How to Turn on a Propane Gas Grill

Turn on a propane gas grill safely to barbecue food.

When the weather turns warm, a common rite of spring involves cooking outdoors in the backyard. Many people eagerly anticipate warmer weather to begin enjoying the tastes of barbecued food on the grill. Propane gas grills are a popular choice among backyard barbecue enthusiasts due to the ease with which you operate them. In only a short time, you can turn on a propane gas grill, preheat it and be ready to cook your burgers or chops.

Instructions

1. Remove the grill cover (if applicable). Position the grill so you can easily open the lid completely and have access to every side of the grill.

2. Open the lid of the grill completely and leave it open.

3. Find the propane cylinder valve under the grill. This flat, circular valve rests just above the propane tank. Grasp this valve in your hand and turn it one complete turn clockwise.

4. Turn the burner control that is nearest the ignition button to high.

5. Push the ignition button to light this grill burner. It should light with one or two pushes of the button.

6. Turn the other burner control on high to light the second burner.

7. Close the grill cover and allow your grill to preheat on high for approximately five minutes.

Tips & Warnings

• If you are lighting your grill for the first time of the season, check for connections and leaks. Coat the valves and hoses thoroughly with soapy water. Turn on the propane cylinder valve and look to see if bubbles form over the valves and hoses where you applied the soapy water. If you see bubbles, this indicates dangerous leaks. Tighten the connections and test again.

• If your grill does not light after one or two pushes of the ignition button, stop and turn the burner control off again. You may have a malfunction or a leak in your grill that is preventing the grill from lighting. Investigate the malfunction carefully.

• Do not continue to attempt to light the grill with the burner control on--- you are releasing an overabundance of propane into the air as long as the burner is on.

• Never use a propane gas grill in an enclosed area. Always operate a propane grill outside.

References

• National Propane Gas Association: Propane Gas Grill and Range Safety Tips
• Propane 101: Propane Grills and Gas Grilling