Commercial & Residential Grills: Differences, Similarities & Features

The patio barbecue grills we provide and maintain at AEI Corporation fall into two main categories: residential and commercial. In most aspects, these two types of grills are quite similar, often indistinguishable in many scenarios. However, for individuals with specific requirements, unique usage environments, or advanced grilling expertise, there are a few distinctions that could be significant.

Here, we aim to explore and clarify these differences to assist you in making the optimal choice when equipping either your residential or commercial space with a new patio barbecue.

Key Differences and Shared Features Between Commercial and Residential Grills

To better grasp the differences between residential and commercial grills, it helps to first define the contexts in which they are typically utilized.

Grilling in a Residential Environment

A residential environment refers to the outdoor spaces, such as backyards, of individual family homes. At these locations, AEI grills are primarily used by homeowners, their families, and guests. In some instances, rented homes may also be considered residential settings. The tenant might utilize a portable or freestanding grill or require permission from the property manager to install a fixed grill. Despite the potential differences in ownership or management, the typical usage patterns and safety considerations remain fairly consistent across residential setups.

Grilling in a Commercial Setting

A commercial setting encompasses patios or grilling areas found in places like apartment complexes, condominiums, timeshare communities, resorts, and multi-family properties. In these settings, built-in barbecue grills are commonly used by residents or their visitors. Interestingly, the property manager of a single-family rental home might opt to install an outdoor grill intended for use by current and future tenants, which blurs the line somewhat. One of the most notable distinctions between commercial and residential grills is that a residential grill is not anticipated to be used by individuals who don’t own the grill without the explicit supervision or consent of the grill’s owner. Conversely, commercial grills are designed to accommodate a broader user base, often requiring less direct oversight. Additionally, commercial grills tend to be larger, offering a greater cooking capacity, although this isn't always the case. They also come equipped with extra features as standard, such as theft-proof knobs and extended warranties.

The Shared Characteristics

Power Source and Construction Materials

Both residential and commercial grills are available in propane or natural gas variants. They are constructed using high-quality materials such as stainless steel and cast aluminum. Crucially, all essential working components, including burners, grates, and other key elements, are crafted from corrosion-resistant stainless steel in both types of grills.

Mounting Options

Both residential and commercial grills can be installed on pedestals, grill carts, grilling islands, or integrated into outdoor countertops. Propane-powered grills can be mounted on portable stands since they rely on self-contained fuel tanks. Pedestal-mounted grills are stable and occupy minimal floor space.

Accessories

Both types of grills can be customized with a variety of accessories, including side burners, rotisserie burners, storage drawers, stainless steel side shelves, ergonomic handles, and 60-minute gas shut-off timers. These options enhance functionality and convenience regardless of whether the grill is intended for residential or commercial use.

Size and Warranty

Both residential and commercial grills are offered in a range of sizes, with propane and natural gas models of equivalent dimensions providing comparable performance. Each type of grill comes with attractive warranties to cover any unforeseen mechanical issues. Furthermore, both types are compatible with a broad selection of replacement parts available on the AEI website.

Distinctive Features of Commercial Grills

While the differences between residential and commercial grills may seem minor, they become crucial depending on the intended application. Grills intended for multi-family commercial properties are generally larger and can cater to more people than those designed for single-family homes. Although both types offer the largest and smallest grills available, the scale tends to differ. A standout feature of commercial grills is the 60-minute auto-shutoff timer. This safety mechanism ensures the grill automatically turns off after being left unattended for 60 minutes. Given the communal nature of commercial settings, where monitoring usage can be challenging, this feature is invaluable. It also serves as a deterrent against malicious behavior, which is a concern in shared spaces. Moreover, this feature can contribute to cost savings in terms of insurance premiums. Another sought-after accessory in multi-family settings is the emergency gas shut-off timer. This device not only stops the gas flow after 60 minutes but also allows you to schedule automatic shutoffs during specific hours (such as overnight) and includes a prominent manual override button for immediate gas cutoff. Additionally, commercial grills are equipped with theft-proof control knobs. Unlike standard knobs, these are securely attached to the grill mechanism and cannot be easily removed. This design not only protects against vandalism but also addresses a common durability issue with many outdoor grills—loose or missing knobs. With AEI commercial grills, this is never a concern. Finally, we offer three distinct grill series: the A-Series, Legacy, and T-Series. A-Series and Legacy grills are tailored for residential use, while the T-Series is designed for commercial applications. It’s worth noting that even in a private residential setting, you can enjoy the benefits of the 60-minute auto-shutoff timer, theft-proof knobs, and increased grilling capacity by opting for an A-Series or Legacy grill. There’s no reason why enhanced safety and functionality can’t enhance your personal outdoor cooking experience. In summary, whether you’re equipping a backyard or a community space, you’ll benefit from top-tier grilling technology provided by the most powerful, reliable, and service-friendly gas grills on the market. After all, when it comes to grilling, AEI aims to be the best!