The emergence of gas grills signify the beginning of a season -- barbecue season. For at least three months a year, barbecue enthusiasts use grills constantly. Not everyone prefers using a traditional charcoal briquette grill, however; many favor the relative ease and convenience that only a gas grill can provide.

Consumer Guide has reviewed a selection of gas grills with electric igniters. These models require an LP-tank, which is often hidden within a cabinet. Despite their hefty sizes, these grills are easily moved because of the casters that are attached to their bases, and each one is different in the ways in which it caters to its user.


Char-Broil Commercial Series Quantum Infrared Grill 463248208

The Char-Broil Quantum Infrared Grill offers several features that are rarely found in other large gas grills, the most prominent being its unique infrared heat system. The cooking grates are composed of stainless steel rods atop a stainless steel screen that provides up to 40,000 Btu when heated. The side burner is controlled separately and offers up to 13,000 Btu. An electric igniter is used to start the grill, although it might take a short while to actually activate. The Char-Broil Quantum Infrared Grill will also draw attention with its stainless steel body and details, not to mention the delicious food you will grill on it.
Gas grills spark barbeque inspirations. Char-Broil Quantum Infrared Grill 463248208
Gas grills spark barbeque inspirations. Char-Broil Quantum Infrared Grill 463248208


Kenmore Red Porcelain-Enamel 3-burner Gas Grill 16301

Grills don't have to be black or gray; put a little color back into summer with the Kenmore Red Porcelain-Enamel 3-burner Gas Grill 16301. Made out of heavy-gauge steel, this grill has two porcelain-coated cooking grates that provide 36,000 Btu, while a side burner offers an additional 12,000 Btu. Three stainless steel knobs control each of the burners with a quick electric igniter.

Unlike many other grills, this model has an elevated warming rack; it is 7 inches high, which is the perfect distance at which to protect food from drawing more heat than intended. A side shelf gives the cook a space to comfortably place ingredients that are being used while grilling. The three hooks on the side of this unit can be used to hang utensils.


Kenmore Stainless Steel 4-burner Gas Grill 16311

The Kenmore Stainless Steel 4-burner Gas Grill 16311 has three porcelain-coated cast-iron grates that are composed of interconnected triangular bars, which are wider at the bottom and taper up to a point in order to minimize contact with foods, which naturally results in less sticking. The side burner provides more grilling space, and when it is not in use, it can be covered and used as a shelf.

The main burners have 48,000 Btu and the side burner has 12,000 Btu; these burners heat quickly upon ignition. It's worth mentioning that this model runs a bit hotter toward the back of the grill due to the cross ignition bar. Each burner has its own control knob, so it is wise to check all the knobs before igniting the grill.


Vermont Castings The Chef Signature Series Gas Grill VCS4008

The Vermont Castings The Chef Signature Series Gas Grill VCS4008 features double walls of stainless steel, making it more durable than most grills you'll find. The VCS4008 features six burners in total: four 50,000-Btu porcelain-coated cast iron grates, a 15,000-Btu side burner and a 15,000-Btu infrared rotisserie burner. There's also plenty of work and storage space: two shelves, a marinating tray with a removable cutting board, a built-in condiment tray and hooks for utensils. And because Vermont Castings understands that barbecues can continue well beyond sunset, this grill comes with an LED flex light and backlit burner knobs.

Weber Spirit E-310 Gas Grill 3721001
Weber Spirit E-310 Gas Grill 3721001

Weber Spirit E-310 Gas Grill 3721001

The Weber Spirit E-310 Gas Grill 3721001 uses the company's trademark Flavorizer bars for cooking. These porcelain-enameled bars are located below the grates and above the 36,000-Btu burners; they catch and vaporize some dripping juices to add a smoky taste to what's being cooked.

The Spirit E-310 also offers more storage space than many other grills. It includes two condiment shelves and an enclosed storage cart, as well as hooks on the side that are handy for handing utensils. A swinging basket and warming rack can hold the food that's not being grilled.