Prepare Your Grill for Grilling Season

As warm weather approaches, so does outdoor grilling season. Across the country, grill enthusiasts have been waiting for this moment. During the strenuous winter months, longing for grilled barbeque became unbearable. The smokey aroma and tender bites of pulled pork and brisket haunted the dreams of grill connoisseurs. In their haste, one might forget the dust and residue accumulated on the grill since last summer. 

Before throwing your favorite meats on the grill, you’ll want to follow this checklist to ensure the highest grilling quality. 

Grill Prep Checklist
1. Propane Maintenance 
The propane tank is filled with highly flammable gas, so checking the container and hose is an essential first step. Fire safety should be your top priority, and having a fire extinguisher close by is a must. To start cleaning the connecting hose, wipe down any apparent residue. You can also check for cracks by rubbing soap water over the hose and watching for bubbles while the gas is running. If bubbles are present, this means gas is leaking. Should there be any holes or tears in the hose, a replacement will be needed. 

2. Clean the Inside of the Grill
Remove the grates and scrub them down with a grill cleaning brush and coordinating spray. Soap can leave additional residue and be hard to rinse off, so a vinegar-based component is safest. For an alternative cleaning method, spray the grates with canola oil, turn the burners up to medium heat and let them run for about 15 minutes. Once the oil has burned off and the smoke decreases, you can turn the burners off. A damp cloth will assist in reaching the nooks and crannies of your grill.

3. Clean the Outside of the Grill
Cleanliness doesn’t stop with the grill’s interior. Wipe down the outside with soapy water or cleaner specific to your grill’s surface type. Also, any grilling tools kept outside should be run through the dishwasher or cleaned by hand.

4. Empty the Grease Trap
Ideally, this would have been done at the end of last season; but as the rush of savory food can sweep us away, there is a chance leftover grease still resides. Check the trap, dump out the contents, and wipe the tin with a damp cloth. (PRO TIP: line the grease trap with aluminum foil for an easier cleaning process).

5. Time for a Test Run
After completing these steps, turn on the grill and watch the burners for any irregularity. Should everything be working properly, feel free to start your grilling escapade!

Start the Season Right
If you don’t have time to prep your grill, don’t fret! Come out to Southbank Original Barbecue and let us do the work. You can sit back, enjoy, and be inspired by our tasty eats. We offer delectable favorites such as pulled pork, tri-tip, ribs, and more! You’ll find us at 129 E. Hydraulic Street in Yorkville. Call (630) 385-2477 for questions or reservations today!

Sources
https://www.cnet.com/home/yard-and-outdoors/become-a-grill-master-grilling-tips-you-should-know/#:~:text=Season%20your%20grill&text=Before%20you%20use%20your%20grill,That’s%20it
https://www.thekitchn.com/grill-check-4-quick-tips-before-you-light-up-your-grill-203571
https://www.tasteofhome.com/article/how-to-prepare-grill-for-summer/