How Long Do Pellets Last in a Pellet Grill?

When it comes to grilling, there’s nothing quite like the taste of food that’s come off a pellet grill. The smoky flavor is unbeatable, and the convenience of being able to use pellets instead of charcoal or propane is second to none. But one question that often comes up is how long do pellets last in a pellet grill?

In this article, we’re going to answer that question for you, as well as give you some tips on how to make your pellets last longer. But before we begin, let’s discuss the two most common types of pellets!

Softwood Vs Hardwood Pellets, Which One Works the Best?

When it comes to pellets, there are two types that you’ll find on the market: hardwood and softwood. Hardwood pellets are made from, you guessed it, hardwoods. The most common type of hardwood used for pellets is oak, but others include hickory, mesquite, alder, and maple.

Softwood pellets, on the other hand, are made from softwoods like pine. While they don’t have quite the same smoky flavor as hardwood pellets, they still taste great and work well in pellet grills.

So which type of pellets should you use in your grill? That depends on what you’re grilling and what your preferences are. If you’re looking for a smoky flavor, then hardwood pellets are the way to go. But if you want something a little lighter, softwood pellets will work just fine.

Now that we’ve answered the question of what type of pellets to use, let’s move on to how long they last. The answer, unfortunately, is not quite as straightforward. It depends on a few factors, including the type of pellet grill you have, the humidity level, and how often you use your grill.

Let’s discuss them one by one.

What Determines How Long Wood Pellets Last on Your Grill?

1. The Type of Grill

Pellet grills are a great alternative to traditional charcoal grills or gas grills, and they are becoming more and more popular. One of the benefits of a pellet grill is that you can use it for both smoking and grilling, which means you can cook a wide variety of foods. Pellets come in a variety of flavors, so you can find one that suits your taste. 

First and foremost, the type of grill you have will play a role in how long your pellets last. Pellet grills come in multiple varieties with lots of differences in construction and durability. The most common type of pellet grill is the upright model, which looks similar to a traditional gas grill. These grills are generally less expensive than other types, but they also tend to be less durable.

Another popular type of pellet grill is the horizontal barrel model. These grills have a more elongated shape and tend to be more durable than upright models. They were also a bit more expensive.

If you want the longest-lasting pellets, then you’ll want to invest in a horizontal barrel grill. These grills are built to last and can withstand lots of use. But if you’re on a budget, an upright model will still work just fine.

2. The Humidity Level

Another factor that will affect how long your pellets last is the humidity level. Pellets are made of wood, and as such, they’re susceptible to moisture. If the humidity level is too high, the pellets will absorb moisture from the air and swell up. This can lead to mold or mildew, and it will make the pellets less combustible.

Ideally, you want the humidity level to be around 45-50%. If it’s higher than that, you may want to consider using a dehumidifier in your grill area. This will help keep the humidity level down and extend the life of your pellets.

| Check out these 5 Best Tabletop Pellet Grills for the perfect BBQ experience!

3. Grill Insulation

The insulation of your grill can also play a role in how long your pellets last. If your grill has poor insulation, the heat will escape more quickly and the pellets will not burn as efficiently. This means you’ll need to use more pellets to get the same results, and they will last for a shorter amount of time.

On the other hand, if your grill is well insulated, the heat will be better contained and the pellets will burn more efficiently. This means you won’t need to use as many pellets, and they will last for a longer period of time.

If you want your pellets to last as long as possible, make sure your grill is well insulated. This will help keep the heat in and make the pellets burn more efficiently.

4. Temperature Setting

Another factor that will affect how long your pellets last is the temperature setting. If you have your grill set to a higher temperature, the pellets will burn through more quickly. On the other hand, if you have it set to a lower temperature, it will last for a longer period of time.

So what’s the ideal temperature setting for your pellet grill? That depends on what you’re cooking. If you’re grilling a thick steak, you’ll want to set the temperature higher so that it cooks quickly and evenly. But if you’re cooking chicken or fish, a lower temperature will work better.

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5. Outdoor Temperature

Finally, the outdoor temperature can also affect how long your pellets last. If it’s a cold day, the pellets will likely burn through more quickly than they would on a hotter day. Conversely, if it’s a warm day, they will last for a longer period of time. This is because the heat will help them burn more slowly and evenly.

So how can you use this information to your advantage? Well, if you know that it’s going to be a cold day, you may want to plan ahead and buy extra pellets. And if it’s going to be hot, you can relax and not worry about running out.

How Long Do Unused Pellets Last in a Pellet Grill?

The length of time that unused pellets will last in a pellet grill depends on a few factors, such as the type of pellets you have and the humidity levels in your area. In general, however, it is safe to say that unused pellets will last anywhere from two to four months, depending on how often you use your grill. 

If you have a humid climate, it is best to keep unused pellets in a closed container or in the freezer to help them last longer. Pellets that have been exposed to humidity will start to spoil and can cause your grill to work less efficiently. If you live in a dry climate, unused pellets will last longer because they won’t absorb as much moisture.

When you first get a pellet grill, it is important to read the owner’s manual carefully. This will help you understand how to store your pellets properly and how long they will last. It is also important to keep your grill clean and free of ashes, as these can clog the burner and cause the grill to work less efficiently. By following these tips, you can help your pellets last longer and ensure that your grill continues to run smoothly.

FAQs

The Bottom Line

As you can see, there are a number of factors that will affect how long your pellets last. The type of grill, the humidity level, and the temperature setting are all important considerations.

By taking these factors into account, you can extend the life of your pellets and get the most out of them. Thanks for reading! We hope this article was helpful.