Grill Heat Plates

Heat plates (also called flavorizers or heat shields) sit between burners and the cooking grates to distribute heat evenly, protect burners from drippings, and vaporize drippings to add flavor; they help prevent flare-ups and improve grill performance

Measure the length and width of the existing plate or the area above the burners and match the shape (V-shaped, U-shaped, or flat) and hole pattern; check your grill model's manual or measure burner spacing and mounting points to ensure a proper fit

Stainless steel and aluminized steel are common: stainless resists corrosion and lasts longer, while aluminized steel is less expensive and offers good heat conduction; porcelain-coated plates resist sticking but can chip, exposing the metal underneath

Replacement heat plates generally range from budget options under $50 to higher-end or brand-specific plates around $100 or more, with many typical choices clustered around the mid-range; prices vary by material, size, and brand

You can use third-party plates if they match your grill's dimensions and mounting style; verify measurements and clearances, and prefer plates designed for your burner layout to avoid uneven heating or interference with burners

After the grill cools, scrape off heavy residue with a grill brush, remove and soak or scrub plates with warm soapy water if heavily soiled, and inspect for corrosion or warping; replace plates that are heavily rusted, warped, or have large holes

Replace plates that are warped, cracked, have large rust-through areas, cause uneven heating or persistent flare-ups, or no longer sit flat above the burners, since these issues impair heat distribution and can damage burners