People who love to arrange parties for their loved ones or go for quick camping sessions are mostly inclined towards buying items that would make their trips better. For that matter, they opt for things that produce food and eat it quicker and faster.
Grilling food may take time. A charcoal chimney comes in handy to avoid that delay and make the process efficient. People who love to grill and make delicious steaks know the importance of a good charcoal chimney. It is also an excellent product for someone who has just started grilling and doesn’t want to experiment. Many people take these chimney starters with them on the camps, as they are easy to handle and carry.
We have scoured the internet for hours and compiled the best charcoal chimney reviews so you can make an informed decision.
Best Charcoal Chimneys Reviewed
1. Weber Rapidfire Chimney Starter
Features:
The Weber 7429 Rapidfire Chimney Starter is the most durable charcoal chimney. With a substantial base and extremely original manufacturing content, this product stays with the user for a very long period. This chimney starter is highly convenient, making charcoal lighting easy and quick. As this chimney comes with two handles, it gets effortless to hold it with a firm grip and pour the items into the pan. In connection with the light cubes, this rapid-fire chimney starter works the best.
The speed with which Weber 7429 Rapidfire Chimney Starter warms up the coal and makes it a must-have product. When it’s tough to spend much time warming the coal during picnics, this chimney starter acts as the best solution. This Charcoal Chimney has a large heat shield, which keeps the handle cool enough to touch. With the help of its Specialized cone-shaped grate, the user can grill the steaks to perfection. Even for the small grills, one can use this charcoal chimney as it has a compact design.
Specifications:
- The weight of this product 4.6 ounces.
- 5 “H X 8.1 “W X 12.7” D are out of the cart dimensions of this product.
- 13 in. High chimney bar
Pros
- Durable and long-lasting owing to its solid built
- The ergonomic design makes usage more comfortable
- It warms the coal quickly
- The handles do not get hot
- Picking the chimney and pouring out the content is easy
- Fill, light, and pour are quick and easy
Cons
- It can be a bit large for usage
2. Weber Compact Rapidfire Chimney Starter
Feature:
With this Weber 7447 Compact Rapidfire Chimney Starter, you only need fifteen minutes to warm up the coals thoroughly. This saves a lot of time and hassle for the users conveniently. The entire chimney setup is of aluminized steel to make it work efficiently. The grate of this compact chimney starter is in the shape of a cone. This particular feature makes it easier for the product to make the airflow proficiently. The design is convenient to perform all its functions most effectively. This design is not only functionally efficient but also looks aesthetically pleasing to the onlookers.
With a width of merely 10.5, it is easier to move it around just according to your convenience and liking. Even for a rapid session of grilling, this product works well as it has a short width. Light cubes work more efficiently. However, you need to be aware of how to adjust the light cubes correctly. Alcohol cotton balls can also clean up the Weber 7447 Compact Rapidfire Chimney Starter easily. Thus, you don’t have to spend a lot of time scrubbing various chimney parts to take the black stains off them.
Specifications:
- Product dimensions are 5 x 8 x 5.75 inches.
- Lights coals within 15 minutes.
- Two years warranty.
Pros
- Fast enough to warm up the coals
- Reliable and efficient
- Works for small as well as large grills
- Easy to clean
Cons
- This product is not wind-resistant
3. Kingsford Chimney Starter
Features:
The Kingsford Quick Start Charcoal Chimney Starter finds a position different from its competitors because it is sourced from wood pallets as the significant power supply. The silver color of this product gives it a long-lasting, stylish look and exquisite appearance. It also keeps the chimney’s warmth inside it, ensuring the coals stay hot for a very long period. For even warming of the coals, this Kingsford Quick Start Charcoal Starter works best. With all the coal items warming equally, there are high chances of perfectly grilled steaks.
The handles have a heat-resistant sheet covering them, which makes the handling of the product quite easier. With an enormous size and heavy dimensions, this product can grill a lot of food at a single point by warming up many coals simultaneously. This product does not require any assembly, which solves a lot of issues. Thus, you can utilize the time to make the most delicious steaks. The grill topper is non-stick, which means that even grilling at a low amount of oil, doesn’t stick the meat to the surface. Heat-resistant gloves come with the Kingsford Quick Start Charcoal Starter package, making the picking process a lot easier.
Specifications:
- Product dimensions are 6.7 x 11.42 x 10.7 inches.
- The weight of the product is 2.2 Pounds.
Pros
- Works as an expert griller
- A heavy-duty item
- A long-lasting product
- Doesn’t require assembling
- Anti-stick properties
- Highly convenient to use
Cons
- A little expensive
4. Homenote Charcoal Chimney Starter
Features:
This HOMENOTE Chimney Starter’s massive capacity makes it easier to host parties. Even though it is a vast product, you can take it around quite quickly. The high portability feature of this product makes it worth having. The starter base is the central part of the product that makes this movement more comfortable. You can take it along for a quick camping trip or place it on the patio for an extensive dinner.
All the required additional items come with this chimney starter. This chimney starter’s wooden handle is heat resistant, making it easier to move while grilling the steaks. HOMENOTE Chimney Starter is made with the purest materials possible, with no kind of toxic wooden shavings made a part of it. Lighter fluid is not required to ignite the fire inside the chimney and make the whole system work. Consistent burning of coal makes the grilling process efficient. Alongside this, it ensures the steak and meat are grilled evenly, without leaving any part of it uncooked or raw.
Specifications:
- Product dimensions are 12.2 x 7.1 x 7.1 inches.
- The weight of this product is merely 3.67 pounds.
Pros
- Easy to follow instructions
- A durable and long-lasting item
- It comes with all the required accessories
- Gloves protect from the extra heat on the handles
- It doesn’t require additional lighting fluids
- Easy to move around
Cons
- The operation may seem challenging initially
5. Pakoula Bbq Coal Chimney
Features:
With this BBQ coal chimney’s help, the coals heat up much faster. You don’t have to spend a lot of time heating the coals, which saves a lot of time. Once the coals are heated, it is possible to cook the meat better. Galvanized steel is used in the making of Pakoula BBQ Coal Chimney. With this kind of heavy construction, the product turns out to be a durable one. This product is resistant to all kinds of rust. Hence, it stays in its original position for many years to come. It saves a lot of money and hassle as you don’t have to replace it with a new one after every few years.
The handle of the pakoula BBQ coal chimney is ergonomic in its designs. So, holding them even when the griller is hot is easy. The wood handles and covered sheet makes it easier to carry around efficiently. All you need and require to operate this bbq chimney starter and make it work are some old newspapers, and you are good to go. There is no requirement for some expensive igniting fluid to make coals work for you and cook delicious steaks.
Specifications:
- Dimensions of the product are 11.22 x 7.09 x 6.81 inches.
- The item weighs around 2.68 pounds.
Pros
- Easy to clean up
- Works simply through using some newspapers
- It doesn’t require igniting fluids
- The wooden handle makes it safe to use
- The gloves are heat resistant
- Warms the coal evenly
- Multi-usage
Cons
- Slightly expensive
6. Char-Griller Chimney Starter
Features:
The Char-Griller Chimney Starter ensures the amount of fuel in it is adequate to keep the coal burning evenly throughout the grilling process. Without creating even the slightest mess, this chimney starter releases the hot coal on the fire grate. The whole process is extremely efficient and safe. The handles of this starter come with a proper shield. This reduces the chances of the hands getting burnt when a person tries to shift its position. Even when the chimney is flaming hot, you can turn the coal and shift them easily.
Within a few minutes, the coals get ready to grill the food. Eventually, it saves a lot of time for the user when making his favorite food. The simple process of pulling the trigger and lifting the chimney makes it possible for the starter to work. The users do not have to go through the dumping process while shifting the Char-Griller Chimney Starter coals. The steel used in the making of this starter is zinc-coated. This ensures the heat stays inside the system, and the coals do not cool off soon enough.
Specifications:
- Warranty of a year.
- Dimensions of the product are 7. 75” Diameter x 12” Height.
Pros
- Creates no mess during the pouring process
- Fast and quick heating of the coal
- Shielded handles to protect the hands from burning
- The steel used in the making is galvanized
- A long-lasting and durable product
- Large capacity
- Improved design
Cons
- Screws are a bit ineffective
7. Lodge Chimney Charcoal Starter
Features:
This Lodge Chimney Charcoal Starter can turn the coals hot within merely ten minutes. People who hate waiting and wasting time need to opt for this product to save time and efficiency. The whole effect is made up of galvanized steel. This gives it a good finishing and ensures it lasts long and is highly durable. The handle is of wood. It stays cool as a bad conductor of electricity no matter how hot the charcoal starter turns out to be. This makes the product highly portable and easier to move around.
The material used in the making of Lodge Chimney Charcoal Starter is rust-resistant. It ensures this product is highly durable. This is one of the most efficient products, specifically made to be used outdoors. Simple paper can be used to make this product operational.
Specifications:
- The dimensions of this product are 20 x 16 x 12 inches.
- The weight of this starter is merely 2.21 pounds.
- Made of galvanized steel.
Pros
- Extremely easy to use
- Lightning is efficient
- Requires only ten minutes to heat the coals
- Safe and harmless to use
- Highly portable
- Rust resistant
Cons
- Tough to clean
8. Beau Charcoal Chimney
Features:
The BEAU Charcoal Chimney is the most durable starters one can have in one’s collection. Being rust-resistant, it stays with the user for a very long period. This product is heavy-duty and has a lot of capacity to grill the products efficiently. The effectual air vents ensure the air flows, so the coal is a heater as quickly as possible. It takes merely ten minutes to heat the coals evenly.
The handle of the BEAU Charcoal Chimney is made of Nylon. It makes the product appear exquisite and more manageable. Being extremely portable, one can take it along for picnics and arrange parties in his house’s backyard. Flammable bottles, used papers, and newspapers are enough to lighten up the starter, and you don’t have to go for the expensive ignition items.
Specification:
- The Dimensions of this charcoal fire starterare 11” in height and 7” in width.
- The weight of BEAU Charcoal Chimney Starter is merely 2.3 pounds.
- Zinc-plated steel is used to make the canister.
- The material of the handle attached to it is Nylon.
Pros
- Provides a cheap method of burning
- Easy to set up and clean
- The product needs merely ten minutes to heat the coals well
- The handles are safe to hold
- BEAU Chimney Starter Comes with a large capacity
- Highly portable
- Temperature-resistant handles
Cons
- Needs some assembly
9. Campmaid Charcoal Chimney
Features:
What sets this bbq charcoal starter apart from all its alternatives is that it comes in a single piece and performs all the required functions. Being a single-piece item, this product is highly portable. Even during the most challenging hiking and camping tours, one can take it along. This product is an ideal one to be used outdoors. If you plan a party in your garden, this starter will efficiently heat the coals of your griller.
There is no prior assembly needed for this product. Campmaid Chimney is made up of stainless steel. Thus, it is a long-lasting as well as a durable product for usage. Being rust-proof, it stays in its original form for many years. The chimney starter comes with a kickstand, which makes it easier to use. A carry bag comes with the package, making it efficient for the user to carry it along.
Specifications:
- Dimensions of this product are 10.7 x 5.8 x 2.9 inches.
- The product is merely 2.8 Pounds heavy.
- Single piece items.
Pros
- Foldable and highly portable
- Long-lasting and rust-resistant
- Heats the coals instantly
- Extremely easy to use
- Can sit inside any space
- Doesn’t come with a lot of accessories
- Perfect for remote camping
Cons
- Quite stiff out of the box
Charcoal chimney Buying Guide:
When it comes to buying charcoal chimney starters, there are many options available to the buyers. With this plethora of options, it gets challenging to buy the right one.
Loads of options have to be considered before selecting the final item. Some of these features are explained below:
Charcoal Capacity:
The charcoal capacity directly affects the efficiency of the griller. It refers to the stamina of the starter to hold the amount of coal at a single point in time. Mostly, this capacity is from 100 to 200 briquettes. The kind of capacity you need depends on the type of food you want to cook. For a huge party, you may require a heavy capacity of the starter. However, if you are going to a camp, a small capacity product would work well.
Safety Features:
Considering the safety features offered by the product you are buying is also extremely important. This is because these starters tend to make the coal go hot very fast and efficiently. If these safety standards are not considered, they may harm you.
The Making Of The Product:
The material used in making the product affects the kind of safety it offers to the users. A charcoal chimney starter that is made of galvanized aluminum is undoubtedly the safest product to opt for.
The Handles:
Handles of the charcoal chimney affect the safety of the product significantly. This is because the temperature of the product increases and leads to warming up the handles. When you hold the product from the handles, you may burn your hands. Hence, the handles made of wood are indeed the best option.
Thermoplastic Handles:
Even when the starter’s chimney is hot and ablaze, if the handle is made up of thermoplastic, it stays cool no matter how hot the chimney is. With the thermoplastic help, the extra layer of protection allows you to hold it easily. Thus, you may dump the lumps quite easily.
Ventilation
The ventilation of the charcoal chimney refers to the controlling of the temperature inside the product. The flow of air inside and outside the chimney controls the temperature of the product. The presence of oxygen gives energy to the charcoal through which the fire is ignited. For this, the vents located at various parts of the system work well.
However, when one opts for a product, one should ponder the number of vents available. This is because the number of vents open is directly proportional to the quality of airflow. Hence, the charcoal chimney’s eventual working gets better when the number of vents increases.
Painted/Unpainted:
Matte silver is the most common color and shade used in coloring the charcoal grill. A painted starter is better than the unpainted one, as it keeps the heat inside, which ensures the coal stays warm for an extended period.
Zinc-coated steel is a great option to opt for, as it ensures the heat of the system stays inside it and keeps the coal evenly warm at all times.
Portability:
The charcoal chimney’s portability refers to the ease with which you can move the product around. When you opt for a camping journey, it is always better to choose a highly portable product.
Even Grilling:
The charcoal chimney starter needs to ensure the grilling of the meat happens evenly. This way, it would turn the steak tender and too juicy. Else, there can be chances of uneven cooking. Even grilling would make the most delicious steaks.
Rust-Resistant And Durable:
If the product is rust-resistant, it won’t let any external particle enter it and affect its functionality.
Easy On The Pocket:
Several charcoal chimney starters are available in the market, with each coming with a different price tag. Where some are nominal in rate, others are costly.
Many people think the price determines the value of a product, but that’s not always true. The extra money usually goes wasted, as you don’t get the real deal out of it. Thus, it is still a better idea to stick to the budget and opt for a product that gives you the features you want.
FAQs:
Is Charcoal Chimney Necessary?
A charcoal chimney is not necessary if you have time to grill your food. However, if you like things being efficient, this charcoal chimney starter will ensure the coal is heated up sooner than you had imagined. Eventually, it would lead to quick and even grilling.
When Should I Dump My Charcoal Chimney?
It depends upon the weather conditions. If the weather is favorable, you would require merely ten to fifteen minutes to warm your coals up to the maximum. If they have turned grey, you can say they are ready to eat.
What Do You Do When Charcoal Doesn’t Stay Lit?
If the charcoal you are using doesn’t stay lit, you need to stack it vertically. When the coals are arranged flatly, the heat suppresses. You need to make the heat rise, which is possible only if the coals are vertically arranged and give enough space for the air to move around.
How Long Do You Keep Charcoal in A Chimney?
Keeping the coal in the chimney depends upon the kind of chimney you own. Most of the time, the chimneys are efficient enough to keep the coal and lit it within just ten to fifteen minutes.
Conclusion:
A high-quality, long-lasting charcoal chimney starter is a must for those who love grilled food. There are many things to remember before choosing the right one, but there is no looking back once you decide. It will make your life easier and your parties full of fun and taste.
Out of all the options, the most feasible one is the Weber 7429 Rapidfire Chimney Starter, Silver. It is not only budget-friendly but offers all the benefits you are looking for. It is portable and can be taken around. BEAU JARDIN Charcoal Chimney Starter and Lodge Chimney Charcoal Starter are quite good options as they also offer unique benefits.
