AEI Corporation

Walk through almost any modern apartment community and you'll likely find a grilling area near the pool, clubhouse, or outdoor lounge. That's no accident.

Residents love outdoor spaces where they can cook meals, gather with neighbors, and entertain guests. Property owners appreciate amenities that increase resident satisfaction while requiring relatively little maintenance.

That's one reason natural gas grills have become one of the most popular outdoor amenities in multifamily housing. They provide a reliable, easy-to-use cooking solution that residents enjoy while helping property owners avoid many of the challenges associated with propane grills.

Whether installed at an apartment complex, condominium community, resort, or extended-stay hotel, commercial natural gas patio grills create inviting gathering spaces that enhance the overall property experience.

In this guide, we'll explore why natural gas grills continue to be a top choice for multifamily properties and hospitality venues alike.

Why Outdoor Amenities Matter

Today's residents expect more than a place to live. They want amenities that improve their lifestyle.

Outdoor gathering areas have become especially important because they provide opportunities for recreation, relaxation, and social interaction without leaving the property.

Community grill stations are particularly effective because they serve a practical purpose while also encouraging residents to spend more time outdoors.

Benefits of outdoor grilling areas include:

• Increased resident satisfaction
• Improved resident retention
• Enhanced property appeal
• Greater use of outdoor amenities
• Opportunities for community engagement

For many residents, a well-designed grilling area quickly becomes one of their favorite features of the property.

What Makes a Commercial Grill Different?

Many property owners assume a commercial grill is simply a larger version of a backyard grill.

In reality, commercial patio grills are designed specifically for shared-use environments where durability, safety, and reliability are critical.

Apartment communities, condominiums, resorts, and hotels often see hundreds or even thousands of grilling sessions each year.

That level of use requires a different class of equipment.

Commercial natural gas grills are engineered to withstand the demands of communal outdoor spaces while maintaining consistent performance year after year.

Why Natural Gas Grills Are So Popular

Natural gas is one of the most convenient fuel sources available for outdoor grilling.

Unlike propane grills, natural gas grills connect directly to the property's gas supply. There are no tanks to refill or replace, and no fuel deliveries to schedule.

Residents simply activate the grill timer, turn on the desired burner, ignite the grill, and begin cooking.

The fuel supply is continuous, which means the grill is always ready for use.

This convenience is one of the primary reasons apartment communities and condominium associations choose natural gas grills for their outdoor amenity areas.

Natural Gas vs. Propane Grills

Both fuel types have advantages, but natural gas often provides significant benefits for permanent installations.

For multifamily communities with existing natural gas infrastructure, natural gas grills often deliver the most convenient long-term solution.

Natural Gas Grills Can Lower Operating Costs

Property owners often focus on purchase price, but operating costs are equally important.

Natural gas grills can help reduce expenses over time by:

• Eliminating propane tank exchanges
• Reducing labor associated with fuel management
• Preventing service interruptions caused by empty tanks
• Minimizing wasted fuel
• Supporting long equipment lifespans

For communities with multiple grills, these savings can add up over the years.

How Many Natural Gas Grills Does an Apartment Community Need?

One of the most common questions developers and property managers ask is how many grills should be installed.

The answer depends on several factors, including:

• Number of residential units
• Available outdoor space
• Resident demographics
• Expected usage rates
• Number of amenity areas

As a general planning guideline:

Properties with large pool decks, multiple courtyards, or rooftop amenities may benefit from additional grill stations.

Proper planning helps prevent crowding and improves the resident experience.

Planning a New Grill Area?

Whether you're designing a new apartment community, renovating an existing property, or upgrading a hospitality venue, proper planning is important. We offer free consultations with our patio design team to help you achieve the best grilling experience for your residents.

AEI can help determine:

• Appropriate grill quantities
• Fuel type selection
• Grill placement
• Mounting options
• Outdoor kitchen configurations

A little planning early in the project can help avoid costly changes later.

Benefits of Natural Gas Grills for Apartments and Condos

Natural gas grills offer several advantages that make them particularly well suited for multifamily properties.

First, they provide a consistent fuel supply. Residents never have to worry about running out of fuel halfway through cooking a meal.

Second, they require less management from maintenance staff. There are no propane tanks to inspect, replace, store, or transport.

Third, they support a better resident experience. A grill that is always ready to use is more likely to become a valued amenity.

Finally, natural gas grills are ideal for permanent installations. Once connected to the property's gas infrastructure, they become a dependable part of the community for years to come.

Features Designed Specifically for Multifamily Properties

Commercial natural gas grills are exposed to heavy use and outdoor conditions every day.

That's why AEI grills include features specifically designed for multifamily and hospitality environments.

60-Minute Automatic Gas Shutoff Timers

One of the most important features available on AEI grills is the integrated 60-minute automatic gas shutoff timer.

Unlike many competing products that use separate timer assemblies, our timers are built directly into the grill's control panel.

This feature helps:

• Reduce wasted fuel
• Lower operating costs
• Prevent grills from being left running
• Improve safety

Residents simply activate the timer before cooking. After 60 minutes, gas flow automatically stops.

Why AEI's Integrated Timer Matters

Many commercial grills use external timer boxes mounted separately from the grill. AEI's timer is built directly into the control panel.

This integrated design provides several benefits:

• Easier operation for residents
• Cleaner appearance
• Fewer components exposed to damage
• Simplified maintenance
• Improved durability

It is a small detail that can make a significant difference over the life of the grill.

Anti-Theft Control Knobs

Community amenities occasionally experience vandalism or misuse.

Anti-theft control knobs help prevent unauthorized removal and reduce maintenance concerns.

External Temperature Indicators

Built-in temperature gauges allow residents to monitor cooking temperatures without opening the grill lid. This improves cooking consistency while making the grill easier to use.

Laser-Etched Control Panels

Printed instructions can fade after years of exposure to weather and sunlight. Laser-etched control panels remain legible for the life of the grill, helping ensure operating instructions are always visible.

Built for Long-Term Outdoor Use

Outdoor equipment must withstand constant exposure to the elements.

Rain.

Humidity.

Pool chemicals.

Sunlight.

Heavy use.

AEI natural gas grills are designed to thrive in these conditions.

Stainless Steel Grills

AEI offers three stainless steel grill models:

• S27T: 540 square inches of cooking surface
• S36T: 720 square inches of cooking surface
• S48T: 960 square inches of cooking surface

These grills are manufactured from durable 304 stainless steel, a material known for its strength and corrosion resistance.

Cast Aluminum Grills

AEI also offers cast aluminum grill models:

• T30: 330 square inches of cooking surface
• T40: 434 square inches of cooking surface

Cast aluminum naturally resists corrosion and oxidation while providing excellent durability at a more economical price point.

Flexible Installation Options

Every property has unique design requirements.

AEI natural gas grills can be installed using several grill mounting options.

Pole Mount Grills

Ideal for pool decks, courtyards, and open recreational spaces.

Pedestal Mount Grills

A durable freestanding option suitable for many community grill areas.

Built-In Outdoor Kitchens

Perfect for luxury apartment communities and condominium developments seeking an upscale appearance.

Prefabricated Grill Islands

An efficient solution for new developments and renovation projects that want a complete grilling station. Grill islands are light-weight and budget friendly options for mounting a grill on an outdoor countertop with storage drawers.

Popular Locations for Natural Gas Patio Grills

Natural gas patio grills are commonly installed in:

• Apartment pool areas
• Courtyards
• Clubhouses
• Rooftop lounges
• Outdoor kitchens
• Condominium amenity decks
• Resort recreation areas
• Hotel patios
• Extended-stay hotel courtyards
• Vacation property gathering spaces

These locations help maximize the value of outdoor amenities while creating attractive destinations for residents and guests.

Real-World Applications

Apartment Community Example

A 300-unit apartment community may install multiple natural gas grills near the pool and clubhouse.

Residents gain a convenient place to prepare meals, host gatherings, and enjoy the outdoor amenities.

Condominium Example

Luxury condominium developments often incorporate built-in natural gas grills on rooftop patio spaces.

These installations create premium outdoor gathering areas while enhancing property appeal.

Resort Example

Resorts frequently place natural gas grills near cabanas, recreation areas, or guest villas.

Guests enjoy the convenience while management benefits from a continuous fuel supply and reduced maintenance requirements.

Residents Love Community Grill Areas

The value of a grilling area extends beyond cooking.

These spaces help create community.

Residents meet neighbors.

Families gather for meals.

Friends host weekend cookouts.

The grilling area often becomes one of the most heavily used outdoor amenities on the property.

For property owners, that translates into improved resident satisfaction and stronger resident retention.

Easy Maintenance and Long-Term Support

Commercial grills are built to last, but eventually some components may require replacement after years of service.

AEI provides access to OEM grill replacement parts, allowing maintenance teams to quickly locate and order genuine replacement components.

This helps:

• Extend equipment life
• Reduce downtime
• Simplify maintenance
• Protect the original investment

Why Property Owners Choose AEI

Not all commercial patio grills are created equal.

AEI grills are specifically designed for multifamily and hospitality environments where durability, reliability, and ease of maintenance matter most.

Key advantages include:

• Integrated 60-minute automatic gas shutoff timers
• Anti-theft control knobs
• Laser-etched operating instructions
• Corrosion-resistant construction
• Multiple mounting options
• OEM replacement parts availability
• Commercial-grade materials
• Decades of experience serving multifamily and hospitality markets

These features help property owners provide exceptional outdoor amenities while minimizing maintenance concerns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are natural gas grills better than propane grills for apartments?

For some apartment communities, yes. Natural gas grills eliminate tank replacements and provide a continuous fuel supply.

Do natural gas grills require propane tanks?

No. They connect directly to a natural gas supply line.

Are natural gas grills safe for multifamily communities?

When properly installed and maintained, natural gas grills provide a safe and reliable outdoor cooking solution.

How long do commercial natural gas grills last?

Commercial-grade grills can provide many years of service when properly maintained, and even longer with OEM grill replacement parts.

What size grill should an apartment community choose?

The ideal size depends on resident population, expected usage, and available space.

What is the advantage of built-in grill timers?

Grill timers help prevent wasted fuel and eliminate the risk of grills being left running.

Is stainless steel better than cast aluminum?

Both are excellent options that make durable, corrosion resistant outdoor patio grills. Stainless steel offers premium durability, while cast aluminum provides a budget-friendly option for grills.

Are replacement parts available years later?

Yes. AEI provides access to OEM replacement parts.

Can natural gas grills be installed on rooftop patios?

Yes, provided local building codes and utility requirements are met.

Do natural gas grills require electricity?

With match-less piezoelectric starters built in, our commercial natural gas grills do not require electricity to operate.

What maintenance is required?

Routine cleaning and periodic inspections are typically recommended.

Are natural gas grills suitable for resorts?

Absolutely. Resorts frequently use natural gas grills because they eliminate fuel tank management.

Can natural gas grills operate year-round?

Yes. Many communities use them throughout all seasons.

What mounting option is best for apartment communities?

The answer depends on the property's layout, available space, and aesthetic goals.

How much cooking space do AEI grills offer?

AEI grill models range from 330 square inches to 960 square inches of cooking surface.

The Bottom Line

Natural gas grills remain one of the most popular outdoor amenities for apartments, condominiums, resorts, hotels, and extended-stay properties.

They offer convenience, durability, reliability, and lower long-term maintenance requirements.

Residents appreciate having a dedicated place to gather and cook outdoors. Property owners benefit from an amenity that enhances the resident experience while providing years of dependable service.

When designed correctly, a community grilling area becomes more than an outdoor feature. It becomes a destination that encourages residents and guests to spend more time enjoying the property.

Need Help Planning Your Grill Area?

Choosing the right grill size, quantity, installation method, and fuel type can be challenging.

AEI works with:

• Developers
• Architects
• Property managers
• Condominium associations
• Resort operators
• Hotel owners

to design outdoor grilling areas that meet the needs of residents and guests.

Whether you're planning a new development or upgrading an existing amenity space, our team can help you select the ideal natural gas grill solution for your property.

Contact AEI today to get started.

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