Who barbecues?
Practically everyone! A 2009 study conducted by the Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association (HPBA) shows that 82 percent of all U.S. households own a grill or smoker and 89 percent in households with four or more members. And, 97 percent of grill owners actually used their grill in the past year. More than 16.7 million new grills were shipped in 2009 alone.

When do we barbecue?
A majority of grill owners use their grills year-round, with 45 percent grilling at least 1-2 times per week during peak summer months. The most popular grilling occasions are Fourth of July, Memorial Day and Labor Day, but an increasing number of grillers report using their grills during the winter, too (56 percent)!

Where do we barbecue?
Literally, everywhere across the country including backyards, vacation homes, campsites, public parks, and while tailgating at football games and NASCAR races. The increasing popularity of outdoor heaters and chimneys makes it comfortable and convenient to cook out in nearly any climate at any time.

Why do we barbecue?
According to HPBA's biennial survey of consumer grilling preferences, the top six reasons are:

• because it's affordable and helps save money.
• because it's convenient and easier than cooking inside.
• because it tastes so good.
• because it's a great way to spend more time at home.

What do grills typically cost?

Charcoal grills usually set for as little as $20 and go as high as $500 or more for deluxe models.

Gas grills are generally priced from just over $100 to $299. (Eighty percent of all grills sold are priced under $300.) Top-of-the-line stainless steel models with lots of features can go as high as $5,000 to $10,000.

Electric grills begin at around $50 for small units (ideal for couples) and go as high as $2,000 or more for larger, high-end stainless steel models.

Smokers are gaining popularity. Water smokers are a good choice for beginners because they're affordable and easy to use. Charcoal is the favorite, but electric and gas are very convenient because they maintain a consistent temperature. Horizontal offset wood smokers are an alternative to water smokers. Water smokers start at about $40 and can go as high as $200 or more for a stainless steel version. Horizontal offset smokers run from about $100 to several hundred depending on size and material.

Pellet grills, which use wood pellets, are also gaining in popularity. Prices generally range from $600-$2,500.