How hot is my charcoal grill?

Look for a layer of white ash over glowing red coals. When many coals are yellow-brown, the fire is medium hot. Double-check with the “hand test” before you cook. Use your eyes and hands to judge the readiness of the fire.

How do I know the temperature of my grill?

Hold your hand about five inches above the grill and count how many seconds you can hold it there comfortably.

1. 5-6 seconds: Your grill is at about 250-degrees, which is equal to low heat.
2. 3-4 seconds: Your grill is at about 350-degrees, which is equal to medium heat.

How do I get my charcoal grill hot enough?

Grilling on high heat is the best way to get that perfect sear on the outside while keeping the inside juicy. To increase the temperature, open the vents to let in more oxygen. To decrease the temperature, close the vents — but not completely, or the fire will go out.

What burns hotter charcoal or wood?

Due to the high carbon content, charcoal has more potential energy than the wood itself. The heat that the charcoal produces can burn hotter and cleaner than seasoned wood.

Why is my charcoal grill not getting hot enough?

If your grill is full of ashes from previous grilling sessions it can impede the proper flow of air inside of the kettle, which makes the coals burn cooler. If enough ash builds up it can make it next to impossible to get the coals to stay lit.

Can I add more charcoal while cooking?

The short answer is yes. You can add more charcoal while cooking, whether it’s grilling or smoking. … This will help keep a consistent temperature while you cook. However, as long as you’re not using quick light charcoal, you can add both lit or unlit charcoal with very little impact on the cook.

How Do You Know When grill is ready?

Follow this tip: The grill needs to get good and hot before any food is added. After lighting the grill, cover it with the lid and let the charcoal heat up for at least 15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it looks gray and ashy.

How long do you let charcoal burn before cooking?

DON’T: Forget to preheat the grill before you start cooking.



Once your coals are distributed in your grill, throw the lid on and let it sit for five to 10 minutes before placing any food over the coals, you want to hear a light sizzle when the protein, fruit or vegetables hit the grates.

Can you relight charcoal?

When you barbecue with charcoal, you don’t have to start with a fresh batch every time you fire up the grill. … While that lifespan is longer in briquettes — check your bag for specifics — you can also relight any charcoal that hasn’t burned for as long as possible.