With the many uncertainties in the world today, there is one activity that’s keeping us grounded. That activity is grilling. With fall around the corner, we still have a few glorious months left to fire up the grill and enjoy more great outdoor meals with our friends and family.
While your grill is a dependable piece of equipment that is built to last as long as possible, there are a few things you should be doing to make sure it’s in tip-top condition this year and the many years to come.
We like to call ourselves grill experts, so we’ve put together a list of our go-to tips on caring for your grill.
Regardless of what kind of grill you have, you should be doing a thorough cleaning every season. Expect to do a comprehensive cleaning 4 times a year. This is especially important before you have your first barbecue of the year as your grill would likely have been packed away in a room for many months.
Make sure to clear away any dust or cobwebs. Scrub every corner of the grill, including the covers of your burners. If you use a propane tank, you might need to clean that as well. Make sure to examine the gas line closely for possible leaks and clean it carefully with a solution of water and dishwashing detergent.
If you use your grill on a more regular basis, we recommend doubling the number of cleaning sessions. The best rule of thumb is “when in doubt, clean your grill”.
Aside from seasonal cleanings, you also need to do regular cleanings before and after you use your grill.
Before using your grill, give it a quick clean while it’s pre-heating. The heat will ensure that any leftover food on the grates and in the corners will turn to ash and easily be swept away.
After grilling, wait until your grill is a bit cool before you start to clean it. This is because sauces and grease could clog your grill brush if they’re still hot, making your work harder. Once you’re done, make sure the grill is fully dry before you close the lid and cover it. Keeping moisture trapped in your grill can cause rusting which will severely shorten the lifespan of your unit.
Hopefully, if you follow these tips, it won’t feel like a major clean each time you want to use your grill.
Just as you want your grill to last you a long time, you also want to make sure the area around your grill is protected. The heat from your grill, the flammable materials, and sauces can damage your deck if you’re not careful.
Make sure you invest in high-quality heat-resistant pads that you can spread out under and around your grill. It will also make your cleanup afterwards a whole lot easier. You’re welcome!
Wind, rain, snow, and dust can damage your grill over time. If you live in a place with an unpredictable climate, your grill may be at an even greater risk.
Don’t wait to get your grill a high-quality cover.
Ensure you have a large cover that will protect your equipment throughout the year. If you live in a place with a humid climate, to prevent moisture buildup, we recommend storing your grill underneath a shelter or wrapped up in a cover with an exposed top.
We find that too many grill masters use metal bristle brushes to clean their grills. These types of brushes are made with inferior material that isn’t made to be used on a hot grill.
Aside from the fact that these brushes won’t clean your grill properly, it’s also a hazard to your health. Some of these brushes have weak bristles that break off and stick to your grill. This can be extremely dangerous as the tiny bristles can end up in your food.
Make sure you’re investing in the right kind of cleaning brush. Choose a brush made of hard plastic or food-grade metal or wood that will hold the bristles tightly in place and is easy to use and clean. Also, make sure the bristles are made from heatproof brass or stainless steel. This should also apply to your basting brushes.
Taking care of your grill involves incorporating a few easy practices into your schedule that will pay off almost immediately.
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