Summer is almost here, and it’s time to dig out your grill from storage. With a little maintenance, your grill will be in top shape for your next barbecue.
After each use, brush the grates and empty the drip tray. Routinely check for propane leaks by running soapy water over the hose and connections; inspected for wear and damage.
1. Clean It Regularly
A clean grill delivers pure, unadulterated flavor. Residue and grease buildup on grates leaves behind a smoky, metallic taste that taints your food’s natural essence. Clean your grill regularly to eliminate these contaminants and preserve its components for longer.
A dirty grill also harbors and attracts germs, which can contaminate the foods you serve on it. The high temperatures of a grill burn off some bacteria, but the leftover carbon deposits on the grates leave other harmful microbes behind. Regular cleaning eliminates these potential sources of illness and makes it easier to enjoy grilled meals year-round.
This first upkeep step is easy and relatively quick, and can be done every time you use your grill. Start by removing the cooking grates and soaking them in hot, soapy water to loosen the gunk. Scrub them with a brush or scraper and a sponge, and then rinse and dry them before using again.
You can also try a chemical-free option that works on all metals, including coated and porcelain grates: This eco-friendly, biodegradable spray gel clings without dripping, dissolves the most stubborn grease and char buildup, and is gentle on stainless steel. Once you’ve removed the grates, sanitize the interior of your grill by removing the gas tubes and soaking them in warm, soapy water. You can also use a rag to wipe the inside of your lid and the outside of the body of the grill.
For a deeper clean that goes beyond the grates, fire up your grill for 15 minutes once or twice a week while it’s still hot to help burn off the excess gunk. This will make the grates and other metal parts of your grill a lot easier to clean later on.
2. Keep It Covered
While it may seem counterintuitive to cover your grill when you’re not using it, a good quality grill cover can help extend the lifespan of your grill. The best covers are designed to keep out rain, dirt, leaves and debris — all of which can eat away at your grill’s surface. They also reduce the amount of moisture that builds up on your grill, which can cause corrosion. This simple step can save you from a costly repair bill down the line.
Grill covers can also help keep out outdoor intruders, like lizards, frogs and bugs of every shape and size. They can even prevent your grill from becoming a home to pests like possums and raccoons. Covering your grill between uses will also make it easier to clean — rust, grime, animal droppings and leaves are less of a pain to remove when you don’t have to do them on a regular basis.
A good grill cover should be made of a durable, waterproof material that is resistant to UV rays and mold. It should also be well-fitting and easy to open and close. It should also be cleaned regularly, especially if it’s being used in humid areas, as humidity can trap against the surface of your grill and lead to corrosion.
When you use your grill, always be sure to preheat it for about 15 minutes before beginning cooking. This will ensure that the grates and other cooking surfaces are heated evenly, which helps to prevent grease buildup and prevent flare-ups. After each use, a thorough cleaning and dry wipe down is also a good idea. Be sure to test the propane leak by running soapy water over the hose and connections. If bubbles form anywhere, this is a sign that the hose or lines need to be tightened or replaced.
3. Keep It Clean
Imagine a warm summer evening, friends gathered, and the tantalizing smell of grilled food in the air. Now imagine that experience marred by the residue of a dirty grill. Keeping your grill clean isn’t just a good idea, it’s a culinary necessity. The right care can ensure that each future grilling session is brimming with the savory, pure flavors of your favorite ingredients.
A dirty grill can cause food to stick or even burn more easily, and leftover grease and charred bits are havens for bacteria and insects. Cleaning your grill regularly can prevent these unwanted guests from making a home and wreaking havoc on your barbecue experience.
Keeping your grill clean can also extend the life of the grates and other components by preventing rust and corrosion. Regularly scraping away excess debris can keep your grill in top shape for years to come, saving you money on costly replacements and repairs.
To clean your grill, start by mixing a bucket of soapy water (large enough to submerge your grates) with your favorite dishwashing detergent or stainless steel cleaner. Take the grates and bars out of the grill and allow them to soak while you scrub away the remaining grime on your exterior surface with a metal brush or scraper. Next, rinse the interior of your grill with a hose set to a low-pressure spray. Be sure to remove any liners in your drip and catch pans, and wipe down the inside of the lid and any other compartments. Finally, dry and store your grill in a safe place until your next BBQ.
4. Keep It Cool
Many people don’t think about the amount of abuse their grill takes – from grease and debris during the summer to snow and ice during winter. But, if you do your part in taking care of this backyard staple, it can serve up delicious meals for years to come.
One of the most important things to remember when using your grill is to leave it cool before attempting to cover or store it. This helps to prevent dangerous foodborne illness, and it will also keep your grill looking its best.
If you forget to do this, it can cause food particles to harden and cause inefficient heat distribution next time you use your grill. It can even lead to rust, which can affect the longevity of your grill.
It’s also important to follow regular food safety guidelines when grilling, no matter the season. For example, it’s a good idea to purchase cold foods like meat and poultry last in the checkout line to help guard against cross-contamination, and to always cook food on the outdoor grill until your thermometer tells you it is done.
Finally, it’s a good idea to periodically test for gas leaks by running a mixture of water and dish soap on the gas lines and connections. If bubbles appear, this is a sign that there may be a gas leak and that you should shut off your grill and call the fire department. These easy maintenance tips are an excellent way to ensure that your grill is in top shape for the entire year and can be enjoyed by you and your family. So, go ahead and give these pro tips a try – your grill will thank you!
5. Keep It Tuned
Whether you’re grilling up burgers and fries or roasting a turkey and stuffing the bird with all the trimmings, a good BBQ grill can make outdoor cooking fun, but it needs proper maintenance to function properly. Neglect your grill, and you could be in for a lot of hassle and frustration down the line.
One of the most important things you can do to keep your grill in top shape is to clean it after every use. This prevents tough residue from building up on the grates and helps ensure that food cooks evenly. You should also make sure to regularly use a wire brush on the grates to remove stubborn buildup.
Regular maintenance also includes a general inspection of the entire grill. This is like giving it a “health check” and can catch small issues that may turn into major problems down the road. For example, a minor crack or hole in the body of the grill can cause water to seep inside and cause damage, so it’s important to regularly check for these minor issues. It’s also a good idea to inspect the burner tubes for blockages and to replace batteries in electronic igniters.
Finally, it’s always a good idea to store your grill in a covered area when it’s not in use. This will help protect it from the elements and prolong its lifespan. It’s also a good idea that you give it a thorough cleaning before storing it for the winter. It is also a good idea to wait until your grill has completely cooled down before covering it.
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