Should You Remove Heat Shields When Seasoning Your Outdoor Flat Top?Updated 22 days ago
Should You Remove Heat Shields When Seasoning Your Outdoor Flat Top?
When seasoning your outdoor flat top grill, it's generally recommended to leave the heat shields (also known as flame tamers) in place. These components are designed to distribute heat evenly and protect the burners from drippings, which is beneficial during the seasoning process.
Why Keep Heat Shields On?
Even Heat Distribution: Heat shields help in spreading the heat uniformly across the cooking surface, ensuring consistent seasoning.
Burner Protection: They safeguard the burners from grease and oil drippings, preventing potential flare-ups or damage.
When to Consider Removing Heat Shields
If you find that the flat top isn't reaching the desired temperature for seasoning, you might consider removing the heat shields temporarily to allow for more direct heat. However, this should be done cautiously, as it can lead to uneven heating or expose the burners to drippings.
Tips for Effective Seasoning
Preheat Properly: Allow the grill to preheat with the flat top in place to achieve an even temperature across the surface.
Apply Thin Oil Layers: Use a high smoke point oil and apply it sparingly to avoid sticky buildup.
Monitor Heat Levels: Keep an eye on the temperature to prevent overheating or uneven seasoning.
In summary, it's advisable to keep the heat shields on during the seasoning process to maintain even heat distribution and protect your grill's burners. Adjustments can be made based on your specific grill's performance and design.