Clean grill, happy grill: Get set for outdoor cooking

It’s time to dust down the barbecue, and prepare for evenings and meals in the garden.

After months of being unused, it’s possible that your grill is not in the best condition. It’s essential to clean and check your grill before you start cooking.

Begin by cleaning the grill thoroughly. Remove any old grease or food residues, as well as pests. Rinse the grill with soapy water, and then use a stiff bristle brush.

Check that the fuel system is safe. Spray soapy water onto the hoses or connections to test for leaks. Leaks are indicated by bubbles. Any faulty parts should be repaired or replaced. If you notice that the flame is weak even though the gas tank is full, disconnect the hose and wait a few seconds before reconnecting it.

Check the grill for any signs of rust. Then, clean and dry any surface that has flaky rust. Paint exposed metal surfaces with heat-resistant paint in order to prevent further damage.

Final step: protect your cooking surface with a thin oil layer and heat the grill. This will keep the surface seasoned, and prevent rust.