Stainless Steel: Wipe down the exterior with a soft cloth and stainless cleaner — never use abrasive pads or harsh chemicals. The hood will discolor with heat over time; this is normal and doesn't affect function.
Cooking Grates: Pre-heat to high, then brush the grates clean with a brass-bristle brush after every cook. A light oiling with high-smoke-point oil before the first cook of the season prevents food from sticking.
Burners: Inspect the burner ports seasonally and clear any debris with a stiff brush. For propane models, check connections and hoses annually. For natural gas, have a licensed technician inspect the line yearly.
Igniters: If the igniter starts to fail, replace the battery first before assuming the unit is dead. AAA batteries are the most common failure point on premium grills.
Covers: Always cover your grill when it's cool. A quality cover is the single biggest factor in long-term appearance — every premium brand offers an OEM cover sized to their unit.
Deep clean: At the end of every season, remove the grates and flavorizers, vacuum the firebox, and wipe everything down. Takes 30 minutes; doubles the life of the grill.