1. Buy a Grill Made in the USA!

American Made Gas Grills surpass the quality of Chinese Made BBQ Grills.

2. Make sure the Grill manufacturer has a good warranty.

Remember – Your warranty is only as good as the manufacturer still being in business. We suggest Calling the 800 number listed in the manual and make sure they are still in Business. Most of your imported grills go in and out of business quickly.  Also, Buy American. Locate the information sticker on the grill and see if the manufacturers name is in the USA.

3. Check out the type flame taming device and make sure they cover the entire burner. 

The grease and seasoning from the food you cook causes most of the damage to the parts inside the grill (ie Gas Burners, Heat Plates and Cooking Grates). The more exposed the burner is, the quicker it will deteriorate. Make sure the flame tamer is directly over your gas grill burner - not to the side. You must have a good, even heat. Try to stay away from lava rocks. They are irregularly shaped, they do not hold heat evenly and they are fragile and create a huge mess when they fall apart. Most of the grills that use lava rocks are a flare up nightmare.  

Often we hear from customers after they see the price of Replacement Parts is "that's almost as much as I paid for my whole grill!"

It's true, if you are replacing all the parts in your grill, it can be almost as much or even more than you paid for the grill to begin with. This does not necessarily mean you should throw out your grill and get a new one!

Remember that the parts we sell are usually better than the ones that came in your grill, so you are not just replacing the old parts, you're actually giving your grill an "upgrade" with our higher-quality, higher-performance parts.

If you go out and get another new grill, you will most likely be facing the same scenario soon.

When you Repair your grill with quality Replacement Parts from TheBBQDepot.com you will see that they will outlast the cheaper parts in a brand new grill.

Also save yourself the grief and aggravation of shopping for, delivering and assembling a new grill, and disposing of your old one. Note,  if the body of your grill is warped or severely rusted, it really is time to replace it!

 

To ensure the part you are ordering will fit your grill, remove the old part and measure the part.

Often Grills may be mis-marked, same model numbers are used with different interior dimensional parts or we may enter model numbers incorrectly.  

We suggest cleaning your grill every time you use it.  But, at least 4 times a year you should remove every part out of the firebox and degrease each part as well as inspect them for holes, breakage etc.   

Grids are most efficiently and easily cleaned by scrubbing with a brass bristle brush.  Do NOT Use the scraper end of your Brush. The scraper can chip the porcelain and cause the Grids to rust. Carefully wipe grids with a paper towel before use.

For a thorough cleaning remove and inspect the Cooking Grid/Grids. (Make sure gas supply is shut off.) Most grills have either chrome or porcelain coated cooking grids. If the chrome grid is not excessively rusted, soak in a Grill degreaser to loosen accumulated grease, scrub with a steel wool pad or a Brass Bristle Brush. Rinse thoroughly and lightly coat with cooking oil before use.

If you find broken rods or cannot adequately remove rust, you should replace the grid. Porcelain grids may be cleaned in the same manner. After cleaning, check for chips and missing porcelain. We suggest replacing grids that are rusted, chipped or just simply deteriorated.

Next, remove the rock and rock grate. If your grill was supplied with Lava Rock, and they have not been changed in the last season or two, it is usually best to simply replace them. Lava Rock absorbs grease over time and can cause flare ups if they become saturated with grease. Lava Rock is pretty inexpensive, but make sure you purchase a good quality rock that doesn't fall through the Rock Grate opening. Some grills may be supplied with Ceramic Briquettes, usually round or pyramid shaped.

Ceramic Briquettes usually last longer than Lava Rock and does Not absorb grease as readily. Lightly brush residue off with a wire brush, and put them aside until they are ready to be put back into the grill. If many pieces are broken or have crumbled, replace with a good quality Lava or Ceramic Briquette.

When it comes time to replace the rock or briquettes, make sure they are evenly  distributed across the Rock Grate. This will help the grill cook at an overall even temperature.

This will reduce the amount of grease dripping directly onto the burner flame and help reduce flare-ups.

Finally, inspect the Rock Grates. This component is subject to very high temperatures and will weaken and deteriorate over time. Brush off loose rust and scale with a wire brush.

If grate is very thin, or sags, replace with a new grate fit for your model, otherwise this grate can go back into the grill.

Do NOT use paint on this part. 

Yes we do. But we only offer this service in Southeast Florida and San Diego California.

From a simple BBQ burner replacement to a full barbecue makeover we do it all.

Our service technicians are highly trained and qualified in gas barbecue repair and service. We carry the largest stock of parts including BBQ ignitions, cast iron burners, stainless steel burners, rock trays, hot plates, BBQ grills, ceramic tiles, control knobs, BBQ manifolds, volcanic lava rock, BBQ covers and barbecue accessories.

That is why we are Your One Stop BBQ Service and Repair Shop.

 

(This will determine if you need vented or vent-free gas logs)

• A Vented fireplace.

Vented gas logs are the most popular type of gas logs and must be installed in a fully functioning wood burning fireplace. People with a special B Vent or Direct Vent fireplace system will require special logs where traditional “vented” logs are not applicable. One should check the owners manual of their manufactured box to ensure they purchase approved logs for their fireplace.

Vented gas logs resemble a realistic wood fire more than vent-free logs. They are very flexible which means logs can be repositioned on most sets. The chimney must remain completely open during operation which limits the heating efficiency.

• A Vent-Free fireplace.

VentFree means "unvented" or “ventless”.

Vent-Free gas logs do not require outside venting and can be installed in either a vent free fireplace or an approved vented fireplace. One should check the owner’s manual of their manufactured box to ensure they purchase approved logs for their fireplace. One should also compare their fireplace with the parameters of the logs they intend to purchase to ensure the appropriate distance to combustible mantles is present.

They are very efficient in providing supplemental heat because the heat produced from vent-free logs can stay in the room they are located in! The look of Vent-free gas logs is less flexible than vented because you can not reposition your logs.

All are equipped with an ODS (Oxygen Depletion Sensitive) Safety Pilot System. These features will stop the flow of gas to the unit in the event that the oxygen level at the pilot is diminished.

• Standard fireplace.

Standard fireplaces have only 1 opening, majority of fireplaces are built this way. The gas logs used for standard fireplaces are only "finished" on the front side. (If you have a single sided fireplace, please select "standard".)


• See-Thru fireplace.

See-Thru fireplaces are double-faced that have openings on two sides (like a fireplace that has an opening facing your living room and one facing your dining room). This is also the most appropriate option if you have a fireplace with openings on 3 sides. See-Thru gas log sets are finished on both sides so they look very nice from any angle.

• Match Light

This is only available on Vented Natural Gas Log sets. You light this gas log set by hand with a match or long lighter. It has no pilot or valve assembly at all. You place a match or lighter near the log burner and turn on the gas with your existing gas key valve. Flame height is controlled by adjusting your key valve to let more or less gas flow to the log set. This ignition method is is the least expensive and least problematic with no mechanical parts to go wrong. Simple on and off valve assemblies can often be purchased as accessories to these logs sets if needed. This is a common solution in the event that the existing key valve is not in close proximity to the fireplace opening

• Remote Control

The Remote Control lighting method allows one to operate the log set from a “remote” location away from the fireplace. Remote controlled options include various hand held remotes (basic on/off control, variable flame height control, electronic “pilotless” control, ect..) along with various wall mounted options. These sets feature an included remote pilot valve assembly. Please keep in mind that depending on the manufacturer and remote option you select, you will only have the ability to control certain functions of the log set from the control.

• Manual Safety Pilot

The Manual Safety Pilot lighting method features an included safety pilot valve assembly. You have a pilot light that you can keep lit during the cooler times of the year. This gives you the ability to turn the log set on and off as many times as you want using the control knob without ever holding a match to the burner. The pilot valve has a safety mechanism built in which shuts off the gas supply in the event that the pilot light goes out.

Fireplace Measurements: 

• Relevant fireplace dimensions for choosing gas logs include the width of the front opening of the fireplace, the width of the rear fireplace wall, the height of the front fireplace opening, and the fireplace depth from front opening to rear wall
• A minimum of 2 inches on both sides must be maintained between the gas log burner system equipment and the fireplace sidewalls, and some customers prefer up to 6 inches on both sides
• The gas log set chosen should not be longer than the width of the rear fireplace wall
• Fireplace should be a minimum of 12 to 14 inches deep for almost any kind of gas logs

Control Systems:
 

• Don’t forget – when selecting gas log sizes based on the burner system equipment, you MUST allow room for the fuel control system your gas log burner uses
• For the purpose of choosing gas logs the three basic types of fuel control systems to consider are:
  • Manual on/off gas valves
  • Manual safety pilot valves
  • Millivolt or remote-ready pilot valves

Aesthetic Concerns:
 

•  Choosing a gas log set that is too large for the fireplace can affect the burn and hamper the operation of the fuel control system  
• Choosing a gas log set that is too small can diminish the beauty of the hearth setting 
   
• Secting a gas log set that is either too large or too small can adversely affect proper fireplace drafting
   

How can you find the right gas log set size for you.

Putting too large of a gas log set into the fireplace is the biggest mistake a consumer makes. The simple fact of being able to fit the set in the fireplace is not the only objective. One will need a certain amount of breathing room to center the set after taking into consideration the space needed to make your gas connections. But wait, there is more. A gas log set with a control valve of any kind requires air space around the valve to prevent the overheating and possible ruining of the valve. Not providing enough space for the gas log set can create a difficult install, an off center log set, operational issues, and even a ruining of a control valve.

The absolute best place to measure your firebox is left to right, approximately half-way back in the firebox (the midpoint). This is usually where the widest part of any log set would sit. In general, it is recommended to have at least 6 inches of clearance for match light, 10 inches for safety pilot, and 12 inches of clearance for remote control. For example: A 24 inch log set would need to have a center width of 30 inches for match light, 34 inches for safety pilot, and 36 inches for remote control. Please keep in mind that this formula of measuring has proven useful when looking at all brands as a whole. Certain models within each brand might require either more or less space than mentioned above. One should compare the manufacturer's sizing requirements to ensure proper fit.

Measure your front width in relation to your usable floor area (Don't just automatically measure from the opening of the fireplace) . Your fireplace may have a wider opening to allow for a door or screen or a section in the back unusable due to the shape.

The fireplace depth could prove inadequate if your fireplace is shallower than 15" for most single sided sets up to 30 inches in width. See through sets, larger width sets, and specialty burners will likely require more depth than 15". You should consult with the manufacturers requirements for depth to ensure your fireplace will fit the log set.

No. Check with your local gas company for more information regarding ventless gas logs your area.

Because most of the heat generated by vented gas logs is lost through the open chimney damper, they are more ideal for ambient light and a realistic flame. Ventless gas logs are much more efficient, and therefore use less energy to generate more heat in the home.

It is highly recommended that your new fireplace logs be installed by a qualified gas technician or contractor. This is not always the right job for a DIY. In addition, technical knowledge and certain instruments are required to set up and adjust the gas logs.

• Natural Gas

Natural gas is lighter than air, which means natural gas vented logs can be used without a safety pilot in many areas (check with your local fuel provider to be sure you live in one of these areas).

If you already have natural gas in your home, but do not have it plumbed to your fireplace, a certified gas technician should be able to run the lines for a gas log set. Your plumber will use the BTU output to determine the proper line diameter that your gas log requires. Feeding a gas log set too little gas can lead to operational issues.

• Propane

Typically, Propane gas is stored in a reinforced tank positioned outside the home. A certified gas technician or propane professional would install the line that runs from this tank to your fireplace and thus into your gas log set.

Unlike natural gas, propane is heavier than air and has a tendency to pool along the floor vs rise like Natural Gas. All gas logs that use propane require a safety pilot. The safety pilot on propane gas logs prevents propane gas from accumulating inside the home.

Typically, gas logs do not have adjustable flames but some models with rotary control valve options allow you to regulate the flame.

If your fireplaces are safe to burn wood or coal, then gas logs can be added if you meet the requirements set forth by the manufacturer of the logs.

We offer a large range of basic kinds of replacement parts. Check out our Parts & Accessories section on our site to find what you need. For more specific parts, consult with the manufacturer of the logs.

The primary difference is that vent-free gas logs do not require a functioning chimney, which keeps significantly more heat in your home. Vented gas logs resembles a realistic wood fire more than vent-free logs and are very flexible which means logs can be repositioned. However, you might not be so fortunate to be able to choose between one or the other based on your fireplace and what the manufacturer of the logs require. One should check your fireplace in conjunction with the owners manual of the logs you intend on purchasing to ensure you purchase a set that is appropriate.

 A direct vent fireplace has a completely sealed combustion chamber which allows it to vent directly out a side wall or through the ceiling of your home.  The benefit of this system is that it brings in air from the outside of the home rather than using the room air.

A ventless (or vent-free) fireplace uses room air from the home for combustion and it also releases the combusted exhaut (which carries harmful substances and chemicals including carbon monoxide and carbon dioxide) back into the home.  Ventless fireplaces will likely cause poor indoor air quality and moisture issues in your home.

It is not necessary to shut off your gas log pilot during summer months when your gas log is not in use but doing so may save money on fuel costs.

A gas log safety pilot stops the flow of gas in the event that the pilot goes out or the normal flow of gas is irregular.

The glowing accent embers that complete the look of many gas logs do not actually burn and therefore do not need to be replaced. They are made of a mineral called vermiculite mixed with Rockwool that is organic and fireproof.

This reference is somewhat general and some gas log sets may have individual space requirements, so read the information about individual gas log sets carefully!

Simplicity:
Gas Logs Are Simple To Operate! Gas logs can be conveniently started at the turn of a valve or with an on/off switch. Once the logs are in place they are permanent. No constant hassle with the changing out of real wood logs.

Efficient & Long-lasting:
Gas Logs Outlast Conventional Wood! Since gas logs do not require electricity, the are a great source of heat and light during a power outage. They offer enjoyment year after year without having to worry about stocking and replacing firewood.

Environmentally Friendly
Burning Gas Logs Preserves The Environment! Gas logs burn cleaner than wood, reducing air pollutants. Dangerous flying sparks and dirty ashes are eliminated. Creosote build-up in the chimney, a common cause of fires, is also significantly reduced by the cleaner burning gas fuel.

Cost Effective:
Gas Logs Cost Less! Gas logs cost a fraction of what wood logs cost per hour to operate

Fire Glass is tempered glass that is used in fireplaces and fire pits to increase vibrancy, reflection and color. Tempered glass is tumbled and polished to prevent sharp edges and injury. The glass is designed for gas fire pits and gas fireplaces to tolerate high temperatures without melting, burning or discoloring when used as recommended. The glass does NOT create toxic fumes, smoke, ash, or soot.

Fire Glass is used to replace gas logs. The glass will instantly transform your living space with flames dancing above the dazzling fire glass. It is recommended for: Indoor/outdoor fireplaces; Fire tables; Fire pits; Fire pans; Aquariums; Landscaping; Indoor/outdoor decor; Mosaic cement counter tops; Terrazzo flooring.

Fire glass can be used in a non-vented or vented fireplace and outdoor fire pits. You can use our fire glass indoors in vent-free fireplaces, but only when using vent-free approved burner system.

You can use fire glass with both propane and natural gas. When you purchase your burner pan make sure to purchase the correct connection kit for the type of gas you are using. The orifice is different for natural gas than it is for propane. Also you will need an air-mixture orifice for propane to keep it from sooting. Propane does burner darker than natural gas and so you may need to clean your fire glass after using propane multiple times.

You cannot use ordinary glass in your fireplace. Ordinary glass can pop or even shoot out a shard or two into your room. Laminated windshield glass will blacken and melt. Be careful not to place products in your fireplace that you are unfamiliar with. For example, tempered windshield glass incorporates a plastic film that will generate a most annoying smoke & odor and by the chemical make up this can cause a poisonous gas.

Break down your outdoor kitchen into "zones" and strategically plan where your outdoor kitchen appliances will go in order. By doing so, you create a natural flow in your outdoor cooking and entertaining process.

A good "tip" in planning your outdoor kitchen is to keep your next zone in the cooking process within arms reach. Think about the overall design of your outdoor kitchen and how it will look compared to your existing backyard.

An Outdoor Kitchen can be as big as your space allows it, it depends on which equipment and accessories you choose, but remember since most outdoor kitchens are custom made the size only depends on the customer’s request.

Outdoor Kitchens don’t necessarily need a covered area if the grills and accessories you use are made out of 304SS, this stainless steel and the structure of the kitchen resists the outdoor elements, such as rain, sun and humidity.

• Space available.
• Budget.
• The type of cooking you will do and how often
• Equipment and Accessories that you want.
• Are you designing the outdoor kitchen for a small family or are planning to use it for large parties.

• It is a great entertaining source both for social and family gatherings
• Adding an outdoor kitchen to your patio can also add to the real estate value of your house. 

Besides the grill, there are lots of accessories you can add to your outdoor kitchen:

• Side Burners – a side burner acts like your indoor stove or cook top but its outdoors. It will allow you prepare a side dish without going inside and give you the ease of having a small stove while cooking outside. 

• Access Doors - are used below gas grills for access to gas tanks and connections and below sinks for access to plumbing and can also be used for storage. 

• Storage Drawers –  These are often used for your grilling utensils thus making it very easy to keep everything in its place and easily accessible.

• Warming Drawer – If you like to keep food warm, a Warming Drawer is perfect for you.  It is thermostatically controlled, the temperature ranges from 175 to 230 degrees.

• Trash Bins- Keep all the garbage in one place.

• Keg Dispensers- If you are a beer lover this is a “must have” item. It comes under counter, all you see is the keg dispenser, and you can feel like you have your own bar at home.

• Ice makers/Refrigerators - If you are consistently using ice or needing to keep items cool while outside,  an ice maker and/or outdoor refrigerator is a great option for you.

• Paper towel holders- This is a decorative item for your outdoor kitchen it gives it a touch of class and it comes in Stainless Steel.  

YES, we will gladly help you design an outdoor kitchen that fits your budget, needs and space.