Dual Fuel Grills

What Is a Dual Fuel Grill?

A dual fuel grill is a type of outdoor grill that combines two different types of fuel sources in one unit. These grills are designed to provide the best of both worlds by offering the convenience of a gas-powered grill and the rich, smoky flavor of a charcoal grill, all in one appliance.

There are several different types of dual fuel grills available, but the most common combinations are:

• Gas + Charcoal: The most popular dual fuel configuration, allowing you to switch between propane or natural gas and charcoal depending on your cooking needs.
• Gas + Wood Pellets: This combination offers the convenience of gas grilling along with the authentic smoky flavor from wood pellets.
• Gas + Charcoal + Wood: Some high-end dual fuel grills can accommodate gas, charcoal, and wood, providing ultimate flexibility for various cooking styles and flavor preferences.

With dual fuel grills, you can quickly switch between fuel types with minimal effort, making them ideal for a wide range of cooking methods—from quick, high-heat searing to low-and-slow smoking.

Why Choose a Dual Fuel Grill?

Dual fuel grills offer several key advantages, making them an appealing choice for grilling enthusiasts of all levels. Let’s take a look at the main reasons why people choose dual fuel grills.

1. Versatility

The biggest advantage of a dual fuel grill is its versatility. With the ability to switch between gas and charcoal (or wood pellets), you have the freedom to experiment with different cooking techniques. Gas grilling is fast, convenient, and perfect for quick meals, while charcoal and wood provide the smoky flavors and high heat needed for more traditional grilling. Dual fuel grills are the perfect choice for people who want to enjoy both types of grilling without needing to own two separate grills.

2. Flavor Variety

Grilling with charcoal or wood imparts a unique, smoky flavor that many grill enthusiasts crave. If you love the taste of food cooked over an open flame, a dual fuel grill lets you harness that flavor while maintaining the convenience of a gas grill. Wood pellets also offer a variety of flavors depending on the type of wood used, allowing you to experiment with different tastes.

3. Flexibility in Cooking

Different fuels excel in different cooking methods. Gas provides the heat control and consistency needed for direct grilling, while charcoal and wood excel at indirect cooking, smoking, and searing. With a dual fuel grill, you can easily switch between these cooking methods, giving you more options for preparing a variety of meals. Whether you're cooking a quick steak, slow-smoking ribs, or grilling vegetables, a dual fuel grill can do it all.

4. Convenience and Ease of Use

While charcoal grilling has its charms, it can also be time-consuming. Getting the charcoal ready and waiting for the right temperature can take some time. Gas grilling, on the other hand, is quick and efficient, with the press of a button to light the burners. A dual fuel grill offers the best of both worlds: you can opt for the ease of gas when you're short on time or the more traditional methods of charcoal or wood when you want that smoky flavor.

5. Cost-Effectiveness

Owning two separate grills—one for gas and one for charcoal—can be expensive and space-consuming. With a dual fuel grill, you get the benefits of both types of cooking in one unit, which can save you both money and space. For those with limited outdoor space or budgets, a dual fuel grill offers a cost-effective solution.

Types of Dual Fuel Grills

Dual fuel grills come in a variety of designs and configurations to suit different cooking needs, preferences, and budgets. Let’s take a closer look at the most common types of dual fuel grills.

1. Gas + Charcoal Dual Fuel Grills

This is the most traditional combination, offering the convenience of gas grilling with the added benefit of charcoal. These grills typically feature a separate gas burner and charcoal section, allowing you to cook using either fuel source. Some models even allow you to switch between the two with minimal effort, offering a hassle-free grilling experience.

Advantages of Gas + Charcoal Dual Fuel Grills:

• Smoky Flavor: Charcoal adds that classic smoky flavor to your food, which gas alone cannot replicate.
• Convenience: You can quickly switch between gas and charcoal, depending on your needs.
• Flexibility: Ideal for grilling, searing, and smoking.

Best For: Grilling enthusiasts who want the versatility of both gas and charcoal grilling in one unit. Ideal for those who love the smoky taste of charcoal but need the speed and convenience of gas grilling.

2. Gas + Wood Pellet Dual Fuel Grills

Gas + wood pellet grills combine the ease of gas with the rich, authentic flavor of wood smoking. These grills typically have a gas burner that can be used for direct grilling and a pellet hopper for smoking. Wood pellets come in various flavors, such as hickory, applewood, and mesquite, allowing you to infuse your food with different tastes.

Advantages of Gas + Wood Pellet Dual Fuel Grills:

• Precise Temperature Control: Wood pellet grills offer consistent heat, making them perfect for slow cooking, smoking, and baking.
• Wood-Fired Flavor: The wood pellets provide an authentic smoky flavor that enhances the taste of your food.
• Versatility: Can be used for grilling, smoking, roasting, and baking.

Best For: Campers, backyard grillers, and anyone who wants the best of both worlds—easy-to-use gas grilling with the slow-cooked, smoky flavor of wood-fired cooking.

3. Gas + Charcoal + Wood Dual Fuel Grills

Some premium models of dual fuel grills go a step further, allowing you to use gas, charcoal, and wood all at once. These high-end grills are equipped with separate compartments for each type of fuel, giving you ultimate flexibility when grilling. You can cook over gas for speed, charcoal for flavor, and wood for that traditional wood-fired taste.

Advantages of Gas + Charcoal + Wood Dual Fuel Grills:

• Maximum Flexibility: Choose between three types of fuel depending on your cooking needs.
• Ideal for Serious Grillers: This type of grill is perfect for those who enjoy experimenting with different cooking methods and flavors.
• Enhanced Flavor Options: You can combine gas, charcoal, and wood to create a truly unique grilling experience.

Best For: Experienced grillers who want maximum flexibility and are willing to invest in a premium grilling system. Perfect for those who love experimenting with flavors and different cooking techniques.

Key Features to Look for in a Dual Fuel Grill

When shopping for a dual fuel grill, there are several important features to consider. These features will ensure that you get the best performance, ease of use, and durability from your grill.

1. Cooking Area

The size of the cooking surface is crucial, especially if you plan to cook for a group of people. Larger cooking areas allow you to cook more food at once, reducing grilling times and ensuring everyone gets their meal promptly. Consider how much space you need based on your typical cooking needs.

2. Build Quality and Material

A durable build is essential for long-lasting performance. Look for a grill made from high-quality materials such as stainless steel, which is resistant to rust and can withstand the elements. Some grills also feature porcelain-coated grates for easier cleaning and better heat retention.

3. Heat Control and Burners

Dual fuel grills should have adjustable heat control, allowing you to regulate the temperature for different cooking methods. Whether you’re grilling, searing, or smoking, having precise temperature control is essential for achieving perfect results.

4. Ease of Fuel Switching

One of the main benefits of dual fuel grills is the ability to switch between different types of fuel quickly. Look for models that have an easy-to-use system for switching between gas, charcoal, and wood. Some models come with separate sections for each fuel, while others allow you to use multiple fuel types at once.

5. Portability

If you plan to take your grill on the go, consider a model that’s lightweight and easy to transport. Some dual fuel grills come with foldable legs or wheels for easy movement, making them great for camping trips, tailgating, or backyard cookouts.

6. Additional Features

Many dual fuel grills come with added features to enhance your grilling experience. Some may include side burners for cooking sides or sauces, warming racks for keeping food warm, or smoker boxes for adding even more flavor. These additional features can elevate your cooking options.