If you live in an apartment or the weather forecast predicts storms, you might not have the opportunity to barbecue outdoors. However, with a bit of research, it’s possible to find an electric grill that will give food a similar charred appearance and juicy texture without filling your home with smoke. When shopping for equipment, here are three points to keep in mind.  

3 Factors to Consider When Choosing an Electric Grill

1. Grill Line Spacing

The ridges on a grill’s grates or plates should be close together and cover the entire area. Tight spacing provides better heat distribution to ensure food cooks evenly. If you want grill line marks as if the food was cooked over an open flame, you need high-wattage equipment that can reach temperatures of 600 degrees Fahrenheit. Just make sure your electric system can handle the appliance’s demands. 

2. Appliance Size

Although indoor grills are considerably smaller than outdoor counterparts, make sure you have space in the kitchen to use and store equipment. If you’ve decided where to put the appliance on a counter or island surface, measure the area to determine which grill size is suitable. If you have electric fryers, griddles, or other larger, portable appliances that fit easily on counters, you can look for a grill in a similar size. For safety, the cord should be long enough to reach the nearest outlet without pulling. 

3. Ease of Cleanup

Find a grill that is easy to clean by hand or in the dishwasher. You should be able to remove the grates, dripping pan, and additional components to ensure each part gets as clean as possible. Remember to look at maintenance instructions before using different cleaning products or methods.

Whether you want to host a backyard barbecue or entertain inside the house, reach out to Tradewind Hawaii in Kailua-Kona. The store is known throughout the Big Island for its extensive inventory of kitchen appliances and glassware by leading manufacturers like Miele®, Fisher & Paykel®, and Fire & Light®. To find out what indoor and outdoor grills are in stock, call (808) 329-2310. Visit the company online for a list of brands they carry, and become a Facebook follower for inventory updates.