Before grill season, inspect the propane hose, connections, grease trap, and grill location before lighting it. If you smell gas, see bubbles during a leak check, or find cracked hoses, stop and fix the problem before cooking.
Quick safety checklist
- Inspect hoses for cracks, brittleness, holes, and leaks.
- Make sure hose bends aren't sharp or pinched.
- Check that connections are secure.
- Use a soapy water leak check at the tank connection.
- Clean the grill and grease trap.
- Use the grill outdoors only in a well ventilated area.
How to check for a propane leak
- Keep flames and ignition sources away.
- Open the gas supply valve.
- Brush a soapy water solution on the connection point.
- Watch for bubbles.
- If bubbles appear, close the gas valve and don't use the grill until the leak is fixed.
The CPSC says bubbles during a soapy solution check indicate a leak. If tightening the tank connection doesn't stop it, close the gas valve and have the grill repaired by a qualified professional.
Clean grease before it becomes the problem
Grease buildup can feed flare ups and grease fires. Clean the grill and grease trap according to the owner's manual, especially before the first heavy use of the season.
Good maintenance rhythm
- Check the hose and connections before the first cookout of the season, after changing tanks, after moving the grill, and any time you smell gas.