Whether you are a Falcons fan or Dawgs devotee — or both — October is prime time for entertaining outdoors on game days. Natural gas and the gridiron are a winning combination for a backyard party. In this post, Walton Gas takes a look at some natural gas-fueled appliances that can help you score big with guests.
- Outdoor Kitchen
Outdoor kitchens top the home project trends list in the latest American Institute of Architects’ survey. Georgia homeowners are keeping pace with that statistic, says Jay Thornton. He and wife Casey own Southern Spa and Patio in Watkinsville.
The Thorntons have seen orders for outdoor kitchens climb steadily in the last three years. This year they are on pace to double the number of kitchens they’ll install on patios and in backyards in northern Georgia.
“Outdoor living spaces are booming now. They provide a place for relaxation and entertaining — and food is a big part of that,” Jay said, explaining why full-blown outdoor kitchens are often replacing the single natural gas grill on patios.
A quality, customized outdoor kitchen can be installed locally for as little as $5,500, Jay said. Prices will vary depending on the components and materials selected. An outdoor kitchen equipped with all the bells and whistles can carry a price tag of up to $30,000.
Appliances included in the average outdoor kitchen are a natural gas grill and cooktop with burners, faucet/ sink and refrigerator.
If you plan to make the investment, the kitchen designer advises shopping around to determine what components — appliances, cabinetry, countertops, etc. — fit your lifestyle, cooking habits and budget. The appliances included in the average outdoor kitchen are a natural gas grill and cooktop with burners, faucet/ sink and refrigerator. Icemakers and warming drawers are the top add-ons.
For ideas, ask your supplier for brochures and catalogues or look at manufacturer websites such as Naturekast (https://www.naturekast.com) and Housewarmings Outdoors (https://www.housewarmingsoutdoor.com/). Also, visit friends and neighbors who have built kitchens to see what they have and how they like it.
- Gas Grill
Whether it’s incorporated into an outdoor kitchen or a standalone unit, a natural gas-fueled grill is essential for preparing football food favorites like burgers and hotdogs. Gas grills are the go-to option for easy grilling because they offer excellent control over cooking temperature, plus they ignite with the push of a button, heat up quickly and are easy to clean.
Early fall is the best time to get a deal on top-rated gas grill models.
If your old standalone grill is ready for retirement, there’s more good news: Gas grills are heavily discounted at this time of year. Early fall is the best time to shop for top-rated gas grill models, according to dealnews.com. About 30 percent of the grill deals that popped up last October were Editors’ Choice picks listed by the consumer website. Granted, you may be getting a floor model, but the deep discounts can’t be beat.
Walton Gas offers these hacks and tips (https://www.waltongas.com/index.php/news/gasette-newsletter/up-your-grilling-game) to up your grilling game.
- Score Extra Points
In addition to firing up the gas grill for football fare, consider these natural gas-fueled additions that are sure to earn points with guests.
Pool heaters: What about inviting everyone over for a dip in the pool before the game? With a natural gas pool and spa heater, you can keep water temperatures comfortable to extend your swimming season. Gas pool heaters are up to 97 percent energy-efficient and warm the water twice as fast as electric heaters, according to the American Gas Association. Read our article on pool heaters posted earlier this year (https://www.waltongas.com/index.php/blog/article/come-on-in-the-waters-fine).
Porch fireplace: “Half of the screened-in porches we build include a gas fireplace,” says Rodney Jones, owner of Athens-based Frameworks Unlimited. Add an outdoor TV to make your pigskin party a true outdoor affair.
Fire pit: What better way to hash over the first half than around a natural gas fire pit? One of the top-selling gas appliances now, fire pits bring the warmth of a cozy campfire to your home’s patio or deck — without the mess or hazards of a traditional fire. Stock up on marshmallows for roasting for a halftime treat.
A patio heater lets you continue the party in an outdoor space long after the sun — and its heat — have disappeared.
Patio heater: Win or lose, every game needs a postgame wrap up. A patio heater lets you continue the party in an outdoor space long after the sun — and its heat — have disappeared. Natural gas patio heaters add about 10 degrees Fahrenheit to the surrounding air (12- to 20-foot diameter), so they’re best when temperatures range between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Read more (https://www.waltongas.com/index.php/blog/article/enjoy-an-endless-summer-with-a-patio-heater)
Outdoor lighting: If the sun goes down before the final whistle blows, outdoor gas lights can provide a warm glow for your outdoor area. Gaslights can be mounted on a post or wall or on top of a brick or stone wall. Automatic light sensors mean you won’t have to worry about wasting energy. Read more https://www.waltongas.com/index.php/blog/article/give-your-home-exterior-the-gas-light-glow