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Glossary - adjustable air shutter

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Adjustable air shutters

The gas that powers the grill travels thru the gas valve and orifice under pressure, into the venturi or, in the case of modern tube burners, the throat of the burner, which is constricted to act like a built-in venturi, and then into the burner itself. As the gas passes through the venturi it "draws in" air through a vent or hole in the venturi or burner tube and mixes with it. This mixture is a key ingredient in determining whether you get a good flame (mostly blue with yellow tips) or a less than good flame (mostly yellow), and subsequently, the amount of heat or, in man terms, "grilling power" the burners generate.

The air-to-gas ratio can be adjusted. In most tube burners you simply loosen the screw holding the shutter in place, turn the shutter to the desired position, and retighten the screw. As you turn the shutter, the air vent hole is enlarged or reduced which, in turn, increases or decreases the air in the mixture. Adjust the shutter until you get a nice blue flame with a bit of yellow tip. A good rule of thumb, or starting point, is fully opened for natural gas grills, half opened for LP (Liquefied Propane) grills.

Since the majority of grills in use today are LP, most burners come from the manufacturer with the shutter in the half open position, or in a position that would normally be used for LP. This means that, for the most part, they are ready to use in LP grills. Some adjustment may be necessary to achieve the absolute best results.

The photo shown below includes a number of typical tube burners, some with mesh spider guards, some without. You can clearly see the shutters, which cover the the end of the burner and have a slot for the screw. I've removed the shutter from one of the burners for better viewing. If adjustments are necessary, only loosen the screw enough to allow the shutter to turn.

NOTE: The information provided on this site is for reference only. Always consult your grill owners manual and manufacturers specifications before attempting any repairs. Read and follow manufacturer’s instructions. Use only in compliance with applicable codes. When in doubt, contact the grill manufacturer or your local gas company.

WARNING: When improperly installed, repaired, or operated, gas grills can be dangerous. If you are not comfortable replacing parts, we recommend you contact a local gas appliance service company for assistance.