A gas grill may seem moderately simple to operate based on its appearance. However, it can be difficult or even dangerous for those who have never operated one before.
For starters, it is a good idea to check what kind of grill you have. If your grill is an automatic one, there is typically a push-ignition system. However, if you have an older grill, then it will have to be lit manually.
Keep reading to find out how to correctly and easily light a grill.
Rules to Follow:
The most important rule for you to follow when lighting a gas grill is to always keep the grill cover off. If you do not do this, the gas chamber will fill up with gas. And when you either strike a match or hit the ignition switch, you are going to end up with a major party spoiler.
Another rule is to keep an eye on the amount of wind that is blowing. If it is extra windy while you are attempting to light the grill, either have someone hold up a shield of some sort to block the wind, or move to an area where it is less windy.
Do not use more gas than necessary. Also, do not attempt to light or ignite your grill in an enclosed area.
Methods for Lighting a Gas Grill
Make sure that the lid to your grill is open. If you leave the lid on, it causes the gas to build up, which will eventually lead to an explosion. If you see that the gas has been turned on while the lid is still closed, turn off the gas and let it sit for a little while before opening the grill. Then let the gas dissipate before starting to gas lighting process again.
If necessary, hook up a gas canister to your grill.
Most of the time, people use propane tanks to supply the grill with gas. These propane tanks are most often stored either underneath or on the side of the grill to be out of the way. Make sure that your gas line is attached firmly to the propane tank and the gas intake for your grill.
Here are some things to remember:
The hook up for your gas can vary from grill to grill. Do not be alarmed if your grill does not hook up the same way as your neighbor's. If you are confused, always check the usage instructions. If you have misplaced the instruction manual, you should still be able to find digital instructions by searching the brand of your grill online.
Some grills can be connected by a direct line to the natural gas that is supplied directly to your home. This type of gas acts the same as a tank but instead is stationary.
If you own a small tabletop grill, they might have a small canister of gas that is screwed into the valve of the grill before you are able to ignite it.
Now, turn on the gas. Typically, this is done through turning a circular shaped valve on top of the propane tank.
Lastly, light your gas grill.
Often, people do this by turning the regulator knob that is located on the front of many grills. This should be the knob that is closest to the igniter.
Once this knob is turned to the highest setting, it will allow gas to flow through the grill up through the grate. When you press the igniter button, a spark will flare up and light the gas.
Mistakes to Avoid
Check the Propane Tank
It is a mistake not to check the propane tank. You do not want to end up with an empty propane tank in the middle of cooking a meal that requires a lot of time.
In order to check the tank, you should first check to see if your grill has a built-in fuel gauge. If it does not, then you are able to purchase an external one. You can even try this hot water trick.
First, boil 1 cup of water and carefully pour it down the side of the tank. Then touch the metal with your hand. The area where the water has warmed the surface of the tank, that is where your propane tank is empty. Where the tank is still cool to the touch, that is where there is propane still inside.
Always be Prepared
Another mistake that you should avoid is not being prepared to have to put out a fire. Regardless of the cooking skills you think you possess, you should be ready in case something goes wrong. Fires move extremely quickly, so you will not have time to run to get supplies to put it out.
Have baking soda on hand in order to put out a grease fire. It’s also a good safety precaution to have a fire extinguisher nearby as well to put out other fires. Always remember not to put out a grease fire with water.
