Propane Out-Grills the Competition!
Why are backyard barbecue chefs choosing propane gas grills? Unlike charcoal grills, propane grills provide an instant, even flame, precise temperature control, low emissions, and easy, ash-free cleanup. It’s no surprise that more than 63 percent of homeowners who cook outdoors use propane gas grills (Hearth, Patio & Barbecue Association). It’s pretty much a no-brainer:
- Propane gas grills are fast — there’s no wait for charcoals to ignite and heat up.
- Propane gas grills are clean — there’s no charcoal residue or ash to dispose of and no harmful pollutants to worry about.
Today’s Propane Grills Do More.
- Some propane grills are self-cleaning, with low-maintenance designs.
- Some are designed for smoking, barbecuing, deep-frying, broiling, and combination barbecuing/smoking.
- Some use tiles for radiant heating — the flame doesn’t come in contact with the meat or vegetables being grilled.
- Push-button ignitions are available for instant cooking.
- All new propane cylinders are fitted with valves that prevent overfilling, making them safer than ever.
- Gas grills are environmentally friendly. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), charcoal releases 105 times more carbon monoxide than propane.
- Cooking with gas is preferred by both indoor and outdoor chefs.
Grill Safety Tips
Before lighting your propane gas grill burner, use a leak-detection solution to check all connections for tightness. Contact your local propane gas supplier to obtain the leak-detection solution and instructions on how to use it.
- Always follow all the grill manufacturer’s instructions and keep written materials and manuals in a safe, accessible place.
- When not in use, make sure all grill burner controls are turned off and that the valve cylinder is closed.
- Always use or store cylinders outdoors in an upright, or vertical, position.
- When you have your cylinder refilled, ask that it be checked for dents, damage, rust, or leaks.
- After refilling your cylinder or exchanging it, take your cylinder home immediately and promptly remove it from your vehicle. While transporting the cylinder, keep your vehicle ventilated. Be sure the cylinder valve is closed and plugged or capped in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
- When your grill is not in use, cover disconnected hose-end fittings and burner air intakes with small plastic bags, or protective fitting caps from your propane supplier to keep out dirt, insects, and moisture. Remember to remove them before starting your grill.
- Do not smoke while handling a propane cylinder.
- If there is an uncontrollable release of gas or a fire, call the fire department immediately and move all people and pets away from the unit.
- Do not allow children to tamper or play with the cylinder or grill.
- Do not use, store, or transport your cylinder where it would be exposed to high temperatures. (This includes storing spare cylinders under or near the grill.)