Burners

Early model DCS Grills used a cast iron burner which is still available. These burners are great because they are not only thick and heavy but the cast iron retained the heat well. Current DCS models use a stainless steel U shaped burner which is also available in OEM and aftermarket.

Step 1: Find Your DCS Model Number (Fastest Way to Confirm Burner Fit)

Your DCS model number is the single best way to match the correct replacement burner. On most DCS grills, the model tag is found in one of a few common places (varies by series and generation). If the label is worn or missing, we can still identify your grill by the parts and heat system it uses.

Use our step-by-step guide here: DCS Gas Grill — What Model Number Do I Have?

How DCS Model Numbers Help You Pick the Right Burner

DCS model numbers contain clues that tell you the grill width, the series, and the ignition/heat system—each of which can affect which burner you need. For example, DCS model prefixes can indicate series families such as DCS, BGA, or BGB.

Quick decode (high level)

• Width: the number in the model usually reflects grill width (in inches). 
• Series letter (before the dash): can indicate different heat/ignition eras (examples include lava rock vs ceramic rod systems and different igniter styles). 
• Suffix (after the dash): indicates features (for example, rotisserie vs “all grill” variants).

No Model Tag? Identify Your Grill by the Heat Distribution System

If your model label is missing, you can narrow it down by looking under the cooking grates at the heat distribution system—examples include lava rock systems, heat plates, or ceramic rod trays. These systems correlate with different burner generations.

That’s exactly why burner replacement isn’t “one size fits all” on DCS—burners evolved alongside the ignition and heat system designs.

Signs Your DCS Burner Needs Replacement

• Uneven flames or cold spots across the grill
• Large yellow flames instead of steady blue flames
• Burner ports that are cracked, warped, or burned through
• Sections that won’t ignite consistently

Recommended “While You’re In There” Replacements

Burners are part of a system. For best performance after replacing burners, many DCS owners also replace:

• Radiant trays / ceramic rods (helps restore even heat and reduce flare-ups)
• Ignition components (electrodes, modules, switches)
• More DCS replacement parts (grates, heat shields, knobs, valves)

Need Help Matching the Correct Burner?

If you’re unsure which burner fits your DCS grill, we can help you confirm it quickly. Send us: (1) your model number (or best guess using the guide), (2) a photo of the burner you removed, and (3) its dimensions.

Improving Burner Longevity

To keep your DCS Cast Iron Burner from quickly rusting out and flaking, pull the burner out of the grill. Inspect the holes around the burner making sure they are clear of grease and uniform in shape.

Lightly brush around the holes and take a small drill bit and clear the holes. Lightly tap the bottom of the burner (that goes over the valve) and get out any grime. Put a thin coat of cooking oil on the burner to keep it moist. You will notice that cast iron burners dry out and flake and eventually chunks will come off the burner.

How to Change and Replace a DCS U Burner