Whether you're searing steaks, slow-roasting ribs, or crisping veggies to perfection, the way your grill distributes heat makes all the difference. While traditional gas and charcoal grills have long been backyard staples, there's a new wave of grill technology redefining what it means to cook outdoors. The char broil infrared grill is a standout in this category, offering a different kind of heat that's fast, even, and remarkably effective.
At Arizona Appliance & Home, we've worked with all kinds of grills, and we've seen firsthand the difference infrared technology makes—especially when it's done the char-broil way. If you’re wondering how infrared cooking works, what makes it different, and how to master the temperature techniques that bring out the best in your food, you’re in the right place.
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Shop Outdoor GrillsBehind the Science | What Is Infrared Cooking?
What is an infrared grill exactly? In simple terms, infrared grills use radiant heat rather than the convection heat you get from traditional gas burners. While standard gas grills use open flames to heat the air around your food, infrared grilling skips the air entirely. Instead, it heats a solid surface (like a ceramic or metal plate), which then radiates intense, direct heat to the food.
How is infrared heat different? Here’s how it works: A char broil infrared grill uses a gas burner to heat a specially designed plate, often made of stainless steel or ceramic. This plate emits infrared waves that directly cook the food. Because it doesn't rely on hot air, your food cooks faster, retains more moisture, and is less prone to flare-ups.
There are two main types of infrared grill burner systems:
✔Ceramic Infrared Briquettes: These are placed above the flame and emit even radiant heat. They can reach very high temperatures, making them ideal for searing steaks.
✔Metal Infrared Burners: These are more common in char-broil grills and are typically easier to clean and maintain. They also heat up quickly and distribute heat more uniformly.
Overall, infrared cooking sets itself apart from other types of grilling methods by offering consistent temperatures, quick preheat times, and high efficiency—all crucial for perfect results every time.
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Why a Char Broil Infrared Grill Is Unique
To really appreciate the value of a char broil infrared grill, it helps to understand how it stacks up against other grilling techniques. Let’s take a closer look at the differences (CLICK THE ➕TO LEARN MORE).
➕Infrared vs Gas Grill
The difference between gas grill and infrared cooking lies primarily in how heat reaches the food. In a traditional gas grill, flames heat the air, which then cooks the food through convection. This leads to hot and cold spots, especially if there’s wind or uneven burner distribution.
In contrast, char broil infrared grilling uses radiant heat from a heated metal or ceramic plate. This means your food gets cooked directly by energy waves, which translates to fewer temperature swings and faster cook times. It's the ideal solution for anyone who’s struggled with undercooked centers and overcooked exteriors.
➕Infrared vs Charcoal Grill
Charcoal grills have long been loved for their smoky flavor, but they’re harder to control and require more maintenance. Heat builds gradually and is often inconsistent.
A char broil infrared grill brings the best of both worlds. While it won’t give you that smoky flavor unless you add wood chips or a smoke box, it does offer fast heat, consistent performance, and no messy ashes. It’s a cleaner, more predictable way to grill.
➕Infrared vs Pellet Grill
Pellet grills excel at slow cooking and smoking thanks to their low-temperature capabilities. But when it comes to searing or quick cook times, they can fall short.
Infrared cooking reaches far higher temperatures than pellet grills, often up to 1000°F. That makes it ideal for steaks, chops, and even pizza. If you need both fast and slow capabilities, an infrared grill offers more versatility in less time.
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Benefits of Infrared Grills
Aside from performance, a char broil infrared grill’s system brings some surprising advantages that can improve both flavor and cooking experience. According to the BBQGuys, the top benefits of the best infrared grill include quick preheating, even heat, faster cooking, better taste, steakhouse quality searing, minimal flare-ups, customizable, and easy to clean. Here’s a roundup of our favorite benefits:
Infrared Grill Temperature Range
One standout benefit of a char broil infrared grill is the temperature range. While a standard gas grill might top out around 550°F, infrared burners can reach temperatures as high as 1000°F. That’s ideal for steakhouse-quality sears, crispy-skinned chicken, and charred veggies.
Why does that matter? Higher heat gives you better crusts and seals in juices quickly. For weeknight dinners or backyard barbecues, it's about getting great results fast—without standing over a grill all night.
Infrared Produces Juicy Results
Because radiant heat cooks food more evenly and without drying winds, meats stay juicy and tender. Infrared grilling is especially effective for high-protein items like steak, chicken breasts, and pork chops, which can easily dry out on a standard grill.
Plus, vegetables benefit, too, cooking through evenly without getting soggy. It’s a technique that suits almost everything you’d throw on the grill.
No Flare-Ups
Flare-ups can ruin a cookout by charring your food and creating uneven heat. The design of a char broil infrared grill prevents this by shielding the flames and catching drips before they ignite. That means no sudden flare-ups, even with fatty cuts like ribeye or burgers.
Uniform Heat
One of the most common frustrations with grilling is uneven cooking zones. Some areas are scorching hot; others are barely warm. Not so much with infrared.
Char broil infrared grills distribute heat consistently across the entire cooking surface. This makes them perfect for slow roasts, BBQ chicken, or any meal where even cooking matters. Whether you're grilling a full rack of ribs or making 10 burgers at once, you’ll get the same results across the board.
Infrared Barbecue Grills Pros and Cons
Of course, these grills aren’t perfect. Here’s a quick overview of infrared barbecue grills pros and cons.
Pros
Even Heating
Even heat distribution with fewer cold or hot spots
Restaurant-Worthy Sears
High-temperature searing for juicy meats and crispy vegetables.
Free of Flare Ups
Reduced flare-ups thanks to the infrared barrier
Speed
Fast preheating and cooking times
Moist Results
Reduced flare-ups thanks to the infrared barrier
Speed
Better moisture retention for tender, flavorful results
Cons
High Upfront Cost
Slightly higher initial cost compared to basic gas grills
Different User Experience
Learning curve for those new to infrared cooking
Lack of Smoky Flavor
Can be harder to create smoky flavors without accessories
Master the Art with Top Char Broil Infrared Grills
Is an infrared grill better? For many applications, we think so! Keep reading as we compare char broil infrared grills from top brands like to help you find the best infrared gas grill for the summer season.
Lynx Professional 2-Burner Stainless Steel Built In Natural Gas Grill with Rotisserie and All Trident Infrared Burners
This Lynx Professional 2-burner stainless steel gas grill delivers elite-level performance, powered by two Trident infrared burners that unleash a combined 46,000 BTUs of precise, high-intensity heat. Known for their instant responsiveness, these infrared burners offer unmatched temperature control from 300°F to 1000°F—perfect for everything from a delicate char on romaine to a steakhouse sear on filet mignon. The grill lights reliably with a Hot Surface Ignition system and features ceramic briquettes that ensure even, radiant heat across 840 square inches of cooking space..
Wolf 4-Burner Stainless Steel Built In Liquid Propane Gas Grill
This Wolf 4-burner grill is built for precision and performance, offering a seamless blend of direct and radiant heat for flawless results. With three individually contained grill burners, it gives you the power to cook entrees, sides, and more at different temperatures all at once. The integrated infrared sear zone delivers a powerful 25,000 BTUs, perfect for locking in juices with a rich, caramelized crust on steaks, chops, or poultry. Heavy-duty stainless steel construction and double-walled insulation ensure long-lasting durability, while ceramic briquettes spread heat evenly across the grill surface.
Like all Wolf products, it’s rigorously tested for 20 years of daily use and backed by a worry-free two-year full warranty. If you want a high-performance grill that offers both nuanced control and robust searing capability, this Wolf model is built to exceed expectations.
Lynx Professional 3-Burner Stainless Steel Built In Liquid Propane Gas Grill
This Lynx Professional series grill combines serious power and versatility, which is perfect for Arizona grillers who want premium performance. It features a Trident Infrared Burner and two Cast Ceramic Burners, delivering up to 73,000 BTUs, plus a rear infrared rotisserie burner for slow-cooked perfection. With 1,200 square inches of cooking space, blue-lit knobs, dual halogen lights, and a premium smoker box, it’s as functional as it is stylish.
Hestan Professional 3-Burner Stainless Steel Built In Natural Gas Grill
This Hestan Professional grill delivers chef-level performance in a striking design built entirely in Anaheim, California. With powerful 25,000 BTU Trellis Burners and a high-performance ceramic infrared sear zone, it offers pinpoint heat control for searing, roasting, or slow cooking. The Horizon Hood lifts with ease, while motion-activated Stadium Lights and LED-lit knobs keep your cooking space brilliantly visible. You'll love extras like the concealed rotisserie system, smoker box, and Diamond Cut Grates—all built to last with Hestan’s signature welded stainless steel.
Aspire by Hestan 4-Burner Stainless Steel Built In Liquid Propane Gas Grill
This 4-burner gas grill from Aspire by Hestan blends premium craftsmanship with intuitive performance. It features a spring-assisted hood, dual halogen interior lights, and touch-activated LED knob lighting for seamless cooking, even at night. Heavy-gauge 304 stainless steel construction, hot surface ignition, and flip-to-clean radiant trays with ceramic briquettes ensure consistent heat and lasting durability. With patented details like the Marquise Accented control panel and monogrammed temperature gauge, it stands out in both design and function. The stainless rod grates and drip tray make cleanup easy, and the lifetime warranty covers key components for true peace of mind.
Learn More: Expert Tips for Creating an Outdoor Kitchen with Grill in Arizona
There’s always a new trick or two to learn when it comes to grilling, and infrared grills are one of the best kept secrets every grill master should know. For better sears, juicier roasts, and an elevated grilling experience, they’re one of the best recommendations, and we’re happy to help you find the one for your grilling adventures at Arizona Appliance & Home. Come see what all the hype is about at one of our Arizona appliance stores near you today!
Frequently Asked Questions
A char broil infrared grill uses gas burners to heat a metal or ceramic plate, which then radiates infrared heat directly to your food. This type of heat transfer is faster, more even, and helps food retain its natural juices.
Preheat your grill for 5–10 minutes to reach the ideal temperature. Place food directly on the cooking grate, adjust the heat zones as needed, and let the infrared burners do the work. Avoid constant flipping. Infrared heat cooks more efficiently and evenly.
Yes. Because infrared grills cook faster and more evenly, you’re less likely to burn or char your food—both of which can produce harmful compounds. They also minimize flare-ups that can cause uneven cooking and excess smoke.
Absolutely. In fact, many consider them safer than traditional grills because there’s no open flame to cause sudden flare-ups. Just follow normal grilling safety tips, and you’re good to go.
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Shop Charbroil Grills at Arizona Appliance & Home
Our team of experts are more than just appliance professionals – they're skilled, knowledgeable, and wonderful to work with. With years of experience under their belts, they understand how each appliance works and are passionate about helping customers make informed decisions. Whether you have questions about outdoor appliances or need advice on charbroil infrared grill features, our team is always happy to lend their expertise and provide personalized guidance. Contact us today to see how we can help you find the perfect appliance for your home.
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