reduced heat output from burners

[davemal]

Hey all,

I have an old beefeater bugg bbq with 2 burners that have gradually reduced their heat output over time. On the weekend I took them out for the first time and shook out all the crap inside. The holes looked clear as I often clear them with a drill bit. There are also a couple of spots where the stainless (!!) has rusted through. After assembling, the LHS burner was much better but not much better on the RHS.

Yes the burners need replacing. Will replacing the burner on the RHS likely solve the problem ? Or is it possible/likely that there is still something else that is causing the problem ? The bbq is getting a bit old in the tooth and I want to have a good idea how much I need to spend before committing.

cheers

[Cobblerdave]

Gday
The regulators gradually block up over time. LPG has natural wax in it which can block up the regulator over time and gradually degrade its performance. Replacement hose and regulators are cheap and easy to find. A look at bunnos will turn up a replacement. Be warned the bottle fittings have changed and a new style fitting can’t be used in an old style LPG bottle so a bottle swap might be needed to the newer one
Hope this helps
Regards Dave

[davemal]

Thanks Dave

I have a newish gas bottle so all good there. Its probably not going to be the main cause as the LHS one is working pretty good. But something to keep in mind and add to the 'possible' side of my shopping list. I wasnt aware of the wax and blocking over time. Interesting. I think this weekend I might do a deeper clean and flush whatever I can.

[Cobblerdave]

Gday
The Regulators are a sealed unit. Repair buy replacement is the only option.
My family Q, my sons cabin ate smoker and my mates Q200 have all had there reguators replaced.
Bet you any BBQ you see on the roadside has a buggered reg.
No deep clean gunna fix that
Regards Dave

[Davo]

Yeah I agree, the regulators are sealed for very good reason to prevent leakages and explosions, they are the first line of defence between Gas Bottle and Burners.

I don't think they'd be that expensive really, make sure you buy it from Weber to ensure the correct one.

I'm sure it'll be cooking like a new one in time.....good luck!!

[davemal]

Well I took advantage of the big green sheds exchange policies and borrowed a new regulator. It didnt make any noticeable difference so back it went. Worried about sinking too much cash into the old bbq so I am thinking that it might be near the time to replace it.

Thanks all for your comments.

[Cobblerdave]

Gday
The gas jet been checked? It’s located at the bottom of the burner tube. You unscrew it .
Put in a saucepan water and a few drops of dish liquid. Simmer. Let cool and use a nylon bristle from an indoor broom/ handbroom. It’s softer than the brass and shouldn’t damage it.
Haven’t done this for years as my grill in not been left in the open for a long time
Regards Dave

[davemal]

Thanks Dave

I havent, though I did clean it as best I could with a rag. I will try your method when I get a chance (likely a couple of weekends away unfortunately)