What safety feature is important for electric grills?

A functioning heat resistor to prevent overheating is a crucial safety feature for electric grills because it helps regulate the grill's temperature and prevents it from exceeding safe levels. Overheating can lead to dangerous situations, such as fires or damage to the grill itself. The heat resistor works by automatically adjusting the electrical current to maintain a consistent temperature, thereby enhancing safety during cooking.

While other features listed may contribute to the overall functionality and safety of the grill, they do not directly address the risk of overheating in the same fundamental way that a heat resistor does. For instance, an automatic shut-off timer is useful to turn off the grill after a set period, but it does not prevent overheating during operation. Similarly, a built-in temperature gauge provides valuable information for monitoring cooking temperatures, but it does not actively control the heat levels, which is the primary concern when it comes to safety in electric grilling. A non-slip grilling surface can enhance stability during cooking but does not directly impact the thermal safety aspect of electric grills. Therefore, the heat resistor plays a vital role in maintaining safe operating temperatures, making it an essential feature.