Top 5 Best Chimney Starters Reviewed for BBQ Enthusiasts

Lighting charcoal can be frustrating without the right gear. That’s where chimney starters come in. In this guide, we’ve compared the best chimney starters on the market to help you make a quick and smoke-free fire without relying on lighter fluid. Whether you’re a weekend griller or a serious BBQ pitmaster, these tools save time, reduce chemical taste, and give you consistent results every time.

How the Chimney Effect Works:

The chimney effect relies on the natural tendency of warm air to rise. When charcoal is placed in a chimney starter and lit from the bottom, the fire heats the air inside. As the air heats up, it becomes less dense and rises through the top of the chimney, drawing in fresh air from the bottom. This creates an updraft, which fuels the fire by constantly supplying oxygen.

How This Helps Ignite Charcoal:

1. Even Heat Distribution: The rising hot air ensures that the charcoal at the top of the chimney is heated by the air rising from the coals below. This consistent airflow helps ignite the coals more evenly than when lighting them directly in a grill.
2. Faster Lighting: Because the chimney starter uses the natural flow of hot air, the charcoal ignites much quicker. The increased airflow from the rising heat accelerates the combustion process, so your coals are ready for grilling in about 10-15 minutes, compared to the longer time it takes when lighting them directly on the grill.

Key Benefits:

• Even Burn: Since the coals are heated from all sides, they burn evenly, ensuring a consistent temperature throughout your grill.
• No Lighter Fluid: The chimney starter eliminates the need for lighter fluid, which can leave an unpleasant taste on food and can be harmful to the environment.
• Saves Time: With a chimney starter, you spend less time waiting for the coals to reach the right temperature.

In summary, a chimney starter uses the chimney effect to create an updraft of air, which helps ignite charcoal evenly and quickly. This results in faster, more consistent grilling, making it a must-have tool for any BBQ enthusiast.

What to Consider When Buying the Best Chimney Starter:

1. Capacity:
Look at how much charcoal it holds. A larger chimney is better for big grills, while smaller ones are more portable.

2. Material & Build Quality:
Go for heavy-gauge steel or aluminized steel that can handle high heat. Rust resistance is a bonus.

3. Heat Shield & Handle Design:
Choose a model with a heat shield and ergonomic, stay-cool handle to protect your hands from burns.

4. Ignition Speed:
Some chimney starters light faster than others based on air flow design. Models with more ventilation holes perform better.

5. Safety Features:
Handles with a second support grip, quick-release mechanisms, and insulated shields can make a big difference in safety.

6. Weight & Portability:
If you camp or tailgate, pick a lightweight and collapsible option for easy transport.

7. Brand Reputation & Reviews:
Trusted brands like Weber or Kingsford have strong track records. Read real user reviews before buying.

Best Chimney Starters Compared

E500 Larger Chimney Starter + 60 Fire Starters

Price: $29.99 | Capacity: Large | Bonus: 60 Fire Starters

• ✅Includes 60 charcoal starters
• ✅ Excellent airflow with side holes
• ❌Bulky storage

View on Amazon

Weber Rapidfire Chimney Starter

Price: $24.99 | Material: Alloy Steel | Size: Standard

• ✅Trusted by thousands
• ✅Fast ignition & ergonomic handle
• ❌Slightly smaller than others

View on Amazon

KINGSFORD Heavy Duty Deluxe Chimney Starter

Price: $14.98 | Handle: Stay-cool | Build: Rust-resistant zinc coated

• ✅Best budget pick
• ✅Light & compact design
• ❌Can get hot during use

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Lodge 12-inch Chimney Starter

Price: $29.73 | Material: Galvanized Steel | Bonus: Wooden handle

• ✅Strong and simple
• ✅Holds large amount of charcoal
• ❌Lacks secondary handle

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Char-Griller 19586 Chimney Starter

Price: $20.88 | Feature: EZ-start release | Material: Galvanized Steel

• ✅Quick-release trapdoor
• ✅Fast heating performance
• ❌ Less durable over time

View on Amazon

Chimney Starter Comparison Table

Product	Material	Includes	Size	Pros	Cons	Link
E500 Starter	Metal	60 Fire Starters	Large	Includes starters, Large capacity	Bulky	View
Weber Rapidfire	Alloy Steel	Chimney Only	Standard	Fast ignition, Ergonomic design	Smaller size	View
KINGSFORD Deluxe	Zinc-Coated Steel	Chimney Only	Standard	Budget-friendly, Lightweight	Gets hot	View
Lodge 12-Inch	Galvanized Steel	Wooden Handle	Large	Strong build, Heat-safe handle	No side handle	View
Char-Griller 19586	Galvanized Steel	Quick Release	Standard	EZ Dump feature, Fast lighting	Durability issues	View

❓Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are chimney starters better than lighter fluid?
A: Yes! They are safer, quicker, and don’t leave chemical residue on your food.

Q: How long do they take to heat coals?
A: Typically 15 to 25 minutes depending on charcoal type and airflow.

Q: Which one is best for large BBQ setups?
A: Lodge or E500 offer larger capacity; Weber is fastest for small/medium grills.

How to Use a Chimney Starter – Step by Step

What You’ll Need:

• Chimney starter
• Charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal
• Newspaper (or lighter cubes/natural fire starters)
• Lighter or matches
• Heat-resistant gloves (recommended)
• Grill or fire-safe surface

Step-by-Step Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Starter Material
Crumple up 2–3 sheets of newspaper and place them in the bottom chamber of the chimney. Alternatively, place a lighter cube or natural fire starter under the chimney on your grill’s charcoal grate.

Step 2: Fill the Chimney with Charcoal
Pour charcoal into the top section of the chimney. For most grills, filling it to the top should be enough for high-heat cooking. Use less for lower temperatures.

Step 3: Light the Fire
Use a long lighter or match to ignite the newspaper or lighter cube through the holes in the bottom of the chimney. You’ll see smoke begin to rise as the paper ignites.

Step 4: Let the Charcoal Heat Up
Wait 10–15 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the top charcoal pieces are covered in white-gray ash. This means they’re fully lit and hot.

Step 5: Pour Out the Coals
Using heat-resistant gloves, carefully lift the chimney by the handle and pour the hot coals into the grill’s charcoal grate. Spread them out as needed depending on your cooking style (direct or indirect heat).

Safety Precautions:

• Always use heat-resistant gloves when handling the chimney—it gets extremely hot.
• Place the chimney on a non-flammable surface, such as a grill grate or fireproof bricks.
• Never leave the chimney unattended while in use.
• Keep children and pets at a safe distance.
• Avoid using lighter fluid in the chimney—it’s not needed and can be dangerous.

Pro Tips:

• Preheat your grill grate: Place the cooking grate over the grill while the charcoal is lighting in the chimney. This preheats the grate, making it easier to sear food and preventing sticking.
• Use natural fire starters: Lighter cubes are wind-resistant and more reliable than newspaper, especially in damp conditions.
• Control your heat zones: After pouring the coals, arrange them to one side for two-zone cooking (hot and cool side).
• Keep a small metal bucket or safe container nearby to place the hot chimney once emptied.

Using a chimney starter is simple, safe, and efficient. Once you try it, you’ll likely never go back to lighter fluid again!

How to Clean a Chimney Starter:

1. Let It Cool Completely
Always wait until the chimney starter has fully cooled down before handling or cleaning. This may take a couple of hours after use.

2. Tap Out Ash and Debris
Hold the chimney over a trash bin or ash container and gently tap it to dislodge any loose ash or charcoal bits. You can also use a small brush to sweep out residue.

3. Scrub Off Built-Up Soot (Optional)
If there’s a lot of soot or grease buildup, scrub the inside and outside with a wire brush or grill brush. You can also use warm water and mild dish soap, but this is optional—most users simply let it season like a grill.

4. Rinse and Dry (if washed)
If you used soap and water, rinse thoroughly and let it dry completely to avoid rust. You can leave it in the sun or towel-dry it.

Note: Frequent deep cleaning isn’t necessary. The chimney starter is meant to be exposed to heat and smoke, so basic maintenance is usually enough.

How to Store It Properly for Long Life:

1. Store in a Dry Place
Moisture is the enemy of metal. Always store your chimney starter in a dry, covered area such as a shed, garage, or under your grill’s weatherproof cover.

2. Hang It Up or Set Upright
If possible, hang it by the handle or place it upright to avoid dents or warping. Don’t stack heavy items on top of it.

3. Keep Away from Chemicals or Salt
Avoid storing near pool supplies, fertilizers, or deicers—these can corrode the metal over time.

4. Cover or Bag (Optional)
For long-term storage, consider placing it in a grill accessory bag or wrapping it in a clean cloth to keep dust and moisture away.

Quick Summary:

With a little care, your chimney starter can last for many years—providing quick, clean, and safe charcoal starts for all your BBQ sessions!

Why chimney starters are better than lighter fluid

1. No Chemical Taste or Smell

Lighter fluid leaves residues that can seep into your charcoal and affect your food’s flavor. You may end up with a chemical or gasoline-like aftertaste—especially if the fluid isn’t fully burned off.

✅Chimney starters rely only on heat and airflow—no chemicals—so your food tastes natural and delicious.

2. Safer to Use

Lighter fluid is flammable and can cause dangerous flare-ups or even explosions if misused. Pouring more on a fire is especially risky.

✅Chimney starters are much safer. They ignite charcoal using controlled airflow and don’t require open containers of volatile liquid.

3. More Environmentally Friendly

Lighter fluid releases volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the air, contributing to air pollution and harming the environment.

✅Chimney starters use recyclable materials like newspaper or natural fire starters, making them a more eco-conscious choice.

4. Cost-Effective

Buying lighter fluid over and over adds up—especially if you grill often.

✅A chimney starter is a one-time purchase that lasts for years, saving you money in the long run.

5. Faster and More Even Ignition

Contrary to what many believe, chimney starters light charcoal evenly and quickly—usually in 10–15 minutes—without constant monitoring or re-applying fluid.

✅ They ensure a uniform heat source, perfect for controlled grilling.

Summary: Why Chimney Starters Win

Chimney starters are cleaner, safer, and more flavorful than lighter fluid. If you want better-tasting food and a hassle-free grilling experience, ditch the fluid and light up the chimney!

Electric vs Manual Chimney Starters

Manual Chimney Starter (Traditional Metal Canister)

How It Works:

You place charcoal inside the metal cylinder and light kindling (newspaper or fire starter) underneath. The chimney effect draws air upward, igniting the coals evenly.

Pros:

• No electricity required – works anywhere, even during power outages or camping trips.
• Inexpensive – budget-friendly and widely available.
• Simple to use – no moving parts or cords.
• No lighter fluid needed – healthier and better for taste.

Cons:

• Requires a separate ignition source (matches, lighter, newspaper).
• Takes slightly longer than electric starters (10–15 minutes).

Electric Chimney Starter (Plug-in Heating Element)

How It Works:

You insert the metal heating element directly into a pile of charcoal and plug it in. The element heats the coals until they ignite.

Pros:

• Fast ignition – usually ready in 8–10 minutes.
• No flames or paper needed – cleaner process.
• Easy for beginners – plug and go.

Cons:

• Requires a power outlet – limits portability.
• More expensive than manual versions.
• Heating element can wear out – shorter lifespan than manual chimneys.
• Can be harder to ignite evenly if not placed carefully.

Which One Should You Buy?

• Choose a manual chimney starter if you want something affordable, durable, and versatile for use anywhere—even off-grid.
• Go with an electric chimney starter if you prefer a cleaner, slightly faster option and always have access to electricity.

For most backyard grillers, a manual chimney starter is the best balance of value, simplicity, and reliability.

5 Common Mistakes to Avoid When Using a Chimney Starter

1. Overstuffing the Bottom with Newspaper

The Mistake: Using too much newspaper can restrict airflow, making it hard to ignite or keep burning.

Fix: Use just 2–3 loosely crumpled sheets. Too tight = no air. Too many = smothered flame. Alternatively, use a natural fire starter or lighter cube for cleaner ignition.

2. Lighting It on a Flammable Surface

The Mistake: Placing your chimney starter on a wooden deck, dry grass, or plastic table while lighting it.

Fix: Always place it on a heat-resistant, fire-safe surface, such as your grill grate, concrete, or a metal tray. The base gets extremely hot.

3. Handling Without Protection

The Mistake: Trying to pour out hot coals or move the chimney without gloves.

Fix: Use heat-resistant gloves and grab the handle carefully. The entire chimney—including the wire—can get dangerously hot.

4. Pouring Out Coals Too Soon

The Mistake: Dumping the coals before they’re fully lit, which leads to uneven heat and poor cooking results.

Fix: Wait until the top coals are covered in white ash. This means they’re fully ignited and ready to use (usually 10–15 minutes).

5. Leaving It Out in the Rain

The Mistake: Storing your chimney starter outdoors or in damp conditions.

Fix: Keep it dry and sheltered. Moisture causes rust, reducing its lifespan. Store it in a shed, garage, or under your grill cover.

Bonus Tip:

Preheat your grill grate by placing it over the chimney while the coals are heating. This saves time and helps prevent food from sticking.

Avoiding these simple mistakes will make your chimney starter safer, more effective, and longer-lasting—ensuring fast, even charcoal lighting every time.

Can You Use a Chimney Starter with Wood Chunks or Pellets?

Chimney starters are traditionally designed for lighting charcoal briquettes quickly and evenly by creating strong airflow through a stack of charcoal.

• Wood chunks:
  You can use a chimney starter with wood chunks, but it’s a bit trickier than with charcoal. Wood chunks are larger and less uniform than charcoal, so they might not stack as well or ignite as evenly. Also, wood chunks produce more smoke and can burn less predictably. It’s important to use dry wood chunks and arrange them loosely for airflow. If your goal is to get a hot, even fire quickly, it’s possible but less efficient than charcoal.
• Pellets:
  Using a chimney starter with pellets is generally not recommended. Pellets are small, dense, and designed for pellet stoves where they’re fed automatically. When placed in a chimney starter, pellets can clump together, restricting airflow, or burn too quickly and unevenly. They also produce more ash and may clog the airflow holes, reducing the chimney effect.

Summary:

• Wood chunks: Can be used but less efficient; needs dry wood and good airflow.
• Pellets: Not really suitable for chimney starters.

If you want to light wood chunks or pellets more efficiently, it’s better to use other methods like fire starters designed for wood or pellet stoves.

How Charcoal Type Affects Chimney Starter Performance

1. Lump Charcoal

• Characteristics: Irregular shapes and sizes, natural wood chunks carbonized.
• Airflow: Because of the irregular shapes and gaps, lump charcoal allows excellent airflow through the chimney starter.
• Ignition: Lights faster and hotter but can burn unevenly due to size differences.
• Ash Production: Produces less ash, so airflow stays good during the burn.
• Performance: Ideal for chimney starters if you want quick heat and good airflow, but you might need to rearrange pieces for even burning.

2. Charcoal Briquettes

• Characteristics: Uniform, compressed charcoal mixed with binders and additives.
• Airflow: Uniform size helps stack evenly, but briquettes are denser and can reduce airflow compared to lump charcoal.
• Ignition: Takes a bit longer to light than lump charcoal but burns consistently and steadily.
• Ash Production: More ash is produced, which can sometimes clog airflow if the chimney starter holes are small or the ashes build up.
• Performance: Best for predictable, long-lasting fires; chimney starters work very well with briquettes because of uniform stacking.

3. Instant Light / Self-Light Charcoal

• Characteristics: Briquettes coated with lighter fluid or additives.
• Airflow: Similar stacking to briquettes, but additives can produce chemical odors.
• Ignition: Very easy and quick to ignite in a chimney starter.
• Ash Production: Similar ash to briquettes.
• Performance: Convenient but not preferred for flavor; good for quick starts but chimney starter’s airflow benefit is less critical because of the additives.

Summary:

If you want the best chimney starter performance for grilling or BBQ, lump charcoal is great for fast, hot fires, while briquettes are better for steady, long-lasting heat.

Is a Chimney Starter Safe for Kids or Family BBQs?

A chimney starter can be safe when used properly, but it requires caution and adult supervision — especially around kids.

Key Safety Points:

1. Hot Surfaces and Sparks:
   The chimney starter gets extremely hot — the metal can reach temperatures over 600°F (315°C). It also produces sparks and hot embers when pouring the charcoal. This is a serious burn hazard, so keep kids and pets well away.
2. Adult Supervision Required:
   Always have an adult handle lighting, carrying, and pouring the chimney starter. Never let children hold or play near it.
3. Use Heat-Resistant Gloves:
   Use thick, heatproof gloves to handle the chimney starter. The handles and sides get dangerously hot.
4. Safe Location:
   Light the chimney starter on a non-flammable surface like concrete or gravel — never on grass, wooden decks, or inside the house.
5. Keep Water or Fire Extinguisher Nearby:
   Have a safety plan in case of flare-ups or accidents.
6. Pour Charcoal Carefully:
   When pouring the hot coals into the grill, do it slowly and away from people to avoid spills or sparks flying.

Choosing the best chimney starters means faster charcoal ignition, safer handling, and better tasting BBQ. Whether you prefer a classic model like the Weber Rapidfire or a high-capacity unit like the E500, our comparison shows there’s a perfect match for every grill master. Ditch the lighter fluid and step up your grilling game with a quality chimney starter.