TEC Infrared Grill Review
TEC Grills lead the pack
If you are looking for a company with deep experience in infrared grilling, look no further than TEC. TEC
literally invented the infrared grill in the 1980's, and continues to be an innovator in this area. The
latest TEC grill design, called TEC Advantage, is reflective of this experience.
The core of any grill is the burner, and in the case of the TEC grills, you will discover a very sophisticated
burner design. The burners themselves are build entirely of stainless steel, which tends to be more durable
than many of the ceramic-based burners on the market. Between the infrared burner and the cooking grate is a
glass panel, called a "radiant emitter panel", that blocks airflow and drippings from raching the burners, and
allows only infrared energy to reach the cooking surface. The result is a burner system that is much more
resistant to flare-ups compared to open-flame burner designs. (It is worth noting that the current burner
design on TEC grills is not the same as prior models. TEC grills utilized a more traditional ceramic burner
up until around 2005)
Clean-up is a breeze as well. Like most infrared grills, a TEC grill can simply burn off most leftover
drippings. The glass radiant panels can be easily cleaned with a spatula. TEC only sells stainless
steel grills to begin with, so just about every model cleans very easily.
TEC grills are faily well built. Most use 304 grade stainless steel, which while not as corrosion
resistant as 316 stainless steel, is still fairly durable. The residential models carry a lifetime warranty
on the outer structure and a 5 year warranty on the burners.
Traditional TEC grills come in 382. 573, and 764 square inch varieties in freestanding, pedistal mount, and
built-in configurations. They also offer some smaller portable models and "budget" models. Propane and
natural gas options are available. A TEC grill is an investment, and would definitely be considered a premium
brand. Look to spend $3,000 to $6,000 for a traditional free-standing model! For those with more modest
means, it is worth noting that TEC has partnered with Char-broil to provide TEC-based burner design in a sub-$1,000
pricepoint.
If you are serious about infrared grilling, want a state-of-the-art grill, and have the means, a TEC grill
definitely belongs on your short list to consider.
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