Propane vs. Natural Gas Grilling
The heat is on. It’s hot outside, which means it’s time to heat up the grill. The question is: are you heating it with propane or natural gas? It’s not like Cubs vs. Sox or pool vs. beach, but people do have strong preferences for one vs. the other (the majority prefer propane). Here we examine the pros and cons.
| Natural Gas | Propane | Advantage | |
| Taste (the most important factor?) | Proponents say natural gas emanates a dry heat that offers a better char and smoky flavor. Natural gas burns at 1,000 BTUs per unit volume. | Propane grills hotter (about 2,500 BTUs per unit volume), which fans say provides a better taste. They also say the odor generated from natural gas grills impacts taste. | Subjective |
| Initial cost | Under $1,000 if you already have a natural gas line. If you need to install one, costs range from $500 to more than $1,000 based on a variety of factors. | Only the cost of the initial tank, which you can find for less than $50. | Propane |
| Ongoing cost | The cost of the natural gas you use, which should be about 1/6 the cost of propane. | About $30 or so to refill the tank each time | Natural gas |
| Convenience at home | As long as you pay your gas bill you should never run out of natural gas. | Since propane tanks run out, you will need to keep a second filled tank handy. |
Natural gas |
| Portability | Limited. Grills can only be used where there is a natural gas line available. | The tank is easily detached, and tank and grill can be used anywhere they are allowed | Propane |
| Environmental impact | Burns cleaner with a minimal carbon imprint. | Not bad, but carbon emissions are greater than those from natural gas. | Natural gas |
Contact Ravinia Plumbing About Gas Line Hookups
While we are neutral on the natural gas vs. propane debate, if you decide you need a natural gas hookup, our licensed plumbers are ready to help. Our customers have relied on us since 1928 (that’s 97 years!) for quality products, knowledgeable technicians, and superior service, including 24/7/365 emergency service. That is why we’ve made a name for ourselves as the most trusted plumbing, sewer, heating and air conditioning, and electrical company in Chicago’s North Shore and Northwest suburbs. Contact Ravinia Plumbing today to schedule an appointment.
