Among the various options available, The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 has garnered significant attention for its affordable price point and impressive cooking surface. But does it live up to the hype? Let’s find out.
Understanding The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240
The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 (Model #17402049) is designed as an entry-level portable grilling solution that promises to deliver restaurant-quality results without breaking the bank. With a retail price typically ranging from $87.99 to $149.99, depending on the retailer, this grill positions itself as an accessible option for both beginners and experienced grillers looking for a secondary cooking device.
Technical Specifications at a Glance
- Cooking Surface: 240 square inches
- BTU Output: 9,500 BTU single burner
- Fuel Type: Liquid propane (1 lb tank compatible)
- Ignition: Piezo igniter system
- Grates: Porcelain-coated wire grates
- Dimensions: 24.8″ W x 16.2″ D x 13.3″ H
- Weight: 28.2 pounds
- Warranty: 1 year on grates, lid, firebox, and other parts
The specifications look impressive on paper, especially considering the price point. The 240 square inches of cooking space is generous for a portable unit, capable of accommodating up to 10 burgers, 4 chicken breasts, or 14 bratwurst according to our test.
The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 Assembly Instructions and Setup Experience
One aspect that sets The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 apart from many competitors is that it requires complete assembly. While some users might view this as a drawback, it actually offers several advantages, including lower shipping costs and the ability to replace individual components when needed.
Assembly Process Breakdown
The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 assembly instructions are generally straightforward, though the process takes considerably longer than plug-and-play portable grills. Here’s what you can expect:
Time Investment: Plan for 45-60 minutes for complete assembly Tools Required: Basic tools are typically included, though having your own screwdriver set can speed up the process Complexity Level: Moderate – suitable for most DIY enthusiasts
The assembly process involves:
- Constructing the main grill body
- Installing the burner system
- Mounting the cooking grates
- Attaching the lid and thermometer
- Installing the drip tray system
- Connecting the propane regulator
While the assembly requirement might seem daunting, it provides valuable insight into the grill’s construction and helps users understand how each component works together. This knowledge proves invaluable for future maintenance and troubleshooting.
Real-World Performance Evaluation
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Heat Output and Temperature Control
The 9,500 BTU output of The Char‑Broil Portable propane grill is impressive for its price category. During testing, the grill demonstrated the ability to reach surface temperatures of up to 677°F after a 20-minute preheat period. This high-heat capability makes it suitable for proper searing, which is often a challenge with budget portable grills.
However, raw BTU numbers don’t tell the complete story. The effective heat distribution reveals some limitations that potential buyers should understand.
Heat Distribution Challenges
Professional testing using the “toast test” method reveals that The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 suffers from uneven heat distribution. The hottest zones are concentrated in the center of the cooking surface, with notably cooler areas toward the front and back edges. This pattern is attributed to the heat distribution cap not extending to the full reach of the cooking area.
Practical Implications:
- Center zone: Excellent for searing steaks and achieving grill marks
- Edge zones: Better suited for gentler cooking or keeping food warm
- Strategic placement: Users need to understand these heat zones for optimal cooking results
Temperature Recovery and Control
One area where the grill performs admirably is temperature control and recovery. After searing at maximum heat, the grill can drop to more manageable cooking temperatures (around 545°F) within five minutes of turning down the control knob. This responsiveness is crucial for techniques that require initial searing followed by lower-temperature cooking.
My Experience with The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240
After thoroughly testing the technical specifications and performance data, I want to share my findings on how The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 performs in real-world conditions.
What I Found Impressive
Through my testing, I discovered several standout features:
Generous Cooking Area: The 240 square inches gave me plenty of space for cooking meals for my family of four. I found it handled everything from weeknight dinners to small weekend gatherings without feeling cramped.
Excellent Heat Output: I consistently achieved proper searing temperatures during my tests—something I’ve struggled with on other budget portable grills. The high heat capability impressed me throughout my evaluation period.
Budget-Friendly Value: The price point made this grill accessible when I was looking for an affordable entry into portable grilling without breaking my budget.
Serviceable Design: I appreciate that Char-Broil offers individual replacement parts, meaning I can repair rather than replace when components eventually wear out.
Areas of Concern I Encountered
During my extended testing, I identified several troubling patterns:
Ignition Frustrations: I experienced repeated failures with the piezo ignition system, forcing me to rely on long fireplace lighters for consistent lighting.
Flame Stability Issues: I noticed frequent flame-outs during my outdoor cooking sessions, especially when dealing with windy conditions or as my propane tank pressure dropped.
Temperature Control Problems: My unit struggled to maintain consistent temperatures, and I occasionally couldn’t get readings above 250°F—a significant limitation for proper grilling.
Safety Considerations: I detected concerning gas odors near the regulator connection during several cooking sessions, which raised immediate safety flags that I couldn’t ignore..
Design Flaws and Safety Considerations
The Regulator Issue
The most significant concern with The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 is the loose-fitting propane regulator. This design flaw creates several problems:
- Gas Leakage: The loose connection allows propane to escape during lighting and operation
- Performance Degradation: As propane pressure drops, cooking performance decreases noticeably
- Safety Risks: Any gas leakage in outdoor cooking equipment presents safety hazards
Wind Resistance Problems
The grill’s design makes it particularly susceptible to wind interference. The burner extends from the main grill body, creating vulnerability to air currents that can cause:
- Flame flickering and instability
- Uneven heating patterns
- Complete flame-out in moderate wind conditions
Portability Limitations
Despite being marketed as a “portable” grill, The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 faces several portability challenges:
Weight: At 28.2 pounds, it’s manageable for short distances but challenging for true portable applications like hiking or beach trips.
Packed Size: The 3.1 cubic foot volume doesn’t fold or collapse, making vehicle storage challenging.
No Locking Mechanism: Unlike many competitors, the lid doesn’t lock shut for transport, risking damage to the cooking grates during movement.
How Does It Compare to Other Grills?
The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 vs Weber
| Feature / Model | Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 | Weber Go‑Anywhere Gas | Weber Q1200 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | |||
| $99.99 | $279.00 | ||
| Cooking surface | 240 sq. in. | 160 sq. in. | 189 sq. in. |
| BTU output | 9,500 | 6,500 | 8,5000 |
| Build quality & durability | Moderate (less than Weber) | Better build quality and reliability | Premium (cast aluminum construction) |
| Portability features | Portable (name) | True portability, locking lid | Portable but more of a premium tabletop unit |
| Price vs value note | Larger cooking area for lower cost | Lower price, good portability | Higher price but better long‑term value |
| Overall trade-off | More cooking space | Best budget portable Weber option | Premium, durable, better long-term performance |
The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 vs Traeger
| Feature / Item | Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 | Traeger Ranger |
|---|---|---|
| Fuel / Heat source | Gas (propane) | Wood pellets |
| Cooking surface | 240 sq. in. | 184 sq. in. |
| Temperature control | Digital temperature control | Digital temperature control |
| Electricity required | No (propane only) | Yes (requires electricity for pellet auger & controller) |
| Flavor focus | Emphasizes raw heat (searing, direct gas heat) | Emphasizes wood-smoke flavor |
| Technology / complexity | Simpler gas technology | More complex (pellet system, auger, digital controls) |
| Relative price positioning | Lower (value-oriented) | Significantly higher / premium |
| Notes | Portable, straightforward gas grilling | Focus on flavor enhancement through wood smoke; premium positioning |
The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 vs Napoleon
| Feature / Item | Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 | Napoleon TravelQ PRO285 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $194.81 | $379 |
| Burner system | Single burner (portable gas design) | Dual burner system (better heat control) |
| Cooking grids | Liquid propane gas | Cast iron cooking grids (superior heat retention) |
| Construction / build | Portable, straightforward gas grill (value-oriented) | Professional-grade construction (premium materials) |
| Additional features | Compact and portable | Folding side shelves for food prep |
| Temperature / heat control | Basic gas heat control | Improved control via dual burners |
| Portability | Designed for portability | Portable but more feature-rich/heavier than basic models |
| Relative price positioning | Lower / value option | Higher / premium option |
| Notes | Good for straightforward, no-frills portable grilling | Enhanced features and build quality for higher price |
Cooking Performance and Recipe Considerations
What Works Well
The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 excels at certain cooking applications:
High-Heat Searing: The ability to reach 677°F makes it excellent for steaks, burgers, and other proteins that benefit from aggressive searing.
Large Batch Cooking: The generous cooking surface accommodates larger quantities of food, making it suitable for small gatherings.
Simple Preparation: Foods that don’t require precise temperature control or complex cooking techniques work well on this grill.
Cooking Limitations
However, certain cooking styles present challenges:
Indirect Cooking: The single burner design makes it difficult to create distinct temperature zones for indirect cooking techniques.
Delicate Items: Fish and other delicate proteins may suffer from the uneven heat distribution.
Wind-Sensitive Cooking: Any outdoor cooking in windy conditions becomes challenging due to flame instability.
Maintenance and Longevity
Routine Maintenance Requirements
The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 requires regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance:
After Each Use:
- Clean cooking grates while still warm
- Empty and clean drip tray
- Wipe down exterior surfaces
Weekly (for frequent users):
- Deep clean cooking grates
- Inspect and clean burner ports
- Check gas connections for leaks
Seasonally:
- Inspect all components for wear
- Replace worn parts as needed
- Store properly during off-seasons
Read more: Weber Genesis E-325 Review
Parts Availability and Replacement
One advantage of the Char-Broil brand is the availability of individual replacement parts. However, users report challenges with:
- Extended out-of-stock periods for key components
- Higher shipping costs for small parts
- Some parts becoming obsolete as newer models are introduced
Understanding The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 Value
Cost-Benefit Evaluation
The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 presents a complex value proposition:
Advantages:
- Large cooking surface for the price
- High heat capability
- Accessible entry point for new grillers
- Individual parts availability
Disadvantages:
- Quality control inconsistencies
- Safety concerns with regulator design
- Limited true portability
- Reliability issues affecting long-term value
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Total Cost of Ownership
When evaluating the true cost of The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240, consider:
Initial Purchase: $87.99 – $149.99 Potential Repairs: Regulator replacement, ignition system repairs Replacement Timeline: Quality control issues may necessitate earlier replacement Safety Considerations: Potential costs associated with gas leakage problems
Recommendations and Final Thoughts
Who Should Consider This Grill
The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 may be suitable for:
- Budget-conscious buyers who prioritize cooking surface area over premium features
- Occasional grillers who don’t require consistent daily performance
- Users with stationary setups who won’t be moving the grill frequently
- Beginning grillers willing to accept limitations while learning
Who Should Look Elsewhere
This grill is not recommended for:
- Safety-conscious users concerned about gas leakage issues
- Frequent travelers needing true portability
- Reliability-focused buyers who require consistent performance
- Wind-prone locations where flame stability is crucial
Alternative Recommendations
For users seeking better reliability and safety, consider:
Weber Go Anywhere Gas ($99.99): Better build quality with true portability Weber Q1200 ($279.00): Premium option with excellent reliability Royal Gourmet Portable options ($119.99 – $139.99): Similar price range with potentially better quality control.
Pros and Cons of Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240
| pros | cons |
|---|---|
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FAQs
- What are the main features of the Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240?
Compact, foldable design for easy transport and storage, two-burner layout (240 square inches of primary cooking space), porcelain-coated grates, quick-connect propane hose for small cylinders, built-in thermometer, push-button ignition, and durable steel construction.
- What size and cooking area does it offer?
The grill provides approximately 240 square inches of primary cooking surface (enough to cook for 3–6 people depending on portion size). It’s designed for portability while still offering space for multiple items.
- What type of fuel does the Grill 240 use?
It runs on liquid propane. It’s commonly used with small 1 lb disposable cylinders via quick-connect, and some users adapt it to standard 20 lb tanks with an appropriate regulator and hose (follow manufacturer guidance).
- Is the grill easy to transport and store?
Yes. The Portable Gas Grill 240 features a compact, foldable design with locking legs and carry handles, making it suitable for tailgating, camping, picnics, and small patios.
- How do I start and control the temperature?
It uses a push-button (piezo) ignition for easy lighting. Temperature is controlled with separate burner control knobs, allowing you to adjust heat on each side for direct or indirect cooking.
- Is it safe to use on a balcony, boat, or RV?
Many people use portable gas grills in these settings, but safety depends on local rules and ventilation. Check your apartment/condo/boat/RV regulations and ensure proper ventilation and clearance from combustibles. Never use propane grills indoors.
- How do I clean and maintain the grill?
After cooling, brush the porcelain-coated grates with a grill brush, empty grease tray, and wipe down exterior surfaces. Periodically check the burner ports for clogs and inspect hoses/connections for leaks. Store in a dry place or use a cover when not in use.
- Are replacement parts or accessories available?
Yes. Replacement grates, regulator hoses, igniters, drip trays, and other parts are often available from Char‑Broil or authorized dealers. Confirm model compatibility when ordering.
- Can I cook for a larger group with this grill?
It’s best suited for small groups (3–6 people). For larger gatherings you may need to cook in batches or supplement with another cooking source.
- What should I do if the burner won’t light or flame is uneven?
Check that the propane cylinder is turned on and has fuel. Inspect the quick‑connect and hose for kinks or leaks. Clean burner ports if clogged; insects or debris can block them. Ensure the igniter is sparking — if not, try lighting with a match following safety steps. If problems persist, replace faulty parts or contact Char‑Broil support.
Conclusion
The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 represents a classic example of “you get what you pay for” in the outdoor cooking world. While it offers an impressively large cooking surface at an accessible price point, significant design flaws and quality control issues raise serious questions about its long-term value and safety.
The loose regulator design, in particular, creates ongoing safety concerns that may outweigh the cost savings for many users. When combined with reliability issues reported by multiple users, the apparent bargain becomes less compelling.
For those determined to stay within this price range, I’d recommend exploring slightly more expensive alternatives that address the fundamental safety and reliability concerns present in this model. The additional $20-50 investment in a Weber Go Anywhere or Royal Gourmet alternative may provide significantly better long-term value and peace of mind.
However, if you’re willing to accept the limitations and safety considerations, and plan to use the grill primarily for stationary applications with adequate wind protection, The Char‑Broil Portable Gas Grill 240 can provide adequate cooking performance for basic grilling needs.
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