I'm troubleshooting a problem with a brand-new propane gas grill that is experiencing flameouts and making puffing/popping sounds. I'm asking here because I want to understand the basic chemistry that would cause this problem.
The problem is demonstrated in this video.
I've already been through all the expected troubleshooting steps:
- Replaced the gas regulator
- Replaced the burner
- Tried three different propane tanks
The grill was purchased about 3 weeks ago. The valve/regulator assembly was replaced last week, and the burner was replaced yesterday, so both parts are essentially new and unused.
It's hard to tell from the video if the puff causes the flameout or the flameout occurs first, followed by accumulation and detonation of a small amount of unburned propane.
I would like to understand the chemistry principles that govern the combustion of propane in a grill, and what design flaw(s) could cause this behavior.