A gas grill is an investment into time spent outdoors, cooking and enjoying fantastic food and family and friends.
And, just like any major investment, I’m sure you’re curious about how long do gas grills last before needing to be replaced.
Gas grills on average last between 5 to 15 years. Of course, many factors decide whether a gas grill will last in the shorter or longer end of that range.
Understanding the lifespan of your grill — and how to extend it — is something every serious outdoor griller should be interested in for maximizing its performance and getting the most out of your investment.
In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about the lifespan of a gas grill, from the factors that impact lifespan to how you can help extend it.
We’ll also share tips for knowing when to repair a grill vs. replace it and provide some guidance on how to replace those parts.
We’ll wrap it all up by answering some frequently asked questions on the topic.
The Average Gas Grill Lifespan
The average lifespan for a gas grill ranges from 5 to 15 years. Of course, this lifespan can swing dramatically based on how you treat it. Other factors like the grill’s build quality, the materials used, and frequency of use also play a role.
Regular cleaning, covering your grill when not in use, proper storage, and timely repairs can extend a grill’s useful life beyond the average expectancy.
Parts like burners, grates, and igniters might need a replacement now and then, but these are usually straightforward fixes.
With proper maintenance and grilling techniques, you should be able to get many great years of grilling out of your grill.
New Grill Warranty
Before you buy your grill, consider the warranty — warranties are typically a good indication of how many years a grill will last before experiencing issues or needing to be replaced.
The longer the warranty is on a new grill, the longer you can expect it to work before you need to shell out for repairs or a replacement.
It provides a safety net for the initial years of ownership by covering repairs or replacements of defective parts due to manufacturing errors or materials failure.
A comprehensive warranty can save on repair costs so that any issues can be promptly addressed without out-of-pocket expenses.
The length and coverage of the warranty can also reflect the manufacturer’s confidence in their product’s durability, indirectly indicating the expected lifespan and reliability of the grill.
Cost, Build Quality, and Materials
Naturally, how much you pay for your grill will factor into how long of a lifespan you can expect from it. A budget grill, for instance, likely won’t have the same quality construction as a higher-end grill and won’t last as long.
Grills constructed with premium, durable materials, and robust build quality are designed to withstand the rigors of frequent use and adverse weather conditions, contributing to a longer lifespan. They are built to resist wear and tear better than cheaper alternatives.
Many budget and high-end grills look similar at first glance, so it’s important to do a bit of research into the materials used in construction and the thickness or diameter of the material used — a lower-cost grill typically sacrifices material quality and thickness.
Burner Construction
Yes, burner construction plays a big role in the longevity and performance of a gas grill.
Burners made from high-quality, durable materials like stainless steel or cast iron can withstand high temperatures and resist corrosion better than those made from lesser-quality metals. Well-constructed burners distribute heat more evenly and are less prone to clogging and wear, extending the overall life of the grill.
When it comes to burners, the thicker the wall, the better. A heavier-feeling burner is a sign of a grill that’s constructed well and will withstand the test of time.
Ask about the type of stainless steel used in the burners as well — 304-grade stainless steel is the highest-quality and best option for a durable, long-lasting grill.
Cooking Grates and Burner Plates
The same advice we gave for burner construction is true for cooking grates — the thicker the diameter of the grates, the longer they’ll last.
Construction material matters here as well. Grates made from steel that’s coated in porcelain will have a short lifespan and be prone to rust if the porcelain chips.
Stainless steel tube grates are typically a mid-cost option, and that comes with a middle-range lifespan as well. If you’re looking for a grill grate option that will truly last the years, look for solid stainless steel.
Burner plates, or heat plates, protect the burners from drippings and help distribute heat evenly. When looking at heat plates, you’ll want to make sure these are heavy and rigid, not flimsy and light-feeling.
These are often made from the same material as your cooking grates, so remember — porcelain-coated steel will have a shorter lifespan, while high-quality stainless steel will last for years of great grilling.
What and How You Grill
How you use your grill can be just as important of a factor in its longevity as the materials it’s made from.
If you frequently cook on high heat (think searing steaks), that heat can cause more wear to the grill’s parts than low-heat cooking.
Acidic marinades and fatty cuts of meat can also lead to corrosion and grease build-up, respectively, which can take a toll on your grill. Of course, you can help prevent some of this deterioration with regular, thorough cleaning.
How Often You Use It
A car that’s been driven on multiple cross-country road trips will likely have a shorter lifespan than one that only gets taken out of the garage for occasional errands.
The same is true for grills — if you only use your grill a few times a month during the summer, it’ll likely last longer than grills that get used frequently throughout the entire year.
On the flip side, infrequent use can lead to issues like rust and spider infestations in the gas lines, affecting the grill’s life span.
The one caveat here is maintenance. If you don’t clean your grill before covering it up and letting it sit for weeks on end, you’ll be significantly shortening its lifespan. Which leads up to…
Maintenance and Cleaning: How Well Are You Taking Care of It
How well you clean and maintain your grill will play a huge role in determining how long that grill lasts.
It’s the biggest factor in extending a grill’s life. This includes cleaning the grates after each use, checking for gas leaks, making sure the burner tubes are clear of obstructions, and protecting the grill from accumulating grease and debris.
If you don’t clean your grill regularly, grease, marinades, and other gunk can build up, causing corrosion to your grill’s parts and cutting down on its lifespan.
To learn how to properly clean and maintain your gas grill, check out our guide: How to Clean a Gas Grill – Tips to Revitalize Your BBQ
Exposure to the Elements
Where you live, and the types of weather your grill is exposed to will also factor into how long the grill will last.
Suppose you live somewhere that experiences extremely hot or cold temperatures or frequent precipitation like rain and snow. In that case, your grill will likely deteriorate faster compared to grills stored in mild environments.
Grills left unprotected outdoors are susceptible to rust and weather-related damage and can experience accelerated deterioration.
Proper Storage
One way to stave off the damage caused by the elements is to keep your grill stored away when not in use.
You should, at minimum, cover your grill with a correctly sized cover between uses to keep out moisture and pests.
If you know you won’t be using your grill for a while, it’s best to move it inside a garage or shed where it can be completely protected. Just remember to remove the propane tank first and store that outside!
Properly storing your grill, particularly during winter months in colder climates, can protect it from the elements and pests. Indoor storage or using a high-quality grill cover can significantly prolong its usable life.
Repairs and Replacements
Addressing issues promptly by repairing or replacing defective parts can prevent minor problems from escalating into major ones.
Keeping the grill in good repair helps it operate safely and efficiently for years to come.
How to Extend the Life of Your Grill
The most effective way to extend the life of your gas grill is through regular maintenance and cleaning.
If you’re not sure where to start, the best source of maintenance tips for your grill will be the user manual that comes with it — every brand’s care instructions will vary slightly so it’s best to follow what the manufacturer recommends.
At a minimum, you should clean your grill after every use to prevent grease and debris from building up. At least once a year, take your grill’s removable parts out for a deep cleaning.
Get in the habit of visually inspecting your grill for damage, such as rusty or worn-out parts, and replacing them as soon as possible. This is especially important for gas grills, as leaks in your propane tank, gas hose, or connections can become dangerous.
Signs Your Gas Grill Needs Replacing
Even with diligent cleaning and maintenance, every gas grill will eventually need replacing.
Signs that your grill is reaching the end of its lifespan and will need to be replaced instead of just repaired, including rusty or damaged cooking grates, uneven flames coming from one side of the grill, cracked or leaking gas hoses, ignition issues, excessive grease or debris buildup, or an unstable frame.
If you’ve tried to troubleshoot where you can and the cost of repairing the grill or replacing a problem part is higher than the cost of a replacement, it’s time to go shopping for a new grill.
The following guide is another great resource if you are still unsure: When to Repair OR Replace a Gas Grill
When to Replace Grill Parts
Oftentimes, issues with gas grills can be fixed by replacing a worn-out or malfunctioning part.
These replacements can typically be done on a case-by-case basis — if your grill’s parts are working fine, there’s no need to replace them until they stop working as intended.
Replacing grill parts may be necessary when:
- Parts like grates, burners, and igniters show significant wear, rust, or deterioration.
- There’s a noticeable decline in grill performance, uneven heating, or difficulty lighting the grill.
- Damaged parts could pose a safety hazard, such as gas leaks or flare-ups.
- The grill is old, and replacing certain parts could extend its life more economically than purchasing a new one.
This is another instance where regular visual inspections will help prolong the life of your gas grill. For example, if you notice a chip on a porcelain-coated cooking grate or large holes forming on a burner, you’ll know it’s time to replace that part.
Frequently Asked Questions About Gas Grill Lifespan
Still have some questions about your gas grill’s lifespan and how to keep it working its best for as long as possible? We’ve got you covered!
How Long Do Gas Grills Last: Final Thoughts
The lifespan of a gas grill can vary depending on factors such as construction quality, maintenance, and usage.
Understanding the signs of wear and tear and implementing regular maintenance can significantly extend its lifespan.
By following the tips outlined in this guide and investing in a high-quality gas grill, you can enjoy many years of delicious outdoor cooking experiences.
Remember, proper care and attention can make all the difference in how long your gas grill lasts. So, fire it up, grill on, and savor those mouthwatering flavors for years to come!
Cheers,
Emily