DIY FIXES FOR POPPING, HISSING AND HUMMING NOISES

The only sound you want to hear from your gas grill is the sizzling of burgers, steaks and other foods being grilled to perfection, right? So, unusual noises like popping, hissing and humming from your gas grill can be unsettling.


If you’ve heard humming from your gas regulator, if your gas burners are making popping sounds, or your propane tank is hissing, read on. In this article, you’ll learn:

• What those noises emanating from your gas grill may indicate
• How to fix the most common issues that may be causing them using simple, DIY solutions.

WHY DO GAS GRILLS MAKE NOISES?

Your gas grill can produce a variety of sounds – for several reasons. Noises can range from popping sounds caused by grease-blocked burner holes, a humming noise from a vibrating rubber diaphragm inside your LP regulator valve to hissing sounds from your propane tank, possibly caused by a small gas leak.

Let’s have a closer look at some of the most common questions regarding unusual gas grill noises.

WHAT’S THAT POPPING SOUND COMING FROM MY GAS GRILL BURNERS?

Popping noises from gas grill burners is a relatively common occurrence. Most often, such sounds indicate that the burner holes are blocked or obstructed. Regularly cleaning your grill burners will minimize popping noises, extend the life of your grill, help prevent flare-ups and ensure consistent heat while grilling.

HOW TO FIX YOUR GRILL BURNERS TO STOP MAKING POPPING SOUNDS

1. tank valves and disconnect your grill’s propane tank.
2. Check your gas grill’s manual and carefully follow the instructions for removing your grill’s burners. (Can’t find your grill manual? Look it up here.)
3. Once removed, closely inspect each burner’s holes for any obstructions that could be blocking the flow of gas. Possible blockages could include dust, spiderwebs and hardened fat from grease drippings.
4. Carefully clean out any blocked burner holes with a burner-cleaning rod or small-diameter bottle brush. Then scrub the outside of the burners with a nylon brush to remove dirt and food debris. A can of compressed air or an air compressor can also be used to blow out the inside of the tube of any debris.
5. Check your grill manual and carefully follow the instructions for reattaching your grill’s burners correctly.
6. Follow the manual’s instructions for reconnecting the propane tank. Now your grill is ready for your next BBQ.

TOP GAS GRILL BURNER MAINTENANCE TIP

Aim to clean your grill’s burners thoroughly every month. Keep an eye out for grime build-up on your burners. If you notice any build-up or blockages, clean your grill burners following the steps listed above.

Need to order gas grill burner replacements? Click here.

WHY IS MY GRILL’S REGULATOR MAKING A HUMMING NOISE?

Your gas grill’s regulator detects the pressure of the gas coming from the liquid propane tank and limits (or “regulates”) the amount of gas that feeds into your grill.

Most often, buzzing, or humming noises coming from a gas appliance’s regulator originate from the gas regulator diaphragm. This internal rubber diaphragm might be perforated or damaged, or its spring may be stuck, causing the humming noise. In such instances, the regulator will requirereplacement or repair.

However, it could also be that your gas grill’s regulator simply needs to be reset.

HOW TO RESET YOUR GAS GRILL’S LP REGULATOR TO FIX A HUMMING NOISE

1. Turn all your grill knobs to “off”, then close the propane tank valve completely (turning the gas flow off).
2. Disconnect your grill’s regulator from the propane tank, carefully following the guidelines in your grill’s user manual.
3. Wait 60 seconds, then reconnect the regulator to the propane tank, again following the guidelines in your grill’s user manual.
4. Very slowly, open the propane tank valve to turn on the gas flow. Take a full 30 seconds to slowly turn the propane tank valve until it is fully open.
5. Wait another 60 seconds, then light your grill following the instructions on the control panel.

If this doesn’t work, and you still hear humming noises coming from your regulator, the best course of action is to order a replacement regulator.

TOP GAS GRILL REGULATOR SAFETY TIP

Some gas grill manufacturers say that a soft humming noise emanating from the gas regulator is harmless and completely normal. However, if you notice any evidence of a gas leak, such as gas odor, shut off the gas supply immediately. DO NOT light matches or lighters. Evacuate the area and notify other occupants about the safety hazard. Then contact your local fire department to notify them of the gas leak.

Need to replace your gas grill regulator? Order here.

WHY IS MY GRILL’S PROPANE TANK MAKING A HISSING NOISE?

The most common reason for a hissing sound coming from a gas grill’s propane tank is usually a slight leak. If you smell gas while inspecting your grill’s propane tank, immediately turn the propane tank valve to the “off” position. A qualified service technician will be needed to inspect your propane tank for gas leaks.

If you cannot turn off your grill’s propane tank, leave the area and contact the local fire department. Again, a qualified service technician will be needed to inspect your propane tank for gas leaks.

A soft humming sound with no gas smell from your propane tank is considered normal and not a cause for concern.

HOW TO CHECK YOUR GAS GRILL’S PROPANE TANK FOR LEAKS WHEN IT’S MAKING A HISSING NOISE

There are 3 ways to check your gas grill propane tank for leaks:

1. Mix equal parts water and dishwashing soap and grab a paint brush. Check that your propane tank’s cylinder valve is completely closed, and then apply the soap and water mixture along the gas hose and connections using the brush. Slowly and carefully open the propane tank’s valve. If you notice any soap bubbles forming, it’s an indication that a leak is present, and you should close the valve and contact a professional to carry out the necessary repairs to fix the leaks.
2. Another reason your propane tank may be hissing is that your bleeder valve (also called a fixed liquid level gauge) is not entirely closed. You can fix this by turning the bleeder valve clockwise to close it and stop the flow of gas.
3. When they overheat, propane tanks can build up pressure due to expanding liquid in the tank. On scorching days, your tank’s safety relief valve will open to release built-up pressure. Spray the propane tank with a water hose to cool it down. Doing this will cause the safety relief valve to close again completely and prevent further hissing.

TOP GAS GRILL PROPANE TANK SAFETY TIPS

• Never smoke while handling your gas grill’s propane gas cylinder. 
• Never leave the tank inside a vehicle, or in enclosed spaces, such as garages or indoors.
• Never use a lighter or matches to check for leaks. 
• Never allow children to play or tamper with the propane tank or any other part of your gas grill.

WHAT TO DO IF YOUR GAS GRILL IS STILL MAKING NOISES AFTER TRYING SOME DIY SOLUTIONS

If you’ve tried all the DIY solutions listed above and you’re still experiencing unexplained noises coming from your gas grill, it is time to give your grill’s manufacturer or service provider a call.

You will find all the necessary information, including your grill manufacturer’s after-service and repairs procedures, as well as the correct contact details in your grill’s user manual.

We hope you find this article helpful and that it will get you back to grilling in no time!

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