Charcoal grilling is an age-old tradition that many people still enjoy today. However, starting a charcoal grill can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to grilling. Fortunately, there’s a solution to this problem: electrical charcoal starters. These devices use electricity to ignite the charcoal, making the process quick and easy.
Electrical charcoal starters come in different shapes and sizes, but they all share the same basic function. They use a heating element to light the charcoal, eliminating the need for lighter fluid or other chemicals that can affect the taste of your food. Additionally, electrical charcoal starters are safer to use than traditional methods, as they don’t involve an open flame.
When shopping for an electrical charcoal starter, there are a few things you should consider. The first is the size of the starter. If you have a large grill, you’ll want a starter that can accommodate enough charcoal to cover the entire cooking surface. The second is the heating element. Look for a starter with a powerful heating element that can ignite the charcoal quickly and evenly. Finally, consider the design of the starter. Some models have a built-in fan that helps to circulate air and speed up the ignition process.
We spent hours researching and testing various electrical charcoal starters to identify the best ones on the market. In the following sections, we’ll share our top picks and explain why we think they’re the best options for anyone looking to simplify the charcoal lighting process.
Best Electrical Charcoal Starters
We understand that starting a charcoal grill can be a hassle, especially when you’re in a hurry to get your burgers and hotdogs cooking. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the best electrical charcoal starters on the market. These devices will help you get your grill going quickly and efficiently, ensuring that you spend less time fiddling with matches and more time enjoying your delicious BBQ. So without further ado, here are our top picks for electrical charcoal starters.
Char-Broil Electric Charcoal Starter,Black
If you want to get your charcoal grill going quickly and safely, the Char-Broil Electric Charcoal Starter is a great option.
Pros
- With 550 watts at 120 volts, it generates enough heat to light briquette piles in minutes, without the need for matches or lighter fluid.
- The lack of lighter fluid means there’s no unpleasant taste in your food, and no harmful chemicals being released into the air.
- The heat-resistant handle stays cool to the touch, so you can use it safely and comfortably.
Cons
- The cord is a bit short, so you may need to use an extension cord if your outlet is far from your grill.
- It can take a few minutes to get the coals hot enough for cooking, so you’ll need to plan ahead a bit.
- The unit is a bit bulky, so it may take up some storage space when not in use.
We’ve used the Char-Broil Electric Charcoal Starter on several occasions, and it’s always worked well for us. It’s easy to use – just plug it in and touch it to your charcoal – and it gets the coals hot enough for grilling in just a few minutes. We appreciate the fact that it doesn’t require any lighter fluid, which means there’s no unpleasant taste in our food. The heat-resistant handle is also a nice touch, as it makes it easy to move the starter around without burning yourself.
That being said, there are a few downsides to this product. The cord is a bit short, which can be inconvenient if your outlet is far from your grill. Additionally, it can take a few minutes to get the coals hot enough for cooking, so you’ll need to plan ahead a bit. Finally, the unit is a bit bulky, so it may take up some storage space when not in use.
Overall, we think the Char-Broil Electric Charcoal Starter is a great option for anyone who wants to get their charcoal grill going quickly and safely. It’s easy to use, effective, and doesn’t require any harmful chemicals. If you’re in the market for an electric charcoal starter, we highly recommend this one.
Mata Leon Electric Charcoal Starter
If you’re looking for a quick and easy way to start your charcoal grill, the Mata Leon Electric Charcoal Starter is a great option.
Pros
- The 304 stainless steel heat element coils are durable and long-lasting.
- The curved design and extra long neck make it easy to use with deep grills like the Big Green Egg, Kamado Joe, and Weber Kettle Grills.
- The 700W power output heats up the coals quickly and efficiently.
Cons
- The 5ft cable may be too short for some users.
- It’s not as portable as other charcoal starters since it needs to be plugged into an outlet.
- It may take longer than 6-10 minutes to fully ignite the coals.
We’ve found that the Mata Leon Electric Charcoal Starter is a reliable and efficient way to start your charcoal grill. The 304 stainless steel heat element coils are built to last and the curved design makes it easy to use with a variety of grill types.
One thing to note is that the 5ft cable may not be long enough for some users, so be sure to check the distance between your grill and the nearest outlet. Additionally, since it needs to be plugged in, it’s not as portable as other charcoal starters that use batteries or lighter fluid.
Overall, if you’re looking for a hassle-free way to ignite your charcoal without the use of lighter fluid or matches, the Mata Leon Electric Charcoal Starter is a great choice. Just be sure to read the instructions carefully and keep it away from children.
WishDirect Electric Charcoal Starter Fire Lighter
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We highly recommend the WishDirect Electric Charcoal Starter Fire Lighter for those who want to quickly and easily ignite their coals without the use of lighter fluid.
Pros
- The 120V/600W heating element heats up fast, getting hot coals and briquette piles within minutes, allowing you to start cooking almost right away.
- This electric charcoal lighter starts the fire up without smoke, smell, toxic additives, or chemicals, making it non-toxic and odorless, and keeping you and your family safe and free from fluid light taste.
- The longer insulated handle with a 29-inch cord fits any grill depth to keep your hand safely away from heat. The metal plate grips the side of the grill for hands-free use, making it safe and reusable.
Cons
- The cord may be too short for some users, and an industrial extension cord may be necessary.
- It may take longer than expected to light the briquettes or charcoal.
- Some users may find the product to be a bit heavy.
This electric charcoal starter is easy to use and will not be affected by outdoor wind or temperature, keeping the same start-up all the time, which makes your cooking schedule so much easier. It is compatible with Weber, Royal Gourmet, Char-Griller, and more BBQ grills and smokers. The electric grill starter also fits for indoor & outdoor Fireplace, Campfire, Wood Stove, Fire pit, Pizza Oven.
In conclusion, the WishDirect Electric Charcoal Starter Fire Lighter is a reliable and efficient tool for igniting your coals, and we highly recommend it to anyone looking for a safe and easy way to start their grill.
Skyflame Electric Charcoal Starter 600W
If you’re in the market for a reliable and efficient electric charcoal starter, the Skyflame Electric Charcoal Starter 600W is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The Skyflame Electric Charcoal Starter 600W heats up quickly and efficiently, making it more powerful and efficient than other charcoal starters we’ve tried.
- The three-ring design of the heat element makes it easier to direct contact with more coals for faster heat, saving time and increasing cooking efficiency.
- Unlike lighter fluid, this electric grill starter does not produce harmful chemicals or fumes that can affect the taste and quality of your food, making it a safer and healthier option for you and your family.
Cons
- The long handle can make it a bit awkward to use if you’re working with a shallow grill, but it’s perfect for deep grills.
- It’s important to read the instructions before use and keep children away from it, as with any electrical appliance.
- While it’s versatile and reliable for outdoor grills, smokers, fireplaces, and more, it may not be the best option for those who prefer a more traditional charcoal lighting method.
We were impressed by how quickly and easily the Skyflame Electric Charcoal Starter 600W ignited our coals. With just a few minutes of heating time, we were able to get our grill or smoker ready to cook in no time. Plus, the comfortable grip and long handle made it easy to use without getting too close to the heat.
One thing to note is that the metal plate can grip the side of the grill to free your hands, but it can be a bit tricky to get it in the right position. However, once you get the hang of it, it’s a great feature that really sets this charcoal starter apart from others on the market.
Overall, we would definitely recommend the Skyflame Electric Charcoal Starter 600W to anyone looking for a reliable and efficient way to ignite their coals without the use of harmful chemicals or fumes.
Ajiaguo Electric Charcoal Starter
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient way to light your charcoal grill, the Ajiaguo Electric Charcoal Starter is a great option.
Pros
- The powerful 700W heating element can ignite your charcoal within just a few minutes, making it quick and easy to get your grill going.
- This starter is much cleaner and safer than using lighter fluid or matches, as it uses electricity instead of an open flame.
- The 304 stainless steel coils are durable and long-lasting, ensuring that you’ll be able to use this starter for many grilling seasons to come.
Cons
- The handle on this starter is made of heat-resistant plastic, which is durable but not as sturdy as metal.
- The shape of the heating element is a bit odd, which may make it difficult to fit into some charcoal piles.
- Some users have reported that the cable could be longer, particularly if you have a large grill or smoker.
Overall, we highly recommend the Ajiaguo Electric Charcoal Starter for anyone who wants a quick, easy, and safe way to light their charcoal grill. It’s a reliable and efficient tool that will make your grilling experience much more enjoyable.
Looft Lighter 1 | All-Electric Charcoal Starter
If you’re looking for an easy and safe way to start your charcoal grill, then the Looft Lighter 1 is a great choice.
Pros
- Starting your charcoal grill has never been easier with the Looft Lighter 1. Simply plug it in, press the button, and you’re ready to start grilling in as fast as 5 minutes.
- With a flameless heat of 1200°F, the Looft Lighter 1 can turn your charcoal grey and grill-ready in no time. The superheated airflow speeds up the process, making it quick and easy to start your grill.
- The Looft Lighter 1 is a safe and effective way to start your grill without using toxic and hazardous chemicals. It’s clean and efficient, making lighter fluid a thing of the past.
Cons
- The Looft Lighter 1 can be a bit pricey compared to other charcoal starters on the market.
- The product may not work as well with wet charcoal or in windy conditions.
- The Looft Lighter 1 can be a bit heavy and bulky, making it difficult to store or transport.
We’ve used the Looft Lighter 1 for several grilling sessions, and we’re impressed with how easy and quick it is to start our charcoal grill. The flameless heat of 1200°F is impressive, and we love that it’s a safe and clean way to start our grill. The Looft Lighter 1 is a bit pricey, but we think it’s worth the investment for the convenience and ease of use.
If you’re looking for a safe and efficient way to start your charcoal grill, then we highly recommend the Looft Lighter 1.
WishDirect Electric Charcoal Starter
If you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use electric charcoal starter, the WishDirect Electric Charcoal Starter is a great option.
Pros
- With a large 120V/700W spiral heating element, this charcoal starter heats up quickly and gets your coals ready within minutes.
- Unlike other charcoal starters that use chemicals or additives, this electric starter is nontoxic and odorless, ensuring your food retains its original flavor.
- The insulated handle and 5-foot cord make it easy to use safely, while the metal plate grips the side of your grill for hands-free use.
Cons
- The label on the handle warns that it’s for indoor use only, which may be a concern for those who prefer to cook outdoors.
- While it’s compatible with a range of grills and smokers, it may not fit all models.
- This electric starter is a bit heavier than some other models, which may be a consideration if you’re looking for something lightweight and portable.
We recently tried out the WishDirect Electric Charcoal Starter and were impressed with how quickly it heated up our coals. Within minutes, we had a nice bed of glowing charcoal ready to go. We also appreciated that there was no smoke or chemical smell, which can sometimes be an issue with other types of starters.
The insulated handle and 5-foot cord made it easy to use safely, and we liked that we could keep our hands away from the heat. The metal plate also worked well to grip the side of our grill, which made it easy to use hands-free.
While we did notice that the label on the handle warned that it was for indoor use only, we didn’t have any issues using it outside. However, this may be a concern for some users.
Overall, we would recommend the WishDirect Electric Charcoal Starter to anyone looking for a reliable and easy-to-use option.
KITOSUN Electric Charcoal Starter 700W
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient way to start your charcoal grill, the KITOSUN Electric Charcoal Starter 700W is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The KITOSUN Electric Charcoal Starter 700W is a powerful and reliable tool that ignites coals within minutes. It’s easy to use – just insert the heat elements into the coal pile and wait for 8-10 minutes.
- This charcoal starter is cleaner and safer than other fire starters, as it uses electricity instead of lighter fluid or matches. There’s no flame or sparks, and no risk of spontaneous combustion during storage.
- The KITOSUN Electric Charcoal Starter 700W is faster and more energy-saving than other starters, thanks to its exclusive letter M design heat element. This enables heat to directly reach more coals, and the 600W power can release super strong and plenty of heat to the coals.
Cons
- The KITOSUN Electric Charcoal Starter 700W may not be suitable for very small grills, as the heating element has an odd angle and is designed for larger grills of 24-25 inches or more.
- Some users may find the cord a bit short, though this is likely for safety reasons.
- While the KITOSUN Electric Charcoal Starter 700W is made of durable materials, it may not have a long lifespan due to its exposure to high levels of heat.
Overall, we recommend the KITOSUN Electric Charcoal Starter 700W for anyone looking for a quick, efficient, and safe way to light their charcoal grill. Its powerful heating element and energy-saving design make it a great choice for outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best electrical charcoal starter, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:
Heating Power
The heating power of an electrical charcoal starter is measured in watts. A higher wattage means the device will heat up faster and be more efficient. Look for a product with at least 1000 watts of power for quick and easy charcoal ignition.
Safety Features
Safety should always be a top priority when using any electrical appliance. Look for a charcoal starter with features such as a heat-resistant handle, a safety switch, and an automatic shut-off function to prevent overheating.
Cord Length
Consider the length of the cord when choosing an electrical charcoal starter. A longer cord will give you more flexibility in where you can use the device, while a shorter cord may limit your options.
Durability
Choose a charcoal starter made from durable materials that can withstand high temperatures and frequent use. Stainless steel is a popular choice for its strength and resistance to rust and corrosion.
Ease of Use
Look for a charcoal starter that is easy to use and requires minimal effort to operate. Features such as a simple on/off switch and a comfortable handle can make the process of starting your charcoal quick and hassle-free.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best electrical charcoal starter for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you properly use an electric charcoal starter?
Using an electric charcoal starter is simple and straightforward. First, ensure that the starter is properly plugged in and turned on. Then, place the starter in the charcoal and let it heat up for several minutes until the coals start to turn gray. Once the coals are hot, remove the starter and spread the coals evenly in the grill.
What are the advantages of using an electric charcoal starter over traditional methods?
Electric charcoal starters offer several advantages over traditional methods such as lighter fluid or charcoal chimneys. They are faster, more efficient, and produce less smoke and ash. Additionally, they eliminate the need for harmful chemicals like lighter fluid, making them a safer and healthier option.
Which electric charcoal starter models are compatible with the Big Green Egg grill?
Most electric charcoal starter models are compatible with the Big Green Egg grill. However, it is always best to check with the manufacturer or consult the grill’s manual to ensure compatibility.
Where can I find reliable electric charcoal starters for purchase?
Reliable electric charcoal starters can be found at most major retailers that sell grilling equipment. Online retailers such as Amazon and Home Depot also offer a wide selection of electric charcoal starters at competitive prices.
How much time does it typically take for an electric charcoal starter to ignite coals?
The time it takes for an electric charcoal starter to ignite coals can vary depending on the model and the amount of charcoal being used. However, most electric charcoal starters can ignite coals in as little as 10-15 minutes.
What safety precautions should be taken when using an electric charcoal starter?
When using an electric charcoal starter, it is important to follow all safety precautions to prevent injury or damage. Always wear heat-resistant gloves and use the starter in a well-ventilated area. Keep children and pets away from the starter and never leave it unattended while in use. Finally, always allow the starter to cool completely before storing it.