If you are looking to buy a charcoal grill, there are several top tips for finding the best charcoal burner that you can follow. There are a great number of models of grills on the market today. There are many different features that you can select when choosing a grill. However, if you want to find the best charcoal grill, you need to follow certain guidelines. You need to know what to look for in the best charcoal burner before making a purchase.
Determine what your needs are and how are you planning to use the charcoal burner
First, determine what your needs are and how are you planning to use the charcoal burner. If you have a large family and plan on grilling several times during the week, you may want to choose a grill that is larger than those that are only intended for two or three people. Large charcoal burners tend to create a much more flavorful charcoal-flavored smoke, which tends to make cooking smoky.
Determine how many charcoal burners you would like to own
Second, you need to determine how many charcoal burners you would like to own. If you are someone who likes to do everything yourself, you may want to choose a model that has many different burners. On the other hand, if you like to have a gas line flare up the coals, you may want to choose a charcoal burner with a gas insert. The same can be said of grills that have a rotisserie. Of course, you can always choose to have a gas station that burns charcoal.
Make sure to find a product that is user-friendly and top-of-the-line
Third, find a product that is user-friendly. User-friendly charcoal grills are easier to clean. They will also allow you to cook more meals using less fuel, which will save money. Of course, you will also find that more charcoal will produce more charcoals, so it is recommended that you always use more than you think you need, especially if you buy a top-of-the-line product.
Make sure to look for a high-quality charcoal burner
Fourth, look for a high-quality burner. There are some charcoal grills that will only hold a few charcoal briquettes at a time. They are not very practical, and oftentimes they will not hold enough for what you want to cook. Charcoal heaters that offer six or more charcoal briquettes per channel are the best.
Make sure to find a unit that is easy to clean
Fifth, find a unit that is easy to clean. Many of these grills are made of stainless steel. You may want to consider investing in a unit that uses a non-stick surface. This will help you avoid having to constantly pre-heat your grill to make sure that it is ready to use the next time you want to cook. Many of the commercial models on the market today have an automatic igniter. This makes it even easier to get the food off the grill since the igniter automatically turns off itself as the charcoal starts to burn.
Pay attention to the accessories included with the unit
Sixth, pay attention to the accessories included with the unit. Many of these products come with replacement parts, including brushes, stands, and other accessories. These are easy to replace should the brush fall off. In addition, you may want to invest in a stand that will give your grill a nice appearance. There are a number of great stands available that are designed specifically for this purpose.
Focus your attention on the specific qualities of the item that you like
Finally, take your time while shopping. This is one of the top tips for finding the best charcoal grill. Since there are so many different models on the market today, it is easy to get caught up in the hype of a particular product. Instead, focus your attention on what the specific qualities of the item mean to you. After all, you want to purchase a product that will last you a long time, so do not make your decision based on the spur-of-the-moment whim.
Types of Charcoal Burners and Grills
There are several types of charcoal burners and grills. A kettle grill is round with a lid, and it is good for both direct and indirect cooking. A barrel grill has a larger cooking area and works well for big groups. A portable grill is small and light, and it is good for camping and picnics. A kamado grill is made of thick ceramic, holds heat for a long time, and can grill, smoke, and bake. Choose the type that fits how many people you cook for and where you will use it.
Lump Charcoal vs. Briquettes
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Lump charcoal | Lights fast, burns very hot, little ash | Burns faster, heat can be uneven |
| Briquettes | Burn evenly for a long time, easy to control | Take longer to light, make more ash |
Briquettes are a good choice for beginners because they give steady heat. Lump charcoal is better when you need very high heat for searing meat. Never use charcoal meant for a grill in an indoor fireplace, and never burn treated wood or rubbish in a charcoal grill.
How to Light a Charcoal Burner Safely
- Use a chimney starter. A chimney starter lights charcoal fast with newspaper, and you do not need lighter fluid. This is the safest and cleanest way to start.
- Wait for the coals to turn grey. The charcoal is ready when the coals are covered with grey ash, which usually takes 15 to 20 minutes.
- Spread the coals. For direct heat, spread the coals in one layer. For indirect cooking, push them to one side and cook on the other side.
- Control the air. Open the vents for more heat, and close them partway for less heat. Do not leave the grill alone while it is lit.
- Never use a charcoal grill indoors. Burning charcoal makes carbon monoxide, a gas you cannot see or smell that can kill. Always use a charcoal grill outdoors in open air.
How to Clean a Charcoal Burner
Let the coals cool fully before you clean the grill — this can take several hours. Remove the ash and put it in a metal container, not a plastic bin. Scrub the grill grates with a wire brush while they are still warm, or soak them in hot soapy water. Wipe the inside of the grill with a damp cloth. Empty the ash catcher after every use, because ash holds moisture and can cause rust. A clean grill cooks better and lasts longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best charcoal for a charcoal burner?
Briquettes are best for beginners because they burn evenly for a long time. Lump charcoal lights fast and burns very hot, which is good for searing meat.
How do I light charcoal without lighter fluid?
Use a chimney starter with newspaper. It lights charcoal fast and safely, and it does not add a chemical taste to the food.
Can I use a charcoal grill indoors?
No. Burning charcoal makes carbon monoxide, a gas you cannot see or smell that can kill. Always use a charcoal grill outdoors in open air.
How long does charcoal burn?
It depends on the charcoal and the airflow. Briquettes often burn for 1 to 2 hours, while lump charcoal burns hotter but for a shorter time. Add more coals if you need to cook longer.
How do I clean a charcoal grill?
Let the coals cool fully, remove the ash into a metal container, scrub the grates with a wire brush, and wipe the inside with a damp cloth. Empty the ash catcher after every use.
Disclaimer: This article is for general information only. Charcoal grills make carbon monoxide, so always use them outdoors in open air, and keep children and pets away from a hot grill.
Last Updated: 6 November 2026