Traeger grills are known for their wood pellet cooking style and offer several grill models that can be built into an outdoor kitchen or barbecue island. These pellets grills are efficient and easy to use. Some in the kamado grilling community, call it “an easy bake oven”! Are they just hating? We think so!!

Quick Links:

• The History Of Traeger Grills
• Traeger Features and Benefits 
• Criticisms and Common Concerns
  
• Can A Traeger Be Built In?
  
• Traeger Timberline XL
• Traeger Ironwood 885

The History of Traeger Grills – 

Traeger Grills have been making wood pellet grills since 1985! They started off as a home heating business in the early ’80s and introduced the idea of the pellet grill!

– Invention by Joe Traeger: The story of Traeger grills begins with Joe Traeger, an entrepreneur and heating engineer from Oregon. In the early 1980s, Joe Traeger and his family were experimenting with ways to use wood pellets as a clean-burning, efficient heating source. This experimentation led to the development of the first pellet grill.

– Patent and Early Models: In 1986, Joe Traeger received a patent for his pellet grill design. The original Traeger grills were simple but effective, designed to use compressed hardwood sawdust pellets as fuel. They were initially used for smoking meats and quickly gained popularity among friends and family.

– Company Formation: In 1988, Joe Traeger founded Traeger Grills and began manufacturing and selling his wood pellet grills commercially. The grills gained a reputation for their ability to provide consistent and flavorful wood-fired cooking, making them a hit with outdoor cooking enthusiasts.

– Expansion and Innovation: Over the years, Traeger Grills continued to innovate and expand its product line. The company introduced various models with different features, including digital temperature control and Wi-Fi connectivity, which added convenience and precision to the cooking process.

Today, Traeger is a well-established and respected brand in the world of grilling and outdoor cooking, known for its wood pellet grills, versatile cooking options, and distinctive smoky flavor. The company’s journey from a small family experiment to a prominent grill manufacturer is a testament to the enduring appeal of wood pellet grilling.

Here are some of Traeger benefits and features that customers often appreciate:

Here are some of the benefits and features that customers often appreciate:

Seamless Integration: Built-in Traeger grills are designed to seamlessly integrate into your outdoor kitchen or barbecue island, creating a polished and professional look. They can be customized to match the design and style of your outdoor space.

Enhanced Aesthetics: These grills enhance the aesthetics of your outdoor kitchen, making it look more sophisticated and complete. They often come with stainless steel construction and sleek design elements.

Convenience: Built-in Traeger grills offer the convenience of a permanent cooking solution. You won’t need to move or store your grill when not in use, as it’s always in its designated place. This can be especially handy if you entertain guests frequently.

Consistent Performance: Traeger grills are known for their wood pellet cooking style, which imparts a unique smoky flavor to your food. The temperature control is precise, and many models come with Wi-Fi connectivity, allowing you to monitor and adjust cooking temperatures remotely.

Versatility: Traeger grills are versatile and can be used for a wide range of cooking techniques, from smoking and grilling to baking and roasting. The wide temperature range and a variety of available wood pellet flavors enable you to experiment with different cooking styles.

Quality Construction: Traeger is known for its durable and high-quality construction. Built-in Traeger grills often feature stainless steel components that are resistant to rust and corrosion.

Easy to Use: Traeger grills are user-friendly and suitable for both beginners and experienced cooks. The digital control panel and Wi-Fi app make it easy to set and monitor cooking temperatures and times.

Eco-Friendly: Wood pellets are a sustainable and renewable fuel source, making Traeger grills an environmentally friendly choice compared to traditional charcoal or gas grills.

Accessories and Upgrades: Traeger offers a range of accessories and upgrades that can enhance the functionality of your built-in grill, such as additional racks, custom-fit covers, and more.

Community and Recipes: Traeger has a strong online community of users who share recipes, tips, and tricks. This can be a valuable resource for discovering new cooking ideas and techniques.

Criticisms and common concerns that people have expressed.

While Traeger grills are generally well-regarded by many users for their wood pellet cooking technology and various features, there are some criticisms and common concerns that people have expressed.

Price: Traeger grills can be relatively expensive compared to some other grills on the market, which may put them out of reach for budget-conscious consumers.

Limited High-Temperature Grilling: While Traeger grills are known for their excellent smoking and low-and-slow cooking capabilities, some users feel that they are not as well-suited for high-temperature grilling and searing, which can be achieved more effectively with traditional gas or charcoal grills.

Maintenance: Traeger grills require regular maintenance, including cleaning the fire pot and drip tray, which can be seen as more involved than the upkeep of some other types of grills.

Pellet Costs: The ongoing cost of purchasing wood pellets for fuel can add up over time, making Traeger grills potentially more expensive to operate compared to other grills that use cheaper fuel sources like charcoal or propane.

Pellet Hopper Capacity: Some users have noted that the pellet hopper’s capacity may be limiting for extended smoking sessions, and it may need refilling during long cooks.

Complexity: While many users appreciate the digital controls and Wi-Fi features, others may find the technology somewhat complex and prefer a simpler, manual approach to grilling.

Initial Setup: Assembling and setting up a Traeger grill can be a time-consuming process, and some users have reported issues during assembly.

Lack of Direct Flame: Traeger grills typically cook using indirect heat, and some grill enthusiasts prefer the ability to cook directly over open flames, which may not be a primary feature of Traeger grills.

Temperature Fluctuations: Some users have experienced temperature fluctuations, especially in extreme weather conditions. Traeger has made improvements in this area, but it can still be a concern for some.

Size and Portability: Traeger grills, particularly the larger models, can be heavy and less portable compared to some other grill types. This may not be suitable for users who want a more mobile or compact grilling solution.

RTA Outdoor Living Cabinets Shown

Installing a Traeger Grill, like the Timberline XL, into an outdoor kitchen requires careful planning and consideration for safety, functionality, and aesthetics.

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you integrate the grill seamlessly into your outdoor kitchen:

1. Safety First:

• Ensure you’ve read the grill’s manual, paying close attention to any safety recommendations and clearance requirements.
• Consider hiring professionals or consult with them if you’re unsure about any part of the installation process.

2. Choose the Location:

• Position the grill away from flammable materials, taking into account the manufacturer’s recommended clearances.
• Ensure the location is sheltered from strong winds, which could affect cooking temperatures.
• Make sure the space has proper ventilation, especially if it’s under a covered area. This prevents smoke buildup and potential carbon monoxide hazards.

3. Prepare the Base:

• Timberline grills are heavy. Ensure the outdoor kitchen counter or base is strong enough to support the weight of the grill.
• You may need to construct a reinforced concrete or steel support base or purchase pre-fabricated outdoor cabinets designed to house pellet grills.

4. Electrical Access:

• Timberline grills require electricity to operate the auger, thermostat, and other components. Ensure there’s an outdoor-rated electrical outlet nearby.

5. Plan for Pellet Storage and Access:

• Unlike built-in gas grills, pellet grills require a supply of wood pellets. Consider creating storage space nearby to store pellets, which should be kept dry.

6. Prepare for Installation:

• Remove any unnecessary components from the grill for easier installation. This might include the main grilling grate, grease tray, or other internal parts.
• Measure the grill (height, width, depth) and ensure your opening is slightly larger for easy fitting and airflow.

7. Create Ventilation:

• Make sure the design of your outdoor kitchen allows for proper airflow around the grill. Consider installing vents to assist with circulation and prevent overheating.

8. Install the Grill:

• With the help of others (given the weight), carefully slide or place the grill into the designated space.
• Ensure it sits level and stable.
• Reinstall any parts you removed earlier.

9. Utility Access:

• Ensure the back or side of the outdoor kitchen provides easy access to the pellet hopper, power cord, and other utilities the grill might need.

10. Test:

• Once the grill is in place, plug it in and run a test to ensure it heats up and functions correctly.
• Keep an eye out for any potential issues like excessive smoke escaping from unintended areas.

11. Finishing Touches:

• Depending on your outdoor kitchen design, you may want to add decorative elements, protective covers, or additional counter space around the grill.

Traeger Grill – Timberline XL

WHY WE LIKE IT:

The Traeger Timberline series represents some of the most advanced and premium offerings in Traeger’s lineup of pellet grills.

Traeger Grills Ironwood 885 Wood Pellet Grill and Smoker

WHY WE LIKE IT:  

The Traeger Ironwood 885 pellet grill is known for its  versatility to grill, smoke, bake, roast, braise, and BBQ. The “885” in its name indicates 885 square inches of total grilling space, allowing users to cook multiple dishes or larger cuts of meat at the same time. The Ironwood series is built with high-quality materials and has a robust design.

Here are some key aspects of the Ironwood Series: