Grill Removal: Quick, Affordable Ways to Reclaim Your Backyard

If you’ve got a rusted, unused, or broken barbecue taking up precious patio space, you’re not alone. Grill removal is one of the most overlooked steps in creating a clean, inviting backyard. Old gas or charcoal grills can be eyesores, safety hazards, and even obstacles when you’re trying to entertain or upgrade your outdoor living area.

This guide walks you through quick and affordable ways to get rid of an old grill—safely, legally, and with minimal hassle—so you can finally reclaim your backyard.

Why Grill Removal Matters More Than You Think

An old grill is rarely “just sitting there.” It often brings a handful of hidden problems:

Safety hazards: Rusted frames, sharp edges, and unstable legs can cause injuries.
Fire risks: Residual grease and leftover gas in propane tanks increase fire danger.
Pest magnet: Food residue attracts insects, rodents, and other pests.
Wasted space: That corner could hold seating, a fire pit, or a new, efficient grill.

Timely grill removal lets you free up square footage, improve your outdoor aesthetics, and reduce risks—all while making room for a better grilling setup or a new backyard feature.

Step One: Decide If Your Grill Is Trash, Recyclable, or Salvageable

Before you drag your barbecue to the curb, do a quick assessment. This can save you money and keep waste out of the landfill.

1. Is it still working or repairable?

Ask yourself:

Does it still heat evenly?
Are burners or grates replaceable?
Is rust superficial rather than structural?

If the frame is solid and only a few parts are failing, you may be able to repair and reuse it. Many manufacturers sell replacement burners, ignition systems, or grates. Sometimes a deep clean and $50 in parts can add years of life.

2. Is it good enough to donate or sell?

If it works but you’ve simply upgraded:

Sell it locally on Facebook Marketplace, Craigslist, or neighborhood apps.
Donate it to a charity, community center, or neighbor in need.

Just be honest about its condition, and clean it before passing it on.

3. Is it truly at the end of its life?

If your grill is:

Severely rusted or structurally unstable
Missing key components
A fire or tipping hazard

Then it’s time for proper grill removal and disposal, ideally with as much recycling as possible.

Safe Preparation Before Grill Removal

Removing a grill isn’t just about dragging it away. There are safety steps you should never skip, especially with gas grills.

Turn off and disconnect fuel sources

For propane gas grills:

Turn the tank’s valve to the OFF position.
Disconnect the regulator hose.
Remove the propane tank and store it upright in a well-ventilated, outdoor area until you dispose of it properly (never indoors, never in a shed with ignition sources).

For natural gas grills:

Turn off the gas supply at the shutoff valve.
If the grill is hard-plumbed into your gas line, consider hiring a licensed professional to cap the line safely.

For charcoal grills:

Make sure all coals are completely extinguished and cooled.
Dispose of ashes in a metal container; never bag them while warm.

Clean the grill before disposal

A quick clean helps in several ways:

Reduces lingering odors and grease fire risk.
Makes it safer and less messy to transport.
Increases chances a scrap yard or recycler will accept it.

Scrape off food residues, remove grease trays, and bag any loose debris.

How to Dispose of an Old Grill: Your Main Options

When it comes to grill removal, you have several paths. The best choice depends on your budget, time, and how hands-on you want to be.

1. Curbside bulk pickup (if available)

Many municipalities offer bulk or “large item” pickup days. Check your city or county website for rules—some will accept grills if:

Propane tanks are removed.
Ashes and food waste are cleared out.
Certain materials are separated (e.g., plastic side shelves).

This is usually the cheapest option, sometimes free, but requires you to move the grill to the curb and follow strict guidelines.

2. Taking it to a metal recycler or scrap yard

Grills are largely metal (steel, aluminum, sometimes stainless steel), which can often be recycled. A metal recycling facility might:

Accept the grill as-is, once tanks, plastic parts, and electronics are removed.
Pay a small amount for scrap metal by weight.

Call ahead to ask:

Do they accept old grills?
Do you need to disassemble them first?
Are there fees or identification requirements?

Recycling metal avoids unnecessary landfill waste and conserves resources (source: U.S. EPA).

3. Drop-off at a local transfer station or landfill

If curbside bulk pickup is not an option, your local transfer station or landfill often will accept large items for a small fee. Confirm:

Whether grills are accepted.
Any prep requirements (tank removal, cleaning).
Drop-off hours and payment methods.

This option gives you control over timing but does require a vehicle that can transport the grill.

4. Hiring a junk removal service

Professional junk removal companies will:

Pick up the grill from your yard, deck, or patio.
Handle heavy lifting and transportation.
Often recycle metals and properly dispose of the rest.

This is the most convenient option but usually the most expensive. Get a few quotes and ask if they:

Recycle grills.
Offer same-day or next-day pickup.
Charge by volume, weight, or item.

If you value your time or can’t move the grill yourself, this can be the quickest way to complete your grill removal.

What About Old Propane Tanks?

Propane tanks require special handling and should never be tossed in regular trash or recycling.

Options for safe propane tank disposal

Tank exchange programs: Many hardware stores, gas stations, and home centers offer “exchange” deals. You bring your old tank and pay for a filled replacement.
Household hazardous waste facility: Your municipality may accept propane tanks during specific collection days.
Propane suppliers: Some propane companies take back or recycle old tanks.

Always check for:

Visible damage or excessive rust.
Leaks (you might smell gas or hear a hiss).

Handle tanks gently and store them upright until disposal.

DIY Grill Removal: Disassemble and Reuse What You Can

If you’re handy, you can reduce waste and potentially save money by dismantling the grill yourself.

Tools and steps for breaking down a grill

Basic tools:

Screwdrivers (Phillips and flat-head)
Adjustable wrench or socket set
Pliers
Work gloves and safety glasses

Basic process:

Remove detachable parts: Grates, burners, shelves, wheels, propane tank, grease tray.
Separate materials:
- Metal frame and body
- Plastic side trays or knobs
- Electronics (ignition system, lighting)
Sort metal types:
- Magnetic test: If a magnet sticks, it’s usually steel.
- Non-magnetic parts may be aluminum or stainless steel and can be more valuable as scrap.
Bundle materials for transport:
- Bag small parts.
- Stack metal frame pieces.

Creative ways to reuse grill parts

Grates: Clean and repurpose as outdoor drying racks, garden trellises, or campfire cooking surfaces.
Side shelves: Turn them into small utility shelves in a shed or garage.
Wheels: Use them for DIY carts or garden equipment.

Reusing parts where possible can reduce waste and squeeze extra value from your old grill before final removal.

Affordable Strategies to Keep Grill Removal Costs Low

You don’t have to spend much to get that old barbecue out of your life. Combine these tactics for a budget-friendly solution:

Use municipal services first.
Check all options: free bulk pickup, metal recycling events, or discount landfill days.
Team up with neighbors.
If several people on your street have junk to remove, ask a junk removal company for a group rate.
List it for free pickup.
Post “Free broken grill—scrap metal” online. Scrap collectors or DIYers may pick it up for parts.
Transport it yourself.
If you have access to a truck or trailer, a one-time trip to a recycler or transfer station may be far cheaper than hiring a service.
Disassemble to reduce volume.
Smaller pieces may fit in existing trash or recycling allowances if local rules allow metal in curbside pickup (many do not, so confirm first).

Reclaiming Your Backyard: What to Do With the New Space

Once you’ve completed grill removal, you’ll be amazed at how much space you gain. A few ideas:

Upgrade to a smaller, more efficient grill that fits your needs.
Create a lounge area with chairs and an outdoor rug.
Add a fire pit or chiminea for year-round gatherings.
Install a container garden with herbs and vegetables.
Set up an outdoor bar cart or prep table for future cookouts.

Before adding anything new, inspect the surface where the old grill stood. You may need to:

Clean grease stains from concrete or pavers.
Repair burned or discolored decking boards.
Level the ground and add pavers or gravel.

Thoughtful planning lets you turn that old, cluttered corner into your favorite spot.

FAQ: Common Questions About Old Grill Disposal

1. What is the best way to get rid of a gas grill?

The best way to get rid of a gas grill is to:

Disconnect and remove the propane tank.
Clean out grease and debris.
Determine if it can be recycled at a local metal facility or accepted by your city’s bulk pickup program.
If you lack transport or time, hire a grill removal or junk hauling service that offers recycling.

2. Can I put a broken grill out with the regular trash?

In many areas, no. Standard trash collection does not accept large metal items, propane tanks, or appliances. Check your waste management provider’s rules. You’ll likely need to schedule a large-item pickup, drop it at a transfer station, or use a professional old grill pickup service.

3. How do I dispose of an old charcoal grill safely?

For charcoal grill disposal:

Ensure all coals and ashes are fully extinguished and cold.
Bag ashes in a durable trash bag (unless your municipality has a specific rule).
Remove any non-metal parts like plastic handles or side tables.
Recycle the metal body at a scrap yard if possible, or use bulk trash or a junk removal service for complete charcoal grill removal.

Ready to Reclaim Your Backyard? Take the Next Step

You don’t have to let a rusted, unused barbecue dictate your outdoor space. With a bit of planning and the right grill removal strategy—whether that’s DIY disassembly, metal recycling, bulk pickup, or a professional hauling service—you can clear the clutter, improve safety, and open up your backyard to new possibilities.

Don’t wait for “someday.” Choose the option that fits your budget and energy level, schedule a pickup or trip to the recycler, and get that old grill out of the way. Once it’s gone, you’ll have a clean slate and the freedom to design the outdoor area you’ve always wanted—whether that means a sleek new grill station, a cozy lounge, or a beautiful garden where the eyesore used to sit.

Junk Guys Inland Empire
Phone: 909-253-0968
Website: www.junkguysie.com
Email: junkguysie@gmail.com

Grill removal: Quick, Affordable Ways to Reclaim Your Backyard