Commercial & Residential Grills: Differences, Similarities & Features

At AEI Corporation, we specialize in selling and servicing patio barbecue grills, which are available in two main types: residential and commercial. While these two types of grills share many similarities, there are distinct differences that cater to specific needs and environments. Whether you're looking to outfit a backyard or a shared community space, understanding these distinctions will help you make the right choice.

Here, we’ll explore the key differences and shared features between residential and commercial grills to ensure you select the perfect option for your setting.

Understanding Commercial & Residential Grills

To better grasp the differences between these two grill types, let’s first clarify the contexts in which they’re typically used.

Grilling in a Residential Setting

A residential setting refers to the outdoor spaces of single-family homes. These grills are usually used by homeowners, their families, and occasional guests. Even rented homes often fall under this category, provided the tenant has permission to use a portable or freestanding grill. The safety concerns and usage patterns are generally consistent with typical residential setups.

Commercial Grills: A Different Story

In contrast, commercial grills are found in settings like apartment complexes, condominiums, resorts, timeshare communities, and multi-family properties. These grills may be used by residents or their guests, but they require careful management due to the potential for misuse or vandalism. While there is some overlap with residential settings, the key difference lies in the level of supervision and the design features that address communal use.

The Shared Features

Materials and Power Sources

Both residential and commercial grills are available in propane or natural gas variants. They are crafted from high-quality materials like stainless steel and cast aluminum. Importantly, all critical components—such as burners, grates, and other essential parts—are made from corrosion-resistant stainless steel, ensuring durability and longevity.

Mounting Options

Whether residential or commercial, grills can be mounted on pedestals, carts, islands, or integrated into countertops. Propane grills are especially versatile, as they can be mounted on portable stands due to their self-contained fuel tanks. Pedestal grills are compact and stable, making them ideal for tight spaces.

Accessories

Both types of grills can be customized with a variety of accessories, such as side burners, rotisserie kits, storage drawers, and ergonomic handles. Optional features like 60-minute gas shut-off timers are available for enhanced safety and convenience.

Size and Warranties

Grills come in various sizes, and both residential and commercial models offer comparable power outputs. Each type boasts attractive warranties and is compatible with a wide range of replacement parts available through AEI’s online store.

The Distinctive Features of Commercial Grills

While the core features remain consistent, commercial grills are designed to meet specific requirements. They are typically larger and capable of serving more people, though both types offer models in every size range. One standout feature is the 60-minute automatic shut-off timer, which turns off the grill after 60 minutes of unattended use. This is particularly beneficial in commercial settings where monitoring usage can be challenging and ensures safety against accidents or intentional misuse.

Another notable feature is the emergency gas shut-off timer, which not only turns off the gas after 60 minutes but also allows users to disable gas flow during specific hours (such as at night) and includes a prominent emergency shutoff button for immediate use. Additionally, commercial grills are equipped with theft-proof control knobs, which are securely attached to the mechanism and cannot be easily removed. This not only prevents vandalism but also eliminates the hassle of losing control knobs over time.

We offer three distinct grill lines: the A-Series and Legacy lines cater to residential settings, while the T-Series is tailored for commercial applications. However, residential users can still benefit from the advanced safety features and larger capacities of the A-Series and Legacy grills, enhancing their outdoor cooking experience.

No matter which grill you choose, you’ll enjoy cutting-edge technology from some of the most reliable and service-friendly gas grills on the market. At AEI Corporation, we’re committed to delivering the best grilling solutions to our customers. After all, when it comes to grilling, we want to be the best!