How do I start a charcoal grill?

Before you start, examine the grill to ensure that all grill components are properly placed. Be sure that the ash pan is properly attached to the legs underneath the grill. The charcoal grate should be resting inside the bowl to hold the briquettes (do not place briquettes directly in the bottom of the grill).

There are several ways to start a charcoal grill:

Charcoal chimney: The charcoal chimney is our recommended way to start a standard kettle grill. Stack briquettes inside, on top of two wadded sheets of newspaper or a few pre-treated briquettes, then light. You’ll have burning coals ready to use in about 30 minutes. You’ll know that the coals are ready when they’re coated in white ash residue. Remove the chimney and spread the coals.  After removing the chimney remember to place the unit in an area that can’t come into contact with burnable objects or people. 

Pre-treated (Matchlight) briquettes: Stack the briquettes in the desired arrangement and light in several places. The embedded lighter fluid will ensure that the coals light relatively quickly. Do not add additional pre-treated briquettes to the coals once the fire has started. Be sure to let the lighter fluid burn off the coals before adding food to the grill, about 45 minutes.

Lighter fluid: If you use lighter fluid, be sure it’s a product intended for charcoal. Some volatile substances, like gasoline or alcohol, are very dangerous. Don’t pour any liquid lighter fluid on hot coals, even if they seem to have gone out, because the coals could suddenly flare up. Be sure to let the lighter fluid burn off the coals before adding food to the grill, about 45 minutes.