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When it comes to gas cooking, you have two available options to think of: propane or natural gas grill. Propane is the most widely used even though the natural gas vs. propane grill debate is still confusing. Today, most manufacturers are providing natural gas grills as an alternative to propane. If you are tangled between natural gas vs. propane grill, worry no more, this article will help you draw the line.
What is Natural Gas?
From its name, it is a hydrocarbon gas that occurs naturally from decomposing plants and animal waste. It majorly consists of methane and small amounts of nitrogen, carbon dioxide, helium, or hydrogen sulfide.
In the comparison of natural gas vs. propane grill, natural gas is clean and safe for humans and the environment. Unlike other gases, natural gas is odorless, which makes it difficult to detect a leak. Usually, mercaptan is added to make it smell like rotting eggs.
- This product is a Natural Gas unit and you must have Natural Gas plumbed out to your patio or deck to be able to use this grill; If you do not have Natural Gas plumbed, please look at our selection of Propane barbecues
- Natural gas grill with 10 year, 100 Percent Weber Guarantee, 10 foot flexible hose included ,Left table down width - 42 inches
- Boasts the Gs4 grilling system with improved infinity ignition, burners, porcelain-enameled Flavorizer Bars, and grease Management system
- Porcelain-enameled, cast iron cooking grates. Dimensions - lid closed (inches): 44.5H x 52W x 27D
- 529 Square inches of cooking space over three burners
What is LP Gas?
Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) is a flammable gas used as fuel in vehicles, heating appliances, and cooking grills. It is a combination of hydrocarbon gases, mostly propane and butane. LP gas is made during the refining of crude oil. In natural gas vs. propane grill, burning propane emits carbon dioxide and nitrogen oxides, which lead to the formation of ozone and global climate change. Unlike natural gas, LP gas is widely available for both home and commercial use. It comes in small gas cylinders, which can be used anywhere with a portable gas grill.
- Your purchase includes One Weber Spirit II E-210 2-Burner Liquid Propane Grill in Black color
- Grill dimensions: Lid Open - 57"H x 48"W x 26"D. Lid Closed - 44.5"H x 48"W x 27"D. Each cooking grate is 10.16” x 17.5", for a combined measurement of approximately 20.32" x 17.5"
- Propane gas grill works with Standard 20 lb LP tank.
- Features: Porcelain-enameled, cast-iron cooking grates, porcelain-enameled lid, iGrill 3 compatible (accessory sold separately), Built-in lid thermometer, Fold-down left side table, Open cart design, Fuel gauge, Stainless steel heat deflector, Panel frame
- Two burner grill is built to fit small spaces, and packed with features such as the powerful GS4 grilling system
Difference Between Natural Gas and Propane Grill
The difference between propane and natural gas grill is quite clear. Natural gas is odorless, while propane has a petroleum smell.
Here is a summary table of propane vs. natural gas grill comparison
| Natural Gas | Propane Gas | |
| Cost | Efficient | Expensive |
| Availability | Unlimited | Refill |
| Installation | Home Installation | Portable tank |
| Mobility | Immobile | Portable |
| Energy | 1000 BTU | 2500 BTU |
Energy Amount & Performance
When it comes to energy and performance on the natural gas grills vs. propane debate, propane wins since it provides more power. Propane grills give 2500 BTU (British Thermal Unit) compared to 1000 BTU from their natural gas counterpart. In performance, propane burns a fewer amount of energy an hour than natural gas.
Costs
Setting up is the only impediment to using natural gas; however, you enjoy unlimited supply with no hassle of swapping tanks for refuel once you have it installed. Having a natural gas fuel system installed in your home could potentially hurt your pocket. The initial cost is usually very high compared to having propane. All in all, natural gas is cheaper than propane gas.
Ease of Use / Mobility
One of the substantial disadvantages of a natural gas grill is immobility. You cannot move it around as you wish; instead, stay within the supply line. It is not designed for camping or traveling. Propane gas grill, on the other hand, is portable. The tank is lightweight and can be moved around easily. When contemplating on propane vs. natural gas BBQ grill, it’s wise to keep this factor in mind.
Safety
It’s common sense that we smell to detect a gas leak in the event of one. Natural gas is very flammable and can easily be ignited by sparks, flame, or heat. Prolonged exposure may cause headaches, drowsiness, unconsciousness, and dizziness. In the event of a leak, evacuate the area immediately, don’t touch anything that could ignite a fire, and call for emergency help.
Always have frequent inspections and maintenance done by a skilled technician. Close all gas valves after use. Do not store flammable substances close to gas appliances.
Availability
Given the availability of natural gas vs. propane grill, it’s essential to keep in mind that propane is readily available in returnable tanks at local stores.
Natural Gas vs. Propane Grill: Summary
Below is a table summary of the pros and cons of natural gas vs. propane grill
| Natural Gas | Pros | Cons |
| Eco-friendly | Immobile | |
| Economical | High installation cost | |
| Unlimited supply |
| Propane Gas | Pros | Cons |
| Portability | Expensive | |
| More energy | Frequent refill | |
| No installation cost |
Convert Propane Grill to Natural Gas
In line with liquid propane vs. natural gas grill, you can convert propane grill to natural gas using a manufacturer’s conversion kit. Some propane grills come with orifices for use with natural gas.
Final Word
If you have read this article, you should be able to make a choice on natural gas vs. propane grill depending on your need. Both grills pack their advantages and disadvantages. If you are a person who loves to travel, camping, and outdoor BBQ, then a propane gas grill would be your perfect choice. However, if you want a cost-efficient, unlimited supply and still don’t mind immobility, natural gas grill is the way to go.
