Free template · updated November 3, 2026

Propane BBQ instructions for guests (template)

A propane barbecue is one of the most used amenities in summer rentals, and the one with the most ways to get the order wrong. Guests need to know to open the lid before lighting, how to turn the tank on and off, and what to do if it won't light.

This template gives them the steps in order, a grease-fire line and a clear smell-of-gas step. Fill in your model's knobs and igniter and where the spare tank is.

The template

Replace anything in [brackets] with your own details.

Where to use it

The barbecue stays at [Location], out in the open and at least [3 metres / 10 feet] from walls, railings and anything that can burn.
Please never use it indoors, in the garage, or under a roof, awning or umbrella.

Lighting the barbecue

Open the lid first. Please always light it with the lid open.
Turn the valve on top of the propane tank slowly to the left (counter-clockwise) to open it.
Turn one burner knob to [High / Light] and press the igniter: [Igniter button location].
If it doesn't light within a few seconds, turn the knob off, wait 5 minutes with the lid open, and try again.
Once it's lit, turn on the other burners and let it heat for [10] minutes.

While cooking

Please keep children and pets away from the barbecue.
Tools and grill brush: [Location].
If grease catches fire, turn off the burners and the tank valve and close the lid. Please never use water on a grease fire.

Turning it off

Turn the tank valve to the right (clockwise) until it's closed, then turn all the burner knobs off.
The barbecue stays hot for a while. Please leave the lid open until it cools a little.

If you smell gas

Turn off the tank valve if you can do it safely, and move away from the barbecue.
Don't try to light it, and keep flames and cigarettes away.
If the smell stays or you hear hissing, keep everyone away and call [Local emergency number] or [Gas supplier emergency number], then text us at [Host phone].

Running out of propane

A spare tank is at [Spare tank location / please text us and we'll swap it].

Tips

Tape a small 'open lid before lighting' note on the barbecue itself.
Keep a full spare tank and say where it is, or how to reach you for a swap.
Check hoses and connections for leaks with soapy water at the start of each season.
Place the barbecue away from the house, railings and overhanging branches.
Don't ask guests to clean the grill at checkout; that's part of turnover.

Put it on one guest page instead of a binder

Keegix turns your welcome book into one link and a QR sign by the door. Upload the binder you already have and AI drafts the page in about a minute, or paste this template in. Free forever for one property.

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Questions

What should guests do if a propane barbecue won't light?

Turn the burner off, leave the lid open for about five minutes so gas can clear, then try again. If it still won't light, they should turn off the tank and contact the host.

Can a propane barbecue be used on a covered porch?

It's safest to use it only in the open, well away from walls, roofs and railings, and never indoors or in a garage. Check your barbecue's manual for its required clearances.

Should I ask guests to clean the barbecue?

No. Cleaning is a turnover job. Airbnb's checkout rules don't allow asking guests to do a cleaner's work.

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https://keegix.com/house-manual/propane-bbq/