How Much Does a Natural Gas Grill Cost to Install?

Estimating Natural Gas Grill Installation Costs

To get the full estimate of what you can expect to pay for a natural gas grill, be sure to consider a few key components of the installation process. You’ll need to think about the grill itself and consider if you already have natural gas running to your home or not.

Materials

You’re going to need more than just the grill. You should consider items such as the gas shutoff valve and pressure gauge when determining the material costs for this project. Keep in mind, the natural gas plumber near you should have all of these materials handy.

Labor Costs

Typically, a natural gas plumber costs anywhere from $45 to $200 per hour. Installing a natural gas grill can take anywhere from 1 hour to 3 hours, depending on how far away the new gas line is and how difficult it is to run new pipes. However, there’s a chance that your house already has a spot for this type of hookup, making life easier for you and the master plumber.

Permits

Permits to extend an existing gas line will range from $100 to $300. If there’s any digging required for your new grill, you’re likely going to need a permit before installation.

Additional Monthly Costs

Now that you’re hooked up to natural gas rather than a propane tank, you’re likely to see a rise in your gas bill. Depending on your location, expect to pay anywhere from $0.15 to $0.75 per hour to run the grill. However, costs should be significantly lower than the cost of propane, which can range from $1 to $5 per hour to run.

What Natural Gas Grill Can I Get on My Budget?

$250 to $500

For around $250 to $500, you can typically find a single- or double-burner natural gas grill. This isn’t going to be a fancy grill, but it’ll cook everything thoroughly enough. Ideally, your gas lines will be close by, so you’re not paying a lot in installation fees.

$500 to $1,000

At a budget of $500 to $1,000, you’re looking at getting a three-burner to five-burner option. You’re going to have more wiggle room if your gas line isn’t close by.

$1,000 to $2,000

With a price range of $1,000 to $2,000, you’re likely going to find a high-end natural gas grill. These grills will include three to six burners and side burners as well. You may also find rotisserie burners in this price range.

$2,000 and Upward

After $2,000, the infrared natural gas grills start to come in. These grills utilize infrared energy that cooks food evenly throughout. There’s next to no heat loss, as the heat travels directly to the food rather than first passing through the air.

Cost to Install a Natural Gas Grill Yourself vs. Hiring a Contractor

We don’t recommend you tackle this project yourself; installing a natural gas grill to an existing or new gas line is a potentially dangerous project. Instead, you should always have a pro install your gas BBQ. Even if you plan to install the grill yourself, you should, at minimum, have the grill and line inspected before attempting installation.

If you choose to install the gas grill yourself, you’re likely going to save around $100 to $300 at most. These savings are not worth the potential danger involved with gas lines.

What Factors Influence the Cost to Install a Natural Gas Grill?

Beyond materials and labor, you’ll need to consider factors such as whether you have an existing natural gas line and where you want the grill located. If you’re in the middle of installing an outdoor kitchen, you might find the cost drops a good bit.

Existing Natural Gas Line

Generally, most people who buy a natural gas grill already have natural gas throughout their homes. If you don’t, expect to pay an additional $550 on average. Though if your house is close enough to an already existing gas line, you may qualify for free installation.

Location of Grill

The further from your home you put the grill, the more piping you’ll need to get from the gas line to the grill. Piping material can cost anywhere from $1 to $10 per linear foot. With labor, you might end up paying anywhere from $15 to $25 per linear foot.

Outdoor Kitchen Installation

A natural gas grill is a great pièce de résistance for an outdoor kitchen. An outdoor kitchen costs anywhere from $5,550 to $22,500. Since there’s a good amount of work during this time, you may be able to save on labor costs.

FAQs About Natural Gas Grills

Can I install a natural gas line myself?

There’s a very narrow margin for error for natural gas line installation. In most instances, it’s not worth the risk of installing the line yourself. Always contact a professional plumber to tackle this job.

Can I convert a liquid propane grill to natural gas?

You’ll need to check the owner’s manual or contact the manufacturer to determine if your propane gas grill can convert to a natural gas grill. If it does have the option, you’ll need to add $50 to $100 to the final cost. However, you’ll save money by not having to buy an entire grill.

What happens if you use propane on a natural gas grill?

Using propane on a natural gas grill can result in an uncontrolled flame. Uncontrolled flames can lead to fire risks and potential harm.