Charcoal grills work on the principle of radiation. Coal embers emit a lot of radiation which is converted into heat when it comes in contact with food to be cooked. The grill that you are considering to buy must have the below-mentioned features to ensure its efficient operation.
Controlled heating. This means controlling the temperature at which charcoals burn, and controlling the amount of heat that reaches the food to be cooked. Good charcoal designs will have tight-fitting lids that prevent heat from escaping, and well-placed vents that stoke consistent fire inside the grill.
Adjustable height of the charcoal tray. Pushing this tray up or down will bring the embers closer to the cooking food or move them apart, giving you control over the direct heat transmission.
Accurate temperature reading. Make sure that your charcoal grill has a digital device to give you accurate heat reading. It is important that your cook BBQ varieties at the right temperature to give the sumptuous bite that feels right.
Spacious charcoal chamber. Apart from providing enough space for charcoal fuel and air circulation, a roomy chamber will let you shift and shuffle embers. This will control or concentrate heat areas as desired.
Charcoal adding mechanism. The charcoal grill should have a sliding or hinged opening that lets you easily add or remove the charcoal. It should operate smoothly, or you may burn your hands while struggling to open it. A good opening of appropriate size and shape will also let you "shake off" ash from the embers. Being a good insulation agent, excess ash can hamper the heat generation process.
Grating surface. A good grate is the one that offers superior heat radiation, holds various foods properly, it does not cause over or under-cooking, and gives uniform burn on the food surface. We recommend the old-fashioned wire grill to other fancy grates. It still has the ideal grid system to facilitate proper BBQ cooking. Avoid cast iron, as it is difficult to maintain and does not hold meat and some other foods properly.