We have long called for thermostatic control on residential gas grills. Over the last several years, several companies made attempt re made but none were satisfactory. We are convinced that if it were easy to do, it would already be done. However, a couple of new models just popped up that generate a glimmer of hope including this new Member’s Mark Pro Series grill. Could we finally be entering the golden age of residential gas grilling?
Two Cooking Modes
The claim to fame of this new Member’s Mark Series is thermostatic control. These grills can operate in BBQ Mode or Thermostatic Control Mode. BBQ Mode works like all gas grills; you lower or increase the cooking temp by spinning the burner control knobs. In BBQ Mode, The product claims to reach searing temps of 650°F. And if that isn’t enough, you get an infrared sear burner on the left side shelf. Thermostatic Control Mode turns your grill into an outdoor gas oven. The control knob even looks like it came from a kitchen.
The temperature range in Thermostatic Control Mode claims to be 250F to 450°F. A Thermostat Sensor located in the right rear of the cook box means to read the current cooking temperature and adjust the burners as needed to maintain your setting.
Construction
The Member’s Mark Pro Series assembled dimensions are 67″W x 25″D x 48″H weighing 178.5 pounds. The firebox and lid end caps are cast aluminum. The lid is double-walled 430 stainless steel and incorporates a viewing window. There are no interior lights. A single battery-powered ignitor on the left side shelf lights five 304 stainless steel, 12,300 BTU main burners, and one 12,000 BTU ceramic. Click here for a better understanding of stainless steel.
The main cooking grates and heat tents covering the burners are 304 stainless steel. A warming rack flips up when not in use for better access to the primary cook surface.
The Thermostatic Control Series also offers a 4-burner model for $499.
Member’s Mark is an exclusive Sam’s Club brand known for decent quality and affordable price, but they don’t readily come to mind for innovation. They declare the thermostatic control of their new Pro gas grill series will, “elevate your grilling experience, with its versatility and cooking control, unmatched by any grill in its class.” With price tags well below $1,000, if these new gassers work as advertised, they would indeed add a long overdue, useful feature to outdoor gas grilling at an affordable price.
