By Miles SinclairUpdated November 2026
Gas grill side burners are a small, separate burner built into the cart or shelf of a gas grill, usually rated lower than the main cooking burners. They are best for sauces, side dishes, boiling corn, and warming buns, not for searing steaks. If yours clicks but won’t light, or the flame looks weak, the cause is almost always a blocked port, a weak igniter, or a gas supply issue that you can check in about 15 minutes.
Why Side Burners Are Useful on a Gas Grill
A side burner for gas grill setups gives you a second heat source without opening the lid. That matters when the main grates are full of chicken and you need to finish a pot of baked beans or reduce a barbecue glaze. Because it sits outside the grill box, it also keeps smoke and grease away from the food you are cooking, which is one reason many cooks prefer a burner gas grill with side access for sauces.
Shopping for one? See our guide: 2 Burner Compact Gas Grill Review (2026): Pros, Cons & Who Should Buy.
Side burners are also helpful for keeping the cooking station running. Many owners use the side burner to heat water for pasta or to warm a cast iron skillet while the main grill preheats. If you cook for a crowd, that extra surface can save a lot of back-and-forth between the kitchen and the patio.
Factors That Affect Side Burner Performance
Several things determine whether a gas grill with side burners performs well day to day:
- Burner output. Side burners are typically lower in BTU than the main burners. Manufacturers specify these ratings in their spec sheets, and a lower rating means slower boiling and less high-heat capability.
- Port cleanliness. Grease, food debris, and spider webs can block the small flame ports. Owners often report that a weak or uneven flame is the first sign of clogging.
- Igniter condition. The igniter sparks through a small electrode. Moisture, grease, or a loose wire can cause clicking without ignition.
- Gas supply. A low propane tank or a partially closed valve at the regulator can starve the side burner while the main burners still work. Check the tank level and valve position first.
- Cookware fit. Side burners usually accept pots and pans of a limited diameter. A pan that overhangs the grate can trap heat and cause uneven results.
What to Do When Your Side Burner Is Not Working
Start with the simplest checks and work toward the more involved ones. Before you touch any internal parts, turn off the gas, disconnect the propane tank, and let everything cool. Follow the manufacturer’s manual for your model, since layouts vary between brands.
- Confirm the tank has fuel and the cylinder valve is fully open.
- Turn the side burner knob to high and listen for the igniter. If you hear clicks but no ignition, move to the next step.
- Remove the burner cover or grate and inspect the ports for food, grease, or insect nests. Clear them with a soft wire brush or a pipe cleaner, not a metal tool that might enlarge them.
- Check the electrode gap and wire connection. The tip should sit close to the burner without touching it. Wipe away grease and dry the area.
- Run a leak test on the connections with a soapy water solution. Bubbles mean a leak; tighten fittings or replace the hose if needed.
- Light the burner again and watch the flame. It should be blue with a steady, even pattern.
Practical Tips for Better Side Burner Use
- Cover the side burner when you are not using it to keep rain and debris out of the ports.
- Clean the burner after every few uses, especially after boiling or frying, since grease builds up quickly on the lower shelf.
- Use cookware with flat bottoms that match the burner size to improve heat transfer.
- Keep a spare electrode or igniter button on hand if your model uses a replaceable part.
- If you smell gas and cannot locate a leak, shut off the tank, move away from the grill, and call your gas supplier or a qualified technician.
What We’d Use
If you want a grill that includes a side burner from the start, look for a model with a clearly labeled side burner and an accessible igniter, such as the Weber Genesis series, which many owners praise for its ease of cleaning. For a budget pick, the Char-Broil Performance line is widely available and includes side burner options in several sizes. Owners often report that a simple outdoor stove-top burner also works well if your current grill lacks one.
Related questions
Can you use a side burner for gas grill cooking with a wok?
Yes, if the wok ring fits the grate or the burner support. Start on low and increase heat slowly, since a wok can overheat quickly on a lower-BTU burner.
Why does my side burner flame look yellow?
A yellow flame usually means partial blockage or poor air mixing. Clean the ports and check that the air shutter, if your model has one, is set correctly.
Is a side burner worth it on a gas grill?
For cooks who make sauces, sides, or boil water outdoors, a side burner adds real convenience. If you only grill meat, you can skip it. You can read more about choosing features in Gas Grill Buying Guide: Features, Fuel, and Performance.
How often should I clean the side burner?
Clean it after every few uses or whenever you notice a weak flame. Regular cleaning prevents grease buildup that can block ports and cause uneven heat.
Can I replace a side burner on an older grill?
Often yes, but parts availability depends on the brand. Check the model number and the manufacturer’s parts list before ordering, and see Where to Find Parts for Weber Spirit Gas Grill: Identify and Replace for an example of how to identify replacement components.
For general cleaning routines, see How to Deep Clean Your Gas Grill's Burners and Grates. If you are weighing a gas grill against other fuel types, Charcoal vs Gas Grills: Flavor, Convenience, Cost and Safety compares the tradeoffs. Gas leaks are a safety issue, so if you are unsure about a connection, consult a qualified appliance technician.
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About Miles Sinclair
Miles Sinclair is part of our editorial team and reviews and edits our BBQ & grilling guides, checking product details against manufacturer specifications and owner feedback.
