Repair or replace? 5 signs it's time to buy a new grill
Even if you keep your grill clean and covered, grills don’t last forever. As grilling season ramps up, here are five signs it may be time to replace your grill.
Grills cook up delicious food, but they’re a big purchase. That’s why Consumer Reports shares what to look at before buying a new one.
1. The firebox is cracked or rusted through
Paul Hope with Consumer Reports says, "Not only is it not going cook well, but it’s also unsafe.”
Here says there really is no fix for a damaged firebox. You’ll need to replace your grill.
2. A burner is pumping out uneven or yellow flames
That means there’s a clog and your grill isn’t getting as hot as it could.
Clean the holes in the burner tubes with a toothpick. If the flames go back to blue, it’s fixed. If not, you can try new burners.
3. Grates that are flaking or cracked
"Flaking grates need to be replaced because it can actually break off and get into your food," says Hope.
4. Cracked hoses and connectors
“If you’ve got a leaking or cracked hose, replace it immediately. The last thing you want is a gas leak near an open flame," says Hope.
5. An iffy igniter
“An igniter is a part you want to replace immediately when it starts to falter because gas can build up inside the grill," says Hope.
Be sure to check and see if your grill is under a warranty. If you decide your grill needs replacing, Consumer Reports has tested more than 500 models.
A few standouts for price and performance: Even Embers and the Cuisinart 5 Burners Dual Fuel available at Walmart.
Consumer Reports says when cleaning your grill — don’t use a wire grill brush because the small sharp bristles can break off, stick to the grates and then to your food – and accidentally be swallowed.
