How Infrared Grills Work

Home Improvement

Tips for Maintaining Infrared Grills

To maintain your infrared grill, it is important to clean it regularly and pay close attention to the heating element and infrared surface during cleaning.
©iStockphoto.com/strathroy

You should inspect your infrared grill at least twice a year for any signs of wear or damage to the heating element, infrared plate, and grate. If any parts are worn out, they should be replaced before using the grill. You can usually order replacement parts directly from the manufacturer or contact an authorized repair facility.

Clean the grill’s gas or electric heating element by using a wire brush or steel wool to remove debris. For gas elements, also clear any obstructions to the burner’s openings. Next, remove the grate and use a stiff wire brush to remove cooking debris. For cast iron or porcelain-coated grates, use a brush with soft nylon bristles to avoid etching the surface. Afterwards, turn up the heat to burn off any remaining debris and use a grill brush to remove leftover particles.

To clean the infrared heating surface, gently brush off any ash or food particles and use a gentle, nonabrasive chemical cleaner to break up stubborn deposits. It is recommended to thoroughly clean your infrared grill biannually, although some people prefer to do so more frequently.

With a clean infrared grill, you can prepare your favorite dishes quickly and easily. So, start grilling and enjoy your meal!

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References

• Associated Press. “Infrared Fires Up Backyard Barbecues.” MSNBC. May 25, 2007. Retrieved October 31, 2011 from http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/18866625/ns/technology_and_science-innovation/t/infrared-fires-backyard-barbecues/#.TrBZXGBrVJF
• Consumer Reports. “Gas Grills.” June 2010. Retrieved October 31, 2011 from http://www.consumerreports.org/cro/magazine-archive/2010/june/home-garden/gas-grills/overview/index.htm
• Cool Cosmos. “What is Infrared?” Retrieved October 31, 2011 from http://coolcosmos.ipac.caltech.edu/cosmic_classroom/ir_tutorial/what_is_ir.html
• Hearth, Patio and Barbecue Association. “Barbecue Grill Shipments: North America.” Retrieved October 31, 2011 from http://hpba.org/statistics/barbecue-statistics/bbq-grill-shipments
• Janeway, Kimberly. “Q&A: Are There Any Advantages to an Infrared Grill?” May 25, 2011. Retrieved October 31, 2011 from Consumer Reports. http://news.consumerreports.org/home/2011/05/qa-are-there-any-advantages-to-an-infrared-grill.html
• Hunter, Jamie. “Blazing Fast: Infrared Barbecues are Red Hot.” Canadian Business. May 18, 2005. Retrieved October 31, 2011 from http://www.canadianbusiness.com/article/12420–blazing–fast-infrared-barbecues-are-red-hot
• NASA. “The Electromagnetic Spectrum.” Retrieved October 31, 2011 from http://science.hq.nasa.gov/kids/imagers/ems/infrared.html
• Oregon State University. “The Crust.” Retrieved October 31, 2011 from http://volcano.oregonstate.edu/vwdocs/vwlessons/lessons/Earths_layers/Earths_layers4.html
• Science Mission Directorate. “Infrared Waves.” NASA. November 5, 2011. Retrieved November 5, 2011 from http://missionscience.nasa.gov/ems/07_infraredwaves.html
• Study Physics. “Frequency, Wavelength and Amplitude.” Retrieved October 31, 2011 from http://www.studyphysics.ca/newnotes/20/unit03_mechanicalwaves/chp141516_waves/lesson44.htm
• Thermal Engineering Corporation Inc. “A History of Innovation.” Retrieved October 31, 2011 from http://www.tecinfrared.com/history.php
• U.S. Department of Agriculture. “Bacteria and Foodborne Illness.” November 1, 2011. Retrieved November 1, 2011 from http://digestive.niddk.nih.gov/ddiseases/pubs/bacteria/
• Vaglia, Sal. “Grill Maintenance.” This Old House. Retrieved October 31, 2011 from http://www.thisoldhouse.com/toh/article/0,,1638829,00.html
• Wachtel, Richard. Personal interview. October 31, 2011.
• Wegert, Ted. Personal interview. October 31, 2011.

FAQ

1. What is an infrared grill?

An infrared grill is a type of grill that uses infrared radiation to cook food instead of traditional convection heat. It uses ceramic plates or burners that emit infrared radiation to directly heat the food. The heat from the infrared radiation is more intense than the heat from traditional grills, which allows for faster cooking times and a juicier end product.

2. How does infrared radiation cook food?

Infrared radiation cooks food by directly heating the molecules of the food. The heat from the infrared radiation causes the water molecules in the food to vibrate, which creates heat energy. This heat energy cooks the food from the inside out, resulting in faster cooking times and a juicier end product.

3. What are the benefits of using an infrared grill?

The benefits of using an infrared grill include faster cooking times, juicier end products, and more even cooking. Infrared radiation is also more efficient than traditional convection heat, which means that it uses less fuel to cook the same amount of food. Additionally, the intense heat of the infrared radiation can create a delicious sear on meats that cannot be achieved with traditional grilling methods.

4. Are there any downsides to using an infrared grill?

One potential downside of using an infrared grill is that they can be more expensive than traditional grills. Additionally, the intense heat of the infrared radiation can take some getting used to, and it may require some trial and error to find the optimal cooking times and temperatures for different types of food. Finally, some people may prefer the taste of food cooked on a traditional grill over an infrared grill.

5. How do you maintain an infrared grill?

To maintain an infrared grill, it is important to clean the ceramic plates or burners regularly to prevent grease buildup. This can be done with a wire brush or scraper. Additionally, it is important to keep the grill covered when not in use to protect it from the elements. Finally, it is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance to ensure that the grill lasts as long as possible.

6. Can you use an infrared grill indoors?

While it is technically possible to use an infrared grill indoors, it is not recommended due to the potential for carbon monoxide buildup. Infrared grills are designed to be used in well-ventilated outdoor spaces, where any carbon monoxide produced by the grill can dissipate. Using an infrared grill indoors can pose a serious health risk, so it is best to avoid doing so.