Fall is coming and that means winter is right around the corner— is your propane gas grill in Rocky Mount, NC ready? Sure there is still some time to grill, but after you’ve finished all your cookouts, it might be time to think about how you’re going to put it away and keep it in tip top shape for next summer. Follow the following steps to prepare your grill for winter.

1. Clean it From Top to Bottom

You need to make sure it’s absolutely clean.Make sure to disconnect the propane tank or natural gas line and take the following steps:

  • Start by removing the cooking grates, heat plates, and warming rack. Brush them clean with a wire grill brush. Then you can wash them in warm soapy water. Remember to rinse and dry thoroughly.
  • Then, remove the burners and set them aside. Make sure to scrape the inside of the burner box. You need to remove as much of that nasty buildup as possible.
  • Next, remove the drip tray and grease cup and wash them in warm soapy water. Then rinse and dry.
  • After that you can wipe down the inside of the grill cabinet and remove any food particles, dirt, or leaves that have accumulated. You need to do that because this build up at the bottom of the grill cabinet will trap moisture, which leads to rust and deterioration.
  • Clean the outside of your grill using absolutely the mildest cleaning solution that will get the job done.  If you have maintained the grill, a mixture of water and vinegar should do the job. For tougher stains and spots, use a cleaner specifically designed for use on gas grills, of course following the manufacturer’s instructions.

After going through all of those steps you should have a fresh and clean grill. Now all you need to do are a couple more maintenance duties.

2. Guard for Rust

You need to stop rust before it starts. Coat the cooking grates, heat plates, warming rack and burners in cooking oil. This will repel the moisture that causes rust. It’s also a good idea to place burners in a plastic bagto prevent any spiders or other insects from nesting in the burner tube itself. After you’re done, place the oiled parts back in the grill.

3. Remove the Battery

If your grill uses an electronic igniter system remove the battery before storing the grill to prevent corrosion of the contacts and the battery itself.

4. Check the Propane Tank

If you are storing the grill outside, make sure to reconnect the propane tank and make sure the valve is in the off position. If you are storing the grill inside a garage or shed, leave the propane tank outside, closed and in an upright position.
NOTE: Propane tanks should not be stored inside your house, garage, or shed.

5. Cover it Up

Grab your grill cover and put it on your grill. A cover is one of the best investments you can make as it protects your gas grill from the elements any time of year.

What Else Can You Do?

Now that you’ve done all of those steps, your propane gas grill is ready to store until you need it again. That being said, for North Carolinians, we still have a few sunny days left. If you don’t want to put the idea of grilling away just yet, we’d love to talk to you about what propane gas grill or even fire pit would be great for your backyard. Contact us to find out more.