WEBER SPIRIT II E-310 GAS GRILL Review

The Weber Spirit II E-310 3-Burner Gas Grill is a popular option for those who want a well-made, versatile grill that’s easy to use. It has a total of 529 square inches of cooking space, which is enough to grill food for a family or a small group of friends. The grill also features a GS4 grilling system, which includes porcelain-enameled cast iron cooking grates, Flavorizer bars that vaporize drippings to add smoky flavor to your food, and an infinity ignition system that ensures a quick and easy startup.

Key Features of WEBER SPIRIT II E-310 GAS GRILL

Storage

The open cart design of the Weber Spirit II E-310 is a testament to thoughtful engineering, providing not just a base for the grill but a versatile storage solution. This design allows for the efficient organization of grilling tools, from spatulas to tongs, spices for seasoning, and other grilling essentials. The benefit here is two-fold: it keeps your grilling accessories organized and within easy reach, enhancing the overall cooking experience by ensuring that you’re not scrambling for tools or ingredients mid-grill. Furthermore, this open yet discreet storage space contributes to a tidy and clutter-free outdoor cooking area.

Wheels

Mobility is a key factor in the convenience of outdoor grilling, and the Weber Spirit II E-310 excels in this regard with its two all-weather wheels. These wheels are built to withstand varied outdoor conditions, from hot summer pavements to wet, chilly autumns, ensuring smooth movement across different terrains. This feature is particularly handy when you need to shift the grill’s location to avoid direct sunlight, wind, or to simply make room for outdoor activities. The ease of movement also makes the grill more accessible to people of various strengths and sizes, as it can be easily repositioned without requiring significant physical effort.

Thermometer

Consistent cooking temperatures are crucial for achieving perfect grilling results, and the built-in lid thermometer on the Weber Spirit II E-310 provides grillers with a reliable tool to monitor these temperatures. The thermometer’s location on the lid is strategically chosen for accuracy, allowing you to make necessary adjustments to the burners without having to disrupt the cooking environment by lifting the lid. This ensures that heat is maintained consistently, leading to evenly cooked food, whether you’re searing steaks or slowly grilling vegetables.

Burners

The three high-performance burners are the heart of the Weber Spirit II E-310’s grilling capabilities. Engineered for efficiency, these burners ensure a steady and consistent gas flow, which translates into uniform heat distribution across the entire cooking surface. This feature addresses one of the most common grilling challenges: hot spots. By eliminating uneven heating, these burners ensure that every inch of the grilling area is utilized effectively, allowing for versatile cooking strategies and ensuring that all food, regardless of its placement, is cooked to perfection.

Grease Trap

An integral part of the grill’s grease management system, the grease trap plays a vital role in maintaining a clean and safe grilling environment. By capturing grease and food drippings, it significantly reduces the risk of flare-ups, which can be both dangerous and detrimental to the food’s flavor. The design of the grease trap facilitates easy removal and cleaning, making post-grilling cleanup less of a chore and more of a simple step in the grilling process. This feature underscores Weber’s commitment to convenience and safety, ensuring that grillers can focus on the joy of cooking rather than the hassle of cleanup.

Igniter Button

The reliability of starting up the grill is made effortless with the Weber Spirit II E-310’s igniter button. This feature eliminates the traditional challenges associated with igniting grills, providing a quick and dependable start with a simple push. This ease of ignition ensures that the grilling experience begins smoothly, reducing any potential frustration and allowing the cook to focus on the culinary task at hand. The igniter’s design is robust, ensuring longevity and consistent performance over time.

Temperature Alarm

While the grill itself does not feature a built-in temperature alarm, its compatibility with the iGrill 3 accessory opens up a new realm of convenience and precision in grilling. The iGrill 3, which is sold separately, connects to a smartphone app, allowing you to monitor the internal temperature of your food remotely. This technology not only ensures that your food is cooked to the desired level of doneness but also allows you to enjoy the company of your guests without being tethered to the grill. The temperature alarm feature, accessible via the app, alerts you when your food reaches the set temperature, ensuring perfect results every time without the need for constant manual checking.

Grilling Performance

Even Heat Distribution

One of the most critical factors in any grilling experience is the ability to maintain consistent and even heat across the entire cooking surface. The Spirit II E-310 excels in this area, thanks to its three high-performance burners that ensure a uniform heat distribution. This means that regardless of where your food is placed on the grill, it receives the same amount of heat, eliminating the common problem of undercooked or overcooked spots.

Temperature Control

With the precision control knobs, you have complete command over the cooking temperature, allowing for a versatile cooking experience. Whether you’re searing steaks at high heat or slow-cooking ribs at a lower temperature, the Spirit II E-310 provides the control necessary to achieve perfect results every time. The built-in lid thermometer aids in this process by providing accurate temperature readings without the need to lift the lid and disrupt the cooking environment.

Flavor Infusion

The Flavorizer Bars, a signature feature of Weber grills, play a significant role in the Spirit II E-310’s grilling performance. As drippings fall onto these bars, they’re vaporized, creating smoke that infuses the food with a delicious, smoky flavor that’s synonymous with outdoor grilling. This not only enhances the taste but also contributes to the overall grilling experience.

Comparison Table of Grillers

Feature	Weber Spirit II E-310	Broil King Signet 320	Char-Broil 463722315
Cooking System	GS4 with Infinity ignition, flavorizer bars	Flav-R-Wave cooking system	TRU-Infrared technology (Grill2Go)
Ignition	Reliable single-button ignition system	Might need frequent replacements	Durable and reliable, but switches may break
Burners	Three high-performance stainless steel burners	Dual-tube burners for even heating	Usually offers 12,000 BTUs per burner
Cooking Space	529 sq inches primary space	635 sq inches total cooking space	Varies; often smaller compared to Weber
Material Quality	High-quality materials, less prone to corrosion	Sturdy cast aluminum lid and stainless steel frame	Lower cost reflected in some parts quality
Durability	Designed to last longer with heavy-gauge materials	Mixed; durable main components but some cheap hardware	Secondary parts prone to rusting/breakage
Ease of Assembly	Time-consuming but straightforward	Time-consuming, especially with extras	Time-consuming but not overly complicated
Special Features	iGrill 3 compatibility, foldable side shelves	Built-in tool hooks, large warming rack	Less feature-rich compared to Weber
Aesthetics	Simple and smart design, open cart design	Similar aesthetic with some models having an open cart	Compact and functional design

Summary

• Weber Spirit II E-310: Known for its GS4 cooking system which includes reliable ignition, high-performance burners, and flavorizer bars that enhance taste. It’s praised for its durable construction and even heating. However, it’s on the pricier side and the open cart design may not appeal to all due to aesthetic reasons. The grill also features foldable side shelves for added convenience.
• Broil King Signet 320: Stands out for its sturdiness and the Flav-R-Wave cooking system that promises even heating and authentic grill flavor. It offers a large total cooking space, making it ideal for bigger gatherings. While the main components are durable, some hardware may be of lower quality. The assembly can be time-consuming, particularly with additional features.
• Char-Broil Models: Generally more affordable, making them an attractive option for those on a budget. Char-Broil’s TRU-Infrared technology (specifically in the Grill2Go model) is designed for even cooking and preventing flare-ups. However, the durability of some parts is a concern, with secondary components like the lid and ignition switch prone to wear and tear.

Pros and Cons of Weber Spirit II E-310

Maintenance Tips

1. Exterior Cleaning: Regularly wipe down the outside of the grill’s lid using the appropriate cleaner: glass cleaner for porcelain-coated lids and stainless steel cleaner for stainless steel lids. It’s important to buff with the grain, especially for stainless steel surfaces, to prevent scratches and maintain the finish.
2. Side Table Care: For stainless steel side tables, use a microfiber towel and stainless steel cleaner, ensuring you buff with the grain. If the tables are made of thermoset plastic, a mild dish detergent and warm water will suffice.
3. Cook Box Maintenance: This might seem daunting, but it’s quite straightforward. When the grill is cool, remove the cooking grates and Flavorizer bars. Then, use a stainless steel grill brush to brush away grease and debris inside the cook box, directing it into the bottom tray for easy disposal.
4. Burning Off Residue: Before grilling, it’s a good practice to burn off any residue left on your grill. Simply turn all burners to high for about 15 minutes. This process turns food debris into ash, making it easier to brush off with a stainless steel bristle brush.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Weber Spirit II E-310 Gas Grill stands out for its robust design, innovative features like the GS4 grilling system, and iGrill 3 compatibility. It offers even heat distribution, versatile cooking options, and ease of maintenance, making it a favorite among grilling enthusiasts.

FAQs

1. How does the GS4 grilling system enhance the Weber Spirit II E-310’s performance?
   The GS4 system includes improved burners for even heat, Flavorizer Bars that add a smoky flavor by vaporizing drippings, an efficient grease management system to reduce flare-ups, and reliable Infinity ignition for easy start-ups, enhancing overall grilling performance and ease of use​
2. Can I integrate smart technology with my Weber Spirit II E-310?
   Yes, the grill is compatible with the iGrill 3, a smart Bluetooth-enabled thermometer that allows you to monitor the temperature of your grill and food from your smartphone, ensuring perfect cooking results every time​
3. What makes the Weber Spirit II E-310 durable compared to other grills?
   The Spirit II E-310 uses higher-quality materials, including heavy-gauge sheet metal, stainless steel burners, and porcelain-coated cast-iron grates, making it more durable and less susceptible to rust and corrosion than many other grills​
4. Is the Weber Spirit II E-310 easy to clean and maintain?
   Yes, it features a simple design for easy cleaning, including a removable cook box bottom tray for quick grease disposal. Regular maintenance, like wiping the exterior and cleaning the cook box, helps maintain its performance and longevity​.
5. Does the Weber Spirit II E-310 have a side burner?
   No, the Spirit II E-310 does not include a side burner. This feature is often found in other grills but was excluded from this model to maintain a more compact and efficient design​.
6. How does the propane tank gauge work on the Weber Spirit II E-310?
   The grill includes a fuel gauge that allows you to easily check the propane level in the tank. However, it’s noted that the gauge may not always be accurate, so it’s a good idea to have a backup tank on hand for large grilling sessions​
7. Can I use the Weber Spirit II E-310 in a confined space?
   It’s recommended to use the grill in an open outdoor area to ensure proper ventilation and safety. Like all gas grills, the Spirit II E-310 should not be used indoors or in enclosed spaces to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide buildup​