Kamado Joe Gas and Charcoal BBQ Grill Comparison
The Kamado Grill – is an ancient name for ceramic grill.
What would it be like to own such a grill? It is a grill that will not only satisfy your taste and your lifestyle, but will also satisfy your budget.
There are two types of Kamado grills:
The Kamado Joe Gas Grill is very easy for start up and allows some level of grilled taste. If you prefer added flavor you should consider a model with a smoker box. A smoker box with wood chips can add a modest level of smokiness. This type of grill is easy to use having a convenient start up and shut down after cooking. It is ready in 15 minutes. Its heat source is LP Gas, and Natural Gas and depending on gas prices, an average cost is $1.00 per hour to operate. If you are familiar with gas grills, they carry the most maintenance and monitoring time. The tank needs to be refilled and lines and tubes requiring checking and grates need replacing as required.
Cleaning of burners, igniter collector box and drip trays require cleaning on a regular basis. Cleaning the cooking grate before cooking can be done by turning the grill to high for 10-15 minutes and then brushing the grates. Cast iron grates require regular oiling. Note that ceramic grates should not be scraped to prevent flaking of the coating.
Gas Grills should only be considered for good-sized patios and decks.
Entry level gas grills can cost as low as $100. For a grill with features, expect to pay from $500 to $1,500.
Commercial grade outdoor grills can be priced much higher.
The Kamado Joe Charcoal Grill provides true charcoal flavor. Charcoal is made from hardwoods, excellent for grilling and especially for smoking meats. It is less convenient to use than the gas grill and the desired temperature is reached adjusting the air flow. Start-up time is 15 minutes. A low temperature of 225 degrees F and a high of 750 degrees F + can easily be achieved. Since the heat source is Natural Lump Charcoal, six quarts of briquettes have an average cost of $1.50-$1.75 per cooking.
Maintenance is very low for charcoal grills. Replace felt gaskets as needed, generally every 2-3 years and check the tightness of the band screws that hold the base and lid connecting to the hinge. Kamado grills work well in limited outdoor spaces. They can also be inserted in a grill table for an additional working surface and storage.
When considering purchasing a Kamado grill, note all grills are not the same. Some use inferior ceramics for cheap hardware. Choose a manufacturer with a full line of accessories for the types of cooking you plan to do. Note that heat deflectors are a good choice for indirect cooking whether you are grilling, baking or smoking. If you are looking for working space and/or storage space, consider a grill table.
Standard size Kamado grills range in price from $850 to $1,000. If you add a grill table, plan to spend $250 to $750 additional.