i get a loud popping sound from the burners sometimes when lighting, is that dangerous

Diagnosis

The loud popping sound you experience when lighting your Blackstone 36-inch Griddle Cooking Station is known as a "delayed ignition." This occurs when propane gas escapes the burner ports and accumulates in the air gap between the burner tube and the griddle surface before the spark actually ignites the mixture. Instead of a smooth, immediate flame, you get a miniature explosion of the accumulated gas pocket, which creates that startling "pop" or "boom" sound. This is typically caused by a combination of low gas pressure, a slow turn of the control knob, or wind pushing the gas away from the ignition point. If you turn the knob slowly, you allow a significant volume of gas to flood the burner area before the ignition sequence is completed. You can confirm this is the issue if the popping only happens during the initial light-up phase and does not occur once the burners are steadily running. While it is generally not dangerous if handled correctly, a massive buildup of gas can potentially warp the burner ports or cause a flare-up that could singe your eyebrows if you are leaning too close to the control panel.

How to Fix It

To eliminate delayed ignition and ensure a safe start, follow this precise sequence to minimize gas accumulation:

1. Ensure all burner knobs are in the "OFF" position and the propane tank valve is closed.
2. Open the propane tank valve slowly and fully.
3. Instead of turning the knob slowly, rotate the burner knob from "OFF" to "HIGH" in one quick, assertive motion. This maximizes the gas pressure immediately, allowing the gas to reach the ignition point faster.
4. Immediately press the ignition button. Do not wait more than one second between turning the knob and pressing the igniter.
5. If the burner does not light within three seconds, turn the knob back to "OFF" immediately.
6. Wait at least 60 seconds for the accumulated gas to dissipate into the air before attempting to relight. This prevents the "pop" by clearing the combustion chamber of excess fuel.

If That Didn't Work

• Check for air in the fuel line. If you recently changed your propane tank, there may be air trapped in the hose. Turn the burner to high for 5 seconds, turn it off, and repeat this three times to "bleed" the line before attempting to ignite.
• Inspect the burner ports for debris. Use a thin paperclip or a small wire brush to clear the small holes in the burner tubes. If grease or carbon buildup is blocking the ports, the gas won't flow evenly, creating pockets of fuel that lead to popping.
• Verify your propane levels. When a tank is nearly empty (below 10-15%), the pressure drops significantly. This lower pressure slows the flow of gas, increasing the time it takes for the fuel to reach the spark and increasing the likelihood of a delayed pop.
• Adjust the position of your griddle. If you are using the unit in a high-wind area, the breeze can blow the gas away from the igniter. Use a wind shield or move the unit to a more sheltered area to ensure the gas stays concentrated near the ignition point.

Heads Up

• Never use a handheld butane lighter or match if the igniter is failing; always fix the ignition system first to avoid reaching over an open flame.
• Periodically check the regulator hose for leaks using a soapy water solution; bubbles appearing on the hose indicate a leak that could contribute to irregular gas pressure.
• Avoid turning the knobs to "Low" during the ignition process; always start on "High" to ensure a strong, immediate flow of gas that catches the spark instantly.
• Keep the area around the burner knobs clear of grease buildup, as this can make the knobs slip or prevent them from turning fully to the "High" position.