For grill enthusiasts, barbecue season never ends. Between family gatherings and dinner cookouts, your grill gets a lot of use. In order for it to have a long life, you have to take good care of it. If you’re still looking for the right grill, read How to Select Your Grill.
Detach propane tanks
Disconnect the propane gas tank and switch the controls to the off setting before cleaning the grill. Remove the propane tank and move it out of the way. Read Propane and Charcoal: A Guide to Grilling Fuels for more information about fuel types.
Clean the outside of your grill
Use an all-purpose cleaner from Zep, available at The Home Depot, to give the outside of your grill a thorough cleaning.
Cut through grease
Food debris and grease buildup can make cooking temperatures uneven. Clean the burners and grates with a wire brush, then rinse with hot soapy water. Use a grease-cutting solution made of white vinegar and water.
Clean with heat
Clean lava rocks, ceramic blocks or metal diffusers by turning them over and running the burners on high for 30 minutes. For more information about how to maintain different types of grills, read Grill Types and Tips.
Use a grill cover
To avoid rust, make sure that your grill is completely dry before covering it. Use a heavy-duty, full-length, weather-resistant cover from Brinkmann or Weber, available in-store.
Store your grill
If you have storage space in your garage, keep your grill inside to protect it from the cold wet weather. Keep your propane tank outdoors; never store it in the house or near an open flame.