Charbroil Grill
Charbroil grills deliver infrared performance at a low price
While there are many different infrared grills on the market, brands
like Soliare and TEC typically carry a premium price. For more
budget-minded consumers, Charbroil offers similar features at a very
compelling pricepoint.
Charbroil offers three different infrared gas grill models, the
Quantum, the RED, and the Heatwave. The RED and Heatwave use the
same burner design, while the Quantum uses a different design.
The Quantum Charbroil grill utilizes a burner design similar to that
found on TEC grills, except the glass barrier used on TEC grills is
replaced with a perforated metal shild on the Charbroil. While a
burn-off is still possible for the grates, some users feel the
perferated plate might require a bit more maintainance than some other
options on the market. Otherwise, the these Charbroil grills have
all the benefits of a modern infrared grill at pricepoints from
$400-800.
The RED and Heatwave Charbroil grills use a somewhat different
design with a non-perferated emitter that spans the grill
surface. The emitter is U-shaped over each burner. This has
the advantage of no small holes to clog like the Quantum, but may
collect grease. At this point, it is unclear which design is
better overall, though the RED and Heatwave models sell for slightly
higher prices. Look to spend $600-$1000 on one of these
models.
The RED model is primarily sold through Home Depot, where as the
Heatwave is available from a number of different retailers.
Both models offer propane and natural gas options, though expect
much lower heat output when using natural gas. Many people that
have tried running a Charbroil infrared model on natural gas have been
disappointed that the heat level really isn't all that different than a
traditional gas grill.
Charbroil grills have a mixed reputation as far as build quality.
Construction is typically a combination of steel and stainless
steel. Typically 304 grade stainless steel is used, not the more
expensive and durable 316 stainless. The residential models
different warranties on the overall construction and burners.
This is not to say that they are poorly built, just that they are a
step down in quality from some of the premium brands that sell for
premium prices.
Many grill buyers would like to take advantage of all the features
an infrared grill can offer, but lack the financial resources to pay
$1,000 or more. If that sounds like you, a Charbroil grill
definitely belongs on your short list to consider.
