Should You Buy an Electric Grill?

Grilling is a popular cooking method that gives a delicious smoky flavor to meats, vegetables, and other foods. While charcoal and gas grills have traditionally been the most common options, electric grills have surged in popularity in recent years. In 2021, the global electric grill market size was valued at USD 4.23 billion and is projected to reach USD 6.17 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 5.2%. 

With busy lifestyles and smaller living spaces, electric grills offer convenience and versatility that make them an appealing choice for many homeowners. If you’re wondering whether you should buy an electric grill or not, here is your guide.

Research Before You Buy Electric Grill

While electric grills provide many benefits, there are also a few downsides to consider when deciding between electric and gas models. Examining the pros and cons can help you determine if an electric grill is the right fit for your cooking needs.

Evaluating these pros and cons will provide deeper insight into whether investing in an electric grill is the best choice for your kitchen. For many homeowners, the numerous benefits outweigh the relatively few drawbacks of electric grills. Unless you specifically require an open flame or your home lacks adequate electrical capacity, an electric grill is likely the optimal choice for convenience, safety, and performance.

Why You Should Buy an Electric Grill

Once you have outweighed the pros and cons of electric grills, it’s time to decide. Electric grills have become increasingly popular choices for today’s home cooks. If you’re considering a new grill for your kitchen, choose electric for the best performance, safety, and value. 

Below are the key reasons why purchasing an electric grill is a smart investment for your kitchen.

1. Precise Temperature Control

One of the biggest advantages of electric grills is their ability to precisely control cooking temperatures. Electric grills use heating elements that quickly adjust to maintain an even, steady temperature throughout the grill cavity. This allows you to perfectly calibrate the grill’s heat to the optimal temperature for baking, roasting, or broiling a specific recipe. 

Gas grills often struggle to distribute heat evenly, creating hot and cold spots. The precise temperature control of electric grills results in evenly cooked dishes without burnt edges or undercooked centers. Whether you’re baking delicate soufflés and cakes or roasting meats, an electric grill’s consistent heat helps ensure perfect results.

2. Faster Preheat Times

In addition to even heating, electric grills also preheat significantly faster than gas models. While gas grills can take 15-20 minutes to reach baking temperatures, electric grills preheat in just 5-10 minutes. This allows you to start cooking sooner, saving time when preparing meals.

Electric grills use heating elements that quickly heat up to high temperatures. Preheating is especially fast when using convection settings. The faster preheat function is ideal for recipes that require the grill to be fully preheated, like breads, cookies, and casseroles. You’ll be able to get dinner on the table quicker with an electric grill’s rapid preheating.

3. Improved Safety Features 

Electric grills provide a higher level of safety than gas grills due to the lack of open flames and combustible fuel. There is no risk of gas leaks that could lead to fire or explosion. Electric grills also don’t emit carbon monoxide or other fumes.

Many electric grills have cool-touch exteriors that prevent burns. Additional safety mechanisms like auto shut-off features will turn the grill off if overheating is detected. For households with small children, electric grills eliminate many of the risks posed by gas models. Their improved safety makes electric grills ideal for peace of mind.

4. Better Energy Efficiency

Modern electric grills are very energy efficient, providing savings on electricity bills over time. Features like convection fans, broilers, and improved insulation allow electric grills to use less energy while cooking. They retain heat effectively, so the heating elements don’t have to work as hard.

Electric grills with convection settings use a fan to circulate hot air and reduce cooking times by up to 25%. This further improves their energy efficiency. Electric grills are available in Energy Star-certified models that can trim energy usage by around 20%. With rising energy costs, an efficient electric grill is a smart long-term investment.

5. Easy Cleaning and Maintenance 

Cleaning and maintaining an electric grill is significantly easier than using gas models. Electric grills don’t produce greasy soot or residue from combustion byproducts. Their smooth surfaces can be easily wiped clean after each use.

Electric grills also don’t have burner drip pans that require frequent scrubbing. Their lack of flames prevents the build-up of burnt-on foods that require heavy-duty cleaning. With few parts to disassemble and clean, electric grill maintenance is hassle-free. Their simple care and cleaning are major perks for busy cooks.

6. Quieter Operation

Electric grills operate much more quietly than gas grills. They don’t produce the roaring sound of burning propane or natural gas during operation. The quiet functionality creates a more peaceful cooking environment. If your kitchen is part of an open floor plan, an electric grill prevents noise from disrupting conversations in adjoining rooms. Their quiet performance makes electric grills ideal for open-concept spaces. 

7. Flexibility in Installation

Unlike gas grills that require special gas lines and ventilation, electric grills can be easily installed in any standard kitchen. Their simpler electrical hook-up enables greater flexibility in selecting a grill location that works best for your unique layout. 

Electric grills are also well-suited for indoor kitchens that lack proper ventilation for gas appliances. You’ll have more freedom in designing your kitchen with an electric grill.

8. Innovative Technology and Features

From convection fans to self-cleaning modes, electric grills offer access to the latest cooking technologies. High-end models come with preset cooking functions, interior lighting, and digital controls. With more electrical components than gas grills, electric models can be equipped with more advanced features.

With faster preheating, precise temperature control, improved safety, and easier maintenance, electric grills provide significant advantages over gas models. Their energy efficiency, quiet operation, and flexibility in installation make them ideal for modern homes and lifestyles. Electric grills allow you to achieve perfect cooking results with maximum convenience. For most households, the pros of convenience and ease of use outweigh any drawbacks. Electric grills have earned their place as a versatile, modern grilling option.