Gone are the days when no self-respecting dedicated barbequer would be caught grilling dinner over a gas flame instead of charcoal or wood embers. Today, many people are switching over for the convenience and lower cost of cooking with gas. Getting that distinctive wood flavour, can easily be achieved by using a smoke box filled with wood chips.

Gas barbeques tend to be easier to clean and less smoky than traditional charcoal grills. Smoked and charred meats are known to contain carcinogens so a gas barbeque can be a healthier choice.

Compared to propane, natural gas is safer. Gas is lighter than air and will rise into the atmosphere in the event of a leak. Natural gas barbecues are connected directly to your home gas system, making them easy to install, relocate, or disconnect for storage, according to the Saskatchewan Energy Company. Not to mention, you won't need to worry about refilling tanks in the middle of your cookout.

When it comes to choosing a new barbeque, a few pointers on products and safety may help you may an informed decision.

Check Consumer Reports for overall ratings based on performance, convenience and features. You may find consumers reports at your local library or you may use an online source such as Consumer Reports.org which charges less than $5 for a one-month subscription. In general, Weber, Ducane, Vermont Castings, PGS, Holland and Aero rank as quality grills.

Top of the line
Weber Summit 650 - Suggested retail price $3,600
This premium gas barbeque features 6 burners, a total of 742 inches of cooking space (some downtown apartments don't have that much!), a smoker box, and stainless steel rods and flavour bars. The price may be prohibitive to many back yard cookers but serious chefs may enjoy the space and accessories.

Big Green Egg (Large model) - Suggest Retail Price $1,150
This is not you typical egg. The Big Green Egg is promoted as one of the best smokers on the market. The design is energy efficient and retains moisture in foods. The ceramic egg rests in a "nest" comprised of a stand with wheels.

Cost
The cost of natural gas barbeques spans a wide range - anywhere from $250 to $3,600, with $500 to $1,000 a popular price range for a quality grill with popular features. Take extra care to extend the life of lower priced gas grills - keep them protected from the elements and clean the cooking area thoroughly after each use.

Signs of Quality
Heavy gauge metals (die-cast aluminum or stainless steel) are very rust resistant. Porcelain cooking surfaces add durability and are easy to clean, as are stainless steel and chrome. Food doesn't slip through the wide flat porcelain bars and they sear better than thin round rods.

Skip the window. Unless you constantly clean it, you'll never see the food.

Most gas grills come with an igniter that lights the gas with a spark. Rotary igniters (which involve turning a knob) are easier to use than push-button types and are more likely to light on the first try.

Shopping Tips

• Look for wide, large (6 to 10 inches) wheels and locking casters built to move comfortably and to last.
• Be sure to lift lids to be certain they raise easily and close tightly.
• Carts and cabinets should be welded steel, so don't settle for a wobbly frame.
• Look for shelves made of stainless steel or high density plastic.

Check the options

• A side burner lets you cook a pot of baked beans, heat water for cooking pasta or keep sauces warm while you barbecue.
• Rotisseries are ideal for barbecuing whole chickens or turkeys or large roasts.
• Round baskets fit on the spit to slowly roast chicken wings or shrimp.
• Smoker boxes made of cast iron or other metal hold wood chips, fresh herbs, garlic cloves or citrus peel and add wonderful flavour to foods. Some double as a pan to hold water for steaming foods inside the grill.

Why Switch (or Convert) to Natural Gas?

Benefits

• Natural gas is the lowest cost fuel (about 50% the price of propane in tanks, and much less than charcoal).
• There are no tanks to transport or refill.
• Easy installation. A flexible hose (usually 10 ft. long) extends from the barbecue to a 'quick-connect' hook-up that taps into your household gas supply. No hook-up in place? A gas contractor can extend gas piping to your backyard or patio.

Converting Propane
Some propane barbeques can be converted to operate on natural gas (check with your barbeque dealer regarding cost and suitability).

Safety Tips

• Check the connection tubes regularly. Dirt and insect nests can create a dangerous blockage, which can create enormous pressure in the line.
• Never lean over the barbeque when lighting it.
• Clean your barbeque regularly to remove build-up of grease. These deposits can lead to an unexpected fire.
• Keep children away from the barbeque.
• Always ignite natural gas grills with the lid fully open.
• If the burners fail to light within five seconds, shut off the gas and wait five minutes before starting again.
• Move barbeque away from open windows, combustible walls and doors.
• Check grill's hoses for cracking, brittleness, holes, and leaks. Make sure there aren't sharp bends in the hose or tubing.

Now you're ready to started enjoying planked salmon, hamburgers or other succulent items fresh from your grill.