Imagine yourself on a warm summer night. The sun is setting, the crickets are chirping and you can smell the unmistakable scent of BBQ in the air. You follow your nose to the source and find your neighbor grilling up a storm in their backyard. They invite you over for a burger and you happily accept.
As you take your first bite of perfectly grilled meat, you can’t help but wonder what makes this burger taste so much better than the ones you make at home. Is it the freshness of the ingredients? The secret family recipe? Or could it be something as simple as the grill itself?
If you’re like most people, you probably think it’s one of the first two options. But the truth is, it’s probably the grill. Home grills and commercial grills may look similar, but they actually have quite a few differences. Here are 8 of the biggest:
1. Size
The first and most obvious difference between home grills and commercial grills is their size. Commercial grills are much larger than home grills, which means they can cook more food at one time. This is ideal for cooking for large groups of people, like at a party or picnic.
2. BTU Output
BTU, or British Thermal Units, measures the amount of heat a grill produces. The higher the BTU output, the hotter the grill will be. Commercial grills typically have a higher BTU output than home grills, which means they can reach higher temperatures. This is ideal for searing meat, which locks in juices and flavor.
3. Number of Burners
Commercial grills typically have more burners than home grills. This allows you to cook different foods at different temperatures, which is helpful when you’re trying to juggle multiple dishes.
4. Material
Commercial grills are usually made with stainless steel, while home grills are typically made with cast iron or aluminum. Stainless steel is more durable and easier to clean than other materials, so it’s a good choice for a commercial grill that will see a lot of use.
5. Ignition System
Another difference between home grills and commercial grills is their ignition system. Home grills typically have a manual ignition, which means you have to light them with a match or lighter. Commercial grills, on the other hand, usually have an electronic ignition. This makes it much easier to start the grill, especially if it’s large.
6. Portability
Commercial grills are not designed to be portable, while many home grills are. If you plan to take your grill with you on camping trips or picnics, a home grill may be a better option.
7. Storage
Similarly, commercial grills are not typically designed for easy storage. Home grills, however, often come with storage features like shelves or cabinets. This can be helpful if you have limited space for your grill.
8. Price
Commercial grills are more expensive than home grills, but they’re also built to last longer and withstand more use. If you plan to do a lot of grilling, a commercial grill may be worth the investment.
So, the next time you take a bite of that delicious grilled food, remember that it might not be the recipe that makes it taste so good. It could be the grill itself!