In every auspicious barbecue and grilling sessions, a charcoal grill starter must come in handy. This is because starting your grill is the first step.
Grilling has emerged as one of the most preferred ways of preparing delicious recipes. From grilled vegetables to steak. The use of a charcoal grill also comes out on top as the most preferred compared to electric and propane grills.
Before starting on your barbeque let’s go through a few tips.
Ways To Start a Charcoal Grill
There are many ways to start a charcoal grill. But not all the available methods are equally effective. Especially for someone without prior experience. This guide however gives away different ways to simplify the process.
1. Lighter Fluid Method
The use of the lighter fluid is among the most popularly used methods to start a charcoal grill. You start the process by arranging the coals in a neat pyramid shape. Then squirt the lighter fluid evenly on the coals.
Be careful not to pour too much because it can result in dangerous flare-ups when ignited. And also give an awful aftertaste to your delicious barbeque.
Use a lighter or strike matches to light the fuel and let It burn, sparking the charcoal as it continues to burn. The whole process will potentially take 15 to 20 minutes, and afterward, you can start cooking.
Please note that the lighter fluid should never be squirted on a live fire. This is because the fire will spread violently and may be difficult to control.
2. Chimney Starter Method
A chimney starter is a container designed to give the charcoal more directional airflow. And concentrate the heat for it to spread faster.
You start with filling the chimney starter with charcoal to the desired amount. Then use a flammable material or fire starter at the bottom of the container to start the initial fire. You can also use balled-up pieces of paper, cardboard, or cotton.
Eventually, the fire will ignite the charcoal and within 15 to 20 minutes the fire will spread and your charcoal will be ready to go.
Carefully pour the lit charcoals into your grill, using fireproof gloves for safety. And allow it to preheat to your desired temperature before you can start grilling your barbeque.
3. Heat Gun Method
The heat gun has a variety of purposes, and this is one of them. It is one of the fastest ways to start a charcoal grill. And works by heating the charcoal to extremely high temperatures until it ignites.
Using the heat gun follows a similar process to the lighter fluid. You arrange the charcoal in a pyramid and aim the heat gun at the highest point on the pyramid. Concentrate the heat gun around the area for approximately 2 minutes until the charcoal starts to glow.
You can slowly do the same around other areas on the pyramid. But eventually, the glow will spread in 15 to 20 mins.
Spread the coal around the grill, give it time to attain the right temperature and you are good to proceed with your barbeque.
The Best Charcoal Grill Starters
1) KINGSFORD Heavy Duty Deluxe Charcoal Chimney Starter
This charcoal chimney is made using durable rust-resistant zinc steel. It’s both fast, and easy to use, and is designed to make sure that your coal lights up evenly. The handle of this chimney starter is made using heat shield material. To protect your hand from extreme temperatures and make sure it stays cool.
Key Features
- Measures 10.74” x 6.8” x 11.25” (L x W x H)
- No assembly required
- Rust resistant Zinc-steel material
- Weighs 2 lbs.
What we like
- Very easy to use even for beginners
- Comes at a budget price
What we dislike
- Requires an additional fire starter
2) Char-Griller Charcoal Grill Chimney Starter
Integrated on the chimney starter is an easy damp handle. To ensure your safety while emptying the charcoal into the grill.
Key Features
- Zinc-coated galvanized steel construction.
- Dimensions – 7.6” L x 12” W x 12”H
- Patented trigger release.
- E-Z dump handle with protective heat shield
- Weighs 5lbs.
What we like
- The trigger release integrated onto the handle
- The unique design funnels air and traps heat
- Takes a short time to light
What we dislike
- Feels chunky at times
3) HomeRight Electro-Torch C900085 Fire Starter
Like any other electric starter, the electro-torch C900085 allows you to easily light up your charcoal in the shortest time possible.
The fire starter comes with a dual ignition switch. The first position generates super-heated air to ignite the fire. The second position produces high-velocity airflow to fan the flames
Key Features
- Dual ignition switch
- Up to 1,500 degrees temperature hot air
- Built-in blower
- 6 ft. long heavy-gauge grounded power cord
- Weighs 1.84 lbs.
What we like
- Takes a short time to light a fire
- Lightweight and portable
What we dislike
- Expensive
4) Zippo Fuel Fluid
This lighter fluid also comes with a flint and wick for your lighter. Which you can use to cautiously start a fire.
Key Features
- 4 oz. container
- Made in the United States.
What we like
- Affordable price
- Comes in a small package for safe storage and carriage
- Includes a wick and flint for your lighter
What we dislike
- You have to replenish it after a short time.
Charcoal Grill Starter- Buying Guide
What do you look for in a fire starter?
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Cost
The cost of fire starters varies depending on the type. The cost includes both the purchase price and the cost of running it. This is whether there is replenishing required, and whether there are other products to be used with the starter.
The chimney starter for example requires burning balls of paper, which may not be favorable to some buyers.
The electric gun is the most convenient but also requires the input of electricity. It is also pricier on the initial purchase.
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Ease-of-Use
How easily are you able to operate the starter? This is the first question that should come to mind. Most people want the fun that comes with barbeques but wants to avoid all the labor that happens prior.
A good starter should start a fire within the least time possible. It should also be safe for the one handling it. The lighter fluid requires a lot of caution while using. If used improperly it can result in severe burns.
An electric heat gun is by far the easiest to use. And with it, you spend the least time starting a fire.
Conclusion
Charcoal starters provide a quick and resolute solution to start your fire and embark on the fun barbeque process. Consider the desired attributes of a charcoal grill starter, before you can acquire it. This will make sure that you are satisfied with what it offers. And you are able to use it well. We believe the list that we have provided contains some of the best available starters on the market.