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Surprising fact: nearly 40 million U.S. households use a fuel-fired cooker outdoors, and choosing the right fuel can change your running costs by hundreds each season.
We set the stage for outdoor cooking by comparing the two most popular fuels and showing where the real difference appears.
Both options burn clean and deliver quick, high heat. Still, a cooker built for one cannot safely run the other without a proper conversion kit because orifices and pressures differ.
Operating costs matter. A piped utility hookup usually runs about $0.15–$0.75 per hour depending on location and burners. A portable tank averages near $1.25 per hour and needs refills.
Installation and convenience are simple trade-offs: a fixed line gives steady supply, while a tank gives portability. We also flag safety basics—ventilation, leak checks, and correct regulators—so your decision feels clear, not technical.
Key Takeaways
- Cost: piped hookup often costs less per hour than tanks.
- Conversion: you need proper kits and adjustments to switch fuels.
- Convenience: line hookups are steady; tanks are portable.
- Performance: both deliver fast, high heat when set up correctly.
- Safety: ventilation and leak checks are essential for any setup.
Quick overview: propane vs natural gas for outdoor cooking
For most home cooks, the key draw is simple: both fuels burn clean and produce consistent, controllable heat.
They make weeknight grilling predictable and low-fuss. Both options emit minimal smoke and let you tune temps with simple knobs. That predictability is why many people favor gas grills for repeatable results.
Availability differs by setup. Propane comes in portable tanks and is easy to swap at stores. Natural gas arrives through a utility line for steady, on-site supply.
What both fuels share
- Clean-burning: lower soot and quicker cleanup than charcoal.
- Consistent output: steady heat for searing, roasting, or low-and-slow cooking.
- Everyday convenience: quick ignition, stable flames, and simple temperature control.
Match your fuel source to your location and lifestyle. Access to a home line favors piped supply; on-the-go setups point toward tanks. Later sections dive into cost, placement, conversion, and safety so you can choose with confidence.
Natural gas vs propane grill differences
How fuel arrives at the cooksite affects installation, placement, and daily use. We walk through delivery, mobility, and what you must change to switch fuels.
Fuel source and delivery
Line supply: A hard-plumbed utility connection gives an endless feed for a built-in unit and links via a kit or quick-connect.
Tank supply: A standard 20 lb cylinder hooks to a hose and regulator. Homes with in‑ground tanks use larger regulators and fill cycles.
Mobility and placement
Fixed setups favor a plumbed spot—perfect for an outdoor kitchen. Portable models rely on tanks, so you can move a grill across the patio or take it camping.
Compatibility and conversion
Orifices and regulator pressures differ between fuels. You should only run the fuel a unit was built for unless you install a manufacturer-approved conversion kit.
- Delivery: continuous line vs refillable tanks.
- Gear: tanks, hose, regulator for tanks; fittings and stub‑out for a line.
- Safety: check all connections after moves or tank changes and keep built-ins ventilated.
Cost and ownership: upfront installation, long-run fuel spend, and refills
Money matters: installation, refills, and runtime define which fuel makes sense for your setup.
Running costs today
We estimate operating costs so you can compare side by side. Natural gas typically runs about $0.15–$0.75 per hour depending on local rates and how many burners are on. Propane averages near $1.25 per hour under similar use.
Upfront realities
Installing a new gas line or a natural gas line requires a licensed pro and may need trenching or yard work. That installation can be costly up front.
By contrast, propane starts with buying or exchanging propane tanks and adding a regulator. The sticker cost is lower, but refills add recurring spend.
Your usage pattern
If you grill several nights a week, the long run often favors a plumbed line because no refills are needed. For occasional cooks, propane is an easy, low‑commitment option.
“Consider total cost of ownership—installation, ongoing fuel, and maintenance—before you decide.”
- Tip: Larger, multi‑zone grills burn more fuel, so match grill size to how you cook.
- Think about your home layout and location when weighing the final decision.
Performance and heat: BTUs, energy density, and real-world cooking results
When it comes to real cooking performance, numbers on a spec sheet tell only part of the story.
BTU nuance: why higher propane BTUs don’t always mean faster cooking
BTUs measure output, not how evenly heat hits food. A higher rating can mean the unit will burn more fuel to reach a target temp.
Propane often shows higher BTUs because its energy per volume is greater. That does not guarantee faster searing.
Heat output, preheat time, and temperature control on gas grills
Other parts of the system matter: burner shape, lid fit, and heavy grates all affect preheat and sear.
- Energy density gives propane an edge on paper, but design closes the gap.
- Both fuels give steady flames when orifices and regulators are matched.
- A well-set natural gas setup can equal a propane setup for high-heat cooking.
“Aim for a 10–15 minute preheat to 500–600°F. If you hit that reliably, your system performs well.”
Choose a model that fits how you cook: zones for two-stage cooking, solid grates for sear marks, and reliable ignition matter more than specs alone.
Safety, installation, and equipment: doing it right at home
Before you hook anything up, let’s walk through the practical steps that keep your outdoor setup safe and code‑compliant. Small actions prevent leaks, carbon buildup, and costly fixes later.
Ventilation, leak awareness, and handling tanks safely
Ventilation matters: built‑in islands need airflow panels to prevent gas buildup. Keep cabinet doors and vents clear.
After any connection change, check for leaks with soapy water. Bubbles reveal weak spots. Replace any hose or regulator that shows wear.
Propane tanks must sit upright and outdoors. Store spare tanks away from heat and follow the manufacturer’s handling tips.
Setting up a natural gas grill: licensed pros and correct fittings
Hire a licensed plumber to run a proper gas line and set a shutoff valve. Use the right regulator and approved flexible lines where code allows.
Size the regulator to your appliance and secure quick‑connects per local rules. Professional installation adds upfront cost but improves safety and peace of mind at home.
Conversions done correctly: when brand‑approved kits make sense
Only use manufacturer‑approved conversion kits. Mixing parts or drilling orifices voids warranties and creates hazards.
“Follow approved conversion instructions—it’s the safe path and protects your warranty.”
Do annual checks of burners, igniters, and connections to keep performance reliable.
Conclusion
We’ll end with a clear, practical summary to help you pick the right setup for your backyard.
Both choices are valid for outdoor cooking. If you grill often, a plumbed natural gas setup usually costs less over time despite higher install work. If you cook occasionally, portable propane offers low upfront effort and easy placement.
Either option can deliver great heat and sear when installed and maintained correctly. Prioritize proper installation, ventilation, and routine leak checks to stay safe.
Next step: list your must‑haves—size, zones, budget—confirm whether a line or tank fits your space, then make the decision that matches how you cook.
FAQ
What’s the main difference between propane and a home line for outdoor cooking?
The key distinction is supply method. One uses portable refillable tanks while the other taps a fixed supply from a pipe installed to your house. Tanks let you move the unit and replace bottles. A home line delivers continuous fuel without swapping bottles, but it ties the grill to a location and usually requires professional installation.
Are both fuel options clean and easy to use?
Yes. Both burn relatively clean compared with charcoal, give steady heat, and are available in most areas. Setup and handling differ: tanks need periodic replacement and safe storage; a house line needs a regulator and proper fittings but reduces downtime from empty cylinders.
How does mobility affect where I place my cooker?
A portable bottle offers flexible placement — patio, tailgate, or stored away. A plumbed connection limits placement near the gas stub but removes the hassle of refilling. Consider your layout and whether you want to relocate the unit often.
Can I convert a bottle-powered unit to use a house supply?
Often yes, using manufacturer-approved conversion kits. Conversions adjust pressure and orifice size. Always follow the grill-maker’s instructions and hire a licensed technician for the plumbing hookup to meet safety codes.
Which option saves more money long term?
Tied supply usually costs less per hour of cooking, so heavy users save money with a plumbed connection over time. Casual users who fire up the cooker a few times a month may find portable bottles more cost-effective because they avoid installation fees.
How do running costs compare during a typical cook?
Actual cost depends on local utility rates and burner count. A plumbed supply tends to run cheaper per hour, while bottles show higher per-hour fuel expense. Exact figures vary by region and grill size.
Do higher BTU ratings mean faster or better cooking?
Not always. BTUs indicate potential heat output, but grill design, burner layout, and heat retention drive cooking performance. A well-built unit with moderate BTUs can outperform a poorly designed high-BTU model.
Will preheat time differ between fuels?
Differences are usually small. Bottle fuel can show higher peak BTUs, which may shorten preheat slightly, but metal mass, grates, and lid fit affect how quickly the cooking surface reaches target temperature.
What safety steps should I take with tanks and plumbed lines?
For tanks: store upright, check valves and hoses regularly, and move empty cylinders outdoors. For a home line: use a licensed fitter, install a shutoff valve and regulator, and schedule leak checks. Always follow the grill manufacturer’s safety guidance.
Do installations require a professional?
Yes for plumbed connections. A licensed plumber or gas fitter ensures correct regulators, fittings, and code compliance. Tank setup is user-friendly, but hose and valve inspections are still important.
Can I use the same grill head after converting fuel types?
Often you can, if the manufacturer offers a conversion kit. The kit changes orifices and sometimes regulators to match pressure differences. Never jury-rig fittings; improper conversion risks poor performance and safety issues.
Which option is better for someone who grills daily?
A fixed supply is usually best for frequent users. It avoids bottle swaps and typically lowers long-term fuel cost. If you value portability more than running cost, a tank-powered unit remains a solid choice.
How do I choose based on my backyard layout?
If your ideal spot is close to a gas stub or you can add one, a fixed line maximizes convenience. If you want flexibility to move the cooker around or take it elsewhere, choose a portable bottle setup.
Are there environmental or energy-efficiency differences?
Both fuels burn efficiently and produce similar emissions profiles at the point of use. Efficiency depends more on grill design and maintenance than on fuel source alone. Good burners and clean grates improve fuel use regardless of supply.
What about brand compatibility when converting or buying?
Stick with the grill maker’s parts and recommended kits. Brands like Weber, Napoleon, and Broil King publish specific conversion instructions and approved components. Using off-brand parts can void warranties and cause safety problems.
