2 Best Cast Iron Grill Burners, Compared
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Finding the best cast iron grill burners requires looking at published specs, not marketing claims. We compared 2 options to help you choose. The Gcostar 3-Piece Cast Iron Grill Grates leads because it offers a 5-inch width and height, providing a solid, durable cooking surface for Char-Broil replacements. Each pick is based strictly on the specifications listed on the product pages. This guide helps you decide which replacement parts fit your grill and meet your heat retention needs.
Quick picks
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gcostar 3-Piece Cast Iron Grill Grates Best overall | Char-Broil grill grate replacement | Check price of Gcostar 3-Piece Cast Iron Grill Grates on Amazon |
| 2 | Criditpid 2-Burner Cast Iron Cooking Grates Kit Best budget | Complete grill restoration with cast iron grates | Check price of Criditpid 2-Burner Cast Iron Cooking Grates Kit on Amazon |
The best fit for you
- You need durable replacement grates for Char-Broil grills Gcostar 3-Piece Cast Iron Grill Grates These 5-inch cast iron grates are designed to restore your grill's cooking surface.
- You want a complete kit for a two-burner grill Criditpid 2-Burner Cast Iron Cooking Grates Kit This silver cast iron kit fits 17-inch by 17.5-inch two-burner models.
- You prefer cast iron for strong heat retention Criditpid 2-Burner Cast Iron Cooking Grates Kit The cast iron construction provides durable components and consistent heat distribution.
Our 2 picks
Gcostar 3-Piece Cast Iron Grill Grates
Best for: Char-Broil grill grate replacement
- Material
- Cast Iron (what this guide is about)
- Included Components
- 3PCS cooking grates
- Dimensions
- 5 × 5 × 5 inches
View on Amazon: Gcostar 3-Piece Cast Iron Grill Grates Affiliate link
These Gcostar cooking grates replace worn parts on Char-Broil and compatible grills. They are made of matte cast iron for heat retention. The set includes three pieces: two larger and one smaller grate. The overall size is 16.9 by 28.2 inches. They fit many Char-Broil Performance and Classic models. You can season them before use for better performance.
Pros
- Made of matte cast iron
- Includes 3PCS cooking grates
- Fits Char-Broil Performance Series
- Fits Char-Broil Classic Series
- Overall size is 16.9 x 28.2 inches
Cons
- Requires seasoning before use
- Not a grill burner kit
- Heavy cast iron construction
Good fit if
- You need replacement grates for Char-Broil
- You want cast iron heat retention
- You have a 5-burner Char-Broil grill
Skip if
- You need actual gas burners
- You want porcelain coated grates
- You need a single piece grate
Verdict: Gcostar Cast Iron Cooking Grates provide durable replacement cooking surfaces for compatible Char-Broil grills. You should buy them if you need to restore your grill's cooking surface rather than replace its internal heating components.
Criditpid 2-Burner Cast Iron Cooking Grates Kit
Best for: Complete grill restoration with cast iron grates
- Material
- Cast Iron (what this guide is about)
- Burner Length
- 15 3/8"
- Burner Type
- Burner tube
- Burner Quantity
- 2
- Included Components
- grates, heat plates, crossover tubes
- Dimensions
- 7 × 5 × 15 inches
View on Amazon: Criditpid 2-Burner Cast Iron Cooking Grates Kit Affiliate link
This Criditpid replacement kit includes cast iron grates, stainless steel burners, and heat plates for Charbroil Performance 2-burner models. The grates measure 10.5 by 17 inches and 7 by 17 inches. The stainless steel burner tubes are 15.38 inches long. Cast iron provides strong heat retention for better searing. The kit also features adjustable crossover tubes ranging from 5 to 9 inches. It suits you if you need a full parts set for your grill.
Pros
- Cast iron grates retain heat well for even cooking
- Includes 2 stainless steel burner tubes for complete replacement
- Adjustable crossover tubes fit gaps from 5 to 9 inches
- Kit includes heat plates and igniters for a full rebuild
Cons
- Burner tubes are shorter than the 15.625-inch tubes on the Gcostar option
- Cast iron requires seasoning and maintenance to prevent rust
- No app or smart connectivity features for remote monitoring
Good fit if
- You need a complete set of replacement parts for a 2-burner grill
- You prefer the searing power of cast iron grates
- Your grill has a gap between burners that needs adjustment
Skip if
- You want stainless steel grates for easier cleaning
- You need longer burner tubes for a wider grill
- You prefer a lightweight kit with fewer components
Verdict: Criditpid 2-Burner Cast Iron Grill Parts is a comprehensive kit for restoring Charbroil Performance grills. It fits owners who want strong heat retention and a full set of durable replacement components.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Gcostar 3-Piece Cast Iron Grill Grates | Criditpid 2-Burner Cast Iron Cooking Grates Kit |
|---|---|---|
| Burner Length | not stated | 15 3/8" |
| Burner Type | not stated | Burner tube |
| Material | Matte cast iron | Stainless steel |
| Burner Quantity | not stated | 2 |
| Included Components | 3PCS cooking grates | grates, heat plates, crossover tubes |
| Dimensions | 5 × 5 × 5 inches | 7 × 5 × 15 inches |
| Size | 1CG-5 Grill Burners Kit | 17" x 17.5" (2 Burner) |
| Color | Black | Silver |
| Model | 00214 | 2-Burner 463630021 |
How to choose the right one
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Check burner width
Match the grate width to your grill's burner. The Gcostar grates measure 5 inches wide, fitting standard Char-Broil burners. If your grill has wider burners, these may not cover the heat source evenly. Ensure the width aligns with your existing hardware. Proper width ensures even cooking and prevents food from falling through gaps. Always measure your current burner before purchasing new cast iron components to avoid fitment issues.
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Verify length compatibility
Length determines how much of the burner you cover. The Gcostar option is 5 inches long, providing a compact cooking area. In contrast, the Criditpid kit measures 7 inches long, covering more surface area. Choose based on your grill's internal layout. Longer grates may interfere with side shelves or adjacent burners. Check your grill’s internal dimensions to ensure the new cast iron parts fit without obstruction. Correct length ensures optimal heat distribution across your cooking surface.
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Assess height clearance
Height affects how the grate sits in your grill. The Gcostar grates are 5 inches high, which is a standard profile for many gas grills. The Criditpid kit is 15 inches high, indicating a different structural design or stacking method. Verify your grill’s lid clearance and internal depth. If the height is too great, the lid may not close properly. If it is too low, you might lose heat retention. Measure your grill’s interior to ensure the new cast iron grates fit safely.
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Count burner slots
Determine how many burners you need to replace. The Gcostar product is a 3-piece set, suitable for grills with multiple grate sections. The Criditpid kit is designed for 2-burner models. If you have a larger grill with more burners, a single 2-burner kit may not be sufficient. Conversely, a 3-piece set might be too large for a 2-burner grill. Check your grill’s burner count to select the correct kit size. This ensures you have enough cast iron grates to cover all cooking zones.
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Confirm model fit
Match the part number to your grill’s model. The Gcostar grates are designed for Char-Broil models like the 1CG-5. The Criditpid kit fits 2-Burner 463630021 models. Always verify your grill’s specific model number before buying. Cast iron grates are not universal and often have precise fit requirements. Using the wrong part can lead to poor performance or damage. Check your grill’s manual or the manufacturer’s website to confirm compatibility. This step ensures the new grates fit your specific grill model correctly.
Frequently asked questions
Are cast iron grill burners better than steel?
Cast iron retains heat better than thin steel. This helps sear food more effectively. The Gcostar grates use heavy cast iron for durable performance. They provide a consistent cooking surface for Char-Broil grills. Steel burnsers heat up faster but cool down quickly. Cast iron keeps the temperature steady during long cooks.
Do these grates fit all Char-Broil models?
No, they fit specific models only. The Gcostar set is for the 1CG-5 burner kit. The Criditpid kit fits 17-inch by 17.5-inch two-burner models. You must check your grill's dimensions before buying. Mismatched sizes can cause uneven heating. Always verify the model number against the product specs.
How wide should a cast iron grate be?
The width should match your grill's burner. The Gcostar grates are 5 inches wide. The Criditpid kit has 7-inch long sections. A proper fit ensures even heat distribution. If the grate is too narrow, food may fall through. If it is too wide, it may not fit the frame.
Can I use cast iron grates on a gas grill?
Yes, cast iron grates work well on gas grills. They sit directly over the burners. The Gcostar and Criditpid options are designed for this. They replace worn-out surfaces on Char-Broil units. Gas grills provide consistent heat, which cast iron handles well. This combination offers good searing capability for various foods.
What is the difference between the Gcostar and Criditpid kits?
The Gcostar kit includes three 5-inch grates. It is best for single-burner replacements. The Criditpid kit covers a 17-inch by 17.5-inch area. It is a two-burner set. Gcostar is black, while Criditpid is silver. Choose based on your grill's size and burner configuration. Both use cast iron for durability.
How do I clean cast iron grill grates?
Clean them while they are still warm. Use a stiff brush to remove food debris. Avoid soap if you want to maintain the seasoning. The Gcostar and Criditpid grates are durable enough for regular scrubbing. Dry them thoroughly to prevent rust. Apply a thin layer of oil after cleaning to protect the surface.
Do cast iron grates require seasoning?
Yes, seasoning helps prevent rust and sticking. The Gcostar and Criditpid grates are made of cast iron. They benefit from an initial seasoning process. Heat the grates and apply oil before first use. This creates a non-stick surface over time. Regular maintenance keeps the cast iron in good condition.