Installing a Gas Barbecue, by Pattie Hughes

A gas barbecue is great for cooking outdoors all year round. A good location for your grill is on an existing patio, and if possible near the kitchen for easy access to cooking supplies. A dedicated gas line can be run to the exterior wall for easy access.

If you are really into barbecuing, consider an outdoor kitchen. A masonry contractor can design a kitchen to fit your needs. Non flammable material, such as brick or stone is best in terms of safety. A contractor can install the grill, gas line and any other utilities needed to run the kitchen. This may include electrical lines for lighting or plumbing for an outdoor sink.

Natural Gas Barbecue

Natural gas eliminates the need for propane tanks. You won't need to worry about running out of propane in the middle of cooking a meal. Your grill can be connected to the house gas with a separate line. A "quick connect" on the exterior wall is generally used. This can be easily disconnected when needed.

Lines for a natural gas barbecue can be steel, corrugated stainless steel or copper, although copper is preferred by most professionals. It is easier to install and more cost effective. Since installation is easier, costs can be kept down. Once installed, natural gas is about half the cost of propane to operate.

You should always hire a professional to hook up a natural gas line for your barbecue. A separate shut off valve should be installed for this line. This valve should be located near the grill for easy access. A separate valve allows you to turn off the gas when not in use.

Propane Gas Barbecue

Propane gas barbecues are the most common type of gas grill. The gas is compressed into a liquid, which is stored in a tank. Most have a twenty pound tank, which gives about twenty five uses per tank when using average cooking temperatures. Higher temperatures will use the gas up faster. You can exchange tanks or have yours refilled as needed.

If you are really into barbecuing, consider an outdoor kitchen.

If you have propane gas service in your home, you can have a dedicated line installed for the grill as with natural gas. Be sure a qualified dealer does this job to be sure it is compatible and installed properly. As with natural gas, you can have a separate shut off valve installed for safety.

Which fuel should you choose?

There are several things to consider when choosing the type of gas to heat your barbecue. Both propane and natural gas grills have their advantages and disadvantages, and it's best to make an informed decision.

Installing a Gas Line for the Barbecue

Installing a gas line is a job for a professional. Both natural gas and propane can be volatile, and attempting an installation can be hazardous if the person installing it isn't qualified. In addition, there are zoning regulations and permits needed. Your contractor will be able to handle this for you. Be sure the person you hire obtains all necessary permits for gas lines, electricity and plumbing, if you are installing an outdoor kitchen with your grill. For more information on installing natural gas lines, go to Strategies for Piping the Gas.