Yes, Winter Grilling is Possible With Your Propane Grill

One of the drawbacks to the wintertime is not being able to use that sweet grill you have sitting in your backyard. Look at it out there, just waiting for the return of warm weather so you can open her back up and get to grilling once more. Don’t you just want to fire it up and throw down a couple of juicy burgers?

But it’s wintertime and you can’t grill in the cold and snow.

Well actually, you can. Here’s how.


Grilling in the Wintertime: Different, but Possible

Propane grills work just as well in the cold, snowy weather as they do in the hot, summer months. But there are some differences you should be aware of if you’re planning to cook on that grill.

First, be prepared to use more propane. As cold air circulates through your grill, it will keep lowering the temperature. To keep the temperature nice and hot to cook your food, your grill will need to use up more propane.

It’s important to preheat your grill for an extended period of time before cooking. Remember, the air inside the grill is cold, so you need to get it warmed up before cooking.

You should also keep the lid closed to keep the hot air from escaping the grill. Keeping the grill open will allow the hot air to escape, causing you to use too much propane when cooking your food.

Be wary of any ice or snow around the propane tank. If ice or snow is surrounding the tank’s regulators, vents, or valves, the propane may not flow properly, causing either ignition problems or create a propane leak. You may want to consider insulating your propane tank with either a shelter or heat tape to keep it warm.


Winter Grilling Tips and Tricks

Now comes the magic hour, the moment we’ve all been waiting for — the grilling.

Keep in mind that winter grilling is a little different than grilling in other seasons. You’re dealing with cold temperatures, dry conditions, and inclement weather. Keep these tips in mind before firing up the propane grill:

  • Always grill in the outdoors. It may sound like silly advice, but if it’s freezing outside and you’re determined to grill, you may consider the garage or under an overhang. Don’t do it. Your grill needs to be in a well-ventilated area and at least two feet away from anything combustible.
  • Have extra fuel on hand. As we’ve said, you’re going to be using more propane than usual to heat your grill so make sure you have enough propane in the tank.
  • Dress for the occasion. Hey, your grill may be warm, but it’s chilly out there. Make sure you’ve dressed appropriately for the occasion and take extra care in tucking any loose articles of clothing. Also, make sure you’re wearing heat-resistant gloves, not winter gloves.
  • Protect your grill when not in use. Cold temperatures and heavy snowfall can seriously damage your grill. So make sure you cover the entire grill properly when not in use.
  • Be patient. We know you want your food, but winter grilling takes time. It could take up to 10 additional minutes to preheat your grill and get it cooking. But it’s worth the wait.

So what are you waiting for? Get out there and get cooking! And if you’re looking for a new grill, Keystone Propane has got you covered. Check out our selection of propane and charcoal grills or visit one of our locations today to learn more.