A Step-by-Step Guide on How to Clean Your Pit Boss Pellet Grill

Had a fun grilling or smoking session in your pellet grill and now it's all greasy and dirty? Well, worry no further as we are gonna give you some simple steps to clean your pit boss pellet grill properly. 

Tools You Need

• Non-metal brush
• Paint brush
• Plastic scraper
• Putty knife
• Sponge
• Paper towel 
• Grease bucket
• Disposable gloves 
• Shop vacuum 
• Degreaser and Cleaning solution 

Steps To Cleaning A Pit Boss Pellet Grill

First and foremost before cleaning any grill, remember to unplug it from the socket and check to see if the grill was hot or not to avoid any accidents. Avoid using any water or cleaning solution around the electrical part of the grill to avoid any damage to the grill. Here are the following steps to get a perfectly clean pit boss pellet grill. 

Step 1: Cleaning The Grease Bucket And Grease Chute

The best practice is emptying the grease bucket after every cook to avoid excessive accumulation. Wait for the grease to cool down then discard the content. Use a scraper to get rid of any remaining gunks. Clean the bucket with dish soap and water. Use the degreaser if necessary. 

Clean the grease chute using hot water and a cleaning solution to get rid of all the accumulated grease and oil. Make sure to dry them properly before using again. 

Step 2: Removing The Leftover Pellets From The Auger 

Do not keep leftover pellets in the auger. After cooking, take out the pellets and store them in a dry place to use them again. Use a vacuum to clean all the dust and pellet residue inside the hopper. 

Step 3: Removing And Cleaning All The Grill Grates

Remove the grill grates carefully to access the heat deflector plate. Wear disposable gloves to protect your hands from grease. The grill grates have an enamel layer to provide protection against dirt so avoid using any harsh cleaning solution or abrasive brushes. Remove any food residue from the grates by using a soft-bristled non-metal brush and set the grates aside for cleaning.

Apply degreaser to get rid of any gunk. Use hot or cold water and a cleaning solution depending on how dirty the grates are. Soak the grates for 5-10 minutes to soften the grease and gunks. Use a soft brush and gently scrub off all the grease and food residue and wash it thoroughly. Place the grates in a clean space and dry them properly before placing them back in the grill. 

Step 4: Cleaning The Deflector Plate

The best way to clean the deflector plate is to use a plastic scraper. Take a plastic scraper to scrape off any debris or residues. If the debris doesn't come off with a scraper, use the putty knife. 

Once the plate is free of grease and debris, remove it from the grill and clean it the same way as the grates. 

Step 5: Cleaning The Thermostat Temperature Probe 

Do not forget to clean the thermostat temp probe. Use a sponge and guve it a good scrub to remove and smoke residue. Avoid any harsh abrasive sponge or brush to avoid scratching marks on your grill. Try not to use any water or cleaning solutions as they might damage it. 

Step 6: Wiping The Flame Broiler

You should avoid getting the flame broiler wet while cleaning it. Any dirt or debris, remove them by scraping or using soft brushes. Then wipe it with a washcloth or paper towels. 

Step 7: Vacuuming The Burn Pot And The Hopper

Use the plastic scraper to scrape away any gunk left on the inside of the grill. Brush away all the debris in the burn pot and the hopper with a paint brush. 

Use the shop vacuum to suck up any ashes and debris particles collecting at the bottom of the grill. Do not use a house vacuum cleaner as it might smell. 

Use some paper towels to wipe off the temp probe and the inside of the grill for a better cleaning. 

Step 8: Returning Everything Back To Their Places 

After cleaning, place the plates and grates back in their original place and the grill is ready to be used again. 

Cleaning The Outside Of The Grill 

Like the inside, the outside needs regular cleaning for proper maintenance. But compared to the inside, it is easier to clean. Just use a good cleaning solution and spray it on the outside and use paper towels or wash clothes to wipe it out. You can use the plastic scraper if there's any stubborn grease or gunks. 

How Often Should You Clean Your Pit Boss Pellet Grill 

You should clean the grill grates after every use or at least use a grill brush. Otherwise food may get stuck to it and may alter food taste. 

As for thorough cleaning of the pellet grill, it depends on how frequently you are using it. If you use your grill frequently then a thorough cleaning after every 4 to 5 uses is recommended. If you are not using your pellet grill as much then cleaning every 1-2 weeks is recommended. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

-Yeah, it is completely normal for the flame broiler to rust in high heat due to oxidation. Using water and cleaning solution exacerbates rusting so only use scraper and paper towels/washcloths to clean the flame broiler. 

-Use the proper pellets. 

-Notice any grease and ash accumulation. 

-Check for proficiency. 

-As the pellet grill is an electronic device, it is best to avoid using it in the rain. If you are using it during mild rain, remember to take precautions and keep any electronic connections away from the rain. 

Regular cleaning and a little care and regular maintenance will give you a long lasting grill and better tasting food. And with these above mentioned steps, you can reach this goal easily.