In most areas of this country, gas grills hibernate through the winter. But when the first nice day of springlike weather arrives, millions of them are dragged out from the garage and immediately put back to work. Hopefully, they work. If yours doesn't, keep reading.
How Does It Work?
A gas grill is an outdoor cooking appliance, fueled by propane or natural gas, for grilling or barbecuing a variety of foods outdoors. A controlled amount of gas passes from the metal tank or household gas lines through fittings and a hose to the burners, where the gas is slowly consumed, creating heat for cooking on the grill top. Gas grills have become more popular than charcoal grills thanks to their ease of use.
What Can Go Wrong?
Because they are simple in operation, it's relatively easy to determine what's wrong with a problematic gas grill. Gas can leak from fittings or from the hose itself. The igniter may not spark.
Caution
Always transport a propane gas tank upright with the valve completely closed and the safety plug screwed in tightly.
How Can I Identify the Problem?
At the beginning of each barbecue season and after filling and reattaching the propane tank, you should test the unit for gas leaks. Follow instructions below and/or purchase a gas leak check kit at a hardware store or propane tank supplier.
Fix-It Tip
You can clean soiled stone briquettes by burning them soiled-side down for at least 30 minutes.
What Parts, Materials, and Tools Do I Need?
Replacement parts for gas grills are available through larger hardware stores.
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Because most working components within gas grills are made by a small number of manufacturers, many parts are interchangeable and readily available. First check the gas grill department of a larger home improvement center or hardware store. If you don't find the part you need, contact the grill's manufacturer or an aftermarket supplier.
To disassemble and repair your gas grill, you'll need the following tools and materials:
- Wrenches
- Small paint brush
- Soapy water
What Are the Steps to Fixing It?
Test the propane tank valve for leaks:
- Turn the grill control knobs on the front (and, on some models, the side) of the barbecue to the off position.
- Turn the propane tank valve fully counterclockwise to close it.
- Mix a test solution of equal parts of dishwashing liquid and water in a small container.
- To test for leaks, apply the test solution liberally to the connection between the regulator fitting and the tank valve using a small paint brush. Apply the test solution to the valve handle and threads, the length of the hose, and the connection between the hose and the regulator. If bubbles appear at any point, there is a gas leak.
- Tighten the connections and retest.
- If you still see bubbles at any of the tested connections, close the tank valve and replace the leaking component.
Test the hose fittings for leaks:
- With the tank valve open, brush the test solution on the fitting at the other end of the hose, located under the control knobs.
- Turn the control knob to high and test the hose and fittings leading from the control knob to the grill. Turn the right control knob to off. Repeat the process for the other control knobs.
- If you see any bubbles during any of these tests, close the tank valve and contact your propane dealer or your local gas utility. Do not use the barbecue until the leak is corrected.
Fix-It Tip
If your grill uses a home gas line, periodically inspect the connections for corrosion. If you find a problem, contact your gas supplier for repairs.