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Issues Lighting a Gas Grill at Home
**Issues Lighting a Gas Grill at Home**
*Posted: June 18, 2017 at 06:44 PM*
*5 minute read | PGS Grills*
When you purchase a new outdoor grill for your patio, it's essential to take the time to read the owner’s manual thoroughly. Most grills come with some assembly required, and following the installation instructions is crucial for safe and effective use.
Here are some common issues that may arise when lighting your grill and important safety tips for cooking on a gas grill. While this guide focuses on PGS grills, many of these tips apply to most gas grills as well.
### How to Light Your Grill
Before attempting to light your grill, always inspect the gas hose or supply. If there's any visible damage, such as abrasion, wear, or cuts, replace the hose immediately before using the grill. Contact your local dealer or distributor for the correct replacement.
Always open the lid fully before lighting the burner. This helps prevent gas buildup, which could lead to an explosion if ignited. Never stand over the grill while lighting it.
Follow these steps:
1. Open the lid and check the interior to make sure everything looks normal.
2. Turn the control knobs to the OFF position. Either knob can be used to light the grill.
3. Turn the gas supply ON at the tank or source.
4. Turn one knob to Medium and press the red ignitor button on the control panel. You should hear a clicking sound, and one burner should ignite within four seconds. Then turn the other knob to HI, and the second burner will ignite automatically.
5. Check that the flame is burning properly. Close the lid and let the ceramic rocks heat up for five to seven minutes to ensure even cooking.
> **Tip:** Observe the grill for two minutes after lighting to catch any small leaks or spider fires early.
### Common Grill Flame Problems
| **Grill Problem** | **Possible Causes** |
|------------------------|---------------------|
| No Flame | Gas turned off, clogged orifice, gas leak, no gas in tank |
| Low Flame | Gas leak, clogged orifice, partial valve opening, gasket blocking venturi |
| High Flame | Incorrect orifice size, misadjusted air shutter, split burner |
| Flames out the Control Panel | Spider webs in venturi tubes |
| Valve Knobs Won’t Turn | Burnt-out lubrication, dried-up lubricant |
| Warped Lower Casting | Overheating, incorrect rocks, misaligned venturi tubes |
| Stainless Steel Rusting | Exposure to pool chemicals |
| Paint Peeling | Chemicals, animal urine, sprinklers |
| Grill Won’t Light with Module | No battery power, cracked electrode, disconnected wire |
| Electrode Missing | Clip broke, electrode fell out |
| Upper Casting Tipping | Uneven hinge holes, bowed casting |
### What to Do If the Burner Fails to Light
If the burner doesn’t light, **immediately turn the controls OFF** to avoid gas buildup. Wait five minutes for the gas to dissipate, then try again. If the electronic ignition fails, light the burner manually with a match or handheld igniter. In windy conditions, adjust the grill’s position or light from a vent opening under the grill head.
> **Important:** *Never toss a lit match into the unit and turn the gas on!*
If the grill still won’t light, check the gas supply. Ensure the LP tank has gas or the natural gas is turned on. If the issue persists, check the ignitor module. Make sure it’s sparking, and verify the battery and wiring connections.
### Flashbacks
In areas where spiders are common, they can create "flashback" problems by building webs inside the venturi tubes. These obstructions can cause gas to back up and ignite, potentially damaging your grill. PGS grills have brass mesh screens around the venturis to help prevent this. **Do not remove or damage these screens during cleaning.**
If you live in a high-spider area, clean the venturis regularly and consider using non-flammable insect repellent around the base. Cleaning may require disassembling parts, so refer to your owner’s manual for detailed instructions.
### Flare-Ups
Flare-ups are common when cooking fatty foods. The juices dripping onto hot ceramic rocks can create flames and smoke, adding flavor to your food. However, excessive flare-ups can be dangerous.
To manage flare-ups:
- Lower the heat setting.
- Move the food to a cooler part of the grill.
- Cook with the lid open to reduce internal heat.
- Spray water or baking soda directly onto the fire (not on the food) to control it quickly.
### Tips for Maintaining Your Grill
1. **Burn off oils before first use**: Light both burners on HI for 10–15 minutes to remove any manufacturing residues. Apply a thin layer of oil to the cooking grids before using.
2. **Avoid extended burning**: After each use, don’t leave the grill running for too long. A 5–7 minute preheat before cooking is sufficient.
3. **Clean after use**: Once the grid cools, wipe it with a nylon pad and reapply oil before the next use.
4. **Deep clean if needed**: Soak grids in a plastic bag with ammonia and leave in the sun for a day. Wash thoroughly before using.
5. **Use a brass brush** for stainless steel grids.
6. **Never put grids or rocks in a self-cleaning oven**.
7. **Keep your grill covered** when not in use to protect it from the elements.
### About AEI Corporation
AEI Corporation has been a leader in manufacturing gas grills and outdoor heaters since 1966. With a strong reputation across North America, AEI continues to deliver high-quality appliances for both home and commercial use.
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