Q - I know this isn't a cooking show, but I hear you talking about
natural gas a lot. We purchased a gas
grill earlier this spring and are enjoying it immensely. Is there any maintenance that is required as
we cook through the summer?
Stephanie in Smyrna
A - If you think the summer is hot for you, how about your gas
grill?
At this time of year your gas
grill needs a little tlc to keep producing at a high level. Here are a few things you can do:
-
Keep it clean.
The cooking grids can be easily cleaned by covering them with a layer of
aluminum foil and
heating the grill on high for 10 to 15 minutes. The baked on food will turn to
a fine white powder which can be easily brushed away. A wire brush on a regular basis will also do
a good job.
-
Inspect
cast iron grates for rusting. Re-place
if necessary.
-
Check
the burners for clogging. You can often
remove whatever is clogging a burner with a pipe cleaner.
-
Keep
your briquettes, rocks, or coals clean of food and grease. A buildup may lead to a fire.
-
Keep
your grill covered to protect it from the elements. You can purchase generic grill covers in a
variety of shapes at your local hardware store.
-
Check
the hoses for cracks and holes, and make sure there are no kinks or bends in
the hosing.
-
Don't
use too much vinegar in your potato salad.
There you go. When do we eat?