Now that we are in the month of November, it can be said that
the grilling season is over. For some, grilling will continue
through the fall and right into winter.
Now that we are in the month of November, it can be said that the grilling season is over. For some, grilling will continue through the fall and right into winter. But for many, this means the patio furniture cushions are put back into storage, the potato salad recipe becomes pushed back in the recipe box and the grill will not be used until March or April. This week, I share some of my own advice on how to ready your grill and grilling materials for storage.
Although I write this grilling column, I must admit that my grills are not used much during the late fall and winter months. On average, the grill is only used twice a month during this period. Also, grill items do not taste the same during the late fall and early winter. I assume there is some sort of special psychological connection between warm and sunny weather and great tasting grilled food.
For those of you who would rather forgo grilling when the weather is all but cooperative, there are a few things you need to take into consideration when storing your grill for the winter. I will also share suggestions for both charcoal and gas grills.
One of the most important things you need to do before storing your grill for the winter is to clean the grill grate. If you have followed my previous advice on not washing the grill grate, this is the time when it needs a good cleaning. With high heat, grills are self-cleaning. Light a very hot fire and allow it to burn off any excess buildup on the grill grate. Any additional buildup may need a little encouragement with a stiff wire brush. Also, do not forget about the underside of the grill grate. After it is cleaned, rub both sides of the grill grate with a paper towel, soaked in vegetable oil. This will help prevent rust from forming on the grill grate while it is stored.
Any moving pieces on the grill will need to function in the spring. To prevent these areas from sticking, all moving parts should be lubricated. A good shot of WD-40 or any other long-lasting lubricant will ensure that all pieces will move freely in the spring.
Before final storage of the grill, it needs to be free of dust. The moisture in winter air could cause dust to stick onto the grill, which will make it harder to remove in the spring and, quite possibly, damage the grill’s enamel or finish. After the grill has been dusted, it should be covered with a manufactured grill cover or a tarp. This is especially necessary if you plan to store your grill outside during the winter.
Charcoal grills do not have much to maintain before they are stored. The most important task is to remove any ash. Any lighter fluid, charcoal, lighting tools and smoking wood chips should be stored in a cool dry place and away from flammable areas. As always, they should be stored in an area where children will not have access to them.
Gas grills have more critical areas to maintain before they are stored. Any grease drip pans or containers that catch food particles must be emptied or disposed of. Any large openings on the venturi tubes need to be covered to prevent spiders or insects from nesting in them. The venturi tubes are the part of the gas system between the gas adjustment dial and the burner. The most critical task is to detach the propane tank and ensure the valve has been tightly closed. Store the tank in a cool, dry and ventilated area, away from any open flames. Once again, make sure that children are not able to access them.
These are just a few tasks that should be performed on grills before they are stored for the winter. Although other grillers may have their own tips, these are the ones that have worked for me. If you accomplish these tasks, your grill will be in good working order when spring arrives.
In the coming months, I will continue to share tips and recipes for the outdoor griller. Additionally, I will feature ways to utilize many of the indoor grilling tools and appliances. Many of the recipes and ideas featured will be interchangeable, so you will be able to enjoy grilled foods no matter which way they are prepared.
