AEI Corporation

Maintaining your patio heaters and grills is an important job. Whether you own an apartment complex, condo building, or run a business like a restaurant or hotel, regular upkeep makes a big difference. Patio heaters and grills get used a lot, especially in busy commercial spaces, so good maintenance helps them last longer, perform better, and stay safe to use. AEI grills and heaters are built tough, but taking good care of them keeps them running smoothly and looking great for years.

Why Maintenance Matters

Your patio grills and heaters work hard. Over time, they face common wear and tear. Without proper care, small issues can become big problems. Things like clogged burners, rust, and buildup of grease and dirt can happen if you don’t maintain your equipment. Regular checks and cleanings reduce these problems. Good maintenance also keeps your appliances safe, preventing issues like gas leaks or burner problems that could be dangerous.

Here’s how you can easily keep your patio grills and heaters in great shape:

Maintenance for PGS Legacy Grills

Grease Tray

• Before cooking, line the grease tray with heavy-duty aluminum foil. This makes cleaning easy.
• Regularly check and clean the tray.
• Replace the foil at least once a month or whenever it looks messy.
• After rainy weather, make sure water hasn’t collected in the tray.

Burners

• Always turn off the gas supply and make sure no gas is left in the lines before cleaning.
• Remove the cooking grids and rock grates first.
• As directed in the user manual, gently lift the back of the burner assembly.
• Cover the valve openings carefully so dirt doesn’t get inside.
• Clean the sides and bottom of the burners with a stiff wire brush.
• If flame holes are clogged, clear them using a thin wire brush.
• Venturis, which are tubes supplying gas, can be cleaned with a small bottle brush or a flexible wire.
   

Cooking Grids

• Clean cooking grids with a brass or stainless steel brush before and after cooking, while they are still hot. Always wear a barbecue mitt to protect your hand.
• If there’s heavy buildup, take the grids off the grill and scrub them using soap and water.
• Rinse and dry completely before putting them back on the grill.
• Our grills with flip grates make the cleaning process even easier 
   

Stainless Steel Care

• AEI stainless steel grills are strong, but they still need care to stay shiny and rust-free.
• Rust marks happen when particles from regular steel (like steel wool pads) touch stainless steel. If you see rust marks, remove them immediately using a soft, damp cloth and stainless steel cleaner.
• Pitting or tiny holes can form when harsh chemicals, like bleach or strong vinegar, sit on the surface too long. Always rinse off cleaners completely.
• Never use abrasive materials or metal tools that can scratch the surface.
• After cleaning, dry the grill with a soft, dry towel to prevent water spots.
   

Maintenance for AEI Outdoor Heaters

Ignition System

• Regularly inspect for signs of soot, corrosion, or damage.
• If there’s a spark but the heater doesn’t light, there might be a blockage. Try lighting the heater with a butane lighter.
• If it still won’t light, the fuel line could be clogged or disconnected. Turn off the fuel supply completely before checking to avoid accidental ignition.

Fuel Regulator

• This part connects your fuel cylinder to the burner.
• Regularly check for damage or blockage. Look for signs of wear like breaks, corrosion, or holes.
• A damaged regulator can’t deliver fuel properly. Trying to use a damaged regulator is dangerous.

Gas Pipe

• Regularly check your gas pipe for blockages. Though rare, blockages can happen and cause serious problems.
• After storing the heater for a long time, remove and inspect the pipe.
• Clean the pipe by blowing air through it. If there’s a stubborn blockage, flush with hot water. Always dry thoroughly before reinstalling.

Gas Cylinder

• Regularly check your gas cylinder to ensure it has enough fuel.
• Running out of fuel too often can damage your heater’s starter mechanism.
• If your cylinder is full but the heater won’t start, check your ignition system. Listen carefully for a gas hissing sound to confirm gas is flowing.

Replacement Parts Made Easy

Even with great care, eventually parts wear out. That’s normal, and it doesn’t mean you need a whole new appliance. AEI has made it simple to get original replacement parts for both grills and heaters through our easy-to-use online store. Regularly replacing worn parts helps your equipment last longer and work better.

The Benefits of Good Maintenance

Keeping your patio heaters and grills clean and well-maintained helps you in several ways:

• Better Performance: Appliances that are clean and working well heat better and grill evenly.
• Safety: Regular checks can prevent gas leaks or potential fire hazards.
• Longer Life: Good maintenance means fewer repairs and longer-lasting appliances.
• Cost Savings: Regular upkeep helps avoid costly replacements or emergency repairs.

Taking care of your patio equipment is easy when you know what to do. Regular cleaning and simple checks mean your patio heaters and grills will serve you better and longer. If something does break, AEI is here with replacement parts that keep your outdoor areas running smoothly and safely. Good maintenance today means less trouble tomorrow.

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