Saturday, February 7, 2009

If Being Different Is Weird, Be Weird - Aussie Grills

By Mike Pit

Originally, a metal fabrication job shop in 1959, MECO (Metal Engineering Corporation) began production of Aussie grills, both charcoal and electric, in 1999. Known as setting the standard in the marketplace with water smoker grills, as well as the electric and charcoal, MECO is located in Greeneville, Tennessee.

Everyone has different needs, and grill makers try to define their niche, so keep these things in mind when you being shopping for a grill:

* Where will the grill be used?

* What will your fuel source be?

* Is space going to be an issue?

* Do I want it to fit in with existing dcor or try a new style?

* Do you want some money left over to buy food?

* What sort of extra gadgetry will you need on your grill?

* Watch for a good quality product, one that will last forever.

* The importance of BTU's is overrated, evaluate the complete package.

Each of the Aussie grills made by MECO, Bushman, Bondi and Monaro have similar construction: porcelain coated hoods and bowls, porcelain flavor activator, stainless steel burners, side tray, button starter and steel cart. The also produce a portable gas grill called the Adventure series. This operates at 5500 BTUs and and can cook for up to 9 hours. While pre-assembled, it's designed to be portable with easily adjustable legs.

Another portable grill offering is the charcoal fueled Walk-A-bout series. It's completely pre-assembled and folds up for easy toting; it also comes with wheels for mobility on-site. You can control the temperature easily with hood and bowl vents.

MECO also makes a countertop model with 200 sq. inches of grilling spaceand a thermostatic control. It uses 1500 watts with three positions. One will do rotisserie. If you want to smoke something, they also make a smoker with 351 sq inches of cooking space wood sides and handles and flavor channels for directing the smoke accurately.

To care for your grill, you may want to do a few things. You can season your cast iron by washing it with soapy water. To ready your Aussie grill for the season, you simply need to remove any dirt and dust, wash it again with the soapy water, and it will be ready to go. No need to jump through hoops to get your grill ready for another summer of fun! Lava rocks and briquettes are not needed, either. The Flavor Activator does the same thing, but better. Wire brush you iron grill parts occasionally so that rust will not occur. Never use oven cleaner on a grill, it is too corrosive.

MECO delivers a well rounded series of Aussie grills. Whatever your purpose, grilling or smoking, outdoor picnics or neighborhood cook-offs, you'll find a unique solution.. If you're looking for an Aussie grill, check out Lowes, Academy Sports and Outdoors or Sportskids Superstore. Don't forget to look online as well.

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