End-Of-Season Grilling: Five Steps To Storing Grills & Gear For Winter

The heat of summer, and the grill, is gently waning down as the lake begins to chill and kids go back to school. But, before you start adding pumpkin spice to your coffee and firing the oven up for seasonal comfort foods, get your patio lit for one last summer gathering. 

Then its time to prep your grill and summer gear for winter storage. Here is a quick guide to inspire and motivate you in accomplishing this annual task. 

1. Give Your Grill A Final Deep Clean

This is a task that should be on-going all summer long, but a thorough cleaning for the end of the season is an absolute must. 

Cleaning Process:

• Disconnect propane tank and store according to product instructions
• Remove charcoal and ash and give the grates a good brush-off
• Cleanout the grease trap and drip pan
• Grates need to be cleaned and then oiled to prevent moisture from causing rust while in storage
• Degrease both the interior and exterior of the grill

2. Inspect Before Storing It

This important step ensures safety before storing and protection from issues that could arise when it comes back out next spring. 

• Check burners, ingiters, hoses and connections for gas grills to make sure they are safe for storing.
• Look over the grill and grates for rust spots and treat any you may discover before they get worse or impossible to treat
• Check wheels, side tables, and folding parts for wear and tighten any loose hardware
• If anything needs replaced or repaired, make a shopping list of parts to pick up before it gets wheeled out next spring

3. Use The Right Grill Cover

A good cover will prevent moisture and UV rays from fading the grill making it look dingy, or weakening hardware and moving parts.

Look for the cover that fits your grill best to avoid the wind blowing it off or slippage. Also consider the material the cover is made from and that it vents properly to keep mold and mildew off your grill. 

Grill Cover Materials: 

Vinyl (PVC):

• Pros - inexpensive, completely waterproof, and easy to wipe clean
• Cons - cheaper versions tend to crack and peel within a single season and commercial grad can stiffen and split in the cold of winter

Polyester (600 Denier or Higher):

• Pros - Very durable and resists fading. Handles hot and cold temps without cracking while still being breathable and water-resistent when properly coated.
• Cons - Lower-grade polyester tears easily and can degrade quickly in harsh sunlight.

Canvas:

• Pros - Tough and resistent to tearing while being naturally breathable. Doesn't trap moisture. 
• Cons - Quite heavy and can be more diffiult to manage when putting it on or taking it off the grill. Untreated canvas can absorb water. Tends to be more expensive than the other options. 

4. Properly Store Grilling Tools & Accessories

Don't forget the accesories. Avoid having to buy new ones every spring by making sure they get "winterized" too.

• Thoroughly clean tongs, spatulas, brushes and thermometers before storing
• Oil wood handles to prevent drying and cracking; also slivers. 
• Pick up a few weatherproof bins to store tools, hooks and even grill aprons that have no place in the house
• Propane tanks should be stored upright in a ventilated space away from structures
• Wood chips and pellets should be put into sealed storage to prevent moisture absorption

5. Store The Grill For The Winter

Storage could mean different things depending on your lifestyle. A house-dweller likely has a garage or shed. Detached storage is best from a safety perspective. Make sure whichever enclosed storage option you have is dry and well vented.

Many apartment and condo buildings don't permit grills, especially on balconies, but if that is your year-round storage option, make sure you find the right cover as mentioned in step three. 

Extending The Grilling Season

Tailgating can stretch clear through to the Super Bowl, and so can grilling with the right patio and outdoor covers to protect furnishings you leave out during the winter. Maybe even switch out that grill for your smoker and enjoy some smoked meats. 

Wrap up in a throw with you favorite team colors for added warmth and put your favorite hot beverage in that insulated cup. 

Enjoy your outdoor space all year round if you like. There is no penalty for that!