Spring marks more than just the start of a new season! It represents warmer weather on the way, and an opportunity to get some much-need chores done around the house. Spring-cleaning is a term we hear a lot this time of year, and rightly so. Whether you’re taking on big projects like a garage reorganization, or just any tidying up to make things look more presentable, there’s no better time for those tasks than now!
One important spring-cleaning habit that is often forgotten is checking on your propane system. With propane consistently growing in popularity due to its affordability and environmental benefits, many homeowners are now learning what goes into taking care of their propane-powered appliances. Thankfully, Total Fuel Service has you covered with a few tips to keep in mind during your spring cleaning regimen.
Learn your propane system
Your propane system includes all of the appliances and gear that rely on propane in some way to function properly. For homes utilizing propane, it’s commonplace to have at least one appliance that needs a thorough check during your spring-cleaning duties. However, for those of you who rely primarily on propane as your main fuel source to power your home, you’ll need to be diligent in taking the right safety measures and precautions to ensure your chores happen without a hitch. Before you get started with any cleaning, be sure to get a lay of the land and take time to revisit the manuals or safety instructions that come with each of your applications.
Which appliances run on propane?
For most propane-powered homes, you’re likely to have at least one of the following appliances or pieces of equipment that will require a check during your spring-cleaning routine:
- Propane oven and range
- Water heater
- Furnace
- Propane tank
- Grill
How should I clean my propane appliances and equipment?
Each of the above mentioned appliances and pieces of equipment require their own cleaning method. Some can be as simple as removing debris, while others can involve a more detailed process. Here are the steps you should take to spring-clean your propane appliances.
PROPANE-POWERED OVEN AND RANGE CLEANING TIPS
Much like a conventional stovetop or range, cleaning the propane-powered version requires a keen eye and a little elbow grease. Follow these steps to clean your gas stove, oven, or range.
- Start by making sure the oven is turned off and cooled down.
- Remove the oven racks.
- Mix one cup of baking soda and one cup of water until it becomes a thick paste.
- Spread the non-toxic oven cleaner mixture over the entire oven interior.
- Let the mixture sit for 12 hours.
- Spray the interior of the oven with vinegar.
- Wipe the oven clean.
And just like that, you’ve knocked one of your dreaded spring-cleaning tasks off your list!
PROPANE GRILL CLEANING TIPS
A clean grill is essential for delicious food and propane grill safety. Do a thorough cleaning before you begin the season, taking the following steps:
- Pre-heat the grill for 15 minutes on high heat then turn off the grill.
- Turn the gas off – either on the propane tank or the gas line.
- Clean the grill using a stiff wire brush dipped in water. Do not lean over the grill while cleaning, as this should create plenty of steam.
- For tough grease spots, add dish soap to the water or a grill cleaner.
- Once the surface has cooled, wipe the grate with a damp cloth to remove residue or brush bristles.
- Remove burners from the gas supply line and remove blockages to the burner’s gas ports using a dry wire brush.
- Clean the burner valve with soapy water and run water through the inside of the valve.
- Clean the inside of the grill using a wire brush and warm soapy water and rinse with water. Towel dry the burners and reinstall.
- When washing the outside of a stainless steel grill, use a specially formulated stainless steel bbq grill cleaner and micro fiber cloth. Ceramic, porcelain and painted steel surfaces can be cleaned using soap and water.
- Always store your propane grill and propane tanks outside. Never operate a propane grill indoors.
- Keep the grill protected with a grill cover.
PROPANE WATER HEATER CLEANING TIPS
The most important spring maintenance task for your propane water heater is to flush it to get rid of sediment. Sediment forms when minerals in your water supply harden into sand or grit; over time, a buildup of this material can insulate the heating element of your water heater, decreasing its effectiveness.
Get in touch with Total Fuel Service for your propane needs
Crossed off all the tasks on your spring cleaning checklist? Well, the next step is ensuring you have enough propane on hand to fuel what matters to you. Schedule a delivery by calling 860-855-FUEL (3835). Als0 be sure to check on your HVAC system this season with help from Total Mechanical Systems! We cant wait to see how you put your clean propane appliances to use this season!