

What You Need for This Project
Tools
Materials
Keys to Grilling
Read Before Starting
Read the manufacturer's instructions thoroughly before grilling.

Open the Lid First
Open the grill lid before lighting.

Let the Grill Heat Up
Let the grill heat up according to the manufacturer's instructions before adding your food. Meat sticks to a cold grill.

Keep the Lid Closed
Close the lid while cooking and keep the grill away from deck or patio edges and any structures. Constantly open and closing the lid while cooking can have an adverse effect on keeping an even heat level, making the cooking process longer.

Stay a Safe Distance Away from Flames
Keep sleeves and long hair away from flames. Tuck your hair up or put a hat on, and roll up your sleeves.

Store Gas Tanks Safely
Gas tanks are flammable, so always store them outside and never indoors.

Regularly Clean the Grill
Keep the grill as clean as possible. If you can't wipe the food residue off, turn the grill on high and burn it off. To prevent sticking on any grid apply a light coat of cooking oil while the grid is cold.

Turn Off the Heat or Gas
Make sure to close the gas nozzle when you're finished cooking.

For this next section, if you have a charcoal grill, skip to steps 5 and 6.
Grill Tune-Up
Prep the Grill
Make sure the gas is off. Remove the grill grid and stone or briquettes.

Clean the Burners & Venturi Tubes
Venturi tubes mix air and gas and feed it to the burners, but they need to be clear to work properly and not become a home for spiders and insects in the off-season. Even a small blockage can be a fire hazard.
Remove the entire burner/tube assembly and clean with soapy water, then clean the holes with a wire brush, paper clip, or toothpick. Replace when dry.
Don't forget to check the burners — food acids can cause the burner to corrode. Check for rust and replace if necessary.

Test the Igniter
Try the igniter with the gas off. You should see a spark at the electrode tip. If you do not see a spark, check to see if the wire is loose. If the electrode is cracked or dirty, replace it. When you try the igniter later with the gas on, the spark should ignite the burner. If not, the venturi may be clogged. Go back to step one.

Check the Gas Supply Line
Hoses can develop dangerous leaks over time. Cooking residue also accumulates on hoses. Animals, such as mice and squirrels, may find them appealing as a snack and chew on them. Turn the gas on. Rub a light coat of soapy water on the hose and look for bubbles. Replace the hose if necessary.

Clean the Grill Body
Clean inside and out, especially the inside of the lid. Scrape and remove built-up grease from the interior. The exterior can be sanded and repainted with specially-formulated, heat-resistant grill paint.
If your grill has grease traps, keep them clean and empty them regularly throughout the season.

Don't Forget about the Grid
Clean the cooking grid. Replace the stone or briquettes.

How To Terms
Jump to:
- Read Before Starting
- Open the Lid First
- Let the Grill Heat Up
- Keep the Lid Closed
- Stay a Safe Distance Away from Flames
- Store Gas Tanks Safely
- Regularly Clean the Grill
- Turn Off the Heat or Gas
- Prep the Grill
- Clean the Burners & Venturi Tubes
- Test the Igniter
- Check the Gas Supply Line
- Clean the Grill Body
- Don't Forget about the Grid
Related Articles

BBQ Buying Guide
From smokers to pellet grills, and everything in between this BBQ Buying Guide will help you choose the best BBQ for your outdoor kitchen.

Smoke Detector Buying Guide
Smoke alarms are mandatory in every building and dwelling across Canada. Find one to keep you and your family safe with the earliest detection.

10 Fire Safety Tips
Learn all about fire safety and prevention for your home, including the importance of fire extinguishers, smoke detectors, and more.