Quick Summary:
Price: $799
Pros:
- Consistent and even cooking performance
- Compact design suitable for small spaces
- User-friendly features like side tables and tool hooks
- Durable construction with a 10-year warranty
- Easy to assemble and maintain
Cons:
- Lacks some advanced features found in higher-end models
- Side tables are not foldable, which may be a consideration for those with very limited space
- Lacks some advanced features found in higher-end models
- Side tables are not foldable, which may be a consideration for those with very limited space
When I set out on the quest for a new grill, I knew it had to strike the right balance between durability, efficiency, and convenience. Over the years, I’ve experimented with a variety of grills—some cheap models that barely made it through one summer and others that were overcomplicated with too many bells and whistles. I wanted something reliable and simple, but powerful enough to handle my weekend cookouts with family and friends. After sifting through countless reviews, I finally found my perfect match: the Weber Spirit E-315 3-Burner Propane Gas BBQ.
The decision ultimately came down to the Weber Spirit E-315 because of its excellent mix of value and performance. I often grill a wide range of foods, from steaks and chicken to vegetables and seafood. Having three burners was a must, as it allowed me to create different heat zones for different types of food. With a spacious 529 square inches of cooking surface, I could host family gatherings without feeling cramped for space.
Cooking Performance: A Closer Look
The Weber Spirit E-315 truly shines when it comes to cooking performance. With its three powerful stainless-steel burners, heat is distributed evenly across the grill’s surface, eliminating the dreaded “hot spots” that I’ve encountered with lesser grills. In the past, I’ve struggled with uneven cooking—where one side of the grill scorches the food while the other barely heats up. Fortunately, that’s no longer a problem with this Weber model. Every item on the grill cooks consistently, making it easy to juggle multiple dishes at once.
With 529 square inches of cooking space, I found it more than sufficient for my usual gatherings of six to eight people. Whether I’m grilling burgers, steaks, or even delicate fish, the ample space ensures I can cook everything at the same time without overcrowding. Plus, the warming rack has been an unexpected game-changer—it keeps buns warm and food ready to serve without drying out or overcooking.
Thoughtful Convenience Features
Another reason the Weber Spirit E-315 stands out is the array of convenience features that make grilling more enjoyable. One of my favorite additions is the electronic ignition system. With just the push of a button, the grill fires up instantly—gone are the days of fiddling with matches or dealing with faulty igniters.
The built-in lid thermometer is another handy feature, allowing me to keep a close eye on the internal temperature without needing to lift the lid and lose heat. This simple yet effective feature makes a big difference when slow-cooking meats or trying to maintain consistent heat levels for various dishes.
The grill also comes with convenient side tables, providing extra space to hold seasonings, utensils, or extra food. With six tool hooks neatly arranged on the side, I never have to worry about misplacing my grilling tools. These small but thoughtful details greatly enhance the overall grilling experience, making it seamless and hassle-free.
Durability and Build Quality
After months of frequent use, the Weber Spirit E-315 continues to impress me with its durability. The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates are not only rust-resistant but also incredibly easy to clean. Even after grilling several times a week, the grates look almost as good as they did when I first assembled the grill. The entire structure feels solid and well-built, with no signs of wear and tear despite exposure to the elements.
Living in an area prone to heavy rain, I was particularly concerned about how well the grill would hold up outdoors. I left the grill uncovered during a few rainstorms, and I was pleased to find no signs of rust or deterioration afterward. This reassured me that the grill is built to withstand long-term use, regardless of weather conditions.
Fuel Efficiency
One of the more pleasant surprises with the Weber Spirit E-315 has been its fuel efficiency. Despite the powerful 32,000 BTU-per-hour output spread across three burners, the propane tank lasts longer than I anticipated. This means fewer interruptions to swap out the tank, which is a big bonus during long grilling sessions. It’s not just cost-effective—it also makes the grilling process smoother and more enjoyable.
Easy Maintenance
Maintaining a grill can sometimes be a hassle, but the Weber Spirit E-315 is designed to minimize this. The grill features an efficient grease management system that funnels drippings into a removable drip tray. This simple feature cuts down on cleanup time, ensuring that grease doesn’t build up around the burners or become a fire hazard.
The porcelain-enameled cast iron grates also make cleaning a breeze. With a quick scrub, they look nearly brand new, even after heavy use. I’ve been grilling at least twice a week for several months now, and the grill still performs as well as the day I assembled it. The electronic ignition system remains flawless, and the porcelain-enameled surface resists wear remarkably well.
What Could Be Improved?
As much as I love the Weber Spirit E-315, no product is without its flaws. One area where the grill could improve is the inclusion of a side burner. While I personally haven’t missed it, those who like to simmer sauces or boil water while grilling may find this omission disappointing. It’s a small inconvenience, but something to consider if a side burner is a must-have for you.
Another minor drawback is that the grill doesn’t come with a cover. Given the investment, purchasing a grill cover separately is a smart idea to extend the life of the grill. While Weber offers a compatible cover, I think it would have been nice if it were included with the grill.
Conclusion
The Weber Spirit E-315 3-Burner Propane Gas BBQ is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their outdoor cooking game. It combines durability, performance, and convenience in a package that delivers consistently excellent results. Whether you’re a weekend griller or someone who enjoys frequent cookouts, this grill is designed to meet your needs with minimal hassle.
While it does lack a side burner and a cover, these are small trade-offs compared to the many benefits this grill offers. From its even heat distribution and generous cooking space to its easy maintenance and thoughtful design, the Weber Spirit E-315 proves to be an outstanding investment for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
FAQ
Q: What are the main features of the Weber Spirit E-315?
A: The Weber Spirit E-315 includes three stainless steel burners, porcelain-enameled cast-iron cooking grates, a 529 square inch cooking area, a built-in lid thermometer, an enclosed storage cabinet, six tool hooks, and a total output of 32,000 BTUs for even heat distribution.
Q: How easy is the assembly of the Weber Spirit E-315?
A: Assembly is relatively simple, typically taking around 1-2 hours. The instructions are easy to follow, and most parts come pre-assembled. Having an extra person to help can make the process faster.
Q: Is the Weber Spirit E-315 durable?
A: Yes, this grill is built to last. It features a sturdy steel body and a porcelain-enameled finish that resists rust and corrosion. The cast-iron grates and stainless steel burners are also designed for long-term use.
Q: Does the Weber Spirit E-315 have a side burner?
A: No, the Spirit E-315 does not come with a side burner. However, it offers ample cooking space on the main grill for a variety of dishes.
Q: Can I use natural gas with the Weber Spirit E-315?
A: The standard model of the Weber Spirit E-315 uses propane gas. However, Weber does offer a natural gas version, and the propane model cannot be converted to natural gas.
Q: What is the size of the cooking area?
A: The Weber Spirit E-315 offers a total of 529 square inches of cooking space, which includes 424 square inches of primary cooking area and a 105 square inch warming rack.
Q: How well does the Weber Spirit E-315 distribute heat?
A: Thanks to its three stainless steel burners and porcelain-enameled grates, the Weber Spirit E-315 distributes heat evenly, eliminating flare-ups and ensuring consistent cooking.
Q: Does the Weber Spirit E-315 come with a cover?
A: No, the grill does not come with a cover, but Weber offers a compatible cover that can be purchased separately.
Q: Is the grill easy to clean?
A: Yes, the Weber Spirit E-315 is designed for easy cleaning. Its porcelain-enameled grates wipe down effortlessly, and the grease management system channels drippings into a removable tray for easy disposal.
Q: How long is the warranty on the Weber Spirit E-315?
A: Weber offers a 10-year limited warranty on the cook box, lid, and burners, with a 5-year warranty on the cooking grates and flavorizer bars. Other components come with a 2-year warranty.