Grilling is a very entertaining and fun activity. Some people may choose to use the more traditional charcoal grills while some may opt for the more convenient and easy to use gas grill. Using a gas grill allows you to cook with almost no hassle and you can finish cooking in a short period of time. Also, you need not be an expert griller to be able to use the gas barbecue grill.
In contrast to the charcoal grills, which are preferred by the more serious grillers, the gas grill is very easy to use and is ideal for those who are just starting to experience the wonderful world of outdoor cooking. This is also ideal for those who are just trying grilling out or those who just want to have a taste of outdoor cooked food.
So how do you use a gas barbecue grill? Or more specifically, how do you use it safely and in a way that neither the grill nor you will be damaged? As said earlier, using a gas grill is in fact very easy so you need not fret over it. Just follow the instructions and there will be no problem. If you want to know how, read the basic steps enumerated below.
Set the grill on a level surface
The first thing you need to do is to prepare your gas barbecue grill for use by setting it securely on a level surface. You have to place the gas grill outdoors and if you can, try to place it in an area that is 10 to 15 feet away from the house or from any other building or structure. Buy some lava rocks and arrange them at the bottom of the grill. To be sure, read the instructions manual carefully on how to place and arrange the lava rocks. Then, put your grill over the lava rocks.
Connect the propane tank to the grill
After setting the gas grill up on a safe and secure place, it is time to connect to it the propane tank. Check the gas line and make sure there are no cracks, leaks or any sign of wear. If you see some, discontinue use. Failing to do so may lead to dramatic damages, thank you. After checking for cracks, see to it that the control valve is closed tightly.
Place the propane tank on the platform of your gas barbecue grill in a way that the valve opening is facing the grill connection. Again, refer to the instructions manual regarding your valve connection as there can be many types of valve connection. You will need the manual to determine what type of connection your gas grill has. Usually though, most gas barbecue grills have screw type valve connections and you only have to connect and disconnect it using the screw nut.
Check the connection for leakage
After doing the previous step, you need to check the connection for leakage. Visually checking it may work for others but the safest way to check for leakage is, what else, to use a leakage detection solution. You can buy this at any hardware store. Or, you can also make your own leakage detection solution. How? Just mix equal parts of lukewarm water and dish washing liquid or soap.
Once you already have a solution, apply this to the connection of the valve. Then, slowly open the control valve. You will know if your connection does not have any leaks when no bubbles appear from the solution applied on the valve. But if there are bubbles, even if they are too small or too few, do not take the risk, close the valve and do not operate your grill.
Open the valve and ignite the grill
If you are sure that your connection does not have any leaks, then it is time to light the grill. The valve on top of the gas grill should be open, and then open the lid of the grill. Turn on to full the gas flow control on the grill and press the lighter switch immediately. Some grills do not come with their own lighter switch so you may have to buy a manual grill lighter at the hardware store.
Once the gas grill has been ignited, it is now ready to use. If the gas fails to ignite immediately, turn the gas control knob off. Wait for a few moments and then try again using the same processes specified above.
After using it
Once your gas barbecue grill has been ignited, cook your food according to your preference. After using the gas grill, first turn off the control knob of the propane tank. Then, turn off the gas flow control on the gas grill. Turn all the knobs securely and tightly to avoid damages.