CHECKING IN WITH ... BARBEQUES GALORE:

Have you got your grill on yet? We’re sure some of you dads will get a “world’s greatest cook” apron on Father’s Day this year, but you’ll want to make sure you have the best barbecue gear, too. This week we thought it was a good time to catch up with the Barbeques Galore team in Costa Mesa.

How much do sales for barbecues go up during the summer?

Sales usually double during summer.

What is a hot seller this year?

The Excalibur barbecue is really popular. It is high-end, but at an affordable price.

Do you prefer charcoal or gas? Why?

Gas is preferable. Not only is it efficient, but it’s easier to use, too.

What factors should someone consider when purchasing a new barbecue?

You should make sure you can get replacement parts a couple years down the road. Some companies don’t have parts that are easily accessible. While we have many parts for barbecues, sometimes people come in looking for parts for a particular barbecue we have never carried.

Another recommendation is to be careful about the quality of the construction of the barbecue.

For example, if the enamel is not put on well and it chips, the barbecue will quickly corrode and rust away.

Would you recommend a ceramic flame tamer or a metal one? Why?

Briquettes retain heat and distribute heat way more evenly. Metal ones, with the exception of Weber, tend to break down and give you hot spots.

Do people tend to choose gas grills or smokers? What are some differences between the two?

People tend to choose gas grills. Smokers are more time-consuming because you have to make sure your chunks don’t run out. However, any time you smoke something at a low temperature for a long period of time, it comes out great.

What is a water smoker?

The water in the smoker just keeps more juice in the meat, allowing for a more tender meat.

What is the best way to light charcoal?

You should light charcoal with Weber’s chimney starter and lighter cubes. There’s no better way!

Which barbecue would you recommend for the novice? Which barbecue would you recommend for the more experienced cook?

The novice should use a Weber. The experienced cook should use Twin Eagles, Lynx, Viking and the Excalibur. They are all very efficient grills.