Grilling & Gas Lines: Safety Tips for Your Football Tailgate at Home

by | Sep 8, 2025 | Uncategorized | 0 comments

Tailgate 1

Fall weekends mean one thing—football season. And if you’re hosting tailgate parties at home, your grill is likely the star of the show. But whether you’re firing up burgers before kickoff or slow-cooking ribs for halftime, safety should always come first—especially when you’re working with natural gas or propane.

At Fite Plumbing, we want to make sure your setup is not only functional but safe for the entire season. Here are key gas line safety tips to keep your grill game strong.

1. Have Your Gas Line Professionally Installed

If you’re using a built-in natural gas grill, don’t DIY the connection. Proper installation by a licensed plumber ensures your gas lines meet safety codes and operate efficiently. A poorly installed line can leak or cause inconsistent gas flow—two things you definitely don’t want on game day.

Bonus: A permanent gas hookup means you’ll never run out of fuel mid-tailgate.Tailgate 1

2. Inspect Gas Lines Before Every Game

Before each use, take a few minutes to check your setup:

  • Look for cracks, rust, or wear on hoses and fittings.
  • Sniff around for any rotten egg smell—a sign of a gas leak.
  • Make sure the gas shutoff valve is easy to reach in case of emergency.

Even if everything looks fine, regular inspections help prevent surprises during your party.

3. Do a Soap Test for Leaks

You can do a quick leak test using soap and water:

  • Mix mild dish soap with water.
  • Apply it to the hose and connections using a sponge or spray bottle.
  • Turn on the gas—but don’t ignite the grill.
  • If you see bubbles forming, there’s a leak.

Turn off the gas immediately and call a professional. Never try to repair a gas line yourself.

4. Keep Your Grill Area Clean and Clear

Tailgate setups can get messy, but keep the area around your grill clear:

  • Remove leaves, grease buildup, and other debris.
  • Maintain at least 3 feet of space around the grill.
  • Make sure the grill is placed on a level, stable surface.

Clean grates and burners regularly to avoid flare-ups and keep everything running efficiently.

Tailgate 25. Know the Difference Between Natural Gas and Propane

Each fuel type has unique needs:

  • Natural Gas: Convenient for frequent grillers. Requires a permanent connection and should always be installed by a pro.
  • Propane: Portable and easy to refill. Always store tanks upright and outdoors. Check for rust, dents, or expiration dates.

Not sure which one suits your setup best? Fite Plumbing can help you decide based on your grilling style and outdoor space.

6. Schedule Seasonal Maintenance

Just like your HVAC system, your grill and gas lines benefit from routine maintenance:

  • Clean burners and valves.
  • Check for leaks and wear.
  • Ensure proper gas flow and pressure.

A quick preseason inspection can prevent problems during the height of tailgate season.

Planning your next backyard tailgate?

Tailgating at home should be easy, fun, and stress-free. With the right setup and a little preparation, your gas grill can be a safe and reliable MVP for every game. Whether you need a gas line installed, inspected, or repaired, Fite Plumbing has your back. Go to our home page or contact Fite Plumbing today. today—we’ll help you keep the grill hot and the game day stress-free.