Frequently Asked Questions

Find answers to common queries about Members Mark 36″ Griddle parts and warranty claims. Navigate through our FAQs to get the support you need efficiently.

FAQs

Find answers to your most pressing questions about BBQ parts and warranties, ensuring a smooth experience.

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When you place a claim through the website or 833-838-4420 number the claim is assesed by our customer service agents who will then reply back with any questions.   a reply we will quickly process the claim.  The agents will then call or email you with a claim number or any additional information required.  

Maintaining your BBQ is essential for safety, performance, and prolonging its lifespan. Here are some practical tips for BBQ maintenance:


Before Every Use

  1. Inspect for Safety:

    • Check gas connections (if using a gas grill) for leaks. Apply soapy water to the connections and look for bubbles when the gas is turned on.
    • Inspect for loose bolts, cracks, or damaged components.
  2. Clean the Grates:

    • Preheat the grill and use a grill brush or scraper to remove old food debris and grease.
    • For stubborn residue, soak the grates in warm, soapy water and scrub with a sponge.
  3. Oil the Grates:

    • Apply a thin layer of oil to prevent food from sticking and protect the grates from rust.

After Every Use

  1. Burn Off Residue:

    • Turn up the heat after cooking to burn off any remaining food bits for about 10–15 minutes.
    • Scrape off the ashes or debris once cooled.
  2. Clean the Drip Tray:

    • Empty and clean the drip tray to avoid grease buildup that could cause flare-ups or attract pests.
  3. Wipe Down the Exterior:

    • Use a damp cloth or stainless steel cleaner for the outside surfaces to remove grease splatters and maintain the BBQ’s appearance.

Monthly Maintenance

  1. Deep Clean the Grates:

    • Remove and soak grates in a mixture of vinegar and baking soda for an effective clean.
    • Rinse thoroughly and dry completely to avoid rust.
  2. Inspect Burners:

    • Check gas burners for clogs or corrosion. Use a brush or pin to clear any blocked holes.
    • Ensure they are securely attached and working evenly.
  3. Check Ignition System:

    • Test the spark ignition system (if applicable) and clean any dirt that might prevent proper ignition.
  4. Clean the BBQ Lid:

    • Remove grease buildup from the inside of the lid to prevent it from flaking onto your food.

Seasonal Maintenance

  1. Inspect and Replace Parts:

    • Look for worn-out parts like grates, burners, or hoses and replace them as needed.
  2. Deep Clean the Entire BBQ:

    • Disassemble removable parts and clean thoroughly with soapy water.
    • Clean the interior of the BBQ, removing grease and carbon buildup.
  3. Protect Your BBQ:

    • Apply a protective cover when not in use to guard against weather damage.
    • If you live in a humid area, consider storing it in a dry place during long periods of inactivity.
  4. Check Gas Supply:

    • If using propane, inspect the tank and refill or replace it as needed.

Pro Tips

  • Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive tools that could damage the BBQ’s surfaces.
  • Always let the BBQ cool down before starting any cleaning or maintenance tasks.
  • Keep a small fire extinguisher nearby for emergencies, especially if dealing with grease.

With consistent care, your BBQ will deliver delicious results for years to come

Here are some of the best flat top griddle cooking tips to help you make the most out of your cooking experience, whether you’re using it for BBQs, burgers, or full breakfasts:


1. Season Your Griddle Properly

Before using your flat top griddle for the first time, season it to create a non-stick surface and protect it from rust.

  • Heat the griddle on medium-high.

  • Apply a thin layer of high-smoke-point oil (like canola, grapeseed, or flaxseed oil).

  • Let it smoke off and repeat 2–3 times until the surface darkens and becomes slick.

  • Re-season as needed after heavy cleaning.


2. Preheat Your Griddle

A cold griddle leads to uneven cooking.

  • Allow the flat top to preheat for 5–10 minutes before cooking.

  • Use medium heat to start and test the surface with a few water droplets—they should dance and evaporate quickly.


3. Use the Right Oils

Flat tops get hot, so always use oils with high smoke points:

  • Best options: Canola, vegetable, avocado, peanut, or grapeseed oil.

  • Avoid olive oil for high-heat cooking—it can burn and create smoke.


4. Zone Your Griddle

Flat top griddles allow you to control heat zones:

  • High-Heat Zone: Sear meats, smash burgers, or stir-fry.

  • Medium Zone: Cook veggies, pancakes, or eggs.

  • Low Zone: Keep food warm without burning it.

Organize your griddle space to cook multiple items at once!


5. Use a Squeeze Bottle and Spatulas

Flat top cooking is easier when you’re organized:

  • Squeeze Bottles: Fill them with cooking oil, water (to steam food or clean), and sauce.

  • Spatulas and Scrapers: Stainless steel spatulas help flip food, while scrapers clean the surface after cooking.


6. Cook in Stages

When cooking a full meal (like burgers, veggies, and buns):

  • Start with items that take the longest to cook (like meats).

  • Add vegetables or toast buns afterward so everything finishes at the same time.


7. Use Steam for Moisture

To keep food juicy or melt cheese:

  • Squirt a bit of water on the griddle around the food.

  • Cover with a griddle dome or metal bowl to trap steam and speed up cooking.

  • Great for melting cheese on burgers or steaming veggies.


8. Don’t Overcrowd the Griddle

Give each piece of food some space:

  • Overcrowding lowers the surface temperature and leads to uneven cooking.

  • Cook in batches if necessary to maintain quality.


9. Keep Your Food Moving

For stir-fries, diced potatoes, or veggies:

  • Continuously move food around with your spatula to prevent burning.

  • This method helps you achieve a crispy exterior and evenly cooked results.


10. Flatten for Perfect Smash Burgers

Smash burgers are a flat top favorite:

  • Roll ground beef into a ball, place it on the hot griddle, and use a spatula or burger press to flatten it thin.

  • Cook 1–2 minutes per side for crispy edges and a juicy center.


11. Clean as You Go

Keeping the griddle clean extends its life and makes cooking easier:

  • Use a scraper to remove food bits while the griddle is still warm.

  • Wipe with a paper towel or rag and add a small layer of oil to protect the surface.

  • For stubborn residue, squirt water and scrape—it loosens stuck food.


12. Cook Breakfast Like a Pro

Flat tops excel at breakfast food:

  • Bacon: Cook first and use the rendered grease to flavor eggs or hash browns.

  • Pancakes: Preheat the griddle and look for bubbles on the batter before flipping.

  • Eggs: Cook at low heat with a bit of oil or butter to prevent sticking.


13. Monitor Temperature

Use an infrared thermometer or the hand test to judge heat zones:

  • High heat (425°F+): Searing meats.

  • Medium heat (350–400°F): General cooking (veggies, pancakes, eggs).

  • Low heat (below 300°F): Warming or slow cooking.


14. Experiment with Flavor

  • Use marinades, sauces, or seasonings directly on the griddle surface.

  • Try cooking chopped garlic, onions, or herbs in oil to flavor the cooking area.


15. Protect the Surface

After cooking and cleaning:

  • Always add a thin layer of oil to prevent rust.

  • Use a griddle cover when the flat top is not in use.


Bonus Tip: Have Fun and Try New Recipes

From fajitas and stir-fry to hibachi-style cooking, the flat top griddle is versatile! Experiment with different dishes, cooking techniques, and flavors for restaurant-quality meals at home.

Happy griddling!  

Preparation:

  1. Choose the Right Griddle:

    • Ensure your griddle is clean and seasoned (if it’s cast iron or carbon steel) to prevent food from sticking.

  2. Gather Your Tools:

    • Spatulas: Long, flat metal spatulas are ideal.

    • Oil: Use a high-smoke-point oil like vegetable, canola, or avocado oil.

    • Scraper: A metal scraper helps manage food and clean up after cooking.

    • Tongs: Great for flipping and handling meat or vegetables.

  3. Preheat the Griddle:

    • Turn on the burners to medium or high heat and let the griddle preheat for about 10 minutes.

    • Test the heat by sprinkling a few drops of water; if they sizzle and evaporate quickly, it’s ready.


Cooking Process:

  1. Oil the Surface:

    • Apply a thin layer of oil using a paper towel or brush to create a non-stick surface.

  2. Organize Your Cooking Zones:

    • Most flattops have areas with varying temperatures. Use one side for high heat (searing) and the other for medium or low heat (finishing or keeping food warm).

  3. Cook in Batches (if necessary):

    • Avoid overcrowding to maintain even heat and achieve proper caramelization.

  4. Common Dishes:

    • Breakfast: Cook bacon, eggs, pancakes, and hash browns simultaneously.

    • Smash Burgers: Press balls of ground beef onto the hot griddle for crispy edges.

    • Steak or Chicken: Sear for a nice crust, then finish in a lower-temperature zone.

    • Vegetables: Sauté or grill veggies alongside your proteins.

    • Stir-Fry: Add sliced meat, vegetables, and sauces directly to the griddle for a quick stir-fry.

  5. Season as You Go:

    • Add salt, pepper, and other seasonings during cooking for maximum flavor.

  6. Deglaze (Optional):

    • For dishes like fajitas, splash water or broth on the griddle to lift caramelized bits.


Cleaning Up:

  1. Cool Down Slightly:

    • Let the griddle cool for 10-15 minutes before cleaning.

  2. Scrape Off Residue:

    • Use a scraper to remove food debris and stuck bits.

  3. Wipe Clean:

    • Use a damp cloth or paper towel to clean the surface.

  4. Reapply Oil (if required):

    • For cast iron or carbon steel, add a thin layer of oil to maintain seasoning.


Tips for Success:

  • Practice Temperature Control: Use an infrared thermometer or adjust burner settings as needed.

  • Use Fresh Ingredients: High moisture foods like marinated meats can cause steaming instead of searing.

  • Experiment: Try fajitas, quesadillas, grilled sandwiches, or teppanyaki-style cooking for variety.

Enjoy the versatility and fun of cooking on your flattop BBQ griddle!

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