Hello again! MS Propane here, back with some tips on safely using your propane grill. Did you know you can run a propane line for your grill without refilling a small propane tank every time you run out? You’ll have a vast supply of propane for your grilling activities during the summer!
We aren’t grilling experts, but we know a few things about propane. Keep reading our eight tips for safe outdoor grilling with propane.
1. Know Your Equipment Inside and Out
First things first: Read the owner’s manual thoroughly! Pay attention to assembly, connecting the propane line, ignition steps, temperature controls, and safety when the appliance is in use. Knowing how to use your propane grill will become second nature as you grill out more and entertain your friends and family. You’ll also focus on making unforgettable meals and become a maestro on the deck in no time!
2. Check for a Secure Propane Connection
Ensuring your propane grill is connected and secured to the propane line is crucial to its safe operation. Before firing up your grill for a barbecue session, take a moment to thoroughly inspect the gas hose and all connecting points for any deterioration or damage. This can be effectively done by applying a solution of soapy water along the hose and connectors. Keep a keen eye out for any bubbling at these junctions, as this is a telltale sign of a gas leak.
Should you discover a leak, it is imperative to refrain from using the grill. Instead, immediately seek the expertise of a professional to carry out the necessary repairs. The team at MS Propane can’t do anything about fixing your propane grill, but we can inspect your home’s propane tank for any issues.
3. Clear the Space Around the Propane Grill
A propane grill, just like any appliance that uses a high amount of heat, needs a safe zone around it to prevent people and pets from getting burned. Position your grill in a spot that is both open and ensures ample ventilation to prevent too much heat from building up.
It’s essential that the grill is situated away from any structures or materials that could easily ignite, including wooden deck rails, siding, and outdoor furniture. If you notice any bushes, leaves, or overhanging branches getting too close, clean them up or prune them.
Make sure children and pets stay at least three feet away from the active grilling area. This precaution helps avoid accidental burns or injuries and allows you to grill with confidence.
4. Keep Your Grill Clean
A pristine propane grill is not only more efficient but significantly safer. Grease and leftover food particles are the primary culprits behind dangerous flare-ups and unexpected fires.
Begin by brushing off any loose food particles from the grates once they’ve cooled down but are still warm, as this is when residue is easiest to remove. Empty and clean the grease trap or collection pan to avoid overflow and potential grease fires.
When you shut down the grill when barbecue season is over, disassemble parts of the grill that are safe to remove according to the manufacturer’s guidelines. This allows for more detailed attention to areas that are often overlooked but can harbor significant grease and debris. Utilizing a mixture of mild dish soap and water or a dedicated grill cleaner, scrub the interior surfaces and grates. Rinse thoroughly and ensure all components are completely dry before reassembling the grill.
5. Light the Propane Grill Right
Make sure the grill lid is open before igniting your propane grill. Use your ignition switch as instructed in the manual. With an electronic ignition, the grill should light automatically, similar to your stovetop. If you need a lighter, always ignite the lighter first and then turn on the propane to the “ignite” level.
If your attempts to light the grill fail, turn the burner off and wait a few minutes. Then try again. Don’t lean directly over the grill when you light it, just in case of an accidental flare-up.
6. Dress Appropriately
Grilling is fun during warmer weather! Wear shirts that fit closer to the body to minimize the risk of fabric catching fire from the grill’s open flame. Loose articles of clothing, such as baggy shirts or apron strings, can easily dangle too close to the flames. You want the food to be the main attraction, not your stop, drop, and roll routine. Instead, select garments that provide protection while also allowing ease of movement around the grilling station. T-shirts are best. If the weather is cool, go for long-sleeved cotton shirts.
Heat-resistant gloves should be part of your grilling gear. These gloves serve as a protective barrier against high temperatures, safeguarding your hands when maneuvering hot utensils or adjusting grill grates. Additionally, if your grilling plans include the handling of hot pots, pans, or skewers, these gloves can provide the necessary insulation to prevent burns.
You might be tempted to wear sandals or flip flops when toe shoes while grilling. Don’t. Closed-toed sneakers protect your feet from accidental spills, hot coals, or dropped culinary tools. You don’t want to burn your feet!
7. Keep an Eye on Your Propane Grill When in Use
You are the grillmaster. That means keeping a sharp eye on your grill when it’s being used. An unattended grill presents an array of risks, including the potential for flare-ups, uncontrolled fires, or even harm to curious pets and children who might wander too close. When talking to your friends or loved ones, don’t stray too far away from the grill when you’re using it.
Consider having the adults look after small children to make sure they don’t get too close to the hot grill. Additionally, having a plan in place for handling potential emergencies, such as a small fire, ensures you can react quickly in case the flames get too hot to handle.
8. Know How to Put Out a Fire
Even when you follow all of the safety precautions you can, there might be a flare-up or grill fire due to too much grease or something dropping onto the burner, like a piece of vegetable or a corn husk for corn on the cob.
Keep a fire extinguisher suitable for grease fires within easy reach of the grill area. In the event that flames become uncontrollable, your first action should be to shut off the propane valve at the propane line if it’s safe to do so.
Utilize the fire extinguisher by aiming it at the base of the flames with a sweeping motion. Under no circumstances should water be employed to combat a grease fire because it can cause the fire to spread. Baking soda can be effective on small grease fires. Never use flour or sugar, which can be combustible.
Tips From MS Propane: Heating the Way!
We hope you find these tips valuable for your propane grill. We can’t improve your artistry at the grill, but we can supply your home with propane thanks to our propane delivery services.If you have any questions about your propane supply, feel free to contact us!
