There’s nothing quite like the sizzle and aroma of food cooking on a charcoal grill. But when your grill won’t stay lit, it can be frustrating and discouraging.
Fortunately, most problems with a charcoal grill can be fixed with a little troubleshooting and some basic maintenance.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you identify and fix the most common causes of a charcoal grill that won’t stay lit.
Common Causes of a Charcoal Grill that Won’t Stay Lit
- Lack of Air Flow
Charcoal needs oxygen to burn, so if there’s not enough air getting to the coals, they won’t stay hot. Make sure the vents on your grill are open and unobstructed. If the grill has a bottom vent, try opening it wider to increase air flow. - Clogged Vents
Dirt, dust, and ash can clog the vents on your grill, which can limit air flow and cause the coals to go out. Check the vents and clean them out with a wire brush or a toothbrush. - Dirty Charcoal or Ash Buildup
If there’s a lot of ash or charcoal buildup in the bottom of your grill, it can smother the coals and prevent them from staying lit. Use a grill brush or scraper to remove any debris from the bottom of the grill before you start cooking. - Wet or Damp Charcoal
Charcoal that’s been exposed to moisture won’t burn as well as dry charcoal. If you’re using charcoal that’s been stored outside or in a damp area, it may not stay lit. Try using fresh, dry charcoal instead. - Faulty Ignition System
If your charcoal grill has an ignition system, such as a push-button or electronic starter, it may be malfunctioning. Check the battery or power source and replace it if necessary. If the ignition system is damaged, it may need to be replaced.
Troubleshooting and Solutions
- Open the Vents
If your grill won’t stay lit, the first thing to check is the vents. Make sure they’re open and unobstructed. If the grill has a bottom vent, try opening it wider to increase air flow. - Clean the Vents
If the vents are clogged with dirt, dust, or ash, clean them out with a wire brush or a toothbrush. This will improve air flow and help the coals stay hot. - Remove Ash and Debris
Clean out any ash or debris from the bottom of your grill before you start cooking. This will prevent the coals from smothering and help them stay lit. - Use Fresh, Dry Charcoal
If your charcoal is wet or damp, it won’t burn as well. Try using fresh, dry charcoal instead. You can also try lighting the charcoal with a chimney starter, which can help dry out the coals. - Check the Ignition System
If your grill has an ignition system, such as a push-button or electronic starter, check the battery or power source. If the ignition system is damaged, it may need to be replaced.
Conclusion
A charcoal grill that won’t stay lit can be frustrating, but with a little troubleshooting and some basic maintenance, you can get your grill back in working order.
Make sure the vents are open and clean, remove any ash or debris from the bottom of the grill, and use fresh, dry charcoal. With these tips, you’ll be grilling up a storm in no time!