Pellet Grill

The Best Pellet Grill

Here are some of the best Pellet Grills on The Trade Table:

Coyote C1P36FS 36 Inch Freestanding Pellet Grill and Smoker With 8000 BTU

The Coyote C1P36FS 36 Inch Freestanding Pellet Grill and Smoker offers the perfect blend of power, precision, and convenience for outdoor cooking enthusiasts. Delivering 8000 BTUs and a wide temperature range from 175°F to 700°F, it features a 15 lb front-loading pellet hopper, Smart Drop™ pellet feed, and intuitive digital controls for consistent results. Built with durable 304 stainless steel, interior lighting, and 1238 sq. in. of total grilling space, this grill is engineered for serious performance with the versatility to smoke, sear, and grill with ease.

Frequently Asked Questions About The Pellet Grill

Here are some Frequently Asked Questions about the Pellet Grill:

1. What Is A Pellet Grill?

A pellet grill is an outdoor cooker that uses compressed wood pellets as fuel. It combines features of a smoker, grill, and oven for flexible cooking. You get great smoky flavor with easy, consistent heat control.

2. How Does A Pellet Grill Work?

A pellet grill uses an electric auger to feed wood pellets into a firepot. A fan stokes the flame and spreads heat and smoke across the cooking chamber. A digital controller maintains your set temperature.

3. What Makes A Pellet Grill Different From A Gas Grill?

Pellet grills use wood pellets and electricity, while gas grills use propane or natural gas. Pellet grills offer smoky flavor and better low-temperature control. Gas grills heat up faster but don’t infuse flavor the same way.

4. What Makes A Pellet Grill Different From A Charcoal Grill?

Pellet grills offer more automation and easier temperature control. Charcoal grills need more manual attention and have less consistent heat. Pellet grills also produce less ash and mess.

5. Can You Grill On A Pellet Grill?

Yes, you can grill on a pellet grill. Most models have high-heat settings or sear zones for grilling. It's great for burgers, steaks, veggies, and more.

6. Can You Smoke On A Pellet Grill?

Absolutely—pellet grills are designed for smoking. They slowly burn wood pellets to create steady, flavorful smoke. You can smoke meats like ribs, brisket, or fish with great results.

7. How Long Does It Take A Pellet Grill To Heat Up?

Most pellet grills heat up in about 10 to 15 minutes. The exact time depends on the model and outdoor temperature. It's faster than charcoal but a bit slower than gas.

8. What Type Of Pellets Should I Use In A Pellet Grill?

Use food-grade hardwood pellets made for pellet grills. Popular flavors include hickory, mesquite, apple, and cherry. Never use heating pellets, which aren't safe for cooking.

9. Are Pellet Grills Good For Beginners?

Yes, they’re great for beginners. Pellet grills handle temperature control automatically, so you don’t have to manage a fire. Just set the temp and let it cook.

10. Does A Pellet Grill Need Electricity?

Yes, it needs electricity to power the digital controller, auger, and fan. Without it, the grill won't function. You can use a generator or battery pack if needed.

11. How Hot Can A Pellet Grill Get?

Most pellet grills reach 450°F to 500°F. Some models can get even hotter for searing. They’re versatile enough for both low and high-temperature cooking.

12. Can You Sear Meat On A Pellet Grill?

Yes, especially if your grill has a searing option or direct flame access. If not, you can use a cast iron skillet on the grates. Either way, searing is possible.

13. Do Pellet Grills Give A Smoky Flavor?

Yes, they create a nice, natural smoky flavor from burning wood pellets. The flavor can vary depending on the pellet type and temperature. Cooking at lower temps gives more smoke.

14. How Many Pellets Does A Pellet Grill Use Per Hour?

It depends on the cooking temperature. At low temps, you’ll use about 1 pound per hour; at high heat, closer to 3 pounds. A 20-pound bag can last several cooks.

15. Are Pellet Grills Safe To Use Indoors?

No, never use a pellet grill indoors. It produces smoke and carbon monoxide, which are hazardous in enclosed spaces. Always cook outdoors in a well-ventilated area.

16. Can You Bake On A Pellet Grill?

Yes, you can bake just like in a kitchen oven. Pellet grills hold consistent heat, making them great for bread, pizza, or desserts. Plus, you get a slight smoky twist.

17. How Often Should You Clean A Pellet Grill?

Clean the grill every few uses. Focus on the grates, grease tray, and ash. Regular cleaning helps it run efficiently and last longer.

18. Do You Have To Empty Ash After Every Use On A Pellet Grill?

Not every time, but you should every 3 to 5 cooks. Too much ash can block airflow and hurt performance. Some models have easy ash clean-out systems.

19. Is A Pellet Grill Good For Cold Weather Cooking?

Yes, but it may use more pellets and take longer to preheat. Insulated blankets or covers can help retain heat. Many people use their pellet grills year-round.

20. How Do You Start A Pellet Grill?

Plug it in, fill the hopper with pellets, and power it on. Set your desired temperature, and the grill will feed pellets automatically. It preheats in about 10–15 minutes.

21. Can You Leave A Pellet Grill Unattended?

Yes, for short periods since it controls the temperature on its own. Still, it’s good practice to check it occasionally. Always follow the safety instructions in your manual.

22. Are Pellet Grills Good For Steaks?

Yes, especially if you like smoky, juicy steak. Some pellet grills have a searing mode or high-heat zone. You can also reverse-sear for restaurant-quality results.

23. How Long Do Pellets Last In A Hopper?

That depends on the hopper size and cooking temperature. A full hopper can last anywhere from 8 to 20 hours. Check the level during long cooking sessions.

24. Does Pellet Brand Matter For A Pellet Grill?

Yes, pellet quality affects flavor and performance. Use 100% hardwood, food-safe pellets from reputable brands. Avoid fillers or softwood blends that can cause issues.

25. Can You Use A Pellet Grill In The Rain?

It's not ideal to use it in rain unless it's protected. Moisture can damage the electronics and clog the pellets. Use a cover or canopy to stay safe.

26. Does A Pellet Grill Need A Cover?

Yes, using a cover helps protect your grill from the elements. It prevents rust and keeps moisture out of the pellet hopper. A cover extends your grill’s life.

27. How Do You Store A Pellet Grill During Winter?

Clean it thoroughly, empty the hopper, and cover it well. Store it in a dry, sheltered place like a garage. If left outside, be sure it’s covered tightly.

28. Is A Pellet Grill Good For Large Gatherings?

Yes, especially larger models with roomy cooking areas. You can cook a lot of food at once with consistent heat. Great for parties, holidays, and family get-togethers.

29. What Size Pellet Grill Do I Need?

That depends on how many people you usually cook for. Smaller models are great for couples or small families. Go bigger if you host often or like to meal prep.

30. Can A Pellet Grill Replace My Oven?

In many cases, yes. You can roast, bake, and cook nearly anything you’d put in an oven. Plus, it adds flavor your oven can’t.

31. Are Pellet Grills Easy To Move?

Some are, especially those with sturdy wheels. Larger models can be heavy and need two people to move. Portable pellet grills are also available for travel.

32. Do Pellet Grills Use A Lot Of Electricity?

Not really—they only use power for the fan, auger, and controller. It’s about the same as a light bulb when running. Most of the cooking energy comes from the pellets.

33. Can You Use A Pellet Grill On An Apartment Balcony?

Check your building rules first. Some allow electric grills but may restrict anything with open flame or smoke. Pellet grills do produce smoke, so get approval first.

34. How Much Maintenance Does A Pellet Grill Need?

It needs light maintenance like cleaning the grates, grease tray, and emptying ash. Deep cleaning every few months is a good idea. Keep it dry and covered when not in use.

35. Do Pellet Grills Require Ventilation?

Yes, always use them in a well-ventilated outdoor space. They produce smoke and carbon monoxide. Never use a pellet grill in enclosed areas like garages or under low awnings.

36. How Long Does A Pellet Grill Last?

With proper care, a pellet grill can last 5 to 10 years or more. Clean it regularly and protect it from weather. Higher-end models tend to be more durable.

37. Are Pellet Grills Loud When Running?

No, they're usually pretty quiet. You’ll hear the fan and auger moving pellets, but it’s a soft hum. It's much quieter than a gas burner or charcoal popping.

38. Can You Use Flavored Pellets In A Pellet Grill?

Yes, flavored wood pellets like apple, cherry, or mesquite are great for adding unique taste. Mix and match for different meats. Always use food-grade pellets.

39. What Accessories Do I Need For A Pellet Grill?

Useful accessories include grill covers, meat probes, rib racks, and drip pan liners. A pellet scoop and storage container help too. Cast iron pans are also great for searing.

40. Is It Expensive To Cook With A Pellet Grill?

It depends on how often you use it. Pellets are reasonably priced and last a long time. The grill itself is an upfront investment, but operating costs are low.

41. Can You Cook Pizza On A Pellet Grill?

Yes, and it turns out delicious. You can use a pizza stone for crispy crust. The added smoky flavor takes pizza night to the next level.

42. Does Weather Affect Pellet Grill Performance?

Yes, cold or windy conditions can cause heat loss. Some grills handle this better than others. Using insulation blankets can help maintain steady temps.

43. Are Pellet Grills Environmentally Friendly?

They’re more eco-friendly than charcoal because they burn cleaner. Wood pellets are made from sawdust, a byproduct of lumber production. There’s minimal waste and low emissions.

44. How Do You Keep Pellets Dry For A Pellet Grill?

Store them in an airtight container or sealed bucket. Moisture ruins pellets and can clog the auger. Keep them in a cool, dry place.

45. Can You Use A Pellet Grill For Meal Prepping?

Absolutely—pellet grills are great for cooking large batches of food. Smoke meats, grill veggies, or bake casseroles ahead of time. It’s a time-saving tool for weekly meals.

46. How Accurate Are The Temperature Controls On A Pellet Grill?

They’re usually very accurate, within 10 to 20 degrees of the set temp. Digital controllers help maintain steady heat. Higher-end models offer even tighter control.

47. Can I Use A Pellet Grill Without Wi-Fi Features?

Yes, Wi-Fi is optional. It’s handy for remote monitoring but not required. Many models work perfectly with just manual digital controls.

48. How Do You Clean The Grease Tray On A Pellet Grill?

Let the grill cool down, then remove and scrape the grease tray. Use a scraper or foil liner for easy cleanup. Regular cleaning prevents flare-ups and buildup.

49. Can You Add Pellets While Cooking On A Pellet Grill?

Yes, just pour more pellets into the hopper while it's running. There’s no need to turn off the grill. Always keep an eye on levels during long cooks.

50. Does A Pellet Grill Have A Learning Curve For New Users?

Not much—most people get the hang of it quickly. The digital controls make it easy to set and forget. A few tries and you’ll be cooking like a pro.

51. Where To Buy A Pellet Grill?

You can buy a Pellet Grill at The Trade Table.