Are Kenmore gas grills any good?
Kenmore LP gas grills like model 41516123800 are a solid choice for everyday grilling: they heat up fast, cook evenly when the burners and carryover system are in good shape, and are built for years of dependable outdoor use when you follow the safety and care steps in the 41516123800 owner’s manual.
What “good” looks like on this grill
A Kenmore grill performs well when it lights reliably, holds steady heat, and has consistent flame across burners.
- Ignition lights the burners quickly without repeated clicking
- Burner flames are mostly blue and even across the burner tube
- The cooking grate heats evenly with minimal hot spots
- Grease management keeps flare-ups under control
- Wheels and frame roll smoothly and feel stable
Common issues that affect performance (and what to check)
Most complaints we see on gas grills come down to normal wear, grease buildup, or a single failed component.
| Symptom | Most likely cause | What to do first |
|---|---|---|
| Won’t light | Weak ignition, dirty burner ports, gas flow issue | Try match lighting per the manual; then inspect burner ports |
| Uneven heat | Clogged burner, misaligned carryover | Clean burner ports; verify carryover alignment |
| Flare-ups | Grease buildup, missing/overflowing grease cup | Clean firebox area; empty/replace grease cup |
| Low heat | Regulator/tank flow restriction, wind | Reset LP regulator; preheat with lid closed |
If ignition problems persist, replacing the gas grill ignition module 80014404 restores reliable spark on many grills.
Why it matters
A grill can be “good” on day one but frustrating later if flames are uneven or grease handling is poor. Keeping the burners clean, maintaining safe clearances, and replacing worn parts protects cooking performance and helps prevent dangerous gas buildup.
Safety basics we follow every time
- Use outdoors only in a well-ventilated area
- Never light the grill with the lid closed
- Keep at least 3 ft clearance from walls and 10 ft from ignition sources
- Keep the bottom and back vent holes clear
- Check burner flames regularly
Last updated: February 2026
How to find Kenmore Grill model number?
On the Kenmore LP gas grill model 41516123800, the model and serial information is printed on the grill’s rating label. We use that label to match the correct parts list and diagram, so copying the numbers exactly prevents ordering the wrong burner, ignition, or hardware.
Where to look on the grill
Check these common rating-label locations first:
- Back panel of the grill base (rear of the cabinet or firebox area)
- Inside the cabinet (open the doors and look on the inner side panels)
- Side panel near the control knobs (less common)
- Under the side shelf or near the tank area (sometimes used on LP grills)
If you have the paperwork, the model number is also printed on the cover of the 41516123800 owner’s manual.
What to write down (and why)
Record the details below before you shop for parts or call for help:
- Model number (example format: 415.16123800, often shown without the dot as 41516123800)
- Serial number (unique to your grill)
- Date purchased (helpful for warranty timing and part revisions)
Quick reference
| Item | What it’s used for | Example |
|---|---|---|
| Model number | Matches the correct parts diagram | 41516123800 |
| Serial number | Identifies production run | Varies |
| Date purchased | Warranty and service records | Your receipt date |
Why it matters
Kenmore grills can look similar across model families, but parts like the main burner, carryover tube, and ignition components can differ by model and production run. Using the rating label information helps ensure the parts you order fit and install correctly.
Last updated: February 2026
How to tell if a regulator is bad on a gas grill?
On the Kenmore 41516123800 LP gas grill, a failing regulator shows up as weak or suddenly low flames, trouble reaching cooking temperature, or a rushing sound at the tank connection when you open the LP tank valve. Confirm with a proper leak test and a quick flame check using the steps in the 41516123800 owner's manual.
Quick signs the regulator is the problem
- Flames stay low even with burners on HIGH (or flame drops suddenly after lighting).
- Grill struggles to heat up or takes much longer than normal.
- You hear a rushing sound at the tank connection when opening the LP tank valve (turn gas off immediately and correct the connection before using).
- Regulator frosts over during use (turn off grill and LP tank valve immediately; the tank should not be used).
- You smell gas or see bubbles during a soapy-water leak test on the regulator, hose, or valve connections.
How we check it safely (what to do)
- Turn all control knobs to OFF.
- Make sure the regulator coupling nut is hand-tightened straight onto the LP tank valve (avoid cross-threading; do not use tools).
- Open the LP tank valve slowly. If you hear a rushing sound, shut it off and re-seat the connection.
- Brush a soapy solution on the regulator, hose, and valve connection points; bubbles indicate a leak.
- Do a burner flame check: on HIGH you should see a stronger flame than on LOW; if you only get low flame, follow the “sudden drop or low flame” troubleshooting path in the manual.
Regulator vs. other common causes
| Symptom | More likely regulator/LP supply | More likely burner/ignition issue |
|---|---|---|
| All burners weak | Yes | Sometimes (if burners clogged) |
| Sudden drop to low flame | Yes | Sometimes |
| One burner weak | Less likely | Yes |
| No spark/click | No | Yes (ignition module/electrode) |
Why it matters
A bad regulator (or a leaking connection) can cause unsafe gas flow and poor performance. The manual also notes that a humming/whistling regulator noise can be normal, but frosting, leaks, or persistent low flame are not.
Last updated: February 2026
What is the best gas grill under $300?
For under $300, the best gas grill is the one that fits how you cook and where you’ll use it; for most people that means a 2 to 4 burner propane (LP) grill with reliable ignition, solid grates, and easy grease management. If you already own the Kenmore 41516123800, putting that budget into key replacement parts often delivers the biggest performance upgrade.
Quick picks by use case
- Best everyday backyard value: 3 to 4 main burners, enclosed cart, and widely available replacement parts
- Best small-space grilling: compact 1 to 2 burner cart or tabletop (check local rules for apartments)
- Best tailgating/camping: portable tabletop with secure lid latch and easy tank hookup
- Best for low-maintenance cleanup: models with an accessible grease cup and simple firebox design
What to look for (the checklist that matters)
- Fuel type: LP (propane) if you want simple setup; the 41516123800 is designed to be used with LP gas and the supplied regulator/valve assembly (natural gas requires a conversion kit) per the 41516123800 owner’s manual.
- Burner layout: 2 burners for small families; 3 to 4 burners for frequent cooking and indirect heat zones
- Ignition reliability: push-button or electronic ignition; consistent lighting matters more than “BTU” claims
- Cooking surface: heavier grates hold heat better; confirm replacement grate availability
- Grease handling: easy-to-remove cup or tray reduces flare-ups and cleanup time
If you already own the Kenmore 41516123800: best “under $300” upgrade
Replacing wear items often makes an older grill cook like new.
| Symptom | Most likely fix | Example part for this model |
|---|---|---|
| Uneven heat, weak flames | Replace burner components, clean ports | Gas grill ignition module 80014404 (for spark issues) |
| Flare-ups, messy cleanup | Restore grease collection | Gas grill firebox 80009022 (if firebox is damaged) |
| Poor searing, rusted surface | Replace grates | Cooking grate (model-specific) |
Why it matters
A “best” grill is really about safe, consistent heat and predictable ignition. The manual’s safety guidance (ventilation, clearances, and lighting with the lid open) helps you avoid dangerous gas buildup and reduces flare-up risk during everyday grilling. See the 41516123800 owner’s manual for safe clearances and operating tips.
Last updated: February 2026
Who makes Kenmore gas grills?
Kenmore is the brand name on the grill; the actual manufacturer (OEM) can vary by model and production run. For Kenmore model 41516123800, the most accurate way to identify the maker is to use the grill’s rating label and the identification details shown in the 41516123800 owner’s manual.
How to identify the manufacturer on your exact grill
Use the information printed on the grill itself; that is what ties your unit to the correct parts list and service information.
- Find the rating label or nameplate (commonly on the cart frame, inside a door, or near the firebox)
- Record the full model number: 41516123800
- Look for an additional identifier such as a serial number, production code, or an OEM number
- Compare that information to the parts list and diagrams in the 41516123800 owner’s manual
- Use the same identifiers when ordering replacement parts (burners, ignition parts, firebox components)
What “Kenmore” means on outdoor grills
Kenmore-branded LP gas grills are produced for Kenmore by different manufacturers over time. That is why the model number is the key to getting the right manual, diagrams, and compatible parts.
Quick reference
| Identifier | What it’s used for | Where you’ll see it |
|---|---|---|
| Model number (41516123800) | Correct parts and documentation | Rating label, paperwork |
| Serial or production code | Narrowing down build details | Rating label |
| Parts diagrams/list | Verifying fit and placement | 41516123800 owner’s manual |
Why it matters
Correct manufacturer identification prevents mismatched LP gas components and helps you follow the right assembly, lighting, and safety steps for your grill.
Last updated: February 2026





