Char-Broil Commercial Infrared: What It Is and Why Your Grill Needs It
Why Char-Broil Commercial Infrared Technology Matters for Your Kitchen
Charbroil commercial infrared technology uses an emitter plate to convert gas flames into radiant heat. This delivers even temperatures, prevents flare-ups, and keeps food up to 50% juicier than traditional gas grills.
Key Benefits:
- Even Heat Distribution - Eliminates hot and cold spots
- Flare-Up Prevention - Creates a barrier between food and flames
- Juicier Results - Radiant heat locks in moisture without drying food out
- Energy Efficient - Heats up to 500°F in under 10 minutes
- Versatile Cooking - Ideal for steaks, burgers, chicken, vegetables, and more
If you've ever dealt with uneven cooking, dried-out steaks, or dangerous flare-ups, you know how frustrating traditional grilling can be. Char-Broil's TRU-Infrared technology (now branded as Amplifire in newer models) solves these problems by fundamentally changing how heat reaches your food.
Instead of blowing hot air like a conventional gas grill, infrared grills use an emitter plate that absorbs heat from the burners and radiates it directly to your food. This creates consistent temperatures and prevents fat drippings from causing flare-ups.
The Commercial Series line improves this technology with heavy-duty stainless steel construction, porcelain-coated cast iron grates, and modular cooking systems that let you switch between grilling, griddling, and charcoal cooking in under 90 seconds.
I'm Sean Kearney from Charbroilers.com. With over a decade in the restaurant equipment industry, I've seen how charbroil commercial infrared technology transforms kitchen efficiency and food quality. Whether for your backyard or a commercial kitchen, understanding this technology will help you make the right choice.
Charbroil commercial infrared terms simplified:
The Science of TRU-Infrared: How It Transforms Grilling
If you've ever watched a steak turn into a charred hockey puck on one side while staying raw on the other, you understand why better grilling technology matters. That's what drove Char-Broil to develop TRU-Infrared™ cooking technology—now called Amplifire™ in newer models—which completely changes how heat reaches your food.
Charbroil commercial infrared technology is a fundamentally different approach to heat transfer. Instead of blowing hot air like a convection oven, it uses radiant heat that cooks directly. Think of the difference between standing near a campfire (radiant heat) versus sitting under a fan blowing warm air (convective heat).
For a comprehensive look at how gas grills work, check out our guide on More info about a Gas Grill Char Broil.
How TRU-Infrared Differs from Traditional Grills
Traditional gas grills circulate hot air, which breaks down your food's natural moisture barrier, causing juices to evaporate. This can leave your steak dry and tough.
TRU-Infrared grills reduce hot air flow and use radiant heat that penetrates food's moisture barrier without destroying it. This direct heat transfer locks in natural juices and flavors. At least 65% of the heat generated is infrared radiation, which is why your food comes out juicier and more tender.
The Key Components: Emitter Plate and Burners
TRU-Infrared technology relies on two key components working together.
First, the top-ported gas burner. These are designed to work with the emitter plate system and are built from durable stainless steel in the Commercial Series to handle high heat.
Second is the star of the show: the emitter plate. This plate sits above the burners, absorbing infrared heat from the flames and radiating it evenly across the cooking surface. Crucially, it also creates a physical barrier between your food and the open flames.
This barrier is what prevents flare-ups. When fat drips, it hits the hot emitter plate and vaporizes instead of hitting the flames. The result is remarkably even heat distribution across the entire grill. You don't need to memorize hot and cold spots or constantly shuffle food. Every zone is a perfect cooking zone, ensuring consistent results.
Core Advantages of a Char-Broil Commercial Infrared Grill
A steak that's charred outside but dry inside is a common frustration of traditional grilling. Charbroil commercial infrared technology solves this problem, whether you're in a busy restaurant kitchen or grilling at home.
Up to 50% Juicier Food with No Flare-Ups
TRU-Infrared technology shines by cooking food directly with radiant heat, not hot, drying air. This keeps the natural moisture barrier in steaks, burgers, and chicken intact, locking in juices and flavor. Char-Broil claims food stays up to 50% juicier, and the difference is noticeable from the first bite. Your food stays tender and flavorful.
The no-flare-up promise is also real. The emitter plate blocks fat drippings from reaching the flames below, preventing charring and burnt edges. This is invaluable when cooking fatty foods like bacon-wrapped items, ribs, or marbled steaks.
For commercial kitchens, this consistency means less waste, safer cooking, and reliable quality that builds a reputation.
Superior Heat Control and Efficiency
Temperature control on traditional grills is often a guessing game of hot and cold spots. Charbroil commercial infrared grills eliminate this. The emitter plate distributes heat evenly across the entire cooking surface for consistent, reliable heat from edge to edge. This ensures perfect grill marks and evenly cooked food every time.
The efficiency is also impressive. A Commercial Series grill can reach 500°F in under 10 minutes, a significant advantage in a busy kitchen. It's also important to note that lower BTU ratings don't mean weaker performance. BTUs measure fuel consumption, not cooking power. Infrared grills achieve high temperatures while burning less fuel than traditional designs, leading to lower fuel costs and a more sustainable operation.
For more information about what makes Char-Broil grills stand out, check out our article on More info about a Char Broil Grill.
A Deep Dive into the Char-Broil Commercial Series
For serious grillers, the Char-Broil Commercial Series is where charbroil commercial infrared technology meets heavy-duty construction. These grills are built to last, handling frequent use in both backyard and food service settings without compromising quality.
The entire line features sharp, durable stainless steel construction that stands up to weather and heat, making it a long-term investment. For more details on the Char-Broil barbecue lineup, check out More info about Char Broil Barbecues.
Key Features Across the Commercial Line
Several features make the Commercial Series a standout choice:
- Surefire™ electronic ignition delivers a dependable spark to every burner, every time.
- Dual Fuel™ enabled models can be converted from liquid propane to natural gas (kit sold separately), offering flexibility and control over operating costs.
- Porcelain-coated cast iron grates combine cast iron's heat retention for great searing with a protective coating that resists rust and simplifies cleanup.
- A lid-mounted temperature gauge helps you monitor and maintain consistent temperatures without losing heat.
- Cabinet storage with stainless steel doors keeps your propane tank and grilling tools organized and out of sight.
Spotlight on the Commercial Series 4-Burner Grill & Griddle
The 4-Burner Gas Grill & Griddle is a complete outdoor cooking system. Its modular cooking system lets you swap between grilling grates, a flat-top griddle, or a charcoal tray (sold separately) in under 90 seconds. You can grill steaks for dinner, make pancakes for breakfast, and smoke ribs on the weekend—all with one unit.
It boasts an impressive 535 square inches of primary cooking space, a 328 sq. in. griddle, and a 200 sq. in. warming rack. The 32,000 BTU main burners provide powerful, consistent heat. The cold-rolled steel griddle seasons over time for a natural non-stick surface, and a rear grease slot simplifies cleanup.
Comparing Commercial Series Models: 3-Burner vs. 4-Burner
Choosing between models depends on your space and cooking needs.
The 3-burner model offers 420 sq. in. of primary cooking space, 38,500 main burner BTUs, and a 13,000 BTU side burner. At 51" wide, it's ideal for smaller spaces or cooking for 4-6 people.
The 4-burner model provides more room with 525 sq. in. of primary cooking space, 32,000 main burner BTUs, and a 13,000 BTU side burner (45,000 total BTUs). At 57" wide, the extra space is perfect for larger groups.
Both models share the same high-quality construction, grates, ignition, and storage. The 4-burner offers more cooking real estate, while the 3-burner is a great professional-grade option for tighter spaces.
Practical Guidance: Maintenance, Assembly, and Accessories
Even the best grill needs care to perform at its peak. The good news is that maintaining a charbroil commercial infrared grill is easier than you might think, thanks to its design that minimizes grease buildup.
How to Clean and Maintain Your Charbroil Commercial Infrared Grill
Because the emitter plate blocks most drippings, you'll deal with far less mess than with conventional grills.
- Use the burn-off method: After grilling, turn all burners to high, close the lid, and let it run for 10-15 minutes. This intense heat incinerates most food residue on the grates and emitter plates.
- Scrape the grates and plates: Once cool, use a stiff-bristled grill brush to scrape away any remaining debris. Regular cleaning prevents rust and ensures even heat.
- Empty the grease trap: Regularly empty the grease collection tray to avoid overflows and odors.
- Clean the exterior: Use soap and water for most surfaces and a stainless steel cleaner to keep panels looking new.
- Season cast iron grates: Periodically season your grates with a high-smoke-point oil to maintain their non-stick properties and prevent rust.
- Protect your investment: A high-quality, durable grill cover is crucial for protecting your grill from weather and UV damage.
For more maintenance tips and tricks, visit our guide on More info about a BBQ Char Broil.
Assembly and Warranty Information
Assembly can be challenging, so set aside ample time, gather your tools, and consider asking a friend to help. Inspect all parts for damage upon delivery before you begin.
The warranty reflects Char-Broil's confidence in the Commercial Series:
- Burners: 10-year warranty
- Firebox, grates, and emitter plates: 3-year limited warranty
- All other parts: 1-year warranty
Register your grill and keep your receipt to streamline any future warranty service.
Recommended Accessories for Your Charbroil Commercial Infrared Grill
The right accessories lift your grilling experience:
- Durable Grill Cover: This is a non-negotiable item to protect your grill.
- Gas2Coal® Charcoal Tray: For modular systems, this adds authentic smoky flavor by converting your gas grill to charcoal in seconds.
- Cast-Iron Griddle: Opens up possibilities for breakfast, smash burgers, and fajitas.
- Rotisserie Kit: Allows for slow, even roasting of whole chickens and roasts.
- Cleaning Tools: A sturdy grill brush, scraper, and stainless steel cleaner are essential for upkeep.
Frequently Asked Questions about Char-Broil Infrared Grills
Investing in a charbroil commercial infrared grill is a shift from traditional methods, so it's natural to have questions. Here are answers to the most common concerns.
Does infrared technology really make food juicier?
Yes, and the science is solid. Traditional grills use convective heat (hot air) that dries out food. Charbroil commercial infrared grills use radiant heat, which penetrates food without destroying its natural moisture barrier. The emitter plate sears the outside, sealing in juices. While the "up to 50% juicier" claim comes from the manufacturer, the science is sound, and users consistently report a noticeable difference in juiciness.
Are infrared grills harder to clean than regular grills?
Surprisingly, they are often easier to clean. The key is the burn-off method. After cooking, turn the burners to high for 10-15 minutes to incinerate food residue on the grates and emitter plates. Once cool, a quick brushing is all that's needed. The emitter plate also blocks most drippings from reaching the firebox, meaning less deep cleaning is required. While the grease trap still needs regular emptying, overall maintenance is less time-consuming.
Can I convert a Char-Broil Commercial grill to natural gas?
Yes, most Commercial Series models are Dual Fuel™ enabled, allowing them to run on either liquid propane or natural gas. This requires a separately sold conversion kit. While DIY is possible, professional installation is recommended to ensure safety and optimal performance, especially in commercial settings. For stationary, high-use grills, converting to natural gas offers the convenience of a continuous fuel supply and can lead to significant cost savings over time.
Conclusion: Is a Char-Broil Commercial Infrared Grill Right for You?
After exploring the science and benefits of charbroil commercial infrared technology, the question remains: is one of these grills right for you?
If you value consistency, the answer is likely yes. These grills deliver reliable, even heat that makes cooking predictable and enjoyable, eliminating hot spots and flare-ups. The Commercial Series combines professional-grade stainless steel construction, excellent searing grates, and the innovative emitter plate system for superior results. Add the versatility of modular cooking systems, and you have a setup that adapts to any culinary challenge.
From a long-term value perspective, these grills are a smart choice. The 10-year burner warranty and energy-efficient design translate to durability and lower operating costs, a key benefit for restaurant operations.
At Charbroilers.com, we specialize in helping food service businesses find the right equipment. We carry a comprehensive selection of commercial kitchen equipment, including charbroilers, deep fryers, and griddles, and offer financing options custom for food service operations. We understand that quality equipment is crucial for your success.
If you're outfitting a restaurant kitchen or upgrading your commercial setup, we invite you to find the perfect equipment in our guide to commercial charbroilers for your restaurant. Whether you need a high-performance backyard grill or full-scale restaurant gear, we're here to help.
The bottom line: a charbroil commercial infrared grill is a smart investment in better food, consistent results, and a more enjoyable cooking experience. Your taste buds—and your customers—will thank you.