Burner Pans: Choose The Right Type

There are several factors to consider when choosing the right burner pans for your stove or fire pit. Firstly, it's important to determine the type of stove or fire pit you have, as different types have specific burner pan requirements. For instance, traditional electric stoves typically have drip pans under each burner, while gas stoves and flat-top electric stoves do not. Fire pits fuelled by liquid propane require a burner pan, while natural gas fire pits only recommend them.

The size of the burner pan is another crucial factor. For stoves, the standard sizes are 6-inch and 8-inch, with some extra-large options available. Fire pit burner pans come in various shapes, including linear, rectangular, round, and square, and must fit the opening of your fire pit.

The style of the burner pan is also important. Flat pans are sheets of metal with cutouts for the gas connection and any needed electronics, while drop-in pans have an integrated lip that sits on the interior edge of the fire pit enclosure. Additionally, the quality of burner elements is indicated by the number of times the heating element circles the centre, with more turns indicating higher quality.

When choosing a burner pan, it's also worth considering the price, material, and additional features such as pre-cut holes for electronic ignition components or stabilizing legs.

Drip pan sizes

Drip pans are available in a variety of materials and finishes, and in a variety of sizes. There is no universal size, but there are a few standard sizes that cover most ranges. The most common sizes are 6-inch and 8-inch, which refer to the approximate outside diameters of the heating element or the recess in the drip pan. The actual dimensions of these pans are 7.5 inches for the small and 9.5 inches for the large. These sizes are also commonly referred to as "small" and "large" rather than by their measurements.

There are also micro-size differences between brands, which can affect the fit of the drip pan. These differences are too small and variable to measure, but you can usually find the correct size by providing the brand and model number of your stove when shopping for a replacement.

When replacing drip pans, it is important to consider the type of burner element you have. Removable burners have a hole in the side and a complete rim, while hinged burners have a small round section cut out of the rim. Additionally, the number of turns on the heating element can indicate its quality, with more turns indicating higher quality.

To find the correct size and style of drip pan, you can refer to the owner's manual or the manufacturer's website. You can also take the old drip pan with you to a hardware store to visually match it with a generic replacement.

Drip pan styles

Drip pans are available in a variety of materials, colours, and finishes. They are usually made of stainless steel or porcelain enamel. Drip pans come in various styles, including A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, and K. Styles A and B are one-piece drip bowls with a complete rim and a cutout for the element to plug through. Style A is slightly shallower than Style B. Style A fits Whirlpool, Kenmore (2004 and newer), Frigidaire, Maytag, Electrolux, Tappan, Amana, Crosley, and RCA stovetops. Style B generally matches GE, Hotpoint, Kenmore (1995-2003), Roper (1990 and newer), and Monogram electric ranges. Styles D and E are designed for hinged cooking elements and have a separate top outer trim ring and a pan underneath. Style D fits GE, Hotpoint, Kenmore (1995-2003), Roper (1990 and newer), and Monogram electric cooktop ranges, while Style E fits Whirlpool, Kenmore (2004 and newer), Frigidaire, Maytag, Electrolux, Tappan, Amana, Crosley, and RCA electric stovetops. Styles C and F are less common and are designed for electric ranges.

Drip pan materials

Drip pans are used to catch drips and spills from the burners of a gas range or electric stove. They can be made from a variety of materials, including:

Chrome-Plated Drip Pans

Chrome-plated drip pans are shiny and reflective, which means that any stains or marks on their surface are obvious. This can give the appearance of uncleanliness. Over time, chrome can also become grimy and darkened, which affects its reflective properties and can lead to inefficient and uneven cooking results.

Black Porcelain Drip Pans

Black porcelain drip pans are a common alternative to chrome-plated pans. They are often used in one-piece drip bowls with a complete rim and a cutout for the element to plug through.

Stainless Steel Drip Pans

Stainless steel is a durable and corrosion-resistant material that can be used for large industrial drip pans as well as smaller, standard-sized ones.

Galvanized Steel Drip Pans

Galvanized steel is a more cost-effective option for large industrial drip pans. It offers lower corrosion resistance than stainless steel but may be more suitable for applications with lower corrosion resistance requirements.

Drip pan maintenance

Drip pans are used to catch drips and spills from electric stoves. They can be challenging to clean, and if not cleaned properly, the gunk buildup can catch fire.

Cleaning Drip Pans

• A paste made of dish soap and baking soda can be used to scrub away dirt and grime.
• Soak the drip pans in hot water, then vinegar, and then baking soda.
• Use common household ingredients like ammonia, zip lock bags, and a sponge to clean the drip pans. Place each burner drip pan in a large plastic bag with ammonia, seal the bag, and let it sit for 24 hours. Then, use a sponge to wipe away the dirt.
• For an easier option, disposable aluminium burner liners can be placed in the drip pans. When they get dirty, throw them out and replace them with new ones.

Preventative Maintenance

• Clean up spills and messes immediately to prevent them from burning onto the drip pans.
• Avoid using steel wool or metal scourers on the drip pans, as they can leave grooves in the metal, making it easier for dirt to build up.
• If the drip pans are not cleaned regularly, consider replacing them with new ones.

Drip pan alternatives

Drip pans are used to collect drippings from grills, stoves, and fire pits, so there is less to clean afterward. Here are some alternatives to the standard drip pans:

Foil

A cheap and easy alternative is to use foil. You can shape it into a pan, or place it over a baking sheet or pizza pan. This allows you to simply ball it up and throw it away afterward, reducing the cleanup time.

Baking Sheet

A baking sheet can be wrapped in foil and placed on metal nuts to elevate it. This method is more sturdy than using foil alone, and still provides the convenience of easy disposal.

Pizza Pan

A pizza pan can be wrapped in foil and used as a drip pan. This provides a more solid base than foil alone, and the foil makes cleanup easier.

Disposable Aluminum Pans

Cheap disposable aluminum pans can be bent into shape and used as a drip pan. They can be easily replaced after each use.

Stock Your Home Drip Pans

Stock Your Home offers durable aluminum drip pans that can be tossed away after each use. These are a popular alternative due to their ease of use and durability.

DOBI Drip Pans

DOBI offers a range of durable, recyclable solid aluminum drip pans that are easy to work with and remove. They are compatible with a variety of different grill models.

Fig and Leaf Drip Pan

Fig and Leaf specializes in aluminum products and offers a range of high-quality drip pans that are compatible with Weber grills.

Montopack Drip Pans

Montopack offers highly durable drip pans that are good at conducting and withstanding heat. They are compatible with specific Weber grill models.

Frequently asked questions