As the summer comes to an end and fall begins to set in, many of us start to think about cozy sweaters, warm drinks, and of course, fall grilling. Before you fire up the BBQ for those autumn meals, it's essential to make sure your grill is in top shape. Proper maintenance not only extends the life of your BBQ, but also ensures every meal you cook is safe and delicious. Here’s a guide to help you keep your grill in perfect condition and some tips to make the most of fall grilling.
1. Deep Clean Your Grill
After a summer of heavy use, your grill likely needs a thorough cleaning.You can call a pro from Grill Hero to save yourself the time and hassle. But if you prefer to do it yourself, you can refer to our previous blog post for Grilling Tips and Maintenance where we offer a step by step process to deep clean your grill linked here:
2. Check for Wear and Tear
Inspect the Burners: Make sure the burners are free of blockages and are not rusted or damaged. If you notice any significant issues, it might be time to replace them.
Check Hoses and Connections: Look over the gas hoses and connections for cracks, leaks, or signs of wear. A simple soap and water solution can help you detect leaks—if bubbles form when applied to a connection, you have a leak that needs attention.
Examine the Ignition System: Test the ignition system to ensure it’s working properly. If it’s faulty, replacing it before the cold weather sets in is crucial. You can contact Grill Hero to assist with ignitor repairs.
3. Protect Your Grill
Invest in a Quality Cover: A good grill cover is your first line of defense against rain, wind, and falling leaves. Make sure your cover fits snugly and is made of durable, weather-resistant material. Our online retail store has a variety of grill covers for you to choose from to suit your specific BBQ (Hint: a few are currently on sale).
Store Your Grill Properly: If you’re not planning to use your grill frequently during the fall, consider storing it in a dry, sheltered area. If outdoor storage is your only option, ensure your grill is well-covered and protected from moisture.
3. Preventing Animals from Nesting in Your Grill
Close All Openings: After each use, make sure all vents, doors, and lids are securely closed to prevent animals from crawling inside.
Cover Your Grill: As previously mentioned, invest in a high-quality grill cover that fits snugly. This adds an extra layer of protection, keeping critters at bay.
Use Natural Deterrents: Placing a few mothballs or peppermint-scented cotton balls inside the grill when it’s not in use can help deter animals, as they tend to dislike these strong scents. Just remember to remove them before you cook your next meal!
4. Fall Grilling Tips
Use Seasonal Flavours: Incorporate fall flavours like applewood or maple into your grilling. These flavours pair great with pork, chicken, and hearty vegetables like squash and sweet potatoes.
Try Grilled Desserts: Fall is all about comfort food, and grilled desserts like caramelized apples or pears with a sprinkle of cinnamon and brown sugar can be a tasty treat to throw on the grill.
Keep it Warm: As temperatures drop, your grill might take a bit longer to heat up. Be patient and preheat your grill for 10-15 minutes longer than you would in the summer to ensure even cooking.
Taking the time to maintain your BBQ during the fall ensures it stays in peak condition for years to come. Plus, with the right tips and tricks, you can enjoy grilling all season long, entertaining your family and friends with hearty, seasonal dishes.
If you prefer to have Grill Hero take care of the maintenance of keeping your BBQ clean, contact us today to book your next professional BBQ Cleaning Service.
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