A guide to gas cooktop maintenance

Sparkling stainless steel, sleek cast iron, but daily mess can take its toll. While a new gas cooktop can easily look Insta-worthy, the reality is that day-to-day use can take its toll on these fantastic appliances if not looked after properly. Poor maintenance can affect not only the way it looks but can also lead to safety hazards and shorter appliance life spans.

Follow these simple tips below to maintain your gas cooktop and you'll be… well, cooking with gas! 

1. Clean up messes right away
   While it’s tempting to leave it for later, or for another day entirely, cleaning up any mess right away is not only easier for you but better for your appliance. Once cool, use a soft cloth to clean away any spills and prevent stubborn stains. This will also prevent any burnt food from catching fire the next time the cooktop is used.
2. Check and clean burner channels regularly
   A burner channel sits under the burner cap and moves the gas through to the rings of your burner, and is the reason we see that lovely blue flame. If these channels get blocked, not only is this a safety hazard but it can affect the even heating of your pots and pans when cooking. Avoid using anything flammable and make sure your appliance (and if necessary, gas mains) is off. Before cleaning your gas cooktop make sure to check your appliances user manual for cleaning instructions. Lost your manual? Most appliance manufacturers have manuals on their websites. Samsung has a good guide on how to clean a gas cooktop.
3. Clean the grates monthly
   The grates are the middlemen between the flame and your pots and pans. They take the brunt of daily use with burned-on food and heavy saucepans and are likely to have a lot of dirt and grease on them. Most cooktops have removable grates, so you can easily take them off for a deep clean - we recommend doing this about once a month, and our favourite tip is to soak them in hot soapy water. If there are bits of food that just won’t budge sprinkle the grates with some baking soda to work as a mild abrasive. Rinse thoroughly and allow them to dry completely before reassembling.
4. Avoid harsh cleaning products
   Rather than reaching for harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners, stick to milder solutions such as dish soap, baking soda, and water, and use nylon scrubbing brushes, soft washcloths or rags rather than scourers or steel wool. 
   Although thick, burnt-on grease and dirt can look like it needs a strong arm, you risk destroying the coating on your stove which will affect the way it looks and its functionality.
   If you don’t feel like trying your hand at a homemade mixture, why not give an eco-friendly product of your choice a go? Make sure to check all cleaning products are suitable for your cooktop before using.
5. Regular appliance services
   
   Any small issues can be spotted by a professional and will avoid larger, more costly problems arising in the future. We recommend having a service check about once a year to make sure you are getting the most out of your gas cooktop, and calling a professional immediately if you notice anything out of the ordinary.

Let us know if you’ve tried any of these ideas, or if you have any to add. Bon appétit! 

With gas flowing well into the future you’ll be able to enjoy cooking with gas for years to come. Find out more about the future of gas or explore more of the Comfort Zone.