More Than One-Third Of Outdoor Barbecue Owners Plan To Upgrade To A Natural Gas or Propane Grill

The benefits of owning a stainless steel BBQ grill are undeniable. Whether you’re a homeowner or business owner, having a patio grill allows you to enjoy delicious and healthy meals in the open air. A backyard grill acts like a magnet, bringing family and friends together for a joyful experience. Those are some of the reasons why a 2020 survey conducted by the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association revealed these statistics about outdoor grill ownership in North America.

• Nearly two-thirds of Americans own a patio grill or smoker.
• Over 72 percent of Canadians own a barbecue or smoker for their patios.
• About 68 percent of American grill owners use their grills on the Fourth of July.
• Memorial Day (56 percent) and Labor Day (56 percent) are also popular grilling holidays.
• Patio grills see usage rates of up to 75 percent during the winter months.
• Portable propane grill models account for 61 percent of fuel choices.
• Approximately 68 percent of respondents say they prefer an outdoor barbecue for the flavor.
• About 45 percent cite it as a quality-of-life decision, while one-third mention convenience.

These compelling figures back the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association’s conclusion that 37 percent of current gas grill owners plan to buy a new model and potentially upgrade soon. The survey also highlights how innovations in grill manufacturing have given consumers more options. The PGS line of portable and built-in gas grills has become a leading choice in North America. If you're considering upgrading your outdoor grill, here are some factors to think about and why PGS Grills might be your ideal choice.

What Fuel Type Suits Your Grill Best?

One of the key decisions grill owners need to make is choosing the right fuel source. Charcoal is generally not recommended due to its inconsistent heating, frequent flare-ups, and sometimes unpleasant taste. That leaves either liquid propane or natural gas. With PGS Grills, both options are readily accessible.

According to the survey, 61 percent of outdoor grill owners use liquid propane to power their grills. This is mainly because portable propane grills usually come equipped with a fuel tank in their base. These tanks can be easily swapped out and refilled at supermarkets, hardware stores, gas stations, and other locations.

The PGS A-Series offers popular portable propane grill options, while the T-Series provides commercial-grade portable propane grills suitable for apartments and condos. These models can deliver up to 40,000 BTUs and offer up to 434 square inches of direct grilling surface. Their durable construction and innovative accessories make them top choices for patio grills.

In terms of using natural gas to fuel patio grills, homeowners and businesses need a direct gas line, meaning these units are typically fixed in place. High-end built-in gas grills like the PGS Legacy line offer extensive customization options and often serve as the centerpiece of a thriving outdoor kitchen.

This is why apartment complexes, condo associations, and residential communities frequently install outdoor barbecue grills in common areas. According to the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association survey, 10 percent of residential grill owners have upgraded to built-in gas grills for this reason and prepare at least one outdoor meal each week.

Regardless of whether you opt for liquid propane or natural gas, the fact remains that outdoor grills produce great-tasting and healthy meals that can't be replicated indoors. Grilling is one of the most personal and relationship-building activities involving food. The aroma of burgers, steaks, vegetables, and other delicacies will always attract people around you.

Top Mounting Options For Gas Grills

If you're part of the 37 percent of grill owners planning an upgrade, it's important to know that your options have never been better. If you want to connect to a natural gas line and eliminate the hassle of swapping tanks, several mounting options are available. However, there are also good reasons to stick with portable propane tanks.

• Fixed Pedestals: These models feature slim bases that save space. When paired with natural gas, they must be securely mounted.
• Outdoor Countertops: When designing an expansive outdoor kitchen, PGS Grills can be installed into most all-season countertops. A natural gas line can fuel them, allowing homeowners to take advantage of storage drawers, side burners, and other accessories. There’s usually room beneath the countertop for a propane tank if you choose a propane grill.
• Grill Islands: Built-in gas grills like the PGS Legacy line can be installed directly into a custom center island, complete with side shelves, drawers, and storage space. This option is semi-permanent. Grill owners can choose between propane or natural gas grills.
• Cart Mounts: Grill carts often include wheels that allow portable propane grills to be easily moved to accommodate various gathering needs. These portable propane grill setups give homeowners the flexibility to place the grill by the pool, on the lawn for birthday parties, or move it to another spot on your deck or patio as needed. Cart mounts remain the most commonly used option for propane grills but can also work with stationary natural gas grills.

Top Accessories to Consider When Purchasing a New Outdoor Grill

The Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association noted that grill ownership in North America has consistently hovered between 60-70 percent of homeowners. However, significant shifts in the industry have led to upgrades to PGS Grills. These are among the most popular "innovative" features mentioned in the survey.

• Side Burners: The PGS line has advanced this concept by developing a stainless steel double-burner that generates 25,000 BTUs.
• Beverage Center: The company’s stainless steel beverage center has been a major convenience for homeowners weary of dealing with leaky coolers.
• Infrared Rotisserie Burner: By embracing cutting-edge technology, PGS offers grill owners the option to upgrade with an infrared rotisserie. This accessory has revolutionized backyard grilling enthusiasts. It expands outdoor menus to include whole chickens, pineapples, thick cuts of beef and pork, as well as perfecting veggie kabobs.

Other popular accessories offered by PGS Grills include unmatched ignition for enhanced safety, automatic gas-flow shut-off timers, expansive warming racks, and many others. These industry-leading grills are crafted from high-quality stainless steel and cast aluminum, enabling the company to offer extensive warranties. Unlike mid-tier units, PGS provides a range of outdoor grill parts for repair and maintenance. The availability of quality outdoor grill parts and the wide array of accessories are also why a PGS Grill may be the last one you ever need to buy.