One reason is the quality of the grill components. We know restaurants and Resorts cannot waste time getting a new grill to get their own kitchen every couple of years so we suppose if we buy commercial grade items we can find the same level of quality as professionals. Now any cheap, low cost manufacturer can call their product a commercial series or a professional series thing and the institution is made. Add a couple hundred bucks profit to the cost and the customer gets scammed. I have seen this in many businesses once the terms commercial and specialist get used as the title of a product model as opposed to a true description of the quality of the item.
Many of these manufacturers will use a low grade stainless steel to further the institution with commercial quality. A lot of us do not realize there are lots of distinct kinds of stainless steel. We do not understand the differences and we go searching for stainless as emblematic of a well made product. Cannot tell you how many times a buyer will walk into my retail shop claiming they need a stainless grill.
In their mind, they have asked for a specific level of quality using the expression stainless steel. With a few added questions, they will share their view that stainless steel will save them the hassle of replacing grill components within the year or purchasing a completely new grill next year. The simple fact is there are several kinds of stainless steel, many no greater than regular steel and equal visually.
Look at who makes the grill not the importer but the real manufacturer. Barbeque grills which are made in Weber premium will normally disclose the sort of stainless steel that is been used. If the manufacturer is offering a warranty, call them and see whether a human responses or if the guarantee is a sham. When we buy an American Made stainless steel BBQ grill, we invest much more money and have higher expectations of the item. Contact local dealers and discover if local professionals that fix grills recommend the product.
Commercial products do not say commercial on them and Restaurants or hotels do not buy their appliances in the gigantic retail stores that market the lowest price in the city. I have clients who buy a 300. Grill and feel they have spent plenty of money. For the BBQ owner the information above regarding different kinds of stainless steel is applicable. Keep the grill clean it as often as you can.