After fixing client's grills for so many years, we created a helpful list of grill maintenance tips:
- Read your Owner's Manual before using your grill.
- Never place aluminum foil on the grates; this will restrict airflow and damage the grill.
- Brush olive oil on the grates before placing food on them to help keep food from sticking.
- Clean the drip pan or grease tray often to prevent grease fires or flare-ups.
- Burn off any fat left on the grates by running the grill on high for about 10 minutes.
- Insure that your grill is level; grease can run into one corner and overflow.
- Tie your grill down during windy conditions if it is on wheels.
- Cover your grill when not in use, but not if it is still hot.
- Clean the electrodes on the igniters about once a month.
- If your grill has been dormant for the winter, make sure to clean out the Ventura tubes (the first part of the burners).
- Use a pipe brush for cleaning and always make sure that the gas is off beforehand.
- Check often for Spider Webs in the burners if you live in a wooded area.
- Never store Propane Tanks indoors, in your garage, or in an enclosed porch.
- If switching to a larger LP tank, have a Professional Gas Technician do the setup.
- Make sure all the knobs are turned off before removing and replacing an LP tank.
- Natural Gas Grills should have a cutoff valve on the outside of the house.