At a Glance
Moving up to a built in grill is a special moment in any grillers pitmaster journey, so it makes sense that the brand and setup you choose is personal. No matter which type of griller you are, there are universal elements every outdoor cook needs to master the art of grilling, and when it comes to built-ins, we have the answers you’re searching for.
In this guide put together by our appliance experts, we cover everything you need to know about buying a built in grill, from choosing the fuel source to understanding how much power a grill really has. Learn more as we go over the details you need to know.
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Shop Built In GrillsWhy Upgrade to a Built In Grill for Your Outdoor Kitchen
A permanent outdoor cooking station changes how you use your backyard. A permanent fixture anchors your outdoor entertaining space and turns a basic backyard into a hub for great food and relaxation—not to mention the massive upgrade in prep space and professional cooking power.
That’s because freestanding grills simply don’t match the aesthetics or heat output of a custom setup. A permanent unit fits flawlessly into outdoor kitchen countertops for a clean, custom look, giving homeowners access to professional-grade cooking capabilities like intense infrared searing and rotisserie cooking.
Pros
Provides professional cooking power and precise temperature control
Withstands harsh weather much better than freestanding BBQs
Creates a cohesive, high-end look
Adds real estate value
Cons
Higher price tag compared to freestanding grills
Some built in grills require professional connections
Cannot move for convenience
Built In Grill Tiers Compared
All in all, built in grills are the ultimate outdoor cooking experience that looks flashy with the power to back up the aesthetics. Even then, some homeowners might get better use from more traditional grill setups. Here’s a quick comparison of grills based on price points.
| Tier | Price Range | Material Grade | Average BTU / Sq In | Ideal Buyer Profile |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Value Grill | $1,000 - $2,500 | 430 Stainless | 75 - 85 | Budget-conscious homeowners wanting a custom look |
| Mid-Range Grill | $2,500 - $4,500 | 304 Stainless | 85 - 100 | Frequent entertainers needing reliable performance |
| Built In Grill | $4,500+ | 304 Commercial | 100+ | Culinary enthusiasts seeking maximum heat and durability |
How to Choose the Right Size Built In Grill
Sizing your outdoor cooking station correctly is the most important decision you will make. Standard grills sizes range from compact 24-inch units up to massive 55-inch+ models. Instead of picking a built in grill based on capacity, it’s better to match a model’s surface area to your typical entertaining needs. A cooking space that is too small limits your menu, while an oversized unit wastes fuel and money. At Arizona Appliance & Home, we’re happy to help you choose with expert help on grills.
Burner count directly correlates with the physical width of the unit and the number of guests you can serve. A 30-inch built in grill typically features two or three burners and provides roughly 500 square inches of cooking space, perfect for feeding a family of four. A 42-inch built in grill pushes past 700 square inches with four or more burners, easily handling large neighborhood block parties.
If you want versatility to cook small and for a larger crowd, we strongly recommend a 36-inch built in grill. This size typically offers three high-output burners and around 600 square inches of primary grilling space. It accommodates both everyday family dinners and larger weekend gatherings without overcrowding the grates. Is has enough room to set up dual heat zones for searing steaks on one side while slowly roasting vegetables on the other.
Learn More: Built-in Gas Grill Guide: Pro Design and Installation Tips
Understanding Built In Grill Materials
Construction materials dictate how long your outdoor appliances will last, especially in the Arizona elements. Our intense summer heat and seasonal moisture destroy cheap metals quickly, which is why local shoppers should prioritize corrosion resistance and heavy-duty heat retention.
The industry standard for longevity is 304-grade stainless steel. This alloy contains high levels of chromium and nickel, making it highly resistant to rust and pitting. Lower-end models often use 430-grade stainless steel or porcelain-coated steel, which will degrade and rust under extreme weather conditions. Commercial-grade 304 stainless maintains its structural integrity and sleek appearance year after year.
When inspecting different models, look closely at the manufacturing details. You want to see smooth, continuous welds rather than spot-welded seams where moisture can hide and cause rust. Heavy-gauge stainless steel grates also matter tremendously. Thick grates retain heat better, create impressive sear marks, and resist warping under the stress of high-temperature cooking.
BTUs, Burners, and Ignition Systems Explained
Understanding performance metrics prevents you from buying a unit that lacks searing power. Many people look only at the total BTU rating, but that number is misleading. You must look at the BTUs per square inch of cooking surface. A massive unit with high total BTU output might actually cook slower than a compact unit with lower total BTUs, if the heat is spread too thin.
The type of burner inside the firebox determines how evenly your food cooks. Cast stainless steel burners offer massive heat retention and last for decades without rusting out. Ceramic burners distribute heat incredibly well and resist clogs from dripping grease. An infrared searing zone is a major upgrade for steak lovers, since it provides intense, direct heat that locks in juices instantly.
Your ignition system is the heartbeat of the appliance. Piezo ignitions use friction to create a spark, which works fine but can wear out over time. Battery-powered spark igniters offer a quick start but require regular battery replacements. Hot surface ignitions are the premium choice, using a glowing electrical element to light the gas instantly and reliably every single time.
Learn More: 5 Essential Components of an Outdoor Grill Island
Built In Grill Ventilation and Fuel Type Requirements
Safety is the highest priority when planning an outdoor kitchen, which is why we recommend installing non-combustible enclosures around your gas appliances to prevent structural fires. If your outdoor island includes wood framing or other combustible materials, you are required to use an insulated metal jacket around the firebox. For safety, always place cross-ventilation panels at both the top and bottom of the masonry structure because propane is heavier than air and pools at the base of the island.
You must always hire a certified professional for the installation process. Gas plumbing and high-voltage electrical connections also require strict adherence to local building codes. To protect your grill, keep your family safe, and guarantee your grill operates at peak performance, we suggest contracting professional grill installation to avoid any issues.
Learn More: Expert Tips for Creating an Outdoor Kitchen with Grill in Arizona
Top Built in Grills for Arizona Homes
Explore these top built in grill models to find the perfect fit for your backyard oasis.
Wolf® 4-Burner Stainless Steel Built In Natural Gas Grill
The Wolf OG42 42-inch natural gas grill delivers professional performance directly to your patio. Crafted from heavy-duty commercial grade stainless steel, it easily handles extreme temperature swings and seasonal moisture. The massive cooking surface (1,200+ sq. in.) features precision heat control across four independent burners, allowing you to sear thick cuts of meat while gently grilling delicate seafood nearby. The direct heat ceramic briquettes vaporize drippings instantly, creating incredible smoky flavor while minimizing annoying flare-ups. This high-performance grill serves is the ultimate centerpiece for large-scale outdoor entertaining and high-volume weekend cooking.
Top Features:
- Heavy-Duty Construction: Built with premium materials to resist rust and maintain a clean appearance.
- Precision Heat Control: Independent burner knobs allow for versatile multi-zone cooking simultaneously.
- Ceramic Briquette System: Vaporizes juices to boost flavor and keep temperatures perfectly even.
LYNX® Professional 36" 3-Burner Stainless Steel Built-In Liquid Propane Gas Grill with Rotisserie
Shop the Lynx Professional L36ATR
This Lynx Professional 36-inch propane grill is a masterpiece of outdoor cooking technology. Engineered with a proprietary cast brass burner system, this unit holds intense heat and deflects wind beautifully during breezy evenings. The included rotisserie system features a dedicated infrared rear burner, making it incredibly simple to slow-roast whole poultry or large roasts to perfection. Featuring a slick hot surface ignition system, you can enjoy reliable lighting in any weather condition. This unit provides the perfect balance of generous cooking space and high-end culinary features for the dedicated home chef.
Top Features:
- Cast Brass Burners: Delivers incredible heat retention and lifetime durability under extreme stress.
- Dedicated Rotisserie: Features a specialized rear infrared burner for professional slow-roasting capability.
- Hot Surface Ignition: Lights the gas instantly and reliably using weather-proof electrical elements.
Coyote® 2-Burner 50" Built-In Natural Gas Stainless Steel Hybrid Grill
This hybrid system is perfect for the serious griller who refuses to compromise on flavor or convenience. This Coyote 50-inch hybrid grill gives you the absolute best of both grilling worlds, so you no longer have to choose between the convenience of natural gas and the rich, smoky flavor of real charcoal. Its massive dual-chamber unit lets you fire up the gas burners for quick weeknight burgers on one side while slowly smoking ribs over charcoal on the other. Constructed with high-grade stainless steel, it stands up aggressively to outdoor elements.
Top Features:
- Dual Fuel Capability: Offers dedicated chambers for both gas convenience and authentic charcoal flavor.
- Massive Surface Area: Provides massive real estate for cooking multiple courses at the same time.
- Premium Stainless Build: Protects the internal components from harsh sun and seasonal weather wear.
Alfresco™ ALXE Series 3-Burner Stainless Steel Built In Liquid Propane Gas Grill
Shop the Alfresco ALXE ALXE-42SZ
The Alfresco ALXE Series 42-inch propane grill redefines heavy-duty outdoor cooking. Designed entirely with commercial-grade 304 stainless steel, it resists corrosion brilliantly in demanding climates. The powerful main burners produce incredible BTUs with a total of 82,500 BTUs, while the specialized sear zone locks in steakhouse-quality crusts in seconds. An integrated wood smoker box allows you to easily infuse foods with rich hickory or mesquite aromas. The smooth, air-cooled front panel keeps the control knobs safe to the touch, making this unit a remarkably safe and powerful choice for families who entertain frequently.
Top Features:
- High-Output Burners: Generates extreme heat quickly for fast preheating and rapid cooking times.
- Integrated Smoker Box: Adds authentic wood-fired flavor to meats directly over the main burners.
- Air-Cooled Panel: Protects the control valves and keeps the front face safe to touch.
Aspire By Hestan® 3-Burner Stainless Steel Built In Natural Gas Grill
Shop the Aspire by Hestan EABR36
The Aspire by Hestan 36-inch natural gas grill is sleek by design with heavy-hitting performance seasoned grillers will love. Featuring heavy-duty tubular stainless steel burners, this unit distributes heat flawlessly across 645+ square inches of grilling surface. The advanced radiant ceramic tray system catches grease instantly, vaporizing it to create delicious smoke while keeping the firebox exceptionally clean. A spring-assisted hood makes lifting the heavy steel lid effortless, even when holding a heavy platter of food. This sophisticated machine combines gorgeous modern aesthetics with rugged, dependable cooking power for any outdoor setting.
Top Features:
- Tubular Steel Burners: Pushes consistent heat evenly to eliminate annoying hot and cold spots.
- Ceramic Radiant Trays: Catches drippings to reduce flare-ups and enhance smoky food flavor.
- Spring-Assisted Hood: Makes opening and closing the heavy canopy incredibly smooth and lightweight.
LYNX® Sedona 30" 2-Burner Stainless Steel Built-In Liquid Propane Grill
The Lynx Sedona 30-inch propane model is the ideal solution for compact luxury outdoor kitchens. Despite its smaller footprint, it delivers massive heating capabilities (up to 46K BTUs) through durable stainless steel burners. The incredibly bright internal halogen lighting allows you to monitor food perfectly during late-night cooking sessions. Blue illuminated control knobs add a stunning visual element to your patio while clearly showing which burners are active. This compact unit proves you do not need to sacrifice premium features or high-end build quality just because you have limited island space.
Top Features:
- Compact Footprint: Fits perfectly into smaller masonry islands without sacrificing high-end cooking power.
- Halogen Surface Lighting: Brightly illuminates the cooking grates for safe and easy night grilling.
- Illuminated Controls: Shines bright blue to clearly indicate burner status and add visual appeal.
Coyote® C-Series 3-Burner 30" Stainless Steel Built-In Liquid Propane Gas Grill
Crafted from durable 304 stainless steel, this Coyote C Series grill easily shrugs off harsh weather and resists daily wear and tear. The infinity burners provide continuous, even heat that makes cooking large batches of burgers or hot dogs completely stress-free. With over 600 square inches of total cooking area, you have plenty of room to feed a crowd. This workhorse appliance is perfect for homeowners who want professional-grade durability and straightforward performance without breaking the outdoor kitchen budget.
Top Features:
- 304 Stainless Build: Fights off rust and corrosion to maintain a beautiful showroom finish indefinitely.
- Infinity Burners: Delivers a steady stream of gas for incredibly consistent cooking temperatures overall.
- Broad Cooking Area: Offers generous grate space to easily handle large family meals simultaneously.
Finding the perfect built in grill comes down to matching the right size, construction, and burner performance to your entertaining style. Stop by the Arizona Appliance & Home showroom to explore these models in person, or to have our expert team guide you through the selection process, coordinate professional installation, and deliver the superior local customer service you simply cannot find at big-box stores.
Learn More: Essential Tips for Bringing a Pizza Oven to Your Outdoor Kitchen
Frequently Asked Questions about Built In Grills
The most common and versatile size for a built in grill is 36 inches wide. This dimension offers the ideal balance of generous cooking space and a manageable footprint for most outdoor island designs.
Yes, you absolutely need cross-ventilation panels installed in the masonry enclosure for a built in grill. Proper venting prevents dangerous gas buildup inside the island cavity and complies with strict fire safety codes.
You generally need a minimum of 3 to 6 inches of clearance around the sides and back of a built in grill. This spacing prevents heat transfer to surrounding materials and allows the hood to open fully without obstruction.
Natural gas is highly convenient because it connects directly to your home supply, while propane provides slightly higher heat output for a built in grill. Your choice largely depends on whether you have an existing gas line accessible in your backyard.
An outdoor kitchen featuring a premium built in grill significantly increases overall property value and buyer interest. Real estate experts view permanent outdoor entertaining spaces as highly desirable luxury additions.
A high-quality 304 stainless steel built in grill easily lasts 15 to 20 years or more with regular maintenance. This commercial-grade material aggressively resists rust and structural degradation even in extreme weather conditions.
Why Trust Arizona Appliance & Home?
At Arizona Appliance & Home, we're committed to providing the best selection and service to our customers. Whether you're a homeowner embarking on a remodel, a builder, or a designer, we have the expertise and resources to meet your needs.
With showrooms in Scottsdale, Tucson, and Phoenix, including a dedicated builder design center, we've proudly served the Arizona community since 1944. Visit one of our appliance showrooms to explore an unparalleled collection of refrigerators, dishwashers, cooking, laundry, and outdoor appliances.
Shop Built In Grills at Arizona Appliance & Home
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Learn More: 7 Best Outdoor Refrigerator Models: Expert Reviews and Buyer's Guide