Napoleon IR sear burner

[Carolyn]

Hi folks,
I know these things get searing hot very quickly, but it is also advertised that you can use it for other things. My question is how low does it go for say heating a sauce or something like that?

I have been on the fence about getting a grill with this feature since I rarely cook steaks or need to sear anything, but if it truly can be used like a regular side burner, then it might be preferable because the flames are protected from the wind. Am I correct in thinking this or no?

I am underwhelmed by the regular side burners in general. They all look pretty flimsy.
I could live without either since I never had one before. You don't miss what you never had. 🙂

Thanks a bunch.

[mgaretz]

One of the reasons I bough the Napoleon was for this feature (using the sear burner for more normal cooking) but I admit that I have only every used it for searing. It's great at that! But I will give a try!

[Carolyn]

Thanks.
I have been looking at all of the options, and I am trying to figure out if I should bother with the extra cost for the sear burner. I think it would be that or no side burner at all.

[Draznnl]

The only reason I have a side burner on my Napoleon is because the grill I wanted came with it. I've had it for about 6 years now I guess and it never even occurred to me to try using it for anything but searing. Hmmmm...

[Carolyn]

Yeah, it is included on some of the models I like that have the stainless grates, which is what I prefer, but it is usually a pricier grill in general.

[smokenoob]

I only use my Napoleon SB for searing or blackening in a CI pan so I’m no help….can’t comment on low temp performance.
There is two height positions for the grate so the higher one would be better for lower temps I think…

[Carolyn]

Thanks guys. That is what I am finding on my search. Either people rarely use them or they only use it for searing, which is what it is mostly advertised for.

Napoleon states to leave 25% of the IR burner uncovered if you are using a pot on it.

[Smoker_Boy]

Maybe somebody could simmer a pot of water and see how hot it gets and how long??

[Sdell]

I just used my napoleon side burner to make some sauce today. It works well as a regular burner with the grate in the lower position, but windy conditions can be a problem, especially when the burner on low. I probably use it as a side burner as much as a sear burner, and appreciate the versatility. My napoleon is 15 years old and it still works fine.

On a side note, I had one of the main burners rust out recently, and napoleon sent me four burners for just shipping cost under the warranty. No questions at all. Great customer service.

[Carolyn]

This is great to hear. Thanks a bunch.
Do you have the stainless grill vs the black enameled one? I am trying to decide if I want to get the black porcelain enamel because it is probably easier to maintain.