Are you looking forward to a barbeque this Summer? (Picture: Getty Images)

Good news – Summer 2023 is now right around the corner. With the weather already starting to heat up, it’s already looking like it’s going to be prime barbeque territory soon.

The opportunity to fire up the grill, grab yourself a selection of BBQ-ready recipes, and fill a bucket with some ice-cold beverages to enjoy with family and friends is often a highlight of many people’s summer months.

However, the UK is still yet to shake off the cost of living crisis that has been plaguing families for more than a year now.

During times of high inflation, making every penny go as far as possible is always advisable.

So, if you are looking to get out and make the most of the excellent weather, which will be cheaper to run – a charcoal BBQ or a gas one?

Here is what you need to know.

Is it cheaper to run a charcoal BBQ or gas?

According to Robert Dyas, charcoal barbecues generally tend to be significantly cheaper to purchase than gas.

However, it is worth considering how often you’ll be using it.

If you plan to use your barbeque regularly, you’ll need to factor in how much all that charcoal will be and whether it’s cost-effective.

Regularly buying bags of charcoal (often priced between £7.50 and £15) will add up in price, whereas a gas bottle will often do multiple cooking sessions.

Do you prefer the taste of food done on a charcoal barbecue? (Picture: Getty Images)

This will vary, depending on what you are planning to cook and for how long, but gas retailer Calor recommends a 5kg Patio (propane) gas bottle for small and medium-sized barbeques (with three burners or less), which can often be purchased for between £20 to £60.

There are also other factors to consider – charcoal barbecues can take up to 45 minutes to be ready to cook food.

In contrast, gas barbeques take much less time to get up to temperature, are much easier to control, and have the added bonus of being able to regulate your gas use precisely, with many gas bottles providing an indication of how much they have left.

However, gas is not as widely available as charcoal, so getting stocked up can take more planning.

Charcoal barbeques are often preferable to other types for the distinct flavour they provide – many barbeque fans claim food cooked over coals often retains a classic wood-smoke taste.

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Summer is almost here. Barbecue accordingly.