Which BBQ? Propane vs. natural gas.

Gas barbeque grills are quicker to fire up and easier to clean than their charcoal alternatives, which is why they have become a popular choice amongst hungry sun dwellers.

However, the propane gas versus natural gas conundrum rattles on.

Read on for a simple summary of both types of BBQ.

PROPANE GAS BBQ

A propane powered BBQ works by connecting a tank of propane gas underneath or to the side of the grill via a connector, which looks similar to a garden hose.

Before use, you’ll need to decompress the propane by turning a valve that releases the gas and distributes it to the burners. A spark then ignites a flame to heat the gas and create a hot surface for cooking.

A typical 10kg cylinder of propane gas costs around £35 and will provide approximately 25 hours worth of cooking time.

Pros:

• Portable and convenient – propane gas tanks can be easily detached and transported as needed with the BBQ.
• Propane provides 2500 BTUs (British Thermal Units) per unit volume, which is higher than the 1000 BTUs natural gas provides.
• Does not contain lead.
• Produces water vapour and carbon dioxide, which are both found naturally in the environment.

Cons:

• Propane gas is more expensive than natural gas.
• Creates wet heat, which can occasionally alter the texture of certain foods being cooked.
• Explosive.
• Propane is heavier than air, resulting in it staying concentrated and more dangerous for longer than natural gas, which dissipates easily because it’s lighter.

NATURAL GAS BBQ

Natural gas BBQs work in the same way as propane fuelled appliances, except they connect to the gas source in your home.

Pros:

• Fuel is automatically provided so you won’t run out of gas.
• Cheaper than propane gas.
• Natural gas is classified as a greenhouse gas.

Cons:

• Your BBQ will be fixed to one spot so you won’t be able to move it from one end of the patio to the other, although you could have a long, flexible gas pipe installed to permit some mobility.
• You can’t DIY – professional installation is required for all natural gas BBQs.
• Natural gas BBQs are more expensive than propane appliances.

If you’d like to know more about professional natural gas BBQ installation, contact WPJ Heating today.