Nothing says summer quite like the smoky sizzle of a backyard barbecue. It’s time to uncover your grill and bring it back into serious searing shape.
Check For Gas Leaks
Before cleaning, make sure that your gas grill hasn’t sprung a leak. The clearest indication of a propane leak is the smell. If you smell something with an odor similar to rotten eggs, then you have a gas leak on your hands.
Since not all gas leaks emit an aroma, check for any tears and rips using soapy water. Brush your gas lines with soapy water to see if any bubbles form. The formation of bubbles helps indicate a crack or hole.
Examine the Grill
After uncovering grill covers, check all the hoses, connections, and other technical components to be sure they are all undamaged. If you have a propane unit, see if the tank is full, and change out any batteries for fresh ones.
Examine the nooks and crannies of your grill for any bugs that might’ve taken up refuge during winter. In the event you find something larger than the average beetle, be sure to call your local animal control service and ensure their safe relocation – far from your grill and custom covers.
Measure Your Fuel Level
Running out of fuel in the middle of barbecuing is an epic party fail if you have a propane unit. Who wants a half-cooked steak? So, think ahead by checking your fuel level before firing up your grill.
Although it’s difficult to gauge the level of gas left in the tank, a simple trick can help you with this. Heat up some water, then pour it down the side of your propane tank while it’s completely off and cool. Slide your hand down the outside of the tank. Wherever the water starts to feel cool on the tank is your fuel level.
Clean Your Grill
Even if you stored your grill safely and used grill covers throughout the idle months, it’s still wise to give it a good scrubbing before using it. There’s a good chance a layer of leftover residue might be present from the last grilling season. Begin by gathering the necessary supplies:
- Bucket of warm water
- Soap or cleaning solution
- Scrubbing sponge
- Wire brush
- Paper towels
Heat the grill for at least 15 minutes to remove any leftover food and grease that might be clinging to the parts. Turn off the heat, as you scrub the racks with a stiff wire brush and soapy water solution.
After a good scouring, wipe down the exterior parts of the grill with a soapy rag before moving to the greasy interior under the lid and on the grate. Finish off the clean sweep by sponging up any other debris to prevent food residue from getting accumulated once you fire up the grill.
Stock Up Grill Essentials
From burgers and chips to fresh grilled veggies, BBQ time is pleasing when you’ve got good grill tools by your side. Here are some essentials to gather:
- Chimney Starter: Unsure of how to start a charcoal grill without any hassle? Use a chimney starter to light coals in just a few minutes. With a chimney starter and a natural lump of coal, you need not resort to the liquid fluid that ruins your food infusing it with a petroleum taste.
- Meat Thermometer: Both half-cooked and over grilled food ruins the BBQ fun. To ensure your food is adequately cooked, determining the internal temperatures of the food is important. And this can most accurately be achieved by using a meat thermometer.
- Grill Tools: Keep essential grilling tools within reach when ready to cook some scrumptious delectables on your grill. Gather items such as a grill hoe, grill scraper, brush, long-handled tongs and slicer knife placed on the counter space.
- Grill Accessories: For an easier, safer and more intuitive grilling experience, invest in some useful grill accessories such as grill gloves, basket, meat shredder and rib rack.
Weatherproof Your Grill From Spring Showers
Frequent rain showers are a staple of springtime weather in most parts of the country. To avoid ruining your barbecue day because of the surprise drizzle, it’s important to weatherproof your grilling station.
Use canopy tents or custom tarps to sheath uncovered decks and patios. With custom tarps precisely placed over the yard, you can easily sizzle the steaks and roast marshmallows while enjoying the rain patter without getting wet.
Season Your Grill
Seasoning is the process of heating and oiling the grates to keep your grill operating at its prime. As most grill crates are made of cast iron, they are more likely to get corroded. Therefore, seasoning them with a light coating of oil or cooking spray helps protect them from rust.
Plus, seasoning makes it easier to clean. Only a properly seasoned grill can prevent food from sticking and helps you cook the searing grilled food with a rich, smoky flavor.
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