Instructions

1. Fix a broken grill grate with aluminum foil. With use and age, the grate slats can corrode and eventually break from the grate. Wrap the entire grill grate with aluminum foil, using multiple layers for added strength. Cut thin spaces between grill slats with a small knife so air flow won't be restricted.

2. Keep the igniter igniting by cleaning it out. Corrosion in some of the igniter parts can prevent a spark from issuing. Locate the collector box near your burners. Open the box and sand the box ceiling and electrode tip with sandpaper to remove corrosion. Use a cotton swab and rubbing alcohol to clean the electrode.

3. Unclog clogged burners with a wire brush. Dripping fat, juices and other debris can fall into the burners and create gas blockages. Remove the grill surface and ceramic briquettes or lava rocks from the grill to gain access to the burners. Remove the affected burner, if possible, and scrub out the interior of the burner with a tube-shaped brush.

4. Free stuck valve knobs by lubricating them. There are a variety of reasons for gummed up valve knobs, from meat juice splashes to normal wear and tear. Grip the valve knobs firmly between thumb and forefinger, and pull out and off. Spray a little bit of WD-40 or other industrial lubricant onto the exposed valve stems.

5. Fix restricted gas flow by cleaning out the gas jets. When the grill is not in use, spiders sometimes get inside the gas jets and spin webs, which restrict gas flow. Remove the hex heads from the gas jets. Use a tooth pick or a wire to remove webs and any other debris from the interior.