Building outdoor kitchens has been trendy for a while. Having one not only increases the value of the house but it is also the deciding factor for many home buyers.
The outdoor kitchen is also where you spend quality time with your family, while cooking up some delicious meals. Thus one of the key features in an outdoor kitchen is the built in grill. Mind you, this type of grill is far different than your traditional freestanding one.
In this article, we’ll walk you through the process of buying one, from explaining what a built in grill is to what to look for when you’re out shopping.
But before that, we’ll show you the top ten best built in grills on the market, available in different fuels as well as price points.
Let’s dive in!
In A Hurry? The 10 Best Built In Grills
- Best Built In Gas Grill – Bull Angus 30” 4 Burners
- Gas Runner-up – Lion Premium 32” L75000 Stainless Steel
- Honorable Mention #1 – Weber Summit S-460 Built-in
- Honorable Mention #2 – Napoleon Prestige 500 Builtin
- Most Economical Gas – Broil King Regal S420 4-Burner
- Best Luxurious Gas – Lynx Professional L36TR 36”
- Top Built-in Charcoal – Fire Magic Legacy 30”
- Top Built-in Kamado – Blaze Cast Aluminium 20”
- Top Built-in Pellet – Memphis Grills Elite 39”
- Top Built-in Electric – Kenyon All Seasons Frontier
Notice: The links above will direct you to either Amazon, BBQ Guys or Home Depot for more details and the latest information on the products.
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Top 10 Best Built In Grills Reviewed
Best Built-in Gas Grill – Bull Angus 30” 4 Burners
Details
- Dimensions – 32″W x 24″D x 21″H
- Cut Out Dimensions – 31″W x 21″D x 9.5″H
- Size – Medium (26″ – 33″)
- Weight – 166lbs
- Material – 16 gauge 304 Stainless Steel
- Number of Burners – 4
- BTU – 60000
- Heat Flux (on main cooking grates) – 100
- Fuel Type – Liquid Propane (LP) & Natural Gas (NG)
- Cooking Grates Dimensions – 30″ x 19″
- Main Cooking Area – 600 Sq. Inches
- Secondary Cooking Area – 210 Sq. Inches
- Total Cooking Area – 810 Sq. Inches
- Ignition Type – Flame Thrower
- Warranty – Lifetime Warranty on Firebox, Cooking Grates, and Burners. 3-year on Diffuser Bars. 1-year on the rest.
- Others
- Rotisseries Kit
- Internal Twin Grill Lights
- Infrared Back Burner, with additional 15000 BTUs
- Stainless Steel Drip Tray
- Built-in Thermometer
- Smoker Box
Summary
The Bull Angus grill is made of thick 304 stainless steel (16 gauge). This grade of steel is known for its durability and rust-resistant capability. It also has a sleek and shiny exterior, blending the grill flawlessly with any contemporary outdoor kitchen designs.
Having four sturdy cast stainless steel burners, the Bull Angus can produce up to 60000 BTUs. The grill too has an added infrared back burner of 15000 BTUs, which brings its total heat output to 75000 BTUs. With the grill’s lid being double-insulated, the grill can get to 500F in just a few minutes.
There are also four perforated heat diffuser bars on top of the burners that spread the heat out evenly, eliminating any cold and hot spots. The Bull Angus uses a flame thrower ignition system. This system lights the burners quickly and prevents any unexpected gas buildup. It doesn’t require any batteries either.
Above that is the stainless steel cooking grids. These transfer heat well and are resistant to corrosion. The Bull Angus also includes many accessories such as a rotisserie kit for roasting, two interior grill lights for cooking in the evening, and an extra smoker box for those smokey wood flavors.
The Bull Angus is available in both natural gas and liquid propane. With around 600 square inches of cooking space, this grill is plenty for any type of grilling and barbecuing.
Is This Grill Right For You?
The Bull Angus strikes the right balance between performance and construction. It’s solid and well-made. It also performs well with little setbacks. Not to mention all the extra accessories that come included. If high performance and sturdy construction are what you’re looking for, the Bull Angus 30” is for you.
Gas Runner-up – Lion Premium 32” L75000 Stainless Steel
Details
- Dimensions – 32″W x 24.25″D x 21.5″H
- Cut Out Dimensions – 31″W x 21.5″D x 9.6″H
- Size – Medium (26″ – 33″)
- Weight – 170lbs
- Material – 304 Stainless Steel
- Number of Burners – 4
- BTU – 60000
- Heat Flux (on main cooking grates) – 93
- Fuel Type – Liquid Propane (LP) & Natural Gas (NG)
- Cooking Grates Dimensions – 30″ x 19.25″
- Main Cooking Area – 647 Sq. Inches
- Secondary Cooking Area – 183 Sq. Inches
- Total Cooking Area – 830 Sq. Inches
- Ignition Type – Flame Thrower
- Warranty – Lifetime Warranty on Firebox, Cooking Grates, and Burners. 3-year on Flame Tamer Bars. 1-year on gas valves and all remaining parts
- Others
- 2 Internal Grill Lights
- Extra Rear Infrared Burner, with 15000 BTUs
- Rotisserie Attachment
- Built In Thermometer
- Extra Smoker Box
Summary
Similar to the Bull Angus, the Lion Premium L75000 grill is made of 304 stainless steel. If you live somewhere near the beach, this is a must. That’s because the moisture in the sea air will corrode anything without the 304 grade in no time.
Weighing around 170lbs, this grill is solid. The hood is double-lining steel, which is great for holding heat inside the cookbox. That makes the grill heat up fast but retain that heat just as well.
The four burners are capable of generating up to 60000 BTUs. They’re also protected by quality heat deflectors to prevent any potential flare ups and force grease down to the cleaning tray. You do have the option of switching to a ceramic heat deflector if you’d like.
The Lion L75000 also comes with all the essential accessories such as rotisserie kit, smoke box, and infrared burner. That gives you options and flexibility in your cooking. There are interior lights inside the cookbox that illuminate your cooking grates in case the party happens late in the evening. On top of that, there are also lights inside the dials when you go turn them on.
Being 32” size, the Lion Premium is big enough for the average family. It’s also good-looking with glossy stainless steel. There’s no doubt that this grill will be a nice addition to your outdoor kitchen dream.
Is This Grill Right For You?
The Lion L75000 is similar to the Bull Angus in terms of design, performance, and construction. It’s high-quality with powerful heat output. Available in both NG and LP, consider this grill as a great alternative to the Bull Angus.
Honorable Mention #1 – Weber Summit S-460 Built-in
Details
- Dimensions – 34″W x 31″D x 50.5″H
- Cut Out Dimensions – 34″W x 24.3″D x 36″H
- Size – Small (0″ – 26″)
- Weight – 245lbs
- Material – Stainless Steel
- Number of Burners – 4
- BTU – 48800
- Heat Flux (on main cooking grates) – 104
- Fuel Type – Liquid Propane (LP) & Natural Gas (NG)
- Cooking Grates Dimensions – 24″ x 19.25″
- Main Cooking Area – 468 Sq. Inches
- Secondary Cooking Area – 198 Sq. Inches
- Total Cooking Area – 580 Sq. Inches
- Ignition Type – Continuous Spark
- Warranty – 10-year on All Parts, excluding normal wear
- Others
- Rotisserie Kits with Back Infrared Burner (10600 BTUs)
- Handle Light
- Extra Smoker Box, with Dedicated Burner (6800 BTUs)
- Built-in Thermometer
- Built-in Light for Turning Knobs
- Stainless Steel Flavorizer Bars
- Grill Head Cover
- Extra Storage underneath the Grill Head
Summary
The third entry in this list is from Weber, a well-known name in the grilling industry. Introducing the Weber Summit S460.
The first impression is that this grill doesn’t have the traditional drop-in design. Instead, it’s designed similarly to any typical Weber gas grill, with a grill head and a storage space below it. For some people, this design might simplify the construction of their BBQ island while providing extra room for storage.
Now, the Weber S460 is made from stainless steel. However, Weber doesn’t specify which grade it is. Therefore, it might stain easily and not be as sturdy as the higher grade.
Nevertheless, this grill’s performance is great. It heats up fast, going from cold to 700F in just a matter of minutes. This is something that we expect from a company like Weber. Furthermore, Weber is also known for keeping replacement parts around so finding them should be much easier down the line.
Besides the extra storage, the S460 also features a load of accessories. From grill head cover to smoker box to rotisserie kit.
One downside is that the main cooking grate is only 468 square inches, making it the smallest among all the grills listed here. Fortunately, Weber does include a warming rack for extra cooking space.
The S460 is available in both NG and LP, with a 10-year warranty on all parts.
Is This Grill Right For You?
If company reputation is important to you, consider this grill. Although it isn’t as impressive as other grills on this list, it still gets the job done. More importantly, it’s backed by Weber outstanding customer service and warranty.
Honorable Mention #2 – Napoleon Prestige 500 Built In
Details
- Dimensions – 32.5″W x 25.5″D x 22.25″H
- Cut Out Dimensions – 30.75″W x 20.6″D x 8.8″H
- Size – Medium (26″ – 33″)
- Weight – 125lbs
- Material – Stainless Steel & Cast Aluminum
- Number of Burners – 4
- BTU – 48000
- Heat Flux (on main cooking grates) – 96
- Fuel Type – Liquid Propane (LP) & Natural Gas (NG)
- Cooking Grates Dimensions – 28″ x 17.75″
- Main Cooking Area – 500 Sq. Inches
- Secondary Cooking Area – 260 Sq. Inches
- Total Cooking Area – 760 Sq. Inches
- Ignition Type – Flame Thrower
- Warranty – Lifetime Warranty on Housing, Cooking Grids, and Burners. 15-year on the rest.
- Others
- Rear Infrared Rotisserie Burner, with 18000 additional BTUs
- External Grill Lights
- Included Thermometer
- Blue LED Light on Turning Knobs
- Stainless Steel Flame Tamers or Flavorizer Bars
Summary
The next in line is Napoleon Prestige 500 (built-in version). Napoleon is another popular name besides Weber. All of their grills are manufactured in Canada. And the company provides quality products at an affordable price point.
Unlike other grills, this one isn’t made entirely from stainless steel. The sides of the lids are cast aluminum while the rest of the grill is stainless steel. Now, this doesn’t mean the grill is of subpar quality.
The Prestige 500 features a 500 square inches cooking grate. With that, you can cook about 22 burgers all at once. But if you need more space, an extra warming is also included. One thing to notice here is that the grates are wavy. That is to prevent small food items from falling through them.
Below the grates is the grill’s flame thrower ignition system. It’s simple yet reliable. Besides, you don’t need to use any battery at all. The four burners are powerful enough, with about 48000 BTUs in total. They’re also protected by tent-shaped flavorizer bars that cause grease to roll off quickly to prevent any potential flare-ups.
On the exterior, the Napoleon Prestige 500 has lights which allow you to cook when it’s getting dark outside. Furthermore, the turning knobs also have blue LED lights built-in. They actually turn to red if any specific burner is in use. It’s a great safety feature to avoid leaving any burner on by accident.
Is This Grill Right For You?
This Napoleon built in gas grill is a great alternative to the Weber S460. It’s from a famous manufacturer, backed by a solid lifetime warranty on the firebox, cooking grates, and burners (15-year on the rest).
Most Economical Gas – Broil King Regal S420 4-Burner
Details
- Dimensions – 31.06″W x 27″D x 24.6″H
- Cut Out Dimensions – 29.8″W x 23.1″D x 10.9″H
- Size – Small (0″ – 26″)
- Weight – 137lbs
- Material – Stainless Steel & Cast Aluminum
- Number of Burners – 4
- BTU – 44000
- Heat Flux (on main cooking grates) – 88
- Fuel Type – Liquid Propane (LP) & Natural Gas (NG)
- Cooking Grates Dimensions – 25.5″ x 19.25″
- Main Cooking Area – 500 Sq. Inches
- Secondary Cooking Area – 195 Sq. Inches
- Total Cooking Area – 695 Sq. Inches
- Ignition Type – Continuous Spark
- Warranty – Lifetime Warranty on Firebox. 10-year on Burners. 2-year on remaining parts
- Others
- Outside Grill Lights
- Built-in Light on Controlling Knobs
Summary
This Regal S420 is made by Broil King, another well-established Canadian company. If you’re familiar with the Broil King Keg, you’ve probably heard of this company before (we actually rated the Broil King Keg as one of the best kamado grills on the market).
Similar to the Napoleon Prestige 500, the S420 isn’t made completely from stainless steel, with the two sides of the lid being dark grey cast aluminum. Unlike the typical built in grill, this actually creates a great contrast in the Regal S420, adding a touch of style to your overall outdoor kitchen design. The cast aluminum also reduces the weight of the lid that allows you to open it with ease.
In terms of size, this grill is the second smallest after the Weber Summit S460. With 500 square inches of the main cooking grid, you can grill about 20 burgers. The Regal S420 also comes with a warming rack just in case. Speaking of the cooking grid, it’s a 9mm thick stainless steel, which is durable and rust-resistant. You can also buy a separate cast iron grid if you prefer a better high heat searing capability.
One downside of the Regal S420 is that it doesn’t come with many accessories. No extra infrared burner or rotisserie kit. Although the grill has a lifetime warranty on the cookbox, the warranty for the rest of the unit is limited and lower than other competitors.
That said, the price of this grill is also lower.
Is This Grill Right For You?
If you’re shopping on a budget, you should consider the Broil King Regal S420. It doesn’t have many accessories but it has all the essential features for a well-rounded built-in grill. Besides, it’s made in North America. A great value grill at an affordable price.
Best Luxurious Gas – Lynx Professional L36TR 36”
Details
- Dimensions – 36″W x 25.4″D x 24.75″H
- Cut Out Dimensions – 35″W x 22″D x 10.8″H
- Size – Large (34″ – 43″)
- Material – 304 Stainless Steel
- Number of Burners – 3
- BTU – 73000
- Heat Flux (on main cooking grates) – 114
- Fuel Type – Liquid Propane (LP) & Natural Gas (NG)
- Cooking Grates Dimensions – 33″ x 18.5″
- Main Cooking Area – 640 Sq. Inches
- Secondary Cooking Area – 295 Sq. Inches
- Total Cooking Area – 935 Sq. Inches
- Ignition Type – Hot Surface
- Warranty – Lifetime Warranty on Firebox, Cooking Grates, and Burners. 5-year on Warming Rack, Spit Rods, and Gas Valves. 2-year on the rest
- Others
- Dual-Position, Three Speeds Rotisserie Kit
- Rear Infrared Burner, with 14000 BTUs
- Blue LED Knobs Lighting
- Sturdy Ceramic Burners
- Flash Tubes as a backup ignition method
- Large Smoker Box
- Lift Assist & Smooth Handle Rotation to lift the lid without much effort
- Quality Built-in Thermometer
Summary
The first thing you need to know about the Lynx L36TR is that it is made in the US, using the high quality 304 stainless steel. The glossy and polished look with a lot of straight lines really makes this grill attractive to look at.
Unlike other grills, the Lynx L36TR features three sturdy ceramic burners. These things will never deteriorate or rust away. Now, one thing about ceramic is that it’s really good at transferring and retaining heat. Compared to the regular stainless steel burners, these ceramic ones are way superior.
What’s more? This grill uses a hot surface to ignite the burners. This prevents any unnecessary gas buildup while providing a quick and safe ignition. It also has a rotisserie kit with three speeds, allowing you to roast at different rates. Furthermore, the lid has a lift assist and a rotating handle that help you open and close it with ease.
Moving on to the outside, the controlling knobs include gorgeous blue LED lights that give you accurate control at night. Furthermore, there are lights both outside and inside of the grill, illuminating the cooking grates and the area around you. Stylish yet functional at the same time.
With 640 square inches of the main cooking grates (and an additional 295 square inches of warming rack), you have plenty of space to cook whatever you want. The grill’s maximum BTU is 73000, with a heat flux of 114. This is the hottest and strongest grill in this roundup review.
Is This Grill Right For You?
Now, the Lynx L36TR doesn’t come cheap. If you want the best of the best with all the bells and whistles, this grill is for you. A premium, high-end grill with an attractive and gorgeous look.
Top Built In Charcoal Grill – Fire Magic Legacy 30”
Details
- Dimensions – 32.25″W x 19.75″D x 25.12″H
- Cut Out Dimensions – 32.25″W x 19.75″D x 12″H
- Size – Medium (26″ – 33″)
- Weight – 165lbs
- Material – 304 Stainless Steel
- Fuel Type – Charcoal
- Cooking Grates Dimensions – 30″ x 18″
- Total Cooking Area – 540 Sq. Inches
- Warranty – 5-year on Charcoal Grills. 1-year on Charcoal Pan, Charcoal Grid, Thermometer, and Ashtray
Summary
If you’re tired of all the gas grills, it’s time to take a break and check out this built in charcoal grill from Fire Magic.
Similar to all the premium grills, the Fire Magic Legacy features a long-lasting 304 stainless steel body. It has an adjustable charcoal tray so you can move the fire closer or away from the food. In addition to that, Fire Magic includes a heat deflector. These features come in handy when you need to create direct and indirect heat cooking areas for roasting and baking.
In the front, there is a door where you can get access to your charcoal and/or wood, either taking them out or adding new ones in. On the sides of the lid, there are two adjustable vents to control the airflow of the grill. There is also a thermometer attached to the top of the lid.
The Fire Magic Legacy has a 540 square inches of cooking grid, allowing you to cook about 24 burgers. It doesn’t come with any other extra accessories although you can order an optional infrared burner.
This grill has a 5-year warranty on the body and 1-year on the cooking grid, charcoal pan, thermometer, and ashtray.
Is This Grill Right For You?
If you’re into charcoal instead of gas grilling, check out this grill from Fire Magic. You might have to deal with the ash cleanup but the smokey flavor is something to die for.
Top Built In Kamado Grill – Blaze Cast Aluminum 20”
Details
- Dimensions – 21.87″W x 27.87″D x 33.87″H
- Size – Small (0″ – 26″)
- Weight – 161lbs
- Material – Cast Aluminum & 304 Stainless Steel
- Fuel Type – Charcoal
- Cooking Grates Dimensions – 20” Diameter
- Total Cooking Area – 315 Sq. Inches
- Warranty – Lifetime Warranty on everything (have to register the grill within 30 days for the warranty to be effective)
Summary
One thing that sets the Blaze Kamado apart from other kamado grills is its material. Instead of ceramic, this whole grill is made entirely from cast aluminum. It won’t break if dropped. It also has the silver color on the outside, which is similar to other popular built-in grills. As a result, it’s a great fit for most contemporary outdoor kitchens. These are the two main reasons why we chose this one over other kamado grills, such as Kamado Joe, Primo, and Big Green Egg.
With its aluminum housing, the Blaze is as efficient at trapping heat inside as other ceramic kamados. Combined with the overlapping lips between the lid and the base, no heat can ever escape from this grill. Another notable feature is that the Blaze doesn’t have any gasket. Therefore, you don’t have to replace any of it at all.
The rest of the grill, such as the cooking grate and lid handle, is made from 304 stainless steel. This grill will for sure last for a long time. Finally, the Blaze is backed by a lifetime warranty on everything. However, you have to register it within 30 days of purchase for the warranty to apply.
Is This Grill Right For You?
If you always want to try kamado grilling but are afraid of the fragile ceramic material, consider the Blaze Kamado. It’s the toughest kamado out there. It does the job as well as other ceramic grills. But more importantly, it won’t break and will last forever. Also, its design is unique yet stylish, guaranteeing to elevate your outdoor kitchen. Seriously! The grill looks like a rocket ship.
Top Built In Pellet Grill – Memphis Grills Elite 39”
Details
- Dimensions – 39″W x 29″D x 28″H
- Cut Out Dimensions – 42.6″W x 24.5″D x 16.75″H
- Size – Large (34″ – 43″)
- Weight – 220lbs
- Material – 304 Stainless Steel
- Fuel Type – Smoking Wood Pellets
- Cooking Grates Dimensions – 37.38″ x 17.63″
- Total Cooking Area – 844 Sq. Inches
- Pellet Hopper Size – 24lbs
- Warranty – 7-year Limited Warranty, 3-year on Electronic Parts
- Others
- Wifi-enabled Temp Control via Mobile App (both Android & iOS)
- Direct Flame insert for high heat searing
- Genie Multi-tool for handling the grill easily
Summary
The next entry is a built in pellet grill from Memphis Grills. This company is considered one of the best pellet grill manufacturers on the market today. What really sets their grills apart from the competition is the construction, performance, and technology.
Let’s review the Memphis Grills Elite using the three criteria above.
The grill has a durable 304 stainless steel construction with a double-walled lid. These are to ensure that the grill heats up fast while maintaining most of the heat well under any weather conditions. Using the 304 stainless steel, it also means that the grill is built to last.
With its solid construction, the grill is capable of producing temperatures ranging from 180F up to 700F. You can grill, bake, and smoke food low n slow without any trouble at all. The best part is that wood pellets give your food a smokey flavor that gas can’t. Speaking of pellets, the grill has a 24lbs hopper that allows you to cook up to 36 hours non-stop.
In terms of technology, the Fire Magic Legacy has a Wifi controller where you can control your grill from afar using a free-to-download app from Memphis Grills (both iOS and Android). You can then set it up to send email or texts whenever your food is done cooking. Like any typical pellet grill, this grill also has a digital temperature control. You can connect a food probe or up to two more to the controller. From there, the controller tracks each probe and automatically adjusts the temperature accordingly.
Besides these features, the grill also has a Direct Flame insert, which allows you to sear meat at high heat. If you don’t want to do so, you can remove it easily with a Genie multi-tool. You can also use the multi-tool for other tasks such as cleaning up.
Is This Grill Right For You?
You don’t like to clean up any charcoal ash but still want to enjoy the smokey wood flavors. You appreciate the convenience of a gas grill yet don’t like the fact that gas is tasteless. If these sound like you, this Fire Magic Legacy is for you. It’s durable and good-looking. It also works just like any pellet grills (if not better), with all the features and technology that makes your life easier.
Top Built In Electric Grill – Kenyon All Seasons Frontier
Details
- Dimensions – 21″W x 12″D x 8.5″H
- Cut Out Dimensions – 19.75″W x 11.6″D x 4.5″H
- Size – Small (0″ – 26″)
- Weight – 19lbs
- Material – 304 Stainless Steel & Cast Aluminum
- Fuel Type – Electricity (available in 120V & 240V)
- Cooking Grates Dimensions – 14.75″ x 10.5″
- Total Cooking Area – 155 Sq. Inches
- Warranty – 3-year on everything
Summary
The last entry of the list is the Kenyon Frontier Electric Built-in Grill. Unlike other types of grill, this one is extremely easy and safe to use. Just press an On/Off sensor then turn to one of the eight temperature settings and you’re ready to go. If you leave the grill on by accident, it will turn off by itself after 90 minutes.
One cool thing about this grill is that you can take apart the lid and throw it in the dishwasher for easy cleanup. The same is also true for the cooking grate. Now, the grate is made from cast aluminum, which is guaranteed to last a long time. However, it only has 155 square inches of space, which can be limited for some.
The maximum temperature the Kenyon Frontier can get to is around 500F. Not as impressive as other grills on this list. But hey, it’s an electric grill after all. That said, the design of this grill is simple yet functional. And it only weighs around 19lbs.
It uses a covered electric heating element so no potential flare ups can happen. The whole grill is made from sturdy 304 stainless steel and available in both 120V and 240V. You can also use it indoor.
Is This Grill Right For You?
If you want a grill that is safe to use, easy to clean, and doesn’t cause any flare up, then consider this built in electric grill. It’s not going to be as powerful as other propane, charcoal, or pellets grill. But it’s still going to get some grilling done. Besides using it for your backyard kitchen, you can also use it in your RV or even on a boat.
What Are Built In Grills?
Built in grills are also known as grill heads, grill inserts, or drop-in grills. As those names suggest, they don’t have any legs or stand, just the firebox itself.
They’re permanently installed or dropped in a custom-built BBQ island as part of a bigger backyard kitchen. Built-in grills have flanges or lips on the left and right sides, which hold them up against the countertop as they don’t sit on their bottom. Because of that, there is a gap underneath the grill head that allows for proper air flow. Some grills even have flanges at the back for extra support.
With the right grill, you can do everything from grilling to roasting, while prepping food on the kitchen counter nearby. Many manufacturers also sell their grills along with other matching kitchen equipment. That gives you the option to create a uniform theme throughout your outdoor cooking space.
Most built-in grills use natural gas or liquid propane as their fuel. However, you also find some that run on electricity, charcoal, pellets, or wood.
Why Are Built In Grills So Expensive?
Built-in grills are expensive because of three reasons: material, performance, and where they are made.
Most built in grills are made from high grade stainless steel (usually 304), which is stronger and better quality than the material used in regular standalone grills. As a result, builtin grills distribute and retain heat more evenly and effectively. They’re also capable of hitting different temperatures fast, allowing flexibility in your cooking.
Where they are made is another important factor. Most quality built-in grills are made in North America. Therefore, they command a higher price due to the increasing labor costs. Not to mention the fact that they have to adhere to American and Canadian manufacturing requirements.
That being said, even among the built-ins, there is also a wide spectrum in terms of quality and values.
Benefits of Built In Grills
Being constructed with top-rated material, built in grills are made to last.
They also perform exceptionally well. A typical gas builtin can produce a higher heat output than even the best freestanding gas grill. This also means they will be more expensive in general. Though they rarely need replacement. Combined with their durability, buying built in grills ends up cheaper in the long run.
They’re too designed to look good thus elevating the overall aesthetics of your outdoor kitchen. Not to mention that they can add tremendous value to your home.
It’s also convenient that everything you need for cooking outside will be in one place, separating from the rest of your backyard. That lowers the chance of any unforeseen fire accidents.
Moreover, If you position your outdoor kitchen under any structure, the grill will be better protected from the elements. Having everything in one place also gives you space to design other areas of your backyard, such as adding a new tabletop patio heater for the upcoming winter.
Can You Turn A Regular Grill Into A Built In?
The answer is that you can but that doesn’t mean you should do it. Let me explain.
There are big differences between regular/standalone grills and builtin grills. Things like design, ventilation, and safety features.
Even if you manage to remove the stand off your regular grill, it doesn’t guarantee that the grill will work correctly once you install it to the BBQ island. Remember that every grill needs enough space around it for proper air flow. And if you’re working with a gas grill, there many things you have to consider when it comes to connecting it to the gas line or propane tank.
Another reason is that some standalone grills aren’t built to last. In case they rust away after a year or two, do you really want to remake the whole outdoor kitchen just for that?
Finally, some grill companies actually void the warranty if you decide to modify their standalone grill into a built-in one.
So my best advice is to consult a professional before doing anything. That will save you a whole lot of time and money. Really!
What To Look For In The Best Built In Grills?
Fuel
There are many types of fuel available for a built in grill. Let’s start with gas, the most popular one.
Gas
If you choose to buy a gas builtin, you need to consider liquid propane (LP) and natural gas (NG).
Liquid propane comes in a 20lbs tank. Depending on the BTU (more on this later), it can last you somewhere from 15 to 40 hours. You can refill the tank after it’s empty and you can do that at any hardware store.
Most people use natural gas for their builtins. You hook it up through your house’s gas line. As long as you pay the bills, the fuel never runs out. It’s actually cheaper than liquid propane if you grill regularly. However, it’s expensive to pay for a licensed professional to install it for you initially.
Keep in mind that you can’t use LP for a NG grill and vice versa. The reason is because the pipe opening is in different sizes to adapt to different pressures of each gas. That said, some companies do sell conversion kits for this purpose.
Now, the power output of each gas is determined by BTU or British Thermal Unit. The higher the BTU, the hotter the grill. However, it isn’t always true since BTU only measures the maximum energy output of a grill in an hour.
We’re more concerned with the heat output at the cooking grate since that’s where the food is cooked. A better metric is heat flux. It’s calculated by dividing the total BTUs by the total square inches of the cooking grate. Obviously, the higher the number, the hotter the grate.
Manufacturers don’t often display the heat flux but keep this measurement in mind when you’re out shopping.
Charcoal & Pellets
Another popular fuel is charcoal. Remember that there are two types of charcoal – lump and briquettes. Each has their pros and cons. But generally, lump burns hotter while briquettes burn more evenly.
And then we have smoking wood pellets. They’re made from compressed wood sawdust. Beware of heating pellets. They look similar to smoking pellets but aren’t made for cooking.
Both charcoal and pellets give your food that beautiful smokey flavors, which isn’t the case with gas. However, you often have to clean up the ash from burning charcoal and pellets.
Electric
The last fuel is electricity. It isn’t as popular as other types but companies do make electric built in grills. They’re simple and easy to use. But they don’t provide as much flavor as other types. And you also need an outlet. If you want something minimalist, maybe consider this type of grill.
Cooking Style
After knowing what fuel you’re going for, think about your cooking style.
If you’re into low n slow smoking, you might want to go for a grill with better quality material. That way, it traps heat more efficiently for longer hours of cooking. Also consider the extra accessories such as a rotisserie kit or smoker box. They’ll come in handy later on.
Do you prefer grilling with brats and burgers instead? Then you need to go for a larger cooking space, meaning the bigger size grill. If you also host regular parties, consider how many people you’d like to cook for.
Size, Weight & Fit
Speaking of size, it’s determined by the width of the cooking area of the grill, in inches. There are four sizes:
- Small (0” – 26”)
- Medium (27” – 33”)
- Large (34” – 43”)
- XLarge (44” and up)
If you go with gas, then think about how many burners you want to have. The more burners, the more flexibility. You can set up different temperatures across the cooking grates. Also consider a warming rack just in case you need extra cooking space. It’s also good for warming up the cooked food.
Weight is also important. Most built in grills weigh over 100lbs. Can you countertop handle this much weight?
Finally, it is the fit. Remember that a built in grill is a permanent appliance. It’s also expensive and heavy. So it pays to be extra careful here. Don’t forget that you also need room around the grill for proper ventilation.
“Measure twice, cut once”
Material & Design
Most built in grills are made from 304 grade stainless steel. It’s famous for its longevity and being rust-resistant. If you plan to install the grill to a kitchen island on a boat or live somewhere near the ocean, you might want to go for this material.
There are also other options, such as lower grade steel or cast aluminum. They’re still OK but not as sturdy as 304 stainless steel. However, these grills do come at a cheaper price tag.
Consider the design of the grill too. Most of them look decent and can fit into any modern outdoor kitchen.
Essential Features
A quality grill comes with many important features.
All Types Of Fuel
Is the lid double-lining? That makes a difference in terms of heat efficiency of the grill. A double-insulated lid provides better heat distribution and retention. It also allows the grill to heat up fast. Also pay attention to the handle. Does it get hot or stay cool? Is there any heat shield?
Next is the cooking grates. After all, this is where you’ll be spending all your time. Check if the grates are thick stainless steel. They tend to last longer and easier to clean. Porcelain-coated grates are another good option. They’re durable but be careful not to chip the porcelain away.
Gas
First is the drip tray. With built in gas grills, the drip tray is usually in the front where you have to pull it out. Compared to the regular grills, you have it underneath the cookbox. This is something to keep in mind.
Next, pay attention to the burners. Cheap ones are usually thin steel. They can’t withstand constant exposure to heat and are less likely to last. Better burners come with high grade stainless steel and cast aluminum. Some luxurious models even come with ceramic burners.
Then look for the flame tamers or flavorizer bars. These protect the burners from greases to prevent flare ups. They also spread out the heat from the burners evenly and some can even turn fat drippings into flavoring smoke.
The last thing is the ignition system. This is important for a gas grill. There are four types of ignition system: single spark, continuous spark, flame thrower, and hot surface. A good system will increase the chance of the burners igniting, preventing any gas buildup which could lead to an unexpected fire accident. Flame thrower and hot surface are the most reliable systems, followed by continuous spark and single spark.
Charcoal & Pellets
With a built in charcoal grill, look for an access door where you can add or remove coals while cooking. You can always light your coal with a chimney starter but double check just in case.
For a pellet built-in grill, see if the hopper is large enough. Also look for a digital temperature controller so that it can automatically monitor the grill. While you’re at it, check if the grill has any app so you also can track the grill from your smartphone.
Extra Accessories
Most built in grills have a rear infrared burner. It converts heat into radiant energy. It’s clean and hot. It doesn’t create any flare up and generally a great accessory to have.
A rotisserie kit is another thing that often goes with the infrared burner. You need this if you want to roast chicken or just about anything.
Don’t forget grill lights as well, especially if you live somewhere up north where it’s getting dark quick during the wintertime. Most grills have the lights either inside or outside. Some have both.
Last but not least, some grills even come with a cover to protect them from the elements.
Safety
When installing your built in grill, think about how far it should be from the house. My recommendation is at least 10 feet to be on the safe side. Also make sure that there are no hanging branches and plenty of space for people (and pets) to move around the grill.
Budget
Now, built in grills are costly. Think about the accessories you might and might not need. Do you want top-of-the-line models or something cheaper with fewer options?
Also pay attention to the entire cost of your outdoor kitchen. A basic island can cost up to $5000 while a custom-made kitchen can run you tens of thousands of dollars. Don’t forget other essential patio stuff like gas fire pits, furniture, and so on.
Consider everything carefully. It’s an investment after all.
Brand Reputation & Warranty
If supporting the local economy is important to you, maybe look for grills that are made in the USA. If you don’t mind imported products, there are plenty of brands out there. Whatever the case, it’s better to buy from companies that you like and trust.
Then think about the warranty that each company offers. Because of the price and quality of built-in grills, they should have a lifetime warranty. Also pay attention to different parts of the grill since each of them might have a different warranty.
Conclusion
To know which built in grill is the right choice for you, you need to weigh cost, essential features, size, material, and design. Don’t forget to consider your cooking style, extra accessories, company reputation, and the warranty that comes with the grill. Also keep in mind that built in grills are available in gas, charcoal, pellets, and even electricity.
Use this article as a guideline for your own research. Remember to consult with a professional for further advice. A built in grill is an investment, not a simple purchase. Choose one with care.
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