Own a Brinkmann Gas Grill? Read This

 

Do You Own a Brinkmann Gas Grill?

A popular gas grill sold at Home Depot and Hy-Vee stores has been discovered to be potentially hazardous. During testing, Consumer Reports found that the Brinkmann 2-Burner Patio Gas Grill, model 810-6230-S, failed a routine safety test. The test that Consumer Reports performed checks whether the burner flames remain on after you drop the lid. If the flame is extinguished and the burners are still on, gas can build up inside the grill and reignite unexpectedly, causing a hazardous situation.

Two different grills of the same model failed the test when it was put on the low-heat setting. No problems with flames going out were found with the high-heat setting.

A spokesperson for Brinkmann said that, although the grill meets all safety standards and poses no risk to anyone, “We believe that we can make an improvement to the crossover channel to prevent any burner from extinguishing.” Brinkmann has changed the design for all future production of the grill.

Once the grill is updated, Consumer Reports says it will test the grill when it starts showing up in stores. Until then, they have rated it a “Don’t Buy – Safety Risk.” If you own this grill, they advise you use it only on the high-heat setting, and to call the company for the replacement crossover piece. Brinkmann can be reached at 1-800-527-0717.

Although the safety risk is low, and there has not been an official Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) recall, such a flaw does present a certain risk. There have been no injuries associated with this grill’s problem.

Gas Grill Safety Suggestions

Gas grills occasionally have problems that require recalls, such as in 2013 and 2012. You can always search the CPSC’s web site if you have concerns. If your grill is recalled, make sure you have the problem fixed.

Also, it’s never a bad idea to check the safety of your grill on a regular basis:

• Check the Venturi tube for blockages, and clear any that exist, at least once a year.
• Check hoses for holes and leaks, and make sure none of them have sharp bends, or are cracked or brittle.
• Ensure that hoses are positioned as far from hot surfaces as possible, and don’t allow hot grease to drip on them. Install heat shields if it isn’t feasible to move the hoses.
• Check for gas leaks every time you reconnect the grill to the LP gas, or anytime you smell gas. To check, apply a soapy solution (one part water, one part liquid detergent) with a brush at connection points after you fully open the gas supply valve. There is a leak if you see bubbles.
• If you find a leak, don’t use the grill. Turn off the gas immediately. You can try tightening the connection, but if this doesn’t stop the leak, have a qualified repair person fix your grill before you use it again.

You can find these safety suggestions and more on the CPSC’s Gas Grill Fact Sheet.

Reasoned advice from seasoned professionals.

At the Louthian Law Firm, we’re advocates of laws which can make our recreational activities both enjoyable and safe. We’re also advocates for South Carolinians who have been injured in personal injury accidents due to negligence. Call us at (803) 454-1200 if you have any questions about grilling recalls or if you have had a grilling accident you believe was caused by someone else’s negligent actions. Louthian Law Firm: securing justice for hardworking people and families since 1959.