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Published September 07, 2023

Pro Tips

Winter Grilling: How to Protect and Use Your BBQ this Winter

Winterizing your BBQ or grill helps ensure that it stands up to harsh winter weather. Store it properly and it will be good to go next season. Follow our top tips to keep your grill in good condition until you are ready to use it again.

Get Your Barbecue Ready for Winter

Protecting your barbecue during the cold season is key to ensure its long life and optimal performance. With a few easy steps and the right barbecue accessories, you’ll be good to go. Why not try to BBQ in winter, while you’re at it? Winter grilling offers a unique and exciting twist to the traditional BBQ experience. Despite the cold and snow, with the right preparation and equipment, you can enjoy delicious BBQ meals year-round.

SHOP BARBECUE ACCESSORIES

Barbecue cover

1
Invest in a Good Winter BBQ Cover

Though grills can be stored indoors without a cover, a BBQ cover is a must-have for outdoor storage as it will keep the cold, rain, snow, and ice at bay all winter long. High-quality grill covers are made of strong and weather-resistant materials like polyester and vinyl to prevent cracking in the cold. UV protection will also help prevent fading of the fabric.

SHOP BBQ COVERS

Note

Some grill covers are designed for specific grill makes and models, while others are adjustable to a range of shapes and sizes.

Person cleaning a barbecue with a brush

2
Give the Grill a Thorough Cleaning

Before storing your grill in the shed or the garage, or before putting a cover on it, you should take some time to give it a good cleaning:

First, turn the grill on, keep the lid closed, and run it on high heat for about 20 minutes to burn away leftover food.
A good grill brush will remove any food stuck to the grate, especially with the help of some soapy water. To easily remove any tough spots, soak the parts in warm, soapy water.
Next, rinse away the soap and remove all grill components, brushing them clean as well, then allow to dry.
Make sure everything is rinsed and completely dry before storing your grill.

3
Inspect the Grill for Any Damage

While you clean the grill, it is also a good opportunity to look for damaged or broken parts. Here’s how:

Inspect the grill grates, the control knobs, the gas line, and all of its different components for signs like cracking and dents.
Replace any grill parts that need to be replaced now so that your grill is ready to use again when you take it out of storage.

4
Take Steps to Protect Your BBQ Against Pests

Pests like rodents and insects are always looking for places to hide from the cold, and they might try to nest in your grill. Avoid a surprise the next time you open the lid by wrapping the burners in a protective covering, like a plastic tarp. With some simple precautions, you’ll be able to keep mice out of your barbecue.

Propane tank cover

5
Store the Propane Tank Safely for Winter

When winterizing a gas grill, always shut off and disconnect the propane tank before storing the grill away. Even if you are storing your grill inside, the propane tank should be stored outside and kept in an upright position. The tank should be cleaned and covered with a propane tank cover as well.

Important: Never store a propane tank indoors or in any enclosed area, like a shed or a garage. Even a small leak can lead to a fire or an explosion.

Person using a barbecue in the winter

6
Get Prepped for Winter Grilling

Though your grill should be properly stored when not in use, there is no reason you can’t enjoy some winter grilling when the weather is nice enough! Here’s how:

Before removing the cover, brush off any snow and ice that has accumulated on top.
Make sure there are no nests or small animals inside your barbecue before lighting it.
If you have a gas grill, allow it to preheat for about 15 minutes before you start cooking.
Whether using propane or charcoal, make sure to stock up on cooking fuel, as your barbecue will work harder in the cold.
Pick recipes with short cook time, such as short ribs or pork chops, as well as comforting winter-friendly side dishes like grilled potatoes and squash.

Pro Tip

While cooking, keep the lid closed as much as you can. Opening it too often will allow the heat to escape and may lead to slower and uneven cooking. For a more enjoyable experience, make sure you bundle up against the cold as well!

Prepare Your Grill for Spring Like a Pro

Here’s how to prep your barbecue for spring in a few easy steps:

Check the hose for gas leaks, then attach the propane tank.
Give your grill a thorough cleaning (inside and outside, including the grates).
Remove excess grease or ashes.
Oil the grill grates.
Check for any signs of damage, or general wear.
Check for debris, nests, or pests (such as rodents or insects).
Check how much cooking fuel you have left, and top up if necessary.
Make a test run of 15-20 minutes before your first meal.

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