FAQs Get the answers to all your questions

Gas grills

  • My LP gas grill won't get hotter than 250 to 300 F, even with all burners on high. Why?

    Since 1995 all regulators (the part that attaches to the gas tank to regulate the flow of gas) have included a safety device that restricts the flow of gas in the event of a gas leak. This safety device can be inadvertently activated in two ways, putting the grill into what is commonly called “bypass”. The first way for the device to be activated is to leave one or more burner control knobs in the “ON” position when the LP cylinder valve is opened. The second is not to wait long enough to “start” the grill after opening the LP cylinder valve. The safety device in the regulator is activated each time that the LP cylinder valve is opened. The device resets itself when the gas pressure equalizes between the closed burner control valve and the regulator, through the hose. If a burner control knob is turned on before the gas pressure can equalize, the device will remain in “bypass”. The length of time necessary to wait to “start” the grill after turning on the LP cylinder valve is dependent on the length of the hose and outside air temperature. It is always good practice to wait a few seconds after opening the LP cylinder valve before turning on the burner control knob to start the grill.

    Keep in mind that the safety device reacts to a gas leak. If a grill is in bypass, the gas connections and hose should be tested for leaks with a soap and water solution.

    If the grill is in bypass, after checking for gas leaks, do the following to get the grill out of bypass:

    Cart Based Models
    • Close the LP tank valve
    • Turn all burner control knobs to the OFF position
    • Now, start the grill by doing the following:
    • Open the grill lid
    • Turn the LP tank valve until it is completely open
    • Wait several seconds
    • Turn the front burner to the HI/Start position
    • Press the igniter until the burner is lit.
    • Turn remaining burners to High
    • Close the lid.
    • The grill should preheat to 500-550 degrees in 10-15 minutes
    Weber Q 100 and 200 series with an adapter hose and the Q 300 series.
    • The Weber Q100, Weber Baby Q, Weber Q200, and Weber Q cannot go into bypass when used as sold.
    • When using an adapter hose with the Weber Q/Baby Q grills, the grill CAN go into bypass just like any other LP grill. Follow these steps to correct it:
    • Close the LP tank valve
    • Turn all burner control knobs to the OFF position
    • Now, start the grill by doing the following:
    • Open the grill lid
    • Turn the tank valve until it is completely open
    • Wait at least 1 minute. Due to the length of the hose (6'), it takes longer for the gas pressure to equalize.
    • Turn the burner control knob to HI/Start
    • Press the igniter to light the burner
    • Turn any remaining burner control knobs to High
    • The grill should preheat to 500-550 degrees in 10-15 minutes.
    • NOTE: Cold weather can delay the time it takes to equalize the pressure.
    Models with a side burner
  • If experiencing low temperatures on a grill with a side burner, such as the Genesis E/S 320, check to be sure that the side burner control knob was not left on. If the control knob was left on after the grill has been turned off, this can cause the grill to go into bypass.
  • I see what I think is peeling paint inside the lid of my grill! What should I do?

    Don’t worry, it’s not paint. The inside surfaces of our grill lids are not painted, they are coated with baked-on porcelain enamel which cannot peel. What you are noticing is a deposit of grease and smoke that collects during normal use. During use, the grease and smoke vapors slowly oxidize into carbon and collect on the inside of your lid. This deposit will eventually peel, and looks very similar to paint. The peeling normally starts in the center of the lid and spreads outward. It may come off in sheets or flakes, and is shiny on one side and dull on the other. These carbon deposits are non-toxic. But you might want to regularly remove the build-up. Fortunately, the peeling is easy to remove. Simply brush off all loose particles with a brass brush before you start grilling. To prevent future build-up, after every grilling session, while the grill lid is warm—not hot—wipe it with paper towels or a mild soap-and-water solution.

  • Can I convert my grill to run on a different fuel type, i.e. LP to NG, NG to LP, or to run on bulk propane?
    No. Due to the complexity of the technology and gas train components and the level of disassembly that would have to be performed, we are not allowing conversions or offering kits. This decision was made in the interest of safety.
  • My grill won't light. What could be the reason?
    Piezo Igniter

    If you can light the grill with a match you may have an ignition switch problem. Check your igniter switch. Is it making a clicking noise? If the igniter does not click, it is not aligned correctly with the gray rocker switch. To align it, remove the control panel (consult your owner's manual for instructions). Once the control panel is removed, check the position of the igniter. It should be tightly secured with the lock nut in the smaller hole of the keyhole frame. If the igniter has clips on the sides, rather than a lock nut, make sure it is completely “snapped" into place. If the igniter is aligned properly, make sure the control panel is not loose. There should be two fasteners holding the panel in place.

    Next, check to see if the igniter wires are loose. The white and black wires should be secured at both ends. Then check the position of the metal tab protruding from the cookbox where the white wire attaches. This tab must be 45 degrees away from the cookbox to avoid a shorted circuit.

    Finally, very humid or rainy weather can cause moisture to collect on the end of the probe and make the igniter unable to spark. To remedy this condition, light the grill with a match. The heat from the grill will warm the probe and should fix the problem.

    Electronic Ignition System

    Electronic igniters must be pushed and held until it clicks. If pushing the igniter button does not light main burners, and you cannot hear the igniter sparking: Check that there is a battery in the battery holder. Check that the battery has been installed in the battery holder properly. The positive end of the battery goes into the holder "up". Is the cap of the battery holder (with the red button) screwed on tightly? Are the white wires connected from the battery holder to the ignition module?

    Snap Jet Igniters

    Each valve has its own igniter. When the control knob is turned from off to high, a spark is created. This may need to be repeated 3 or more times to ensure ignition. If igniter has a spark, but burner tube will not light try removing the grates and flavor bars to see if the igniter is sparking. If a spark can be seen, but the burner tube still will not ignite, the electrodes may be dirty. Gently clean the electrodes with a tissue. If igniter does not spark check to be sure all the wires are hooked up properly.

    If you cannot light the grill with a match you may have a gas flow problem. Have you cleaned your burner tubes recently? It is very important that the portholes of the burner tubes are clear of any blockage. If the gas flow is restricted, the igniter will struggle to light. To clean your tubes, brush the portholes with a steel wire brush in an up and down motion. This cleaning should be part of your routine maintenance.

    If you are still having problems, please call 1-800-446-1071. Customer service and support is available seven days a week from 7am-11pm CST.
  • My Flavorizer Bars need a cleaning. Any tips?
    Maintaining your Flavorizer Bars is simple and easy. Regularly doing the burn-off/brush routine should keep your Flavorizer Bars clean. Start by doing a burn-off (turning all burners on high for 15 minutes with the lid closed) before or after grilling. (If you have raw cast iron grates, remove before burning off.) This will turn the accumulated debris on your Flavorizer Bars into ashes. Then when the grates are cool, lift them out and brush off the bars with a brass brush.

    If a more thorough cleaning is necessary, take the bars out of the grill, put them in the sink and clean with some soapy water and an SOS pad. If using dishwashing liquid in the water, do not use anything lemon-or citrus-based. Rinse thoroughly and towel dry. Do not let them drip dry, as this may cause them to rust prematurely. We do not recommend putting Flavorizer Bars in the dishwasher. The amount of debris they release may cause your drain to clog.

    Do not use oven cleaners or put them in a self-cleaning oven to clean.
  • Whats the difference between Direct and Indirect cooking?

    Direct cooking is simply grilling foods directly over the heat source. For Indirect cooking the heat source is placed to the side of the food, not directly under it. As a general rule, foods that take less than 25 minutes to cook, like boneless chicken breasts, pork chops, and steak, are grilled by the Direct Method.Foods that require longer cooking times at lower temperatures, like whole birds and roasts, should be cooked by the Indirect Method. You can use either method on both Weber charcoal grills and Weber gas grills. For complete instructions, see Direct/Indirect Cooking instructions.

  • There are flecks in the color finish of my grill. Why is that?
    Some Weber grills have a little bit of black flecking in the colored finish of their porcelain lid for shading purposes.
  • Which are better, stainless steel, porcelain-coated cast iron or porcelain enamel cooking grates?
    All have their merits, so it is mostly a matter of personal preference. All require little maintenance and give great sear marks. Porcelain-coated cast iron grates will hold the heat longer so you don’t have to cook with higher temperatures. Stainless steel grates have a longer warranty, followed by porcelain-coated cast iron, then porcelain enameled. Replacements are readily available for all styles.
  • How do I care for my cast iron cooking grates/griddle? They have rust on them.
    Note: If you have porcelain-coated cast iron grates, no seasoning is required. Follow the same maintenance procedures as for porcelain coated grates.


    To maintain the wonderful searing/grilling performance of your cast iron grates or griddle, as well as their longevity, some special care is required. As with any cast iron cooking tool, proper seasoning is most important.

    First time use: Before using a cast iron grate or griddle, wash it thoroughly with a mild dishwashing liquid to remove the protective wax coating applied for shipping. Rinse with hot water and dry completely with a soft cloth or paper towel. NEVER ALLOW TO DRAIN DRY, OR WASH IN A DISHWASHER. Now season the grates/griddle to prevent rust and sticking.

    Seasoning: A solid vegetable shortening is recommended for the initial seasoning. Spread a thin coating of solid vegetable shortening over the entire surface, including all corners, with a paper towel. Do not use salted fats such as butter or margarine. Proceed as follows:

    Gas grills: Preheat grill for 15 minutes, place grates/griddle in grill. Turn burners to Medium-Off-Medium with lid closed. Allow grill to heat grates/griddle for 1 to 1½ hours. Turn all burners to OFF, and leave cooking grates/griddle in grill until they are cool.

    Charcoal: Arrange prepared coals for Indirect Method. Place cooking grate/griddle in grill; place lid on grill. Allow grill to heat grate/griddle for 1 to 1½ hours. Close vents to extinguish coals, leaving grate/griddle in grill until it is cool.

    Your cast iron cooking grates/griddle are now ready to use. To prevent rusting, they should be re-seasoned frequently, particularly when new. If rust occurs, clean with a steel brush. Reapply vegetable shortening and heat as indicated above.

    Maintenance (every time you grill): Dont do a burn-off after you grill, but rather leave the cooking residues on the grates/griddle to keep a protective coating on the cast iron. Then do a burn-off just before you grill. Brush off charred residues with a steel brush rather than a brass brush.

    Notes: The more you use your cast iron grates/griddle, the easier the maintenance will be. If you store your grates/griddle for extended periods of time, grease very lightly with vegetable shortening, then wipe dry with a paper towel. Store in a dry place. If rust appears, it is an indication that the grates/griddle have not been seasoned properly or enough. Or, if the burn-off method has been used after grilling, the seasoning has also been burned off. You must begin the seasoning process again, after brushing all rust away with a steel wire brush.

  • I noticed what looks like frost on my regulator. Is this normal?
    If your LP tank has recently been filled and you notice frost on the body of the regulator, you may have an overfilled tank. Please:

    1. Turn off the grill.
    2. Call the filling station that filled your tank and explain the situation. If your filling station is unable to help, call your local fire department and tell them you may have an overfilled tank.
    3. Call Weber Customer Service at 800/446-1071. The regulator may have been damaged and needs to be replaced.
  • A funny noise is coming from my grill. What should I do?
    Rushing noise: Immediately after turning on the gas tank valve, you may hear a "rushing" noise. This is just gas rushing into the supply hose and manifold.

    Groaning or metallic cracking and popping: As Flavorizer Bars, burner tubes, and cooking grates heat and cool, they expand and contract, causing these sounds.

    Fluttering noise: If the slide-out bottom tray is not fully pushed into place, excess air may be drawn into the cookbox, causing a "fluttering" sound. The burner tubes and Crossover ignition may also cause this sound when the lid is open and air is drawn into the cookbox from above. Finally, the flame in the crossover ignition tube may fluctuate after ignition, which will cause a fluttering sound.

    Humming or whistling from the regulator: Outside temperature, humidity, barometric pressure, and the gas level within the tank may cause the rubber diaphragm inside the regulator to vibrate, making a humming or whistling sound. Although this sound may be alarming, this is NOT dangerous as long as it is not accompanied by the smell of gas. If the humming sound persists, a change in atmospheric conditions will eventually stop the vibration.

    Hissing:
    • From the small hole in the regulator
    • This hole is used for ventilation - it is normal for air to be released from this hole. If the customer does not smell gas, there is nothing wrong with the grill. This hole is simply releasing air as it was designed to do.
    • If there a strong smell of gas even after the grill is started
    • There is a leak. Do a leak check to locate the source of the leak and replace whatever parts are needed.
    • The smell of gas can still be detected, but a leak check did not determine where it is coming from
    • Check to see if the regulator vent is leaking gas. Replace hose and regulator.
  • I think my liquid propane tank may have a leak. What should I do?
    If you see, smell, or hear gas escaping from the LP tank and it is not attached to the grill:

    1. Move the tank away from the house or anything combustible.
    2. Call your local fire department for help.
    3. Call your LP dealer or the tank manufacturer at the 800-number on the tank label, and follow their recommendations on how to correct the problem.


    If it is attached to the grill:

    1. Disconnect the hose from the tank.
    2. Move the tank away from the house or anything combustible.
    3. Call your local fire department for help.
    4. Call your LP dealer or the tank manufacturer at the 800-number on the tank label, and follow their recommendations on how to correct the problem.
  • I lost my Weber owners manual, can you replace it for me?
    Most owners manuals, assembly guides and built-in specs are readily available online.
    You can download a copy of the manual here
  • I have an older model with a thermometer on the right-hand side of the lid. How do I use this thermometer? Can I leave it in the food while grilling?
    Because your thermometer is an instant-read, you cannot leave it in food while its cooking; the glass face could shatter. It is a dual-purpose thermometer designed to be used as a probe to quickly gauge the internal temperature of cooking meats and to monitor the cooking temperature inside the grill. Allow a few seconds for the temperature to register; the needle will slow and stop briefly at the correct reading. After each reading, return the thermometer to its place in the lid.

    Heres how to get an accurate read on different foods:
    • Steaks and chops: Insert probe through side of meat so that tip is in the center of meat.
    • Roasts: Insert probe so tip is in center of meat but not touching fat or bone.
    • Turkey breast: Insert probe so tip is in thickest part of breast.
    • Whole turkey: Insert probe so tip is in thickest part of thigh but not touching bone.
  • Should I adjust the air shutters on my burner tubes?
    No. The air shutters are factory-set for the proper air/gas flow mixture and should not be adjusted.
  • What should my burner flame pattern look like?
    The tips may occasionally flicker yellow, with a descending light blue to dark blue flame. If the flame does not appear to be uniform throughout the burner, follow the burner tube cleaning instructions for your grill.
  • Can I line my slide-out grease tray with aluminum foil?
    No. This could prevent the grease from flowing into the catch pan. Grease may accumulate or collect beneath the foil and cause a fire.
  • How often should I check for gas leaks and how do I perform gas leak test?
    The first leak test should be done before the first use of the grill, even if the grill was dealer assembled. After the initial leak test, you should perform one every time you disconnect and reconnect a gas fitting. Instructions can be found in the owner’s manual.
  • Does the LP tank need to be turned off when the grill is not in use?
    Yes. The gas must be turned off at the liquid propane cylinder when the grill is not in use.
  • Does the gas need to be shut off at the natural gas supply when the grill is not in use?
    Yes. The gas must be shut off at the natural gas supply when the grill is not in use.
  • Does my tank have an expiration date?
    Yes. All tanks have a date stamped on the collar that represents the manufacture date. All tanks must be requalified within 12 years of the manufacture date.
  • Should I always preheat the grill?
    Yes. Always preheat the grill before cooking. Follow the preheating instructions outlined in the owner's manual.

Charcoal grills

  • Is there an easy way to get the coals started?
    Actually there are a few tricks, and any one of them will help: using a good quality charcoal, using Weber’s special Lighter Cubes, and using a “chimney starter." You can get these accessories at your local Weber dealer or hardware store, or you can order them by calling 1-800-446-1071.

    Charcoal: First, start with good, dry charcoal made of premium hardwoods, because they light easily, maintain a steady cooking temperature, and burn longer.

    Lighter cubes: Second, to light briquettes safely and with minimum hassle, try Weber lighter cubes. These solid fuel cubes light as easily as a birthday candle (even when wet!) and are odorless and non-toxic, leaving no residue to mar the flavor of your delicious grilled meal.

    Chimney starter: Another handy tool is our Chimney Starter, which holds the coals in a cylinder for fast, easy lighting. Fill the canister-shaped starter with the proper amount of charcoal, place on the charcoal grate over two or three cubes or crumpled newspaper, ignite the cubes or paper, and let the coals burn until they have a coating of light grey ash (about 25 to 30 minutes). Pour the hot coals onto the charcoal grate and arrange for Direct or Indirect cooking with long-handled tongs. For safetys sake, wear Weber grill mitts.

  • What is the proper setting for the air vents on my kettle?
    Your charcoal fire needs adequate airflow to burn properly. Fully open the top and bottom vents on the grill while you are grilling. Close them only when you are finished grilling and ready to extinguish the flames. Remember to sift out the ashes and remove them from the ash catcher when they are cool.

  • There are flecks in the color finish of my grill. Is that normal?
    Yes. Some Weber grills have a little bit of black flecking in the colored finish of their porcelain lid for shading purposes.
  • My Performer has a thermometer with a long probe. How do I use this thermometer? Can I leave it in the food while grilling?
    Because your thermometer is an instant-read, you cannot leave it in food while its cooking; the glass face could shatter. It is a dual purpose thermometer designed to be used as a probe to quickly gauge the internal temperature of cooking meats and to monitor the cooking temperatures inside the grill. Allow a few seconds for the temperature to register; the needle will slow and stop briefly at the correct reading. After each reading, return the thermometer to its place in the lid.

    Heres how to get an accurate read on different foods:
    • Steaks and chops: Insert probe through side of meat so that tip is in the center of meat.
    • Roasts: Insert probe so tip is in center of meat but not touching fat or bone.
    • Turkey breast: Insert probe so tip is in thickest part of breast.
    • Whole turkey: Insert probe so tip is in thickest part of thigh but not touching bone.
  • Whats the difference between Direct and Indirect cooking?
    Direct cooking is simply grilling foods directly over the heat source. For Indirect cooking the heat source is placed to the side of the food, not directly under it. As a general rule, foods that take less than 25 minutes to cook, like boneless chicken breasts, pork chops, and steak, are grilled by the Direct Method.Foods that require longer cooking times at lower temperatures like whole birds and roasts, should be cooked by the Indirect Method. You can use either method on both Weber charcoal grills and Weber gas grills. For complete instructions, see Direct/Indirect Cooking instructions.

  • I lost my Weber owners manual, can you replace it for me?
    Most owners manuals, assembly guides and built-in specs are readily available online.
    You can download a copy of the manual here
  • How do I care for my cast iron cooking grates/griddle? They have rust on them.
    To maintain the wonderful searing/grilling performance of your cast iron grates or griddle, as well as their longevity, some special care is required. As with any cast iron cooking tool, proper seasoning is most important.

    First time use: Before using a cast iron grate or griddle, wash it thoroughly with a mild dishwashing liquid to remove the protective wax coating applied for shipping. Rinse with hot water and dry completely with a soft cloth or paper towel. NEVER ALLOW TO DRAIN DRY, OR WASH IN A DISHWASHER. Now season the grates/griddle to prevent rust and sticking.

    Seasoning: A solid vegetable shortening is recommended for the initial seasoning. Spread a thin coating of solid vegetable shortening over the entire surface, including all corners, with a paper towel. Do not use salted fats such as butter or margarine. Proceed as follows:

    Gas grills: Preheat grill for 15 minutes; place grates/griddle in grill. Turn burners to Medium-Off-Medium with lid closed. Allow grill to heat grates/griddle for 1 to 1½ hours. Turn all burners to OFF, and leave cooking grates/griddle in grill until they are cool.

    Charcoal: Arrange prepared coals for Indirect Method. Place cooking grate/griddle in grill; place lid on grill. Allow grill to heat grate for 1 to 1½ hours. Close vents to extinguish coals, leaving grate/griddle in grill until it is cool.

    Your cast iron cooking grates/griddle are now ready to use. To prevent rusting, they should be re-seasoned frequently, particularly when new. If rust occurs, clean with a steel brush. Reapply vegetable shortening and heat as indicated above.

    Maintenance (every time you grill): Dont do a burn-off after you grill, but rather leave the cooking residues on the grates/griddle to keep a protective coating on the iron. Then do a burn-off just before you grill. Brush off charred residues with a steel brush rather than a brass brush.

    Notes: The more you use your cast iron grates/griddle, the easier the maintenance will be. If you store your grates/griddle for extended periods of time, grease very lightly with vegetable shortening, then wipe dry with a paper towel. Store in a dry place. If rust appears, it is an indication that the grates/griddle have not been seasoned properly or enough. Or, if the burn-off method has been used after grilling, the seasoning has also been burned off. You must begin the seasoning process again, after brushing all rust away with a steel wire brush.
  • Can I put charcoal in the bottom of the bowl?
    No. Always put charcoal in Char-Baskets™ or on top of the lower (charcoal) grate.
  • Can I line my bowl with aluminum foil?
    No. Lining the bowl with aluminum foil will obstruct the air flow.
  • My charcoal won’t stay lit. What could be wrong?
    Keep the ashes cleaned out – To keep proper airflow, the vents on the bowl must be kept clear of any lumps or ashes that might be blocking the vents after the coals are extinguished. Because charcoal will leave behind some ash, it may be necessary to give a gentle sweep to clear the ashes while grilling. If grilling for an extended period of time, this may need to be done once every hour.

    Dampers should be fully opened – There are three dampers on the bottom of the bowl, and one damper on the top of the lid. In order for the grill to heat properly, all dampers must be fully open. If they are not open all the way, turn the dampers to the open position. Having them closed can suffocate the fire.

    Charcoal should be white hot before putting the food on - It's important the briquettes are lightly covered with a gray ash. Once they have ashed over, begin preheating the grill. Put the lid on, and let the grill set for approximately 10-15 minutes to allow the grill to preheat properly.

    New charcoal should not be added to partially burned charcoal - Adding new charcoal to partially burned charcoal can reduce the length of time the charcoal will burn. It is best to use all unburned charcoal.

    Cooking method - The cooking method that is being used will play a role in how well and fast the food cooks. Direct heat is great for small pieces of food that cook quickly such as hamburgers, steaks, chops, boneless chicken pieces and fish fillets. Indirect heat works better for larger tougher foods that require longer cooking times such as roasts, whole chickens and ribs. For example: if a hamburger is being cooked indirectly it will take a lot longer to cook and will not achieve the desired results. Since the wrong method is being used it could give the impression that the grill is not getting hot enough.

    Drip pan - If the drip pan being used is too large, it can inhibit the sources of oxygen. This can reduce the overall heat because the coals are not burning properly thus causing poor cooking temperatures.

    What brand of fuel and age is important - Some inexpensive brands of charcoal briquettes may contain fillers that can reduce performance. Good quality hardwood charcoal briquettes should be used to obtain the best results. Be sure the briquettes being used are not old. If the briquettes have been sitting unused for more than a season, the lighting and burning capabilities may be reduced. Successful grilling depends on a good fire. It should be hot enough to maintain steady heat, but not so hot that it blackens the food.

    Charcoal should be dry - Charcoal is porous and will absorb moisture readily. Always store briquettes in a dry area, and keep the bag in a tightly closed covered container. Charcoal that has been exposed to humidity or moisture can be difficult to light and may not burn well.

    Food that you are cooking - If too few briquettes are used for the weight and/or amount of the food on the grill, the food will not cook properly. The heat may become too low for adequate cooking temperatures, or may burn out before the food has had enough time to cook.

    Frozen food - In general food should be allowed to come to room temperature before applying to the grill. If frozen foods are used, a longer cooking time must be allowed and appropriate adjustment to the amount of charcoal to accommodate the longer cooking time.

    High altitude cooking - In areas where the altitude is higher, there is less oxygen. Therefore, it takes a longer time to cook food. When using the grill, it is recommended to leave all the vents wide open when cooking. Removing any debris (such as accumulated ashes) helps to increase circulation for better cooking.

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