The first step toward great outdoor meals is getting your BBQ ready for BBQ season. A clean, tuned-up grill isn’t just about looks — it protects your investment, ensures food safety and makes your cookouts a lot smoother. Whether you’ve got a gas or charcoal setup, a little maintenance goes a long way.
Grill covers come off, smoke fills the air and the neighborhood smells like summer again. BBQ season doesn’t wait, and your grill shouldn’t either.
Start with a full inspection
Every grill needs a good once-over before its first use of the season. Begin by checking for signs of rust, damage or worn-out parts. Open the lid and examine the grates, burners and firebox. Look under the hood for insect nests, moisture buildup or leftover grease from last year. These can cause flare-ups, uneven heating or even fire hazards.
Gas grills spark an average of 9,287 home fires each year, based on data from the National Fire Protection Association. If your grill uses propane, check the tank and hoses. Cracked or brittle hoses need replacing. A leak test is simple — mix a bit of dish soap with water and brush it onto the hose connections. If you see bubbles when the gas is turned on, you’ve got a leak. Tighten the connections or replace the hose immediately.
Clean the grates thoroughly
Grill grates take the brunt of the work. They’re the front line between flames and your food. Over time, residue builds up, affecting both flavor and hygiene.
Remove the grates and soak them in hot, soapy water. Use a stiff wire brush or a ball of foil to scrub off any charred bits. For cast iron grates, avoid soap and opt for a vinegar soak or kosher salt scrub instead. Dry the grates fully, then lightly coat them in cooking oil. This step helps prevent rust and keeps food from sticking.
Focus on the burners and interior
Gas grill burners can clog with grease, ash and insects. Take off any flame tamers or burner covers and brush off loose debris. Look for any rust holes or clogged ports. Clean the burner tubes with a brush or pipe cleaner, making sure gas flows evenly.
Wipe out the firebox and bottom tray with warm, soapy water. Scrape away grease buildup using a plastic putty knife. If your grill has a drip pan or catch tray, empty it. Replace foil liners if needed. Keeping the inside of your grill clean helps prevent grease fires and improves performance.
Grease buildup ranks as a leading cause of grill flare-ups, according to Baptist Health Care. Regular cleaning before and after each use helps reduce that risk and keeps your BBQ running safely and efficiently.
Polish the exterior
The outside of your grill matters too. Stainless steel surfaces often dull over winter. Use a soft cloth and a stainless-safe cleaner or a mix of vinegar and water to wipe everything down. Avoid abrasive scrubbers, which can scratch the finish. Clean knobs, handles and side shelves, making sure no food or grime is hiding in crevices.
A clean exterior also helps keep pests away. Mice and bugs often nest inside neglected grills. Wiping everything makes your BBQ more inviting and less so for unwanted guests.
Test the ignition and fuel supply
A working ignition system is key. Turn the grill on and press the igniter. If nothing happens, check for rust or buildup on the electrode. Replace the battery if your igniter runs on one. If you’re using a match to light the grill, make sure the flame lights quickly and evenly.
Next, verify your fuel supply. Check your propane tank’s weight or install a gauge. Running out of gas halfway through grilling a Texas-style carne asada can ruin your meal. For charcoal users, make sure your coals are dry and stored in a sealed container. Moisture weakens their heat and burn time.
Season your grates before cooking
Before cooking your first meal, heat the grill with the lid closed for about 15 minutes. This helps burn off any residual cleaner or moisture. Once it’s hot, apply a light layer of high-smoke-point oil to the grates using a paper towel and tongs. This process seasons the grates and gives food those grill marks without sticking.
Seasoning matters for all grills, but it’s especially important with cast-iron grates. It creates a natural nonstick surface and shields the metal from rust. Well-seasoned grates last longer and make cooking easier. This quick step goes a long way in keeping your grill performing at its best.
After taking the time to season your grates and get everything in top shape, you’re ready to fire up the grill. Once your grill is tuned up and ready, it’s time to plan your first meal of the season. Try a Mediterranean grilled chicken for a light, flavorful start. Pair it with a pasta salad with grilled vegetables for something colorful and fresh.
Cover it when you’re done
A quality grill cover does more than keep dust off. It protects your grill from UV rays, rain and temperature changes that cause rust. After each use and cool-down, close the lid and cover your BBQ. Store it in a sheltered area if possible.
If you live in a region with long off-seasons, consider disconnecting the propane tank and storing it separately in a dry place. Charcoal grills should be emptied and brushed clean before long-term storage.
Keep your BBQ in rotation
Regular use helps keep a grill in good shape. The more you cook, the less time residue has to harden and build up. After each session, give the grates a quick scrub while they’re still warm. Be sure to empty the drip pan every few uses and check for any grease buildup. Maintenance isn’t a one-time thing — it’s part of the grilling lifestyle.
Get grilling
Getting your BBQ ready for BBQ season isn’t complicated. It’s about setting yourself up for better meals, safer cooking and longer equipment life. With a little care and attention, your grill stays ready to perform all summer long.
Jennifer Allen is a retired professional chef and long-time writer. Her work appears in dozens of publications, including MSN, Yahoo, The Washington Post and The Seattle Times. These days, she’s busy in the kitchen developing recipes and traveling the world, and you can find all her best creations at Cook What You Love.