The Pit Boss PB200GS Tabletop Gas Griddle is a portable outdoor cooking appliance designed for household use, offering a versatile cooking experience with its gas-powered griddle surface. This device is not intended for commercial use or for installation in recreational vehicles or boats, emphasizing its focus on outdoor, residential cooking. Its compact tabletop design makes it suitable for various outdoor settings, from backyards to campsites, provided there is adequate ventilation and clearance from combustible materials.
Function Description
The primary function of the Pit Boss PB200GS is to provide a flat, heated cooking surface for grilling a wide variety of foods. It operates on liquid propane gas, utilizing a burner system to heat a hot plate, which serves as the main cooking area. The griddle is designed for direct heat cooking, allowing users to prepare meals such as breakfast items, stir-fries, burgers, and more, with consistent heat distribution across the cooking surface. The inclusion of a grease cup system helps manage cooking byproducts, directing hot grease and debris away from the burner and into a removable cup, thereby reducing fire hazards and simplifying cleanup.
Usage Features
The PB200GS is engineered for ease of use and safety, incorporating several features to enhance the cooking experience.
Portability and Setup: As a tabletop unit, the griddle is designed for easy transport and setup. It comes with four fire box feet that are rotated into position, providing a stable base for the unit. The hot plate is removable, allowing for easier handling during assembly and cleaning. The regulator, which connects to a standard 1 lb. liquid propane gas tank (not included), is designed for a secure, hand-tightened connection to the fire box valve, ensuring a safe fuel supply. For optimal performance and safety, the gas cylinder should hang vertically off the edge of a table or sit stably on a clean, level surface, away from any disturbance.
Ignition System: The griddle features a reliable ignition procedure. Users must first ensure the burner control knob is in the OFF position before connecting the LP gas cylinder. Once connected and the gas tank valve is open, the control knob is pushed in and turned counter-clockwise to the HIGH position, triggering a spark from the igniter. A "click" sound indicates a successful spark, and users should visually confirm the burner is lit. If ignition does not occur within five seconds, the control knob should be turned to OFF, and a five-minute waiting period is required to dissipate any accumulated gas before attempting to relight. In case of igniter failure after multiple attempts, a manual lighting procedure is available, utilizing a lit match secured with a lighting rod to ignite the burners through the cooking grid and hot plate.
Temperature Control: The control knob allows for adjustment of the gas flow to the burner, enabling users to regulate the cooking temperature. This feature is crucial for cooking different types of food that require varying heat levels, from low-temperature simmering to high-heat searing.
Grease Management: A dedicated grease cup and grease cup holder system are integrated into the design. The grease cup holder fastens to the left side of the fire box, and the grease cup slides into it. This system efficiently collects hot grease and food debris, preventing them from accumulating around the burner components and reducing the risk of grease fires. Regular emptying and cleaning of the grease cup are essential for safe and hygienic operation.
Safety Precautions: The manual emphasizes numerous safety warnings to ensure safe operation. Users are instructed to perform a leak test on the connection between the regulator and the gas cylinder before first use, after changing the gas cylinder, after travel, and after prolonged storage. This test involves applying a soapy water solution to the seal and checking for bubbles, which indicate a leak. The griddle must never be used indoors or in enclosed, unventilated areas due to the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. It should also be kept clear of combustible materials, gasoline, and other flammable liquids. In the event of a grease fire, users are advised to turn the griddle OFF and not to use water, but rather an all-class (ABC) fire extinguisher if available, and to call the Fire Department if the fire is uncontrolled. The griddle should never be transported with the gas cylinder attached, and spare LP gas tanks should not be stored under or near the appliance.
First Use Burn-Off: Before cooking food for the first time, a "burn-off" procedure is recommended. This involves operating the griddle on HIGH for a minimum of 15 minutes to "heat clean" the internal components, dissipate any manufacturing odors, and remove foreign matter.
Shutting Off the Griddle: To turn off the griddle, the LP gas tank valve must first be turned to the CLOSED position, which allows the regulator knob to pop out, locking it and ensuring no gas is flowing. Subsequently, the control knob should be turned to the OFF position. A "poof" sound as the last of the LP gas burns is considered normal. The gas cylinder must be disconnected before moving, traveling, or storing the griddle.
Maintenance Features
Regular care and maintenance are crucial for prolonging the lifespan and ensuring the safe, efficient operation of the Pit Boss PB200GS.
Checking Gas Level: To check the fuel level in the LP gas cylinder, the griddle must be in operation. Users can place their hand at the top of the tank and slowly move down the side; the point where the tank feels cool to the touch indicates the approximate amount of gas remaining. If the tank is ¾ empty, it should be replaced.
Burner Components Cleaning: The burner should be cleaned whenever heavy build-up is observed to prevent blockages from debris or insects. Spiders and small insects can build nests in the burner tube, obstructing gas flow. If storing the griddle or before an extended period of non-use, removing the burner and wrapping it with aluminum foil can help prevent insect entry. The burner is preset for optimal flame performance, characterized by a blue flame with a small yellow tip. If flames appear excessively yellow, orange, or irregular, cleaning oil and food deposits from the burner surface and portholes will improve airflow.
Griddle Surface Maintenance: The griddle surface comes preseasoned from the factory, but it requires cleaning and seasoning after each use to prevent rust, extend its life, and maintain a non-stick cooking surface. This is a continuous process. After each use, food and debris should be removed with a spatula or scraper, ideally while the surface is still warm. A liberal, even coat of cooking oil (vegetable, olive, peanut, coconut, or sesame oil) should then be applied to the cooking surface. After seasoning, the griddle should be turned off and allowed to cool in a cool, dry location.
Grease Cup Cleaning: The grease cup should be checked frequently and cleaned as necessary, depending on the type of foods cooked. This prevents overflow and potential fire hazards.
Overall Protection: Using a grill cover is recommended to protect the griddle from weather and outside pollutants, especially during long-term storage or when not in use. When storing indoors, the gas cylinder must be removed and stored outdoors.
Troubleshooting: The manual provides a troubleshooting guide for common operational problems, such as the burner not lighting, grease fires, low heat, or gas leaks. This guide offers solutions like checking connections, adjusting electrodes, cleaning ports, and replacing damaged components, encouraging users to consult customer service or an authorized dealer if issues persist.
In summary, the Pit Boss PB200GS Tabletop Gas Griddle is a user-friendly, portable outdoor cooking appliance designed with safety and ease of maintenance in mind, offering a reliable solution for various grilling needs.
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