1 Leave the section closest to you coal-free. 2  Replace the grill grate. 3  If using a gas grill, set it up for three-zone grilling. 4  Keep it hot, keep it clean, keep it lubricated: When the grill grate is hot, clean it with a grill brush, then lubricate it with a grill oiler or a folded paper towel dipped in vegetable oil.