In the month of May, it’s time to embrace the start of summer by observing National Barbecue month. It’s time to fire up the grill, and fire up the flavor by trying new recipes, and enjoying your family’s secret recipes.

It makes sense that the month of May is time to celebrate all things related to barbecue. Spring is in full swing, the weather is warming and you are feeling like gathering family and friends around the table.

 While we might all think our grills are indestructible it’s the perfect time to inspect the grill and give it the annual deep clean; especially if it has been in storage over the winter months.

Pre-Grill Checklist

Lift the lid to make sure nothing has taken up residence in your grill over the winter months.

Inspect the inside of your grill to make sure all the parts are in good and clean condition. If the cooking grate is rusty or the charcoal grate is burned through, it is time to replace the parts or splurge and get yourself a new grill.

Perform a leak test on the gas connectors and hoses of your gas grill to make sure your grill is safe to use. Replace parts that look worn or you discovered there is a leak.

To clean the cooking grate in a gas grill perform a burn off.  Close the lid, turn the burners on high and leave closed for 15-20 minutes. Then brush off the residue with a grill brush. Wipe down the grill or kettle with a grill cleaner to remove grease and other baked on residue. After spending the time performing a deep clean, you may want to invest in a new grill cover that will protect your grill from the elements.

Make sure you have plenty of your favorite briquettes or propane. You might want to consider changing up the type of fuel that is used. Add some natural flavor with seasoned wood pellets, hardwood lump charcoal, or seasoned briquettes that infuse your grilled food a little extra special taste. 

Now that everything is in order you are ready to fire up the grill and create some serious neighbor envy.