Propane vs. Natural Gas

Choosing the right fuel for your gas grill

There are two fuel choices to use with gas grills: propane or natural gas. In terms of cooking or performance, there is no difference between the two. The choice often comes down to price and availability.

Props to propane

About 85% of all gas grills are fueled by propane - also known as LP or liquid propane. Propane comes in a portable tank that fits beside or underneath your grill. (Please consult your owner's manual for specific location illustrations.)

These propane tanks connect directly to your grill, usually with a simple "twist-on" connector similar to those found on a garden hose. Tanks can be purchased and refilled at many locations such as a local gas station or propane distributor. A 20 lb. tank, the most common size, will give you about 25 hours of grilling time, depending on your grill's BTU output, but savvy gas grill owners know the value of keeping a spare tank handy in case you run out.

Au naturale

Natural gas grills make up about 10% of the gas grill market and tap directly in to your home's gas fuel supply, the same supply used to fuel your furnace or other natural gas appliances such as stoves or dryers.

Your utility company or locally certified contractor can install the necessary connection outlet so that you can easily and conveniently use natural gas for your grill.

While a natural gas connection ensures that you won't run out of fuel in the middle of cooking it does require that your grill remain in one spot near the connection; you won't be able to move you grill to another part of your deck or patio.

Their on-demand convenience and ease of use make gas grills a popular choice over charcoal grills for summer cookouts. Choosing between natural gas and propane, however, often comes down to lugging and refilling heavy propane tanks vs. paying to install a natural gas connection on your patio. Whichever fuel option you choose, your burgers and steaks are sure to grill up to juicy, delicious perfection.

More information on gas grills