From the Experts

Keep Cool While Grilling

Jul 16, 2018 4-minute read
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Keep Cool While Grilling | Starfire Direct

The summer temperatures have hit record highs, naturally driving the household chef to take their cooking outside. Turning on the oven in this kind of heat creates a nightmare situation where the inside of your house starts warming to outside-like temperatures. This kind of weather is perfect for firing up the grill and enjoying the nice charred flavor that accompanies a meal cooked outdoors. But cooking outside opens you up to other concerns, like keeping cool while you’re in the elements, standing next to a hot grill. Thankfully, there are solutions.

Feel the Breeze

Feel the Breeze - Keep Cool While GrillingHurricane 29" Reservoir Misting Fan by EcoJet and Bob Tabletop Misting Fan by EcoJet

There’s no need to deal with the extreme heat when a commercial-grade misting fan will help you cool down by about 20 degrees. Misting fans are a great way to lower the overall temperature of an area. The size and power of the fan dictate the size of the area you’re cooling, allowing you the option to cool more than just the grilling area. These cooling fans are ideal for pavilions, patios, or even balconies.

The ultra-fine mist will provide lower temperatures without leaving you feeling like you just went through a water park. So, you can fire up your gas grill, surrounded by friends, knowing that you won’t walk away drenched. As an added bonus, the fine mist also makes it difficult for insects to fly in the area, so you effectively keep bugs at bay as well. 

Bask in the Shade

Bask in the Shade - Keep Cool While GrillingOrion 9'9" Square Commerical Umbrella by Shademaker

A little sun protection goes a long way. With the help of an umbrella, you’ll feel cooler temperatures by about 10-15 degrees. Blocking the direct sunlight from beaming down on you allows your body to cool itself more naturally. While an umbrella certainly works magic to keep you cooler, it also adds style and a pop of color as well. Umbrellas come in various sizes, shapes, and colors, allowing you to pick the style that best works for you and your space. You can also select your choice of pole finishes and choose between the more traditional market umbrella style with or without tilt or cantilever umbrellas.

Let the Sun Set

Let the Sun Set - Keep Cool While GrillingRogue 365 SIB Stainless Steel Gas Grill by Napoleon Grills

Dinner needs to be made, but there’s no need to do it at the hottest point of the day. Time your meal-making accordingly so you don’t have to endure the sweltering heat. Whip up your sides and prep your marinade in the morning then wait until the sun starts going down to enjoy a bit of natural shade. For grilling fun after sun-down, some grills offer integrated lighting to help you see your grill, even in the dead of night.

A Little Built-in Protection

Under a Pergola - Keep Cool While GrillingTriumph 410 Black Gas Grill by Napoleon Grills

Your outdoor kitchen wouldn’t be complete without a built-in shade structure. Complete the look of your professional quality grilling oasis with a pergola that provides just the perfect touch of style and shade. The sturdy structure can be combined with wood lattices for ample shade and also provides a stable structure for mounting a television, so you don’t have to miss out on any of the game while you’re whipping up food for the masses. 

Stay Hydrated

Stay Hydrated - Keep Cool While GrillingTriumph 410 Black Gas Grill by Napoleon Grills

Most importantly, you’ll want to make sure you’re staying hydrated. It’s crucial that you consume plenty of water while you’re outside. No other precautions are as important as preventing dehydration.

Ultimately, you can enjoy grilling even during peak heat. With a few safety precautions and the right tools to keep you comfortable, keeping cool while grilling in less than ideal conditions becomes a breeze. For assistance with the cooling options available, feel free to chat us on the site, email us by filling out this simple form, or call our friendly team at (866) 578-8538.

Main Image: Rogue 425 SIB Stainless Steel Gas Grill by Napoleon Grill