilling since you can move them outdoors during pleasant weather and relocate them indoors or under cover during storms.

Shared Features of NG and LP Grills

Both types of commercial grills come equipped with laser-etched instructions on the control panel. This ensures that even first-time users can quickly get started by referring to the instructions. These instructions remain legible indefinitely, so you can pull out your grill after months of disuse without worrying about faded directions.

Additionally, both grill types can include the highly desirable gas cut-off timer and theft-resistant knobs. These features provide peace of mind, preventing accidents caused by forgotten burners and deterring vandalism. Best of all, AEI offers high-quality replacement parts that are easy to install, empowering you to maintain your grill yourself and extend its lifespan.

Ready to learn more or have questions? Don’t hesitate to contact us—we’re here to help!