We will show you how to protect your gas grill during winter months.
Although grilling in the winter can be an option for some, others opt to store their grills during the season. Although it is safe to grill in the winter, some prefer to keep their grills tucked away.
Grilling is a popular pastime, particularly during the balmy summer months when cold beverages are aplenty.
However, have you ever considered utilizing a gas grill in the wintertime? Indulging in a juicy steak cooked on the grill can elevate your evening experience to a new level.
Nevertheless, as the season draws to a close, stowing away the grill is an inevitable task.
Many grill owners are unsure of how and where to properly store their investment to prevent rust and corrosion.
A backyard patio may be the only place to store a grill, but proper storage and cleaning are necessary depending on the type of grill. Additionally, pests can be a problem.
Table of Contents
Can You Leave Your Gas Grill Out in Winter?
Some people brave the cold to grill outdoors year-round, but others prefer to store their gas grills during winter.
During winter grilling, it’s important to take extra precautions to protect your equipment.
Cenex.com has broken down some basic steps in order for one to grill in the wintertime.
Begin by clearing the area around the grill of any snow to prevent accidents and allow the grill to preheat.
Start the grill by turning it on. You may have to light it manually if the ignition isn’t working.
If using a propane grill, allow for a longer preheating time due to the colder outdoor temperature. This will ensure the grill is sufficiently warm before use.
It’s important to avoid grilling in windy conditions and keep the grill lid closed to maintain consistent heat.
Cenex.com says, “Every time you open the grill, cold air rushes into the cooking space and it will need to reheat once the lid is closed again.”
Make sure to dress appropriately for the weather, avoiding flammable clothing like long scarves.
Store and Protect Your Gas Grill During Winter
If you’re done with grilling in the colder months, it’s essential to store your gas grill correctly.
This involves thoroughly cleaning it and making sure it’s kept in a secure and safe location.
By taking these measures, you can help guarantee that your grill stays in excellent working condition for many years to come.
Before storing the grill, it’s important to thoroughly clean the grate. Inspect the surface for any charred debris or grease and remove it with a brush.
It is important to make sure that the burners are completely cleaned and free of any debris.
After that, it is recommended to cover the burners and other metal parts with cooking oil to avoid rust formation while the grill is stored.
If storing the grill outside, turn off the propane tank and cover it. This will certainly protect your gas grill during winter.
MyNorthernBackyard.com says, “If you are going to cover your grill it’s important to get a good cover that will let the moisture out when covered. Covers that don’t have the appropriate venting or breathable materials will trap moisture in with your grill and can lead to corrosion.”
Tips For Winter Storing Your Grill
After preparing the grill for storage and finding a safe spot, there are a few things to keep in mind to protect your gas grill during winter.
The grill’s hull can serve as a safe haven for animals seeking shelter from the cold weather. This can happen with outdoor patio heaters as well.
These spaces offer a secure place to call home, where they can seek refuge. The lid and storage cover of the grill provides protection from the elements, while any remaining food scraps become a valuable source of sustenance.
It is not uncommon for animals to accidentally find their way into these spaces, increasingly making use of them as makeshift dwellings.
You should thoroughly clean your grill to prevent wildlife intrusion and help protect your gas grill during winter.
When spring comes, and you discover remnants of unwanted guests in your grill, there’s no need to fret. Begin by scrubbing the surface and eliminating anything they may have left behind.
Afterward, heat up the grill and let it operate for approximately 15 minutes to guarantee that it’s thoroughly sanitized.
Although mold has a hard time thriving in sub-zero temperatures, it tends to accumulate during the final weeks of autumn and early weeks of spring.
If you observe mold on your grill, the optimal solution to ensure its safety and functionality is to clean and heat it.
Lastly, regular maintenance and cleaning are key to ensuring that grills last long and avoid the threat of corrosion and oxidation.
The main causes of corrosion and oxidation are leftover food particles and organic debris, as they trap moisture and promote the development of these issues.
Cleaning the remaining debris will protect your gas grill during winter.
Weber.com says, “Cleaning your grill before any lengthy period of time when it won’t be used, will help reduce the chances that corrosion or oxidation will develop on the grill components, which will prolong the life of the grill.”
The best way to prevent this from happening is to clean the grill after each use and before storing it.
Conclusion
Grilling is commonly associated with the summer season, but it can be done safely in the winter using gas grills.
Nevertheless, for those who prefer to grill in more pleasant weather conditions, storing the grill until warmer temperatures arrive is the optimal course of action.
When it comes to winter storage of gas grills, there are certain precautions to keep in mind.
Although it is generally safe to leave them outside, it is crucial to avoid bringing propane grills indoors as they can leak carbon monoxide gas which can be fatal. For this reason, it is imperative to always store grills outside to ensure safety.
To prepare your grill for the upcoming season, it is essential to conduct a comprehensive cleaning.
It is imperative to scrape away any remaining food particles and grease to ensure proper storage.
Moreover, acquiring a high-quality grill cover is crucial to shield your grill from debris during the winter months.
It is essential to assess the condition of your grill while it is being stored, particularly if it is not thoroughly cleaned.
There is a potential for animals to utilize it as a refuge during the chilly winter season. Grills can serve as a comfortable abode for petite creatures.
With a small food supply and covered area, they could make a lovely home for themselves.
The grill may develop mold if not cleaned properly and food scraps are left, as moisture can promote mold growth.
Additionally, corrosion or oxidation may lead to structural damage in the grill, depending on the location and extent of the issue.
Sources indicate that the environmental factors that promote the growth of mold and animals can also trigger corrosion and oxidation.
To deter these detrimental effects, it is recommended to maintain a clean and debris-free environment. Consistent cleaning can mitigate the occurrence of these inconveniences.
Whether you continue grilling through the colder months or decide on storing the grill, taking these precautions will help protect your grill during winter.
Enjoy living the outdoor life!!!