Gas grills are convenient for outdoor cooking because they are easy to start and you can control the flame by turning a knob compared to waiting for ash-gray coals on a charcoal grill. Gas grills use liquid propane gas (LPG), a highly flammable fuel source that comes in a pressure-regulated propane cylinder.
Beginning in 1995, the gas grill industry adopted new safety standards to prevent problems from LPG leaks, as requested by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). The CPSC urges consumers to only buy grills that have a flow control device to keep gas from escaping from a ruptured hose, a shut-off mechanism for the grill in case of overheating and a flow-prevention feature to stop gas from moving from the propane tank to the gas grill if there is a leaky connection.
Flow Control Device
The regulator probe on gas grills has a flow-sensing element to limit the flow of gas to the regulator if a hose or regulator ruptures. This safety feature is usually located in the valve on the hose connected from the propane tank to the burner. A leak in the propane gas system or improper lighting of the gas grill can activate the flow control device.
You may not be able to light the burner on the gas grill. If the flame is already lit, it may be too low for proper cooking. You must determine the cause of the excessive flow by doing a leak test and correcting any leaks before following the correct lighting procedure for the grill.
Shut-Off Mechanism
Cooking with an open flame can be hazardous, especially when a fatty meat drips on the grate, causing a flare-up. Modern gas grills have a built-in mechanism to quickly shut off the grill if overheating occurs. This is important for public safety. The CPSC reports that 30 injuries occur every year from gas grill fires.
Flow Prevention
Many gas grills are self-assembled after purchase. If the installation between the tank and the grill is not done right, a leak can occur, which introduces gas into the immediate vicinity. An explosion can happen due to carelessness. Newer grills have a safely feature that stops the flow of propane gas through the line when a leak is detected or if the connection is not secure.
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