A thorough cleaning is the only spring grill prep you need.

Yes, clean the grates and check the fuel. That’s it.

Most people overthink this. The grill sat for months with leftover grease and ash. Give the grates a good scrape with a wire brush while it’s cold, then turn it on high for 15 minutes to burn off anything else. Scrape again after it’s hot. If you have a gas grill, check the propane tank level and inspect the hose for cracks—a soapy water spray will show any leaks. For charcoal, just make sure you have fresh charcoal and lighter fluid that isn’t stale.

Don’t bother with deep cleaning the inside of the lid or the drip tray unless it looks like a science experiment. A little char adds flavor. Just get the cooking surface clean, oil it with a high-smoke-point oil (canola or avocado), and you’re ready to cook.

Your burgers will taste better for the five minutes you spent on the grates.