Jumpstart Your Grill Season with a Good Spring Cleaning

Prep your propane tank and grill to fire up some delicious food. Follow these easy steps to grill safely all season long.

Start your grill season with a clean grill and functional propane tank and system. Here are easy steps to get you ready to use your propane grill.

Before Cleaning Begins

Before cleaning, ensure the grill is turned off and the propane tank is disconnected. 

Clean Exterior, including Hood

Wipe down the outside and inside of the grill, even under the hood. By getting rid of grease, you can avoid fire hazards. If you have a stainless steel grill, finish with a stainless steel cleaner for shine and protection.

Clean Exterior, including Hood

Wipe down the outside and inside of the grill, even under the hood. By getting rid of grease, you can avoid fire hazards. If you have a stainless steel grill, finish with a stainless steel cleaner for shine and protection.

Scrub the Grates

Remove the grates and spray them with a vinegar-water mix. Let them soak for an hour, then scrub with a grill brush to remove stuck-on food and rust. Finish with a sponge for a final clean. 

Coat the grates lightly with vegetable oil and place them in the oven at 450°F for two hours to cure them before the first use. Always start each grilling season with a clean brush to avoid contaminating your food.

Safety Tips

  • Propane Grill Tanks are also known as 20-pound cylinders.
  • Before grilling, check the propane tank for leaks. (Watch video below on how to check for leaks.)
  • If you have a leak, move the tank away from any structure and sources of ignition like chemicals or flames.
  • Keep your grill clean by removing grease or fat buildup from the grills and in trays below the grill.
  • Place the grill at least 10 feet away from the home, deck railings, and out from under eaves and overhanging branches.
  • Always make sure your gas grill lid is open before lighting it.
  • Never leave your grill unattended when in use.
  • Keep children and pets at least three feet away from the grilling area.

Inspect Propane Tank

Check the tank for signs of wear and tear like rust, dents, and corrosion. Look at the collar (surrounds valve) for the manufacture or recertification date; propane cylinders older than 12 years must be recertified or replaced. If you’re unsure about the age or condition of your tank, the U.S. Department of Transportation has helpful cylinder safety guidelines.

Do not use a damaged propane tank. 

Contact your local propane supplier for disposal or repair of damaged propane grill tanks/cylinders. 

Test for Propane Leaks

Apply a water / dish soap solution to the tank valve and hose connections to both tank and grill. Open the propane valve slightly. If bubbles appear, you’ve got a leak. SHUT OFF TANK IMMEDIATELY and DO NOT USE until damaged parts replaced. Never light a grill if you suspect a gas leak. Test your propane tank / grill system at the start of each grilling session, according to the National Fire Protection Association. Go here for leak test.

If there’s a propane leak, move it away from any structures and any sources of ignition.

Safely Transport Propane Tank

During transport, ensure the propane tank is secure and upright. Do not leave a propane tank in a hot or unattended vehicle. 

Store Grill Tank Outside Only

Always store propane tanks outdoors, but ensure they are covered/stored away from direct sunlight and heat. You should never keep a propane tank in an enclosed space like a garage, shed, or basement.

After Grilling

Make sure to turn off the burners and the propane tank valve to prevent leaks. Follow these steps all season long. 

Try These Great Grill Recipes

Try these great grill recipes featuring Michigan-grown favorites Grilling Recipes page.