Green Mountain Grills Vs Traeger

Green Mountain Grills Vs Traeger

The popularity of pellet grills is growing rapidly, and for good reason. These grills are extremely versatile and can be used for a variety of different cooking methods such as smoking, roasting, and even baking. However, before you go out and buy one, there are some things you need to know in order to make an informed purchase. Keep reading for the answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about pellet grills.

Pellet grills are quickly becoming the hottest small appliances around. Everyone wants to jump on the pellet bandwagon for their own reasons. A lot of people choose pellet grills because they’ve heard of them before, some know that they’re actually wood-burning ovens, and others buy them because they now come equipped with electronic temperature controls.

Green Mountain and Traeger are two of the most popular pellet grill brands on the market. They both have their pros and cons, which is why it can be tough to decide which one to buy. In this article, we’re going to compare and contrast these two brands to help you make a decision.

What are pellet grills?

A pellet grill is a small, wood-burning oven that can be used in your backyard or on your patio. Pellets are made from wood and burn very cleanly when cooking food. Pellet grills might look like regular grills, but their internal components make them unique and widely popular.

Pellet grills give you more control over the cooking process than traditional grills. They also use a fraction of the wood pellets that other wood-burning ovens use, making them more economical and environmentally friendly.

There are three different types of pellet grills: electric, gas, and wood-burning.

Electric pellet grills – These pellet grills use electricity to power the auger that feeds the pellets into the machine. The temperature is automatically controlled based on how often the auger moves and what setting you have it set on.

Gas-burning pellet grills – Gas-burning pellet grills have a gas burner at one end of the machine, which is where the fuel is burned. The pellets are added through a side wood-chip loader, and a motorized auger distributes them from there throughout the machine. The temperature in gas-burning pellet grills can be controlled much like you would control the temperature in an indoor oven.

Wood-burning pellet grills – This type of pellet grill is the most traditional. The pellets are burned in a firebox and the heat from the fire is used to cook the food. These grills have an open flame and can be difficult to regulate the temperature.

Now that you know what a pellet grill is, you might be wondering which brand is right for you.

Traeger History

Traeger grills were one of the first wood-pellet grills on the market and have been around for over 25 years. They are a well-known and reputable brand, and their grills are known for being high quality.

One thing that sets Traeger apart from other pellet grill brands is their customer service. If you have any problems with your grill, Traeger is always available to help. They also offer a wide variety of recipes and tips on their website to help you get the most out of your grill.

Traeger grills come in many different sizes, from portable grills to large, full-sized ovens. They also have a variety of different features, including Wi-Fi enabled models, mobile apps, and basically anything you can imagine.

Green Mountain History

Green Mountain grills are a newer brand, but they have quickly become one of the most popular pellet grill brands. One of the things that sets Green Mountain apart is their focus on quality. All of their grills are made in the USA and they test each one before it leaves the factory.

Green Mountain also offers a wide variety of features, including Wi-Fi enabled models, mobile apps, and more. They also have a line of electric pellet grills, which are a great option for people who don’t want to use charcoal or wood pellets.

There are many different sizes and models of Green Mountain grills to choose from, so you’re sure to find one that fits your needs.

Green Mountain vs Traeger: The Differences

Let’s take a look at the differences between them.

• Temperature Control – One of the major differences between these two grill brands is in their temperature control systems.  Green Mountain grills offer a patented Smart Grill Technology controller that allows you to set your desired cooking temperature and it will automatically feed pellets into the grill to maintain that temperature.  Traeger grills have a knob on the front of the grill, which you can use to adjust your desired cooking temperature after activating their fan-based auger system.
• Temperature Range – Green Mountain grills have a temperature range of 150-700°F, which allows you to cook anything from low heat searing to high heat baking.  Traeger grills have a temperature range of 180-500°F, so they are best for cooking hot and fast over high heat.
• Controller – Another difference is in their controllers.  Green Mountain grills use digital controllers with an LED display that shows the set temp as well as the current cooking temp including the target temp, meat probe temp, etc.  Grill Boss on Traeger Pro Series uses analog controls on some models and on premium models it uses digital controls.
• Ease of Use – Green Mountain grills are known for being very easy to use.  All you have to do is set the temperature and the grill will do the rest. Traeger grills also have an easy-to-use digital controller, but they don’t have as many features as Green Mountain grills.
• Durability – Traeger grills are made from better quality materials and they are more durable than other brands. This means that they will last longer and be less likely to break down. Green Mountain grills are made with high-quality materials, but they may not last as long as Traeger models.
• Assembly – Green Mountain grills can be easily assembled after purchase and some customers have even said that the assembly was easier than assembling their old gas grill.  Traeger Grills come unassembled, so you will need to assemble them yourself.  If you’re comfortable with building things on your own, this shouldn’t be an issue for you, but it can be a little time-consuming for someone who isn’t very handy.
• Materials – You can select from a wide range of colors and materials for your Green Mountain Grill.  They come in different sizes, shapes, and styles; there is sure to be one for you. Traeger grills are available in stainless steel and black, so they will look good with most outdoor décor.
• Fuel Type – Green Mountain grills use wood pellets as their fuel source, while Traeger Grills use propane. 
• Propane or Wood Pellets – If you want to go the extra mile, you will love using Green Mountain Grills because they use real wood pellets instead of propane like the other brands on the market today. This means that you don’t have to worry about ridiculously high prices for fuel refills because you won’t need as many refills as other models require for cooking large meals all day long.
• Accessories – Green Mountain grills come with a variety of different accessories that you can use to make your grilling experience even better. Some of these include a food probe, grill cover, and ash catcher. You can also find a variety of different replacement parts for your grills such as side shelves and doors. Traeger grills do not include any accessories, but you can purchase them separately on the Traeger website.
• Cleaning – Cleaning up after cooking on a Green Mountain Grill is very easy.  They have a grease management system that keeps the grill from being smoky and greasy. Traeger grills are not as easy to clean, which means you will spend more time cleaning them before and after each use.
• Maintenance – Green Mountain grills aren’t very difficult to maintain, but since they are heavier it may be difficult for some people to move them around.  Traeger grills have an easily accessible ash catcher that makes it easy to clean out the ashes after cooking.
• Warranty – Traeger models come with a warranty of 30 days parts and labor. This means that you can return your grill within this time period and get a brand new one in exchange and you will only pay for shipping costs. They also offer a 2-year warranty on all parts except for the grill cover. Green Mountain grills come with a 10-year warranty on all parts except for the grill cover and they offer a 25-year warranty on their metal.
• Flavor – One of the most important factors in buying a new grill is whether or not it actually imparts real smoke flavor into your food.  Both Green Mountain grills and Traeger grills use wood pellet flavors, so you will get this great smoky taste when cooking with either one of them.
• Customer Service – Both Green Mountain and Traeger have excellent customer service teams that are willing to help with any problem or concern you may ever have with your grill. However, many customers find that Traeger’s customer service department is not as helpful as Green Mountain’s.
• Cost – One of the biggest differences between these two brands is their price tag.  A Green Mountain Grill can cost from $750 to $1500 depending on where you purchase it, what features it has, and what materials you choose for your model. Good quality new Traeger Pro Series pellet grill costs about half the price of a comparable new Green Mountain Grill at around $300-500.

Overall, there are some clear differences between these two brands of grills. If you’re looking for a durable, easy-to-use grill that cooks quickly and uses real wood pellets as fuel, then you should consider purchasing a Green Mountain Grill. If you want a grill that is more affordable and doesn’t require quite as much maintenance, then you should purchase a Traeger Grill Whichever brand you decide on, both are good options for anyone looking to purchase a grill.

What are the advantages of a pellet grill?

Pellet grills are quickly becoming the new favorite option for backyard barbecuers everywhere! This is because pellet grills offer many benefits that traditional gas or charcoal grills simply can’t offer.

• Efficient – Pellet grills are much more efficient than gas or charcoal grills because you don’t have to worry about refueling after every cooking session. All you have to do is remember to fill up your pellet hopper with pellets before cooking and leave it closed while you cook, then when you’re done, just dump out the used pellets in a bucket so they can be easily disposed of later. There are also electric smokers available if you want to use wood chips instead of actual pellets. 
• Convenient – If you have ever cooked on a gas grill, then you know that the flavor is great, but it doesn’t compare to cooking with wood. Wood pellet grills are just as convenient as gas or charcoal because they allow you to set the temperature and go back inside if it gets too hot while your food cooks.
• Cooler Drawer – Electric grills give off heat while cooking so this needs to be taken into consideration when deciding where exactly to put your grill in order for it not to affect how comfortable or cool you are. Green Mountain Grills have an extra drawer attached underneath the main compartment that keeps your grill cool all day long.
• More Cooking Space – Since pellet grills don’t have any extra equipment like propane tanks or lids, they have way more space than other types of grills allowing them to cook much bigger meals.
• Wind Resistance – One thing about many other types of outdoor appliances is that even though you may use them in your backyard, sometimes the wind can affect how well they work. But, pellet grills actually have a special design that deflects wind away from the grill so it won’t interfere with your meal! If you love cooking on the patio and want to be able to cook more than just hot dogs and hamburgers then a pellet grill may be the perfect choice for you.
• No Fuel Waste – This is especially convenient if you plan on using your grill frequently or if you live in an area where propane or charcoal can get expensive.  Since there are no gas lines involved, fuel is only used while food is being cooked instead of completely burned off during previous uses like with traditional grills.

What are the drawbacks of pellet grills?

Even though pellet grills have many advantages, there are a few drawbacks that you should be aware of before making your purchase.

• Maintenance – Pellet grills require a little more maintenance than other types of grills because the pellets can sometimes get jammed in the auger or the igniter can go out. You also need to make sure that the grill is clean after every use to prevent any build-up of food residue. 
• Price – Like many other high-quality appliances, pellet grills are often more expensive than typical options.

Is a pellet grill better for home or commercial use?

Many people consider getting a wood pellet grill because they are perfect for cooking an entire meal all at once, but is it suitable for commercial purposes? If you’re looking to open up your own restaurant then you might not want to go this route since they can be slightly more expensive and maintenance can also take up some extra time in between uses. However, if you’re only using the grill occasionally for large gatherings with family and friends then there are no real drawbacks. There are also many different types of pellets available so if one type doesn’t work well with your recipe then you can always try another.

What food can you cook on a pellet grill?

Pellet grills are great for cooking all types of food. You can cook everything from chicken to ribs to pizza. Pellet grills are especially good for smoking meat, which gives it a delicious smoky flavor.

FAQs

How often should pellets be changed?

This really depends on how often you use your grill and the type of pellets that you are using. If you’re cooking frequently then you may need to change them every 3-4 weeks, but if you only use them occasionally then they could last up to 6 months.

Can I put a cover on my pellet grill?

Yes, in fact, it is recommended that you do this in order to protect the grill from the elements. 

How long does it take for a pellet grill to preheat?

This also depends on the model of the pellet grill that you have as well as the temperature setting. It can range anywhere from 10-30 minutes.

What should do if my pellets get wet?

If your pellets get wet, the grill will not work which means you cannot cook anything. In order to restore functionality, you’ll need to completely dry out the grill and replace the pellets again.

How do I know when my pellet grill is hot enough?

Different grills have different methods for showing when they are ready to use so make sure to check your owner’s manual in case there is a specific light or alert that turns on when it reaches a certain temperature.

What should I do if my ignition doesn’t work?

First off, make sure that your igniter has batteries, or else no power will flow through the grill which means it won’t heat up even though the burners may be turned on. If your igniter is working properly, then you may just need to replace the burner orifice which will help ensure that gas can flow freely through your grill.

How often should I clean my pellet grill?

You should clean up any food residue after every use and thoroughly clean and oil it at least once a month so that it doesn’t rust or warp over time. Remember, always refer to your owner’s manual for specific cleaning instructions because each model can differ slightly from one another even if they are the same brand.

What type of pellets should I get?

Different varieties of pellets have different flavors associated with them such as maple, apple, cherry, and other types of wood that add a unique smoky taste to your food. You can experiment with different types of pellets to see which one you like the best.

Can I use a pellet grill indoors?

You should never use a pellet grill indoors unless you have a really large one that can accommodate indoor cooking. You also have to have an adequate ventilation system installed in order for this type of grill to be used indoors safely because all the fumes from burning pellets will need somewhere safe to go otherwise you could end up with headaches, nausea, and other health issues associated with inhaling smoke from a grill.

What are some safety tips for using a pellet grill?

Always make sure the grill is on a flat surface before turning it on so that it doesn’t tip over and cause injuries. Also, never leave the grill unattended because you could come back to find out that your food has burned or your grill is leaking gas which can cause an explosion if left unattended too long.

How do pellet grills work?

Pellet grills are one of the most high-tech types of grills on the market today. They are extremely versatile since they can function as both smokers and grills. You just need wood pellets to create smoke in order for this to happen (wood pellets burn at different temperatures depending on how much smoke flavor you want). A pellet grill ignites the pellets with a small flame and the pellets start to smolder. Once they are smoldering, the temperature is increased and this creates convection heat which circulates around the food that is being cooked.

What temperature should I set my pellet grill at?

Again, this depends on the model of your grill as well as the type of food that you are cooking. However, most people usually start out around 225-250 degrees and then adjust accordingly. 

What is a good temperature to smoke meat at on a pellet grill?

The ideal smoking temperature range for meat is 165-185 degrees Fahrenheit. This will ensure that the meat is cooked slowly and stays moist without becoming dry or tough. You may need to experiment a little bit to find the perfect temperature for your particular type of meat.

Is it safe to leave a pellet grill on all night?

No, it’s not safe to leave your grill on all night because it can overheat and cause a fire. Pellet grills are designed to be turned off when they are not in use. 

How long does a hopper of pellets last?

That will depend on how often you use your grill and which type of pellets you are using. Usually, a hopper should last for at least three hours if it is being used constantly. The more pellets that burn, the hotter your grilling becomes so it may be harder to regulate and control the temperature and this can decrease the amount of pellets that burn per hour.

What type of wood should I use in my Traeger pellet grill?

Different types of pellets have different flavors associated with them such as maple, apple, cherry, and other types of wood that add a unique smoky taste to your food. You can experiment with different types of pellets to see which one you like the best.

How long do Traeger grills last?

They usually last around 10-12 years if they are properly maintained. If you keep your grill clean and well lubricated then it will stay in great condition for a long time. 

How do I clean my Traeger grill?

To clean your Traeger grill, you will need soap and water to scrub it down. Next, you can use a plastic brush that has bristles on it to really get into the crevices of the grill in order to remove any padding or residue that may have gotten trapped there. Finally, use a damp cloth to wipe off the grill and make sure that it is completely dry before using it again.

How do I know when my Traeger grill is hot enough?

It’s simple – just wait about 10 minutes after starting it up and it should be ready. The metal bars will begin to expand from the heat once it reaches the correct temperature range. If you have any doubts, you can always double-check by using a temperature gauge.

How do I start my Traeger grill?

It’s as simple as plugging the grill in and pressing the ignition button to bring it up to your desired temperature range. You should hear it start to sizzle once it gets hot. Then, all you have to do is wait for about 10 minutes until everything heats up and you’ll be able to use it!

What if my pellets stop feeding into the Traeger pellet grill?

If this happens, then there may be something wrong with your auger – just take apart your grill and clean out any debris that might be stuck inside of it.

How much maintenance does a Traeger require?

You should clean your grill every time you use it – just take a damp cloth and wipe it down. You may also want to apply a light coat of vegetable oil to the moving parts every few months in order to keep everything lubricated. You should also inspect all of the screws and bolts every few months to make sure that they are all tight.

How do I know when my Traeger grill is done cooking?

The best way to tell is by using a food thermometer to measure the internal temperature of whatever you’re cooking. Once it reaches the desired level, then your food is ready to eat!

Are Green Mountain Grills pre-assembled?

Yes, they are usually pre-assembled. However, you should always double-check the manual before using your grill to make sure that everything is connected properly.

What type of pellets does a Green Mountain Grill use?

Green Mountain Grills use 100% natural hardwood pellets as fuel for their grills. They contain no additives or chemicals and can be used in wood pellet grills other than those manufactured by Green Mountain Grills. 

Do I have to season my Green Mountain Grill?

No, you do not have to season your Green Mountain Grill. However, it is always a good idea to do so in order to protect the cast iron cooking plates and enhance the flavor of your food. 

Can I use a Green Mountain Grill for smoking?

Yes, you can use a Green Mountain Grill for smoking. In fact, many people believe that they produce the best results when used in this way. You may need to experiment with the different temperature settings to find the one that works best for you. 

Can I use a Green Mountain Grill outdoors?

Yes, you can use a Green Mountain Grill outdoors as long as it is properly covered to protect it from the elements. If it is not covered, then you can ruin the internal components by letting it get rained or snowed on. 

Are Green Mountain Grills durable?

Yes, Green Mountain Grills are very durable and provide a long lifespan if maintained properly. Just make sure that you cover them when they’re not being used so that no debris gets trapped inside of the grill itself. If you do this, then your grill will last for years to come!

How much electricity does a GMG use?

Green Mountain Grills use about as much electricity as an average lightbulb in order to heat up. This amount is relatively negligible, however, so feel free to leave it plugged in whenever you aren’t using your grill for lengthy periods of time.

Conclusion

So, which one is the best? Well, that really depends on your own personal preferences. Both Traeger and Green Mountain Grills have their pros and cons, so it’s up to you to decide which one is right for you.

If you’re looking for a grill that is easy to use and doesn’t require a lot of maintenance, then a Traeger might be the better choice for you. However, if you want a grill that can be used for smoking as well as regular grilling and has cast iron cooking plates for better results, then a Green Mountain Grill is probably the way to go.

No matter which one you choose, though, you can be sure that both will provide you with delicious meals every time you use them!