Natural Gas & Propane Grills: Frequently Asked Questions

Choosing between a natural gas and a propane grill is one of the most common decisions our customers face. Below we answer the questions we hear most often to help you find the right fit for your backyard. Browse our full range of natural gas and propane grills, or call our team at 843-212-7209.

What is the difference between a natural gas and a propane grill?

The main difference is the fuel source. A natural gas grill connects to your home's existing gas line, giving you an unlimited supply of fuel and no tanks to refill. A propane grill runs on a refillable liquid propane (LP) tank, which makes it portable but requires you to monitor and replace the tank.

Can I convert a propane grill to natural gas?

Many grills can be converted using a manufacturer-approved conversion kit, because natural gas and propane burn at different pressures and require different orifices. Always use the kit designed for your specific model and have the conversion done by a qualified technician to keep your warranty valid and your grill safe. See our warranty information page for coverage details.

Which is cheaper to run, natural gas or propane?

Natural gas is generally less expensive per cooking hour than propane in most regions, since it is billed through your utility at a lower energy cost. Propane has a higher upfront convenience but costs more per BTU, so frequent grillers often save money over time with natural gas.

Do natural gas grills get as hot as propane grills?

When properly sized and configured, both fuel types reach the same cooking temperatures. Propane delivers slightly more energy per unit of volume, but a natural gas grill compensates with a larger orifice and steady line pressure, so cooking performance is effectively identical. Our guide to how many BTUs you actually need in a gas grill explains why burner design matters more than headline BTU numbers.

Do I need a professional to install a natural gas grill?

Yes. Connecting a grill to your home's gas line should be performed by a licensed plumber or gas fitter to ensure the line is correctly sized, leak-tested, and code-compliant. Propane grills, by contrast, can be set up at home simply by attaching a tank.

How long does a propane tank last?

A standard 20 lb propane tank provides roughly 18–20 hours of cooking at medium heat on a typical two-to-three burner grill, less on larger or higher-output grills. Heavy use on high heat will shorten that, so many owners keep a spare tank on hand to avoid running out mid-cook. A dedicated propane tank drawer or access door keeps the cylinder secure and ventilated in an outdoor kitchen.

Are natural gas and propane grills safe to use?

Both are very safe when used and maintained correctly. Always grill outdoors in a well-ventilated area, check connections for leaks with a soapy-water test, and keep the grill away from siding and overhangs. Never store propane tanks indoors.

Which grill should I choose?

Choose natural gas if you grill often, want a permanent setup, and have an accessible gas line. Choose propane if you value portability, want a simpler installation, or do not have natural gas service at your home. Our built-in vs. freestanding grills guide covers the other half of the decision.

Which models should I look at?

For a permanent outdoor kitchen, popular built-in picks include the Coyote SL-Series 36" Built-In Natural Gas Grill, the Summerset TRL Pro 32" Built-In Gas Grill, the TrueFlame E Series 32" Built-In Gas Grill and the American Made Grills Alturi 36" U-Tube Built-In Gas Grill. If you would rather stay mobile, the cart grills range includes the TrueFlame 32" Freestanding Cart Grill TF32 and the Bonfire Whistler 4 32" Freestanding Cart Grill. You can also shop by fuel type directly: natural gas cart grills and propane cart grills.

Why buy from Northwoods Grills?

Northwoods Grills offers free shipping, no credit card fees, competitive pricing, manufacturer-backed warranties, and expert guidance on sizing, fuel type and installation. Call us at 843-212-7209 and we'll help you pick the right fuel and the right grill.