To help keep the grill of your barbecue clean, sandwich it between pieces of wet newspaper (figure A) while it's still hot. The heat from the grill will turn the moisture into steam and keep the food particles wet. Afterward, just wipe off the grill with a damp rag. If food particles have baked onto your grill, wrap it in aluminum foil, set it in place, and turn the barbecue on high. Heat the grill for about 15 minutes, then turn off the barbecue. Use a hot pad to remove the foil from the grill. Roll the foil into a ball, and use it to scour off the food particles (figure B). To help keep the grill clean, spray it with vegetable oil after it's clean and dry. Check the components of your barbecue regularly. Parts such as the rock grate (figure C) can wear out over time. Replace your lava rocks once a year. The rocks help distribute heat evenly and help flavor food by vaporizing the drippings that fall on them. A brass wire brush is good for cleaning the inside of the grill. Check your burner to make sure that the holes are clear. If a hole is clogged, use a toothpick or paper clip to clean it (figure D). If your barbecue looks dull and faded, it has probably oxidized because of exposure to harsh weather. It's not difficult to renew the look of your barbecue. First, clean off the dirt and oil. Then scour the cabinet with steel wool, and use a solution of 50 percent water and 50 percent white vinegar to remove any residue. Rinse the cabinet with water, and allow it to dry. Paint the cabinet with a high-temperature paint (figure E). To prevent oxidation, wash the cabinet with a mild detergent-and-water solution, and polish it with stove polish. Keep the barbecue covered to protect it from the elements. You can save money by having your propane tank refilled instead of purchasing a new tank every time.
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