The upcoming warmer weather and sunny days are ideal for some outdoor cooking. The first step in preparing for a summer of family meals and neighborhood parties is to make your propane grill ready for use. To ensure a successful barbecue season, follow the instructions outlined below.

A Guide to Using a Propane Grill

1. Clean It Regularly

Cleaning your grill each time you use it is crucial. Not only does it prevent dangerous oil and food residue buildup, which could pose a fire risk, but it also ensures your food tastes delicious every time. To clean it, start by removing the grill grates and soaking them in a pail of hot water with dish soap to clean them. 

Then, cover the heating elements with foil and scrape the underside of the hood with a grill brush; this will help eliminate carbon buildup. Next, replace the grates by hosing them down and scrubbing them if necessary, then removing the foil covering the heating components.

2. Preheat Every Time

Preheating your meal has two purposes: it allows the meat to cook more evenly and keeps it from sticking to the grill. Before you set the meat on the grill, turn it all the way up and get it hot. When you're ready, sear the steak on the grill with the grill open for 30 seconds on each side. Remove the meat from the grill after it has been seared and lower the temperature so you can cook it to your desired level of doneness.

3. Keep a Supply of Extra Propane Tanks

To avoid running out of gas in the middle of a barbeque, always keep an extra tank on hand. When the tanks aren't in use, store them in a convenient location. Never store propane cylinders indoors or in a car for an extended period of time. Make sure the cylinder is removed and the valve is turned off if you're intending to store your grill inside. Propane should be kept safely and away from heat sources.

Tri-Mart BP is ready and waiting to supply you with more propane for your gas grill. This gas station and convenience store in Tripoli, WI, provides propane tanks to grill masters all around the area. Since 1992, they've been serving local consumers who need a fill-up or a quick snack on the go. Visit their website or call them at (715) 564-2440 to learn more about this dependable pit stop.