How to Keep a Gas Grill From Flaming Up

Several preventative steps will reduce gas grill flare-ups.

Propane gas grills are a great alternative to charcoal grills for several reasons. Gas comes on with the flip of a switch as opposed to the long time it takes for charcoal to soak up lighter fluid and ignite. Neither does a gas grill require the cleanup of a charcoal grill. But gas is much more volatile than charcoal and requires more caution when using. There are several precautions necessary to prevent a dangerous flare-up of gas.

Instructions

1. Keep the grill lid open when turning on the gas. This prevents a dangerous buildup of gas under the hood that can ignite.

2. Wait only a few seconds before igniting the gas. The longer you wait, the more gas comes out and combusts.

3. Turn the burner knobs closest to the ignition source first; for manual ignitions, light the burner producing the gas first.

4. Clean the grill after every use. The combustible grease and fat left over from grilling food will often flare up when the grill is first turned on. Empty your drip pan of grease regularly.

Tips & Warnings

• Trim the fat off your meat to reduce the amount of greasy drippings.

• Always keep a fire extinguisher nearby when grilling in the event that a flare-up becomes a serious fire. For this reason, it's also important to keep the grill away from the house.

References

• BBQ Grilling Basics: Gas or Char
• Holland Grill
• Natural Handyman: Grill Safety Tips
• Propane 101: Propane Gas Grills