We can all agree that grilling is a great summer activity. We get to be outside. The food is delicious. And it keeps your home cooler, since you’ll be spared the heat generated by your stove or oven.
But what many of us don’t agree on is whether using propane or natural gas is the better way to grill. No recommendations here, but here are a few things worth considering.
| Gas | Propane | Winner | |
| Heat generated | ~3560F | ~3560F | Tie – and more than enough |
| Ease of use and maintenance | Easy | Easy | Tie |
| Heating efficiency | 1,012 BTUs per cubic foot | 2,520 BTUs per cubic foot | Propane |
| Safety | Safe | Safe | Tie |
| Grill cost | Generally more expensive and fewer choices | Generally less expensive and more choices | Propane |
| Other initial costs | Less than $1,000 to hook up your existing gas line to the grill; add $500 or more if you need to install a gas line | $50 or so for the initial propane tank | Propane |
| Ongoing cost | The cost of using natural gas is significantly lower than replacing a propane tank. | About $30 or so to refill a tank. | Natural gas, even after considering that propane heats more efficiently. |
| Environmental impact | Burns cleaner | Better than natural gas, but not by much | Natural gas by a little; both are way better than charcoal. |
| Taste | Offers a better char and smoky flavor, according to proponents | Provides a better taste because it grills hotter, proponents say. They also say the odor from natural gas grills impacts taste | Subjective |
| Portability | Can be moved but need a natural gas line for hookup | Can be used anywhere grilling is allowed | Propane |
| At home convenience | You don’t need to do anything | You will need to replace your tank when propane runs out; best to have a spare tank | Natural gas |
Bottom line: it’s subjective.
Contact Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric for Gas Line Hookups
Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric’s plumbers can help you hook up your natural gas line to your grill, or can install a gas line if you don’t have one. Our customers have relied on us since 1928 (that’s 98 years!) for quality products, knowledgeable technicians, and superior service, including 24/7/365 emergency service. That is why we are the most trusted plumbing, sewer, heating and air conditioning, and electrical company in Chicago’s North Shore and Northwest suburbs. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.