Before burgers hit the grates, make sure your grill is ready. A little prep makes food taste better, keeps the grill safe, and saves you from a dead igniter with guests on the way.
In the Coachella Valley, "BBQ season" is really two seasons: fall through spring, when the weather's perfect and seasonal residents come back, and the big summer holidays from Memorial Day through the Fourth of July. Run through this checklist before whichever one kicks off your grilling.
1. Inspect the grill
Look for rust, loose or missing parts, cracked hoses and damaged knobs. Open the hood and check the heat shields and burners for rust-through or holes.
2. Check for critters
A grill that sat for months is a favorite hideout. Check the cabinet, under the firebox and around the grease tray for nests or droppings. Look into the burner tubes too, because spider webs there can block gas flow.
3. Deep clean the grates and empty the grease tray
Scrub off old grease and burnt food to prevent flare-ups and keep flavors clean. Empty and wipe the grease tray and catch pan. If there's heavy carbon on the heat shields and firebox, that's a job for a professional deep cleaning.
4. Check the gas lines (or your charcoal)
For gas grills, brush soapy water on the hose and connections with the gas on and burners off. Growing bubbles mean a leak, so shut it off and fix it before cooking. Check your propane tank's level, and look at the date stamped on the collar: portable propane cylinders have to be requalified 12 years after their manufacture date. For charcoal grills, stock up on fresh briquettes or lump charcoal.
5. Test ignition and the flame
Light each burner. The flames should be steady and mostly blue. Yellow, lazy or uneven flames point to clogged ports or blocked tubes. If the igniter clicks without lighting, see our grill repair page for common causes.
6. Preheat and season the grates
Heat the grill for 15 minutes to burn off residue, then wipe the grates with a thin coat of high-heat oil. It helps prevent sticking and protects the metal.
7. Gather your tools
Tongs, a spatula, a good grill brush (bristle-free, or check for loose wire bristles after every use), a reliable meat thermometer and a cover for when you're done.
8. Plan your first cookout
Stock up on seasonings and marinades, then start the season with a crowd-pleaser from our grill recipes: carne asada, baby back ribs or bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers.
Short on time? We'll handle steps 1 through 6 for you. A professional grill cleaning includes a full inspection, critter and debris removal, burner and igniter care, and a stainless polish. Online bookings from $250, at your home.