A backyard barbeque with family and friends is a great way to start the summer season. Lighting a barbecue smoker is a relatively easy process; however, you must be patient and have at least 45 minutes from start to finish. The great thing about lighting a barbecue smoker is you can use your wait time to prep your veggies and meats or mix a pitcher of lemonade. All the tools you need to complete this task are available at your local grocer.
Purchase a bag of all natural charcoal from your local grocer. Avoid charcoal infused with chemicals, as these may be dangerous.
2
Empty enough charcoal to fill 1/3 of the bottom floor of the smoker. Wearing gloves to protect your hands, shape the charcoal into a pyramid-like mound.
3
Insert fire starters, which also are available at your local grocer, in and around the charcoal.
4
Light the fire starters and let stand for 30 minutes.
5
Check the charcoal for visible embers, ash from burning charcoal and smoldering flames.
6
Spread out the charcoal using a pair of tongs. Your charcoal is ready when the smoldering flames subside and each piece is covered in gray ash.
Tips & Warnings
Check that the vents on your smoker are open so the fire has air to breathe.
