From sizzling breakfasts to smash burgers and teppanyaki-style dinners, the Daytona Pro 5 Burner NitroGuard™ Griddle delivers powerful heat, fast cooking, and a durable cooking surface built for every backyard cookout. Watch how easy outdoor cooking can be.
We position ourselves as delivering high-end outdoor cooking features and performance without premium-brand pricing, emphasizing “Quality Grills. Unbelievable Value.”
Wide range of outdoor cooking products for every use case
We offer gas grills, pellet grills, griddles, smokers, pizza ovens, portable/tabletop grills, electric grills, accessories, and replacement parts — allowing customers to stay within one ecosystem for all outdoor cooking needs.
Innovation-focused outdoor cooking with smart technology
We differentiate ourselves through smart grilling products like the Oakford smart pellet grill, including app-connected cooking controls and modern outdoor cooking technology.
Find griddle recipes, cooking techniques, cleaning tips, and outdoor meal ideas designed for Nexgrill griddles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to common questions
Gas grills provide instant heat and precise temperature control, making them easier to use. Charcoal grills offer a smoky flavor and high heat for searing but require more time to heat up and manage.
Pellet grills combine the convenience of gas with the flavor of wood, allowing for smoking, baking, and grilling. Traditional gas grills, however, are quicker to start and often easier to clean.
Charcoal grills typically reach higher temperatures quicker than gas grills, making them better for searing meat. However, high-quality gas grills can also provide adequate heat for effective searing.
Nexgrill offers models designed specifically for gas, charcoal, and pellets, allowing users to choose based on their cooking style and flavor preferences. Each type is built to optimize the characteristics of its respective fuel.
Choosing between gas and charcoal grills depends on your cooking preferences and lifestyle. If you value convenience and quick cooking, a gas grill may suit you better; if you prefer the taste and experience of traditional grilling, a charcoal grill would be ideal.
In This Article
Master Damper Use
Learn how to control grill temperature with precision.
Advanced Techniques
Explore zonal cooking and wind management.
Troubleshooting Tips
Resolve common issues with expert guidance.
Understanding Adjustable Dampers
Adjustable dampers are a crucial component in charcoal grilling, allowing grillers to control airflow and therefore the temperature inside the grill. By opening or closing these vents, you can regulate the amount of oxygen that feeds the charcoal, impacting the heat and cooking conditions. Understanding how to use dampers effectively can transform your grilling from ordinary to extraordinary, enabling you to cook a variety of foods with precision.
How Dampers Work
Dampers are located at the top and bottom of a charcoal grill. The bottom damper, or intake vent, allows oxygen to enter and fuel the fire, while the top damper, or exhaust vent, allows smoke and heat to escape. Adjusting these dampers changes the internal temperature, similar to adjusting the flame on a gas stove. Mastering this balance is key to achieving desired results, whether you’re searing steaks or smoking ribs.
Tip: Always start with both dampers fully open to ignite the charcoal quickly, then adjust to reach your target temperature.
The Role of Temperature Control
Controlling the temperature is essential for different grilling techniques. For high-heat grilling, such as searing, keep the intake damper open wide and the exhaust damper slightly open to maintain high oxygen flow. For slow cooking and smoking, partially close the intake damper to lower the temperature, keeping the exhaust damper open to allow smoke to circulate.
450°F
Ideal temperature for searing steaks.
Practical Tips for Using Dampers
To effectively use adjustable dampers, practice is key. Here are some expert tips to enhance your grilling:
Always preheat your grill with the dampers open to stabilize the initial temperature.
Use a grill thermometer to monitor internal temperatures and adjust dampers accordingly.
For maintaining low temperatures, close the intake damper gradually until the desired temperature is reached.
Remember that weather conditions, especially wind, can affect airflow and temperature control.
Experimenting with damper settings during different cooking conditions helps develop a better understanding of your grill’s performance. This hands-on experience is invaluable for achieving consistent, delicious results.
Tip: Keep a grilling journal to record damper settings, weather conditions, and cooking times for future reference.
Setting
Use
Temperature Range (°F)
Both Open
Igniting charcoal
500-700
Bottom Closed, Top Open
Smoking
225-275
Bottom Open, Top Slightly Closed
Grilling
350-450
Try comparing two products side by side below to see which fits best:
Advanced Dampers Techniques
Once you've weighed two options against each other, here's what else matters in mastering adjustable dampers. Beyond basic adjustments, advanced techniques can elevate your grilling experience. Mastering these techniques requires understanding the nuances of airflow and heat management.
Zonal Cooking
Zonal cooking involves creating different heat zones on your grill, allowing you to cook various foods simultaneously. By adjusting the bottom dampers, you can create a high-heat zone for searing and a low-heat zone for slow cooking. This method is especially useful for preparing complex meals with multiple components that require different cooking temperatures.
Info: Use a water pan in the low-heat zone to maintain moisture and prevent food from drying out.
Using the Wind to Your Advantage
Wind can be both a friend and foe in charcoal grilling. By positioning the grill so that the wind aids in drawing air through the intake vent, you can enhance combustion and maintain a steady temperature. Conversely, protecting the grill from strong gusts prevents unwanted temperature spikes.
Troubleshooting Common Damper Issues
Despite best efforts, damper-related issues can arise. Common problems include difficulty maintaining a stable temperature or uneven cooking. Often, these issues can be traced back to improper damper settings or external factors such as weather conditions. Regular maintenance and cleaning can prevent build-up that obstructs airflow, ensuring optimal performance.
Problem
Cause
Solution
Temperature Fluctuations
Wind interference
Reposition grill; adjust dampers
Uneven Cooking
Blocked dampers
Clean vents regularly
Low Heat
Insufficient oxygen
Open intake damper further
Conclusion
Adjustable dampers are an essential tool for any grilling enthusiast. By mastering the control of airflow, you can achieve precise cooking temperatures, explore advanced techniques like zonal cooking, and troubleshoot common issues. With practice and experimentation, you’ll enhance your grilling skills and delight your guests with perfectly cooked meals.
Further Learning
For those interested in diving deeper into the art of grilling, numerous resources offer a wealth of knowledge. From online forums and video tutorials to cookbooks and grilling classes, there are plenty of opportunities to expand your expertise.
We position ourselves as delivering high-end outdoor cooking features and performance without premium-brand pricing, emphasizing “Quality Grills. Unbelievable Value.”
Wide range of outdoor cooking products for every use case
We offer gas grills, pellet grills, griddles, smokers, pizza ovens, portable/tabletop grills, electric grills, accessories, and replacement parts — allowing customers to stay within one ecosystem for all outdoor cooking needs.
Innovation-focused outdoor cooking with smart technology
We differentiate ourselves through smart grilling products like the Oakford smart pellet grill, including app-connected cooking controls and modern outdoor cooking technology.
What Our Clients Say
Don't just take our word for it
“I’ve been using the Nexgrill Daytona 4-Burner Gas Griddle for a while now, and I’ve been really happy with it. First off, it’s super sturdy and feels really well-made, like it’s going to last me a long time. The cooking space is awesome—plenty of room for making big meals. So far I’ve cooked pancakes, burgers, bacon and some veggies. The 4 burners make it easy to control the heat in different areas. I love that I can keep one side hotter for searing and leave the other side cooler for things that don’t need as much heat. Plus, it heats evenly, which I was really glad to see. The shelves underneath and on its sides are a nice bonus. I’ve used them to keep things like plates, tools, and ingredients handy while I’m cooking, it’s very convenient. Cleaning it is super simple too. Once it cools down, I just wipe off the cooking surface and let the grease funnel into the trap. It’s quick and easy, and honestly, it barely looks like I even used it. If I had to nitpick, the grease trap can fill up kind of quickly during bigger cooking sessions, but as long as you keep an eye on it, it’s not a big deal. Overall, this griddle has been great. It’s sturdy, easy to use, and makes cooking outside a lot of fun. If you’re into grilling or want something versatile, I think this is a solid choice. Originally posted on influenster.com”
M
martind23_2941
Sturdy, easy to use, and perfect for cooking big m
“took about 2-3 hrs for complete assembly. took about 15-20 minutes to fully heat to 700. used a pan liner and a drip cup liner due to previous issues with those rusting away. this is about the 3-4 grill i have assembled. dont try to do it alone or ask the wife for help with the firebox its awkward. always check the directions 2-3 times before tightening down and dont over tighten the screws. hopeing for 5 years of grilling on this but i havent checked the warrenty yet.”
DT
Dave the Griller
finally got around to building this.bought in 2025
“We just bought this guy and I recommend always buy it assembled, we just use the grill 2 times and really works good; is perfect size and the side burn is very useful plus the caddy attach for spices; the material quality is in medium rate; no too cheap no too expensive I'll be glad if it works for minimum 5 years. Nexgrill could improve with the way, and cleaners to not damage the grates and the burners. I protect the removable pan with heavy duty aluminum foil, when the grease drop I only change the foil. Well I am enjoying my new Nexgrill !!! P.s. always clean the grill after use it....ALWAYS :-)”
KA
Karl A
Nice Grill
“Thank you to Influencer and Nexgrill for sending this to me for free, in exchange for my honest opinion. My 17 year old son put this together for me. It was easy but time consuming, it took about 2 hours. This is great for families, because you can cook a good amount of food in a short time. We did tacos, but it’s also great for breakfast, pancakes, eggs, breakfast burritos. It’s easy to clean if you have the right tools, you’ll need a scraper and metal spatula. Overall I would recommend this flat grill, it’s a great addition to our household. Originally posted on influenster.com”
K
KellyL
Quick and easy cooking
“My old Nexgrill is 25 years old and still looking and performing well! This new one is going on our back patio to partner with the old one in our courtyard. Obviously quality products to last that long. I hope the new one does as well. The only concern I have is that the sides are painted metal rather than stainless like the old one. I hope it doesn’t rust over time. But, We are very happy grillers!”
JS
Judy S
New grill to partner with my old one
“Bought grill 3 years ago stainless grates rusted out had to order new ones to replace Yes, I recommend this product.”
G
GaryS329
Stainless
“I’ve always been a smoker, fryer kind of guy. But recently with my new job keeping me super busy I’ve been cooking on my father in-laws 2 burner grill and it takes so long to cook ribs and chicken. I love just lighting the burners and cooking so I decided to upgrade by buying my own and I got this 5 burner with side burner for veggies , took me maybe 20 minutes to get all the dinner done tonight after I seasoned the grill with an onion. Love it so far, I hope it lasts a long time! It’s beautiful!”
JB
Jason B
Love it so far! My first propane grill I’ve ever bought myself!
“I love your grills. This is a replacement grill for a fully stainless steel one (was suppose to be). We originally bought it for our daughter's new townhouse, but her patio was not "ready" for it. We have kept it for 5 years now. My husband passed, I sold the house and move it, in the original box, with me and just put it together. The”
LG
Lisa G
Replacement
“Purchased a 5 burner with side burner grill probably 7-8 years ago. You can only replace things for so long. Opted on a smaller 4 burner grill this time. Hoping to get lots of use for many years to come.”
BS
Brian S
2nd grill with out
“Easy grill to use & grills well. Last grill lasted a little over 6 years. Had to replace burners twice (just worn out - lots of use). Here is old grill & new grill.”
RE
Russell E
2nd Nexgrill
“I had either recieved or bought a grill from either webber or Charbroil. Both had lasted roughly 5 years each before rusting out. For the price point and the way this grill feels I think this one should last longer. Looks awsome new so hopes are high.”
VA
Victor A
3rd grill so far...
“I’m just setting up my second 5 burner nexgrill!!! My first one was purchased in 2015!! I live in New England and the grill lived outside for 7 1/2 years!! That is an impressive lifespan for a grill in my area! I’ll be a loyal Nexgrill customer for life. Thanks very much. Yes, I recommend this product.”
L
Litch
Robust grill with Longevity to boot
“This grill is good for an economy grill. My 10 year old assembled most of it. I knew that I was getting a budget grill and didn't expect a Cadillac. I bought it mainly because the burners have flame on the left and right, instead of one row on the top. I checked the temperature gauge vs my digital and it runs 50° high, didn't expect it to be right on. The burner tents are higher in the front, making it hotter in the front. I have snips so I'll cut the front to set level. I seasoned the grill with bacon, it leaked from the screw to the drip pan, which was tight. The corners are sharp. I had corner protectors for my smoker and put some on the Nexgrill, hoping to get more life from the cover. Overall it's pretty good for the price.”
