Before you buy, keep in mind these simple priorities:

• Consider cost but view your purchase as an investment.

• Give the grill the wiggle test to be it isn’t flimsy and parts are welded.

• Beware of add-on features like side burners, which hike costs. Ask yourself if you’ll really use them.

• Look for good customer support and maintenance. Remember that grills, like cars, require cleaning and upkeep.

Plenty of further information is available at these Web sites:

www.hpba.org. The Hearth, Patio, & Barbecue Association Web site. Includes information about the industry and tips for grilling. New consumer guide with advice on buying a grill, party planning and recipes may be downloaded at:

www.hpba.org/nbm.

www.vikingrange.com. Web site of Viking, a leading outdoor kitchen manufacturer

www.weber.com. Web site of Weber-Stephen Products Co.

www.charbroil.com. Web site for Char-Broil. Click on the new Tec series for an explanation of infrared heat.

www.girlsatthegrill.com. Cookbook Author Elizabeth Karmel offers tips on grill shopping and grilling basics. Click on “grilling 101” for basic information.

www.barbecuebible.com “Barbecue University” TV Host and cookbook author Steven Raichlen advises how to buy a grill and more.

www.bbqqueens.com. Tips and recipes from Barbecue Queens Karen Adler and Judith Fertig.

www.traegergrill.com. Web site for pellet grills with video describing how the grill works.