Reveal the ultimate review of Char-Griller Dual Function Gas and Charcoal Grill E5030!

Description

Grilling Performance

Using the Char-Griller Dual-Function 2-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill (Model E5030) has been quite the adventure. Whether firing up the propane side for quick weekday dinners or taking the time to smoke ribs on the charcoal side, this grill does it all. The gas burners heat up rapidly, delivering temperatures over 500°F within minutes—perfect for searing steaks or crisping veggies. On the charcoal side, I’ve managed to achieve a consistent smoky flavor on chicken and brisket, though it requires more attention to maintain lower temperatures. It’s clear that this grill is designed for versatility, making it ideal for grilling enthusiasts who love experimenting with different cooking styles.

Features

This dual-function grill is an absolute beast. The 870 square inches of total cooking space, with 606 square inches as the primary area, are a dream come true for anyone who cooks for a crowd. The porcelain-coated cast iron grates are durable and help retain heat effectively. I loved that it comes with a built-in temperature gauge and adjustable charcoal grates on the charcoal side, which add precision to cooking. The easy dump ash pan is a godsend for cleanup after long barbecue sessions. It’s also compatible with a side firebox, turning it into a smoker, which I added later for slow-cooked ribs. The heavy-duty steel construction and powder-coated finish give it a rugged look and feel, almost like something straight out of a BBQ pitmaster’s toolkit.

Ease of Use

I’ve found this grill to be relatively straightforward to use, even with its dual functionality. Switching between propane and charcoal is seamless, and the controls are easy to figure out. However, assembling the grill wasn’t exactly a walk in the park. With its 116-pound weight, maneuvering parts during setup felt like a workout. The illustrated instructions were helpful but required careful attention, especially when identifying bolt sizes. Once assembled, though, it’s smooth sailing.

Cleaning

Cleaning this grill is a mixed bag. The easy dump ash pan on the charcoal side simplifies removing ashes, and the porcelain-coated grates are dishwasher safe, which is fantastic. However, the large cooking area means there’s still a fair amount of scrubbing involved after cooking for a group. I’ve noticed that grease can build up in hard-to-reach areas, particularly around the burners, which requires regular maintenance to keep it looking and functioning like new.

Durability

The Char-Griller E5030 feels solid and robust, which isn’t surprising given its heavy-duty steel construction. I’ve owned it for about a year, and it’s held up well against the elements, thanks to its powder-coated finish. That said, I did notice some minor paint chipping around the high-heat areas, but this hasn’t affected performance. It’s the kind of grill that looks built to last, as long as you cover it when not in use and clean it after each use.

Portability & Storage

Moving this grill around is no small feat. At 116 pounds, it’s a heavy piece of equipment. The wheels on one side are helpful, but I wouldn’t call it portable in the true sense of the word. Once you find a spot for it in your backyard, you’ll want to leave it there. Storage-wise, the design includes a side shelf for utensils and condiments, which is convenient but doesn’t fold down, so it takes up a fair bit of space.

Merits

• Dual functionality with both propane and charcoal options.
• Large cooking area, excellent for hosting gatherings.
• Porcelain-coated cast iron grates for superior heat retention.
• Adjustable charcoal grates and built-in temperature gauge for better control.

Critiques

• Assembly is time-consuming and requires attention to detail.
• Paint chipping in high-heat areas over time.
• Maintaining lower temperatures on the charcoal side can be tricky.

Temperature Control

Temperature control on this grill takes a little getting used to. The propane side is straightforward, with two burners providing a range of heat levels. However, the charcoal side is less forgiving. I’ve had to experiment with the air vents and charcoal placement to keep the temperature steady, especially for slow cooking. Once you get the hang of it, though, it becomes part of the fun.

Warranty

The warranty details are a bit sparse and depend on the manufacturer’s website for specifics. While I haven’t had to use it yet, knowing there’s coverage provides some peace of mind. I would recommend registering the product online after purchase to ensure you’re all set in case anything goes wrong.

Peer Products

Comparing this grill to other dual-function models on the market, it stands out for its solid construction and versatility. I’ve used a Weber combo grill in the past, and while it performed well, it didn’t have the same rugged feel as the Char-Griller. On the other hand, some pellet grills offer more advanced temperature control but lack the authentic charcoal flavor that this grill delivers. If you enjoy the hands-on aspect of grilling and don’t mind a bit of a learning curve, this one edges out many of its competitors.

Smart Spending

Considering its features and durability, this grill offers excellent value for its price. It’s not the cheapest on the market, but the combination of propane and charcoal functionality, along with its robust build, makes it worth every penny. You’d have to spend significantly more to get the same versatility from higher-end brands. For anyone looking for a reliable, dual-function grill that won’t break the bank, this is a smart investment.

Additional information