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Information on Stainless Steel Gas Grills

When you buy a barbecue, you can choose from many different types of materials. Stainless steel is used commonly when making the bodies and grates for a grill. Cast iron is its most common competitor, and both metals have pros and cons that should be considered while you decide whether a stainless grill is for you.
  1. Rust

    • One of the best things about a stainless steel grill is that you will have far fewer problems with rust than you would if your barbecue was made of cast iron instead. This applies to the grills and body of the barbecue itself. Even with a cover, your grill will likely be exposed to a great deal of moisture while sitting on your deck throughout the year. A stainless body will stand up better in those normally rust-inducing conditions.

    Strength

    • The stainless steel used to make barbecues typically is a high-grade and strong product. Most barbecues made from the material will hold up very well over the long term. They should not dent, scratch or break easily. The only thing that you might see over time is some discoloration from the metal. To ensure that you have a high grade product, look for a grill made from 304 stainless steel and above. Lower grades are not as strong.

    Heat

    • Stainless steel as a grill grate material is not as effective as some of the other materials that you can buy. The problem with stainless steel is that it doesn't retain heat well. This means that every time you open the lid of your barbecue, you lose a great deal of heat from the grills immediately. Cast iron and other materials hold the heat longer. This also makes a stainless grill slightly less heat efficient, which can end up costing you more in gas.

    Cleaning

    • Stainless steel is an easy material to clean. This is important with a barbecue, because like any cooking tool, it is going to get messy. Stainless steel burners and grills of your barbecue scrub clean easily with a stainless steel brush. To make sure that all components are clean and free of long-term grime, wash them with soap and water once every few months. Soap and water also works to wash the body of a stainless barbecue as well.