Overview:
It is a common misconception that stainless steel will maintain its original factory shine with little help from the consumer. Unfortunately, this is not true. Stainless steel will not stain, discolor, corrode, or rust as fast as other types of steel, but it is not fully stain or weatherproof, if not properly maintained. All grades of stainless steel can face surface discoloration, corrosion, and eventually rust. Any stainless steel exposed to the environment will require attention and care throughout its life to ensure its shine and structural integrity.
Cleaning and Polishing:
1. Allow the stainless steel to cool before cleaning/polishing the stainless steel. DO NOT clean or polish your stainless steel when the grill is in operation or still hot.
2. To clean the stainless steel, wash off all dirt and debris from the steel with warm water. A third-party degreaser product can be used if you have tough spots to clean.
3. Next, rinse and dry the steel thoroughly with a clean microfiber towel. Do not let the steel air dry; the standing water can cause surface discoloration.
4. The last step is to protect the unit with an excellent third-party polish. There are several third-party polishes on the market that will help keep your stainless steel protected from the elements longer. Most of these polishes are toxic, so only use these on the stainless steels exterior. Follow the instructions provided on any third-party polish products. Do not use such products on cooking grates or heat control grids.
a. Apply the polish to a clean paper towel and wipe with the direction of the grain in the stainless steel.
b. No excess liquid should be on the surface, but it is acceptable to be a little oily, as that will dissipate.
5. If your stainless steel has developed surface discoloration or surface rust, clean the unit as stated above and use an excellent third-party polish to remove or reduce the spots. Follow the instructions provided on any third-party polish products. Coyote does not ensure or guarantee such products' performance or results.
Environmental Factors that can affect your Stainless Steel:
There are several common causes for surface discoloration and corrosion on your stainless-steel outdoor equipment. If not cleaned off quickly, the below elements can affect your stainless steel:
1. Mortar (which contains lime) from the island assembly process.
2. Pool chemicals splashed onto the stainless steel (chlorine and acid will cause problems).
3. Hard water from sprinklers (chlorine in the water).
4. Salt from the ocean air/water (owners near the beach must be diligent in maintaining their outdoor stainless equipment).
5. Dust, or rust, from other metals examples are metal framing, fasteners, a pergola, or pipes.
6. Organic matters (such as certain types of food). With high humidity and low oxygen, corrosion will start to take place.
7. Sprays and cleaning solutions containing alkaline, lime, acid, salt, etc., might have been left on the stainless-steel surface un-dried. Bleach, glass cleaners with ammonia, or hard water are examples of cleaners that can damage the finish.
Coyote Care Recommendations:
1. Purchase a Coyote Stainless steel cover for your unit. This will ensure that your cover is a correct fit and breathable while providing the protection needed to keep contaminants off the surface.
2. When installing the unit, make sure to keep the unit covered when any masonry work is being performed. If any mortar or dust encounters the stainless, wipe it off as soon as possible and use a stainless-steel polish immediately afterward.
3. Position your stainless steel away from areas that can receive water splash from a pool or hot tub.
4. Do not store pool chemicals in your island or island cabinets.
5. We recommend cleaning with microfiber cloth and warm water after every cook.
6. To clean daily, you can utilize any stainless-steel polish. In case of stains or discoloration, we suggest using Bar Keepers Friend soft cleanser.
7. If you do not clean or polish your grill according to the instructions above, it may permanently damage the stainless steel.
Please Contact Coyote Outdoor Living Customer Support for assistance.
Phone: 855-520-1559