As the days are getting longer, and the weather is getting warmer – summer is just around the corner! With the first hint of summer, Vancouverites are eager to fire up their grills and plan all the delicious foods to grill this season. However, before you do there are a few different steps you need to take to ensure your grill is cooking your tasty eats to perfection, after a long winter sitting idle. Read four key steps below to ensure your grill is ready for the summer!
Gather the Right Tools
In order to thoroughly clean and prepare your grill, you need to make sure you have the right tools to get the job done. This includes but is not limited to: a scrubbing brush, hot water, grill degreaser or stainless steel cleaner, soap, and a razor blade. Consult your owner’s manual for any particular tips and suggestions relevant to your particular model.
Get Scrubbing!
- Firstly, ensure the fuel is off for safety.
- Remove the cooking grates and sear plates to get started with the burners. Use a good quality brush to clear off any residue. The burners require special care due to potential corrosion and build up. Grease build up from the grease catch at the bottom of the grill is often forgotten as well – so be sure to not to miss it.
- Spray your cooking grates and sear plates with grill degreaser, and let it sit. Scrub thoroughly until clean. Ensure you rinse the grates to remove all of the degreaser, to ensure you do not consume any when using the grill.
- Scrub away excess debris from your heat plates with a brush, making sure to inspect them for integrity beforehand.
- Stainless steel BBQs are prone to scratches if you use a scouring pad or grill brush. To protect your grill, ensure you use a stainless-steel cleaning solution or a solution of water and vinegar.
- Give the outside of your grill a good scrub using warm, soapy water.
- Inspect all hoses and feed tubes looking for any punctures, and scratches. Replace any damaged parts.
- Perform a leak test .
- Replace the propane tank if it is rusty.
- Ensure that the igniter, burners, heat tent, etc. are working properly.