North Shore winters are no place for an unprotected outdoor grill. Freezing temperatures, lake-effect snow, ice storms, and persistent moisture can cause significant damage to Viking outdoor grill components if they are not properly prepared for the cold months ahead.
Proper winterization protects your investment and ensures your Viking grill will fire up reliably when warmer weather returns. Here is a comprehensive approach based on our experience protecting outdoor cooking equipment in Lake Michigan's demanding climate.
Begin with a thorough cleaning. Remove all grates and heat plates and clean them completely. Scrape and clean the firebox interior, removing all grease and food residue. Empty and clean the grease collection system. Clean the exterior surfaces with appropriate stainless steel cleaner. Any grease or residue left over winter can harden, attract pests, and promote corrosion.
Next, address the gas system. Turn off the gas supply at the source. Disconnect the gas line from the grill if your setup allows it safely. Cap the gas connection point. If the grill uses a propane tank, remove the tank and store it upright in a well-ventilated area, never indoors or in an enclosed space.
Protect the burner assemblies. Cover the burner tube openings with aluminum foil or small mesh caps to prevent insects from nesting inside during winter. Spiders, in particular, are attracted to the mercaptan odorant in gas lines and can build webs that block burner ports.
Apply a light coating of food-safe mineral oil to cast iron grates to prevent rust during winter storage. Stainless steel grates benefit from a thin layer of cooking oil applied with a paper towel. This provides a moisture barrier during the damp winter months.
Finally, cover the grill with a high-quality, breathable cover designed for your Viking model. Avoid tarps or non-breathable materials, which can trap moisture underneath and accelerate corrosion. Ensure the cover fits snugly but allows air circulation.
For homeowners who prefer professional winterization, Lakeshore Appliance Specialists offers a comprehensive Viking grill winterization service that covers every step described above, plus a mechanical inspection to identify any issues that should be addressed before spring.