Weber Summit FS38 S 5 Burner Natural Gas Grill Review

Quick Summary:

SKU: 8091393

Pros

  • Versatile Cooking Options: The grill's multiple burners, sear station, rotisserie burner, and smoker box offer a wide range of cooking possibilities.
  • Exceptional Heat Control: The Snap-Jet ignition system and individual burner controls allow for precise temperature management.
  • Durable Construction: The stainless steel construction ensures long-term durability and resistance to the elements.
  • Flavor Enhancement: The Flavorizer Bars and smoker box add a rich, smoky flavor to your grilled foods.
  • Spacious Cooking Area: The large cooking surface makes it easy to cook for large groups without feeling cramped.

Cons

  • Price: The Weber Summit FS38 S is priced higher than many other grills on the market, which may be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
  • Size: The grill's large size may not be suitable for smaller outdoor spaces, such as patios or balconies.

Weber Summit FS38 S 5 Burner Natural Gas Grill: A Comprehensive Review

The Weber Summit FS38 S 5 Burner Natural Gas Grill stands out as a premium choice for those seeking exceptional performance and luxury in outdoor cooking. Crafted with robust materials and equipped with advanced features, this grill offers both style and functionality. Whether you're a seasoned griller or someone who enjoys weekend barbecues, the Summit FS38 S promises a top-notch grilling experience. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at its specifications, share personal insights, and explore the various benefits and use cases of this high-end grill.

Specifications Overview

The Weber Summit FS38 S is designed with a range of features that make it a top contender for any outdoor kitchen. Below are its key specifications:

  • Burners: Five stainless steel burners delivering a total of 60,000 BTUs.
  • Side Burner: A 12,000 BTU side burner ideal for preparing sauces or side dishes.
  • Sear Station: An additional 10,600 BTU burner for high-heat searing, perfect for achieving that coveted restaurant-quality sear.
  • Rotisserie Burner: A 10,600 BTU rear-mounted infrared burner, ideal for slow-roasting meats.
  • Smoker Box: A built-in smoker box with a dedicated 6,800 BTU burner for infusing rich, smoky flavors.
  • Cooking Area: A total cooking area of 769 square inches (624 sq. in. for the main area and 145 sq. in. for the warming rack).
  • Grates: Durable stainless steel cooking grates that ensure even heat distribution.
  • Lid and Cookbox: Stainless steel lid and cast aluminum cookbox offer longevity and excellent heat retention.
  • Flavorizer Bars: Stainless steel bars that catch drippings, turning them into smoky flavor.
  • Ignition System: Snap-Jet individual burner ignition for quick, reliable start-ups.
  • Fuel Type: Natural gas, complete with a 10-foot flexible hose.
  • Dimensions: Stands at 50.5 inches in height, 66 inches in width, and 26.5 inches in depth.
  • Weight: Weighs a sturdy 245 pounds.
  • Additional Features: Includes a built-in thermometer, lighted control knobs, tool hooks, an enclosed storage cabinet, and convenient side tables.

In-Depth Review and Personal Insights

As an avid griller who frequently hosts outdoor gatherings, the Weber Summit FS38 S quickly became a favorite in my backyard. The grill’s stainless steel design not only looks sleek and professional but also ensures durability, standing up to the elements with ease. Its construction feels solid, and every component speaks of quality.

Grilling Performance

The Weber Summit FS38 S excels in delivering consistent, even heat across its generous cooking surface. The five primary burners produce enough power to grill an assortment of dishes simultaneously. The sear station deserves special mention—it’s a game-changer for grilling steaks, creating perfect sear marks and sealing in juices for a succulent finish. This feature alone elevates the grilling experience to a new level.

The smoker box is another highlight. It’s a fantastic tool for experimenting with different flavors, whether you’re smoking ribs, chicken, or fish. The dedicated burner ensures that the smoke is distributed evenly, allowing you to achieve that classic barbecue flavor with minimal effort.

Rotisserie cooking is where the Summit FS38 S really shines. The infrared rotisserie burner provides even heat distribution, which is crucial for slow-cooking meats like whole chickens or roasts. The result is meat that’s crispy on the outside and tender on the inside—a perfect roast every time.

Ease of Use and Convenience

One of the features I particularly appreciate is the lighted control knobs. These make it easy to grill even after the sun sets, allowing for precise temperature control. The built-in thermometer is another convenient addition, helping to monitor the grill’s internal temperature without having to open the lid frequently.

Starting the grill is hassle-free thanks to the Snap-Jet ignition system. It’s reliable and gets the grill going in seconds. Cleaning the grill is also straightforward, thanks to the stainless steel grates and the effective grease management system that channels drippings away from the burners.

My Experience with the Weber Summit FS38 S

Cooking on the Weber Summit FS38 S has been a delightful experience. The first meal I prepared included a rotisserie chicken, grilled vegetables, and smoked ribs. The grill’s versatility allowed me to cook everything simultaneously without sacrificing quality.

The rotisserie function was particularly impressive. The chicken turned out perfectly—crispy on the outside, moist and tender on the inside, with the infrared burner providing even cooking. The sear station, on the other hand, added a beautiful crust to the ribs, while the smoker box infused them with a deep, smoky flavor that everyone at the table raved about.

The side burner came in handy for preparing sauces, keeping the entire cooking process outdoors, and saving me the trouble of running back and forth to the kitchen. Overall, the Weber Summit FS38 S not only met but exceeded my expectations.

Benefits and Ideal Use Cases

The Weber Summit FS38 S is more than just a grill—it’s a versatile outdoor cooking station that can cater to a variety of needs:

  • Versatile Cooking: Whether you’re searing steaks, slow-roasting meats, or smoking delicate fish, this grill has the features to do it all.
  • Perfect for Large Gatherings: With its expansive cooking area, it’s easy to prepare a variety of dishes at once, making it ideal for parties and family gatherings.
  • Year-Round Durability: Built with premium stainless steel, the grill is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions, ensuring it remains in top condition for years.
  • Enhanced Flavor: The built-in smoker box and Flavorizer Bars add depth and richness to your food, turning ordinary grilled dishes into something special.
  • User-Friendly: From the lighted control knobs to the Snap-Jet ignition system, this grill is designed for ease of use, even during late-night cookouts.

Conclusion

The Weber Summit FS38 S 5 Burner Natural Gas Grill is a standout choice for anyone serious about grilling. It combines advanced features, such as the sear station, rotisserie burner, and smoker box, with the durability of stainless steel construction, making it a worthy investment. While it may come with a higher price tag than other grills, the performance, versatility, and convenience it offers make it worth every penny. Whether you’re grilling for a small family dinner or hosting a large barbecue, the Summit FS38 S will consistently deliver outstanding results.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Is assembling the Weber Summit FS38 S complicated?

Not at all. The Weber Summit FS38 S comes with detailed instructions and all the necessary hardware. Most users find that assembly takes about 2-3 hours, depending on their experience with similar projects.

Q2: Can the Weber Summit FS38 S be converted to use propane instead of natural gas?

No, this model is specifically designed for natural gas and cannot be converted to propane. However, Weber does offer propane versions in the Summit series.

Q3: How do you clean the Weber Summit FS38 S?

Cleaning is straightforward, thanks to the stainless steel grates and the Flavorizer Bars, which reduce grease buildup. The grill also features an efficient grease management system that makes cleaning up quick and easy.

Q4: Does the Weber Summit FS38 S come with a warranty?

Yes, Weber backs this grill with a 10-year warranty, covering all parts against defects in material and workmanship. This provides peace of mind and reflects the brand’s confidence in the product’s durability.

Q5: What accessories are available for the Weber Summit FS38 S?

A variety of Weber accessories are compatible with the Summit FS38 S, including grill covers, rotisserie kits, and specialized cleaning tools. These can enhance your grilling experience and help keep your grill in prime condition.


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