Three main burners, a rear infrared burner, premium lighting and a surprisingly complete accessory package make the Quest 36 more than a standard stainless steel grill head. Here is what matters before you build it into your outdoor kitchen.
Quick answer: The Summerset Quest 36 is a premium 36-inch built-in gas grill designed for homeowners who want generous cooking room, three independent main burners, rotisserie capability, evening-friendly lighting and useful accessories without moving all the way to a 42-inch grill. It is available as the QST36-NG natural gas model and the QST36-LP propane model.
What Is the Summerset Quest 36?
The Summerset Quest 36 is a 36-inch outdoor gas grill head that can be built into a properly designed outdoor kitchen island. Summerset also offers a compatible cart for homeowners who want the grill’s features without committing to a permanent masonry or cabinet installation.
The Quest sits in a useful middle ground. It is noticeably more capable than a compact two-burner grill, but it does not consume the island space required by many 42-inch models. Its three main burners allow separate heat zones for direct grilling, indirect cooking and holding food at a lower temperature.
The grill is manufactured in natural gas and liquid propane configurations:
Summerset Quest 36 Specifications at a Glance
| Specification | Quest 36 Detail | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Model numbers | QST36-NG and QST36-LP | Choose the model manufactured for your planned fuel source. |
| Main burners | Three stainless steel U-tube burners | Three individually controlled zones provide more flexibility than a two-burner layout. |
| Main burner output | 18,000 BTU per burner, 54,000 BTU total | Provides strong heat with independent control across the cooking surface. |
| Rear burner | 13,000 BTU angled infrared burner | Designed to support rotisserie cooking from behind the food. |
| Total listed burner output | 67,000 BTU | Combines all three main burners and the rear burner. |
| Construction | Commercial-grade 304 stainless steel | Appropriate for a premium outdoor cooking appliance when maintained correctly. |
| Cooking grates | 8 mm square stainless steel grates | Provides a durable cooking surface with substantial food contact. |
| Heat distribution | Easy-clean briquette system and heat-zone separators | Helps spread burner heat and maintain separate cooking zones. |
| Ignition | Electronic ignition with manual flash tube backup | Offers a primary lighting system plus a manual lighting provision. |
| Interior lighting | Halogen cooking lights | Improves visibility when grilling after sunset. |
| Exterior lighting | Waterfall LED lighting and white-to-red knob bezels | Adds visibility and indicates when a control is in the on position. |
| Overall dimensions | 36 inches wide by 26-5/8 inches deep by 26 inches high | Useful for planning the full appliance envelope and surrounding workspace. |
| Built-in cutout | 34-1/2 inches wide by 19-3/4 inches deep by 10-1/4 inches high | The island opening must follow the current manufacturer drawing, not the nominal 36-inch name. |
Important: Product dimensions and manuals can be revised. Give the current Quest manual and model-specific line drawing to the island builder before fabrication begins. Never cut an island opening from a retailer title, an old drawing or the grill’s nominal width alone.
What Makes the Quest 36 Stand Out?
Three Real Cooking Zones
Each of the three main burners can be controlled independently. You can create a high-heat searing side, a medium grilling zone and a lower indirect zone instead of forcing every food onto one temperature.
Rear Infrared Rotisserie Heat
The 13,000 BTU angled infrared burner directs heat toward food on the rotisserie. This lets the food rotate without sitting directly over an active main burner.
Useful Lighting
Interior halogen lights illuminate the cooking surface. Exterior waterfall lighting and illuminated knob bezels make the front panel easier to see after dark.
Briquette Heat Distribution
The briquette system sits above the burners and helps distribute heat while shielding the burners from direct drippings. It also contributes to the grill’s characteristic radiant heat.
Spring-Assisted Hood
The double-lined, spring-assisted hood is designed to feel more manageable when opening and closing a substantial stainless steel grill lid.
Included Cooking Tools
The accessory package expands the grill beyond burgers and steaks without requiring a separate purchase for every cooking method.
Do the illuminated knobs confirm that a burner is lit?
No. The manual specifically warns that the color change shows the control knob’s on position, but it does not prove gas is flowing or that the burner has ignited. Always confirm ignition by looking for the actual burner flame.
What Comes With the Summerset Quest 36?
The Quest 36 includes a broader group of cooking accessories than many built-in grills. That matters when comparing prices. A grill that appears less expensive may require several additional purchases to match the Quest’s included equipment.
Creates a flat cooking surface for breakfast foods, vegetables, smashed burgers and smaller ingredients.
Includes the equipment needed to rotate compatible food in front of the infrared rear burner.
Holds smoking material to introduce smoke flavor during a gas-grill cook.
Holds racks upright to use the available cooking area more efficiently.
Adds elevated space for warming, finishing or moving food away from direct burner heat.
Helps protect the grill when it is clean, cool and dry.
Does the Quest 36 include a sear burner?
It includes a rear infrared burner for rotisserie cooking. That is different from a drop-in infrared burner positioned beneath the cooking grate. Summerset lists a compatible drop-in infrared sear burner as an optional accessory for owners who want a dedicated high-intensity grate-level searing zone.
Rear burner vs. drop-in sear burner
Rear infrared burner: mounted behind the food and primarily associated with rotisserie cooking.
Drop-in infrared sear burner: replaces a main burner beneath the grate to create a concentrated searing zone.
QST36-NG vs. QST36-LP: Which Fuel Type Should You Choose?
The two versions provide the same general Quest 36 cooking platform. The meaningful difference is the fuel system for which the grill is configured.
| Question | Natural Gas QST36-NG | Propane QST36-LP |
|---|---|---|
| Best application | Permanent outdoor kitchen with a properly sized natural gas supply | Outdoor kitchen using an approved propane setup |
| Fuel replenishment | No portable cylinder to refill during normal use | Portable cylinders require monitoring and refilling unless connected to an approved bulk supply |
| Island ventilation | Natural gas rises, so ventilation placement must account for gas accumulating higher in an enclosure | Propane is heavier than air, so ventilation placement must account for gas settling lower in an enclosure |
| Planning concern | Gas line capacity, distance, fittings and the combined demand of connected appliances | Safe tank access, enclosure design, regulator, hose and low-level ventilation |
| Model to order | QST36-NG | QST36-LP |
Do not choose the fuel model casually
Confirm the available fuel, regulator requirements, enclosure design and gas-supply plan before ordering. Gas work and conversion work should be handled by qualified professionals in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and applicable codes.
Who Is the Quest 36 Best For?
The Quest 36 is a strong fit when you:
- Want a premium built-in grill without dedicating the space required by a 42-inch head.
- Regularly cook with more than one temperature zone.
- Plan to use a rotisserie instead of treating it as a decorative accessory.
- Grill after sunset and value interior and control-panel lighting.
- Want a griddle plate, rib rack, smoker box and cover included from the beginning.
- Are building a permanent outdoor kitchen with proper gas, electrical, ventilation and service access.
- Want a 36-inch grill that can handle family meals and routine entertaining.
When might a different size be better?
A 30-inch grill may be more practical if island space is limited, most meals are for a smaller household or the grill must share a compact countertop with a sink, burner or refrigerator.
A 42-inch grill may make more sense if you routinely cook for larger groups, need four main burners or want more room for several foods at once. The larger grill is not automatically better. It requires more island width and may add heat, fuel demand and cost that a smaller household does not need.
Our practical take: The Quest 36 is the balanced model in the Quest lineup. It offers a meaningful upgrade over the Quest 30 through its third main burner, while remaining easier to accommodate than the Quest 42 in many residential outdoor kitchens.
What Must Be Planned Before Installing the Quest 36?
Buying the grill is the easy part. A successful built-in installation depends on the island opening, construction materials, gas system, enclosure ventilation, wall clearances, overhead conditions, electrical access and future service access all being planned together.
1. Use the current cutout drawing
The current Quest manual lists a built-in cutout of 34-1/2 inches wide by 19-3/4 inches deep by 10-1/4 inches high for the Quest 36. The island fabricator should work from the current manufacturer documentation for the exact grill model.
2. Confirm whether construction is combustible
The manual calls for a noncombustible island or enclosure for a standard built-in installation. If the grill is placed within combustible construction, the manufacturer requires the appropriate Summerset insulating jacket or grill liner.
3. Preserve wall clearances
The manual distinguishes among noncombustible walls, protected combustible walls and combustible walls. These are not interchangeable descriptions.
| Wall Condition | Manual’s Listed Minimum Clearance |
|---|---|
| Noncombustible wall | 4 inches at the rear and sides |
| Protected combustible wall | 14 inches at the rear and sides |
| Combustible wall | 16 inches at the rear and sides |
4. Do not block rear airflow
The Quest is designed to pull air through the front and discharge hot gases from the rear. A backsplash, wall or island detail that crowds the rear of the grill can contribute to overheating and poor performance.
5. Ventilate the enclosure for the fuel being used
The manual calls for a combined minimum free ventilation area of 40 square inches distributed across at least two openings unless one side of the enclosure remains completely open. Vent locations should reflect the fuel type. Natural gas rises, while propane settles lower.
Vent openings must remain unobstructed. Do not place storage containers, tank components or loose equipment directly against them.
6. Evaluate covered-patio conditions
The Quest is an outdoor appliance, but an outdoor roof or pavilion changes the installation. The manual requires at least five feet between the countertop and overhead construction. When the grill is installed beneath overhead construction, the manual calls for an exhaust hood protecting the area above the cooking surface and lists a minimum blower output of 1,000 CFM.
Local code, the hood manufacturer’s requirements and the actual structure may require more. The hood must be selected for outdoor grill use and sized to capture heat, smoke and grease effectively.
7. Plan electrical access
The Quest’s lighting system requires an appropriate electrical connection. Electrical receptacles and wiring near the grill must comply with applicable codes and remain protected from heat, gas lines and walking paths.
8. Leave room for service
Access doors are not optional decoration. The installer may need to reach the regulator, shutoff, gas connections, transformer and other components later. A beautiful island that cannot be serviced is poorly designed.
Installation boundary
This guide is for purchase planning. It is not a replacement for the current Summerset manual, model-specific drawings, local codes or a qualified gas and electrical installer. Final requirements depend on the fuel, structure, island, overhead construction and local jurisdiction.
What Can You Cook on the Quest 36?
The Quest 36 is not limited to high-heat direct grilling. Its burner layout and included accessories support several different cooking methods.
Direct Grilling
Use active burners below the food for burgers, chops, chicken pieces, vegetables and foods that benefit from direct grate heat.
Two-Zone Cooking
Run one section hotter and leave another cooler. Sear over the active zone, then move food away from direct heat to finish more gently.
Rotisserie Cooking
Use the rotisserie kit with the rear burner for chicken, roasts and other foods that benefit from steady rotation.
Griddle Cooking
Use the included drop-in plate for eggs, pancakes, chopped vegetables, seafood, sandwiches or smashed burgers.
Smoke-Assisted Grilling
Use the included smoker box to introduce smoke flavor while maintaining the control and convenience of a gas grill.
Rib-Rack Cooking
Position ribs upright to fit multiple racks while leaving more horizontal grate space available for other food.
How long should the Quest 36 preheat?
The manual recommends lighting all main burners, closing the hood and preheating for approximately 10 to 15 minutes until the hood thermometer reaches around 450°F. Once preheated, turn off any burners that are not needed for the selected cooking method.
The actual grate surface may be significantly hotter than the hood thermometer reading. Treat the hood gauge as a general chamber-temperature reference, not a precise measurement of the cooking grate.
Why wind direction matters
Strong wind entering the rear hood area can interfere with the grill’s intended front-to-back airflow. This can affect performance and force excessive heat toward the front control area. If the cooking space is routinely windy, review the grill location and compatible wind-management accessories before finalizing the island.
Quest 36 Cleaning and Maintenance Basics
A premium stainless steel grill still needs routine care. Stainless steel is corrosion resistant, not maintenance free. Grease, food residue, chlorine, salt air, moisture and construction dust can all damage its appearance or create surface deposits.
After each cook
- Allow appropriate time for food residue to burn off before shutting the grill down.
- Brush the cooking surface using a suitable grill-cleaning tool.
- Turn every control to the off position.
- Close the fuel-supply valve as directed in the manual.
- Wait until the appliance is fully cool before handling internal parts or installing the cover.
Exterior stainless steel
Clean the stainless steel with warm water, mild soap and a microfiber cloth or nonabrasive sponge. Wipe with the grain, rinse fully and dry the surface. Never cover a wet grill.
Monthly interior cleaning
The manufacturer’s manual includes a deeper monthly routine involving the cooking grates, drip tray, burner covers, burners and grill basin. How often this is needed depends on what you cook and how frequently the grill is used. Fatty food and frequent entertaining create more grease than occasional lean grilling.
Special care near pools and coastal areas
Chlorine in pool environments and salt carried in coastal air can contribute to surface rust and pitting when deposits remain on stainless steel. Wipe exterior surfaces regularly, let the grill dry before covering it and keep pool chemicals away from the grill and outdoor kitchen.
One common mistake
Do not store chlorine, acid, pool-care products or other aggressive chemicals in the grill island. Fumes and spills can attack stainless steel and other outdoor kitchen components.
Quest 36 Preorder Checklist
Confirm these items before placing the order or allowing island fabrication to begin:
QST36-NG or QST36-LP.
Natural gas line or approved propane setup.
Verify against the latest manual and line drawing.
Confirm whether construction is combustible.
Add the correct liner when required.
Plan vent size and placement for the fuel type.
Check sides, rear and backsplash.
Confirm hood and structural requirements.
Plan power for lighting and accessories.
Include doors or panels for future maintenance.
Avoid directing prevailing wind into the rear hood.
Inspect the shipment before installation.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many burners does the Summerset Quest 36 have?
The Quest 36 has three 18,000 BTU stainless steel U-tube main burners and one 13,000 BTU angled infrared rear burner. The three main burners provide 54,000 BTU, and the listed combined burner output is 67,000 BTU.
What is the cutout size for the Quest 36?
The current Quest manual lists a cutout of 34-1/2 inches wide by 19-3/4 inches deep by 10-1/4 inches high for the Quest 36. Always verify dimensions against the latest model-specific manufacturer drawing before fabrication.
Does the Quest 36 come with a rotisserie?
Yes. The Quest 36 includes a rotisserie kit and a 13,000 BTU angled infrared rear burner. A drip pan should be positioned below compatible food to catch drippings and help control cleanup.
Does the Quest 36 include a griddle?
It includes a stainless steel drop-in griddle plate. The plate provides a flat cooking surface for foods that are difficult or inconvenient to cook directly on open grill grates.
Does it include a smoker box and rib rack?
Yes. Summerset lists both a smoker box and a multi-position rib rack among the Quest’s included accessories.
Is the Quest 36 available in natural gas and propane?
Yes. QST36-NG is the natural gas model, and QST36-LP is the liquid propane model. Confirm the fuel source and installation plan before ordering.
Can the Quest 36 be installed in a combustible island?
A standard built-in installation calls for a noncombustible enclosure. When installing the grill in combustible construction, the manual requires the compatible Summerset insulating jacket or grill liner. The complete installation must follow the current manual and local codes.
Does the Quest 36 need electricity?
Electrical access is needed for the grill’s interior halogen lighting, exterior LED lighting and related powered features. Plan the electrical connection before completing the island.
Can the Quest 36 go under a covered patio?
A covered installation requires additional planning. The manual lists overhead clearance and exhaust-hood requirements when the grill is beneath overhead construction. Have the complete layout reviewed by qualified professionals before construction.
Does the red knob light mean the burner is lit?
No. The red illumination indicates the knob is in an on position. It does not confirm gas flow or successful ignition. Always verify the burner flame directly.
How long should the Quest 36 preheat?
The manual recommends preheating with all main burners lit and the hood closed for approximately 10 to 15 minutes, or until the hood thermometer reaches around 450°F. Adjust the burners for the selected cooking method after preheating.
Is the Quest 36 a good size for entertaining?
The Quest 36 is well suited to regular family grilling and routine entertaining. Its three main burners make it easier to prepare foods at different heat levels without requiring the island space of the 42-inch model.
Final Verdict: Is the Summerset Quest 36 Worth Considering?
The Summerset Quest 36 makes the most sense for a buyer who will actually use its flexibility. Three main burners support practical zone cooking. The rear infrared burner and included rotisserie add a second cooking style. The griddle, smoker box and rib rack broaden the menu without immediately adding more accessories to the order.
Its evening lighting is not just decoration. Interior lights improve visibility over the cooking surface, while the front-panel lighting makes the controls easier to read. The 304 stainless construction, substantial grates and briquette system give the grill the feel expected from a premium outdoor kitchen appliance.
The Quest 36 is not a shortcut around good planning. The island must be built around the correct opening, materials, ventilation, clearances, gas supply, electrical connection and service access. Get those details right and the Quest 36 can become a capable centerpiece rather than an expensive appliance squeezed into the wrong island.
Planning note: Product specifications, accessories, warranty terms and installation requirements can change. Confirm all information against the current manufacturer manual and model-specific documentation before ordering or beginning construction. Gas and electrical work should be completed by properly qualified professionals in accordance with applicable codes.