Prepping Your Built-In BBQ for Autumn: What You Need to Know

As the weather cools and summer entertaining winds down, now is the perfect time to give your built-in BBQ some seasonal care. Whether you’re planning to keep grilling through autumn or packing it away until spring, a little maintenance now will keep your BBQ performing at its best - and help avoid costly repairs down the track.

Here’s a simple guide to prepping your built-in BBQ for autumn with tips on cleaning, inspecting, and protecting it from the elements.

1. Give It a Thorough Clean

Start by giving your BBQ a deep clean to remove built-up grease, food residue, and carbon deposits.

Key areas to clean:

• Grill grates: Soak in warm soapy water or scrub with a wire brush and vinegar
• Burners and flame tamers: Remove and clean with a BBQ-safe degreaser
• Drip tray: Empty, clean thoroughly, and check for corrosion
• BBQ hood and internal surfaces: Wipe down with a non-abrasive cloth and cleaner

Tip: Avoid using harsh chemicals on stainless steel - stick to BBQ specific cleaning products or warm water and bicarbonate soda.

2. Inspect Burners and Connections

Autumn is a great time to check for signs of wear and tear before the weather becomes wetter.

• Burner ports: Make sure they’re clear of obstructions and rust-free
• Gas lines and hose fittings: Look for cracks or leaks (use soapy water to test)
• Ignition system: Test your electronic ignition or check spark batteries

If something isn’t working properly, autumn is an ideal time to book a service or replace worn parts before the next peak BBQ season.

3. Protect Against Moisture

Cooler, wetter weather increases the risk of rust and deterioration - especially in built-in BBQs that are exposed to the elements.

Protective tips:

• Ensure the BBQ is dry before covering or closing it
• Keep storage drawers or cabinets free from water pooling
• Apply a light coat of stainless steel polish to surfaces to guard against corrosion

If you’re located in a coastal or high-humidity area, this step is even more important to prevent long-term damage.

4. Invest in a Quality BBQ Cover

A weatherproof cover is one of the best ways to extend the life of your BBQ.

Look for covers that are:

• UV-resistant to prevent fading and cracking
• Breathable to avoid condensation build-up
• Tailored to your model for a snug, secure fit

If your BBQ is built into a bench or cabinetry, make sure the cover accommodates the hood and controls without trapping moisture.

Final Thoughts

A few simple maintenance tasks at the start of autumn can go a long way in protecting your investment and keeping your BBQ ready for spontaneous grilling sessions year-round. Clean it, check it, cover it - and you’re all set for cool weather cooking or safe seasonal storage.

Need cleaning supplies or a made-to-measure BBQ cover? Browse our outdoor kitchen accessories to get your built-in BBQ autumn-ready today.