There are a few methods to light your charcoal grill, depending on the materials you prefer to use. Using a charcoal chimney is the Char-Griller preferred method for speed and convenience but igniting your lump charcoal or briquettes directly in the grill is a great way to get cooking as well.

Charcoal Chimney

1. Remove your grill grates and set them to side
2. Fill your charcoal chimney ¾ of the way full with briquettes or lump charcoal
3. Set fire starter on charcoal grate, light and then place the charcoal chimney directly on top of the fire starter
4. Coals will fire upward from bottom to top
5. After coals on top of chimney are ignited (usually 10-15 minutes) dump the coals over the charcoal grate and replace your grill grates

Fire Starters

1. Remove your grill grates and set them to side
2. Pour approximately 1.4 kg (approx. 50-60 briquettes) of charcoal directly on to your charcoal grate and stack together in a pile
3. Insert fire starter into the middle of the charcoal pile so that it is slightly covered and light
4. After the charcoal has thoroughly ignited, typically glowing red or gray in color, use tongs to spread them out and replace your grill grates

Do not use lighter fluid, gasoline, kerosene, alcohol or other accelerant for lighting charcoal due to flammability, risk of bodily injury and potential to leave a distasteful flavor in your food.

If necessary, use tongs to move coals for even heat.

Always wear gloves when handling grill grates, charcoal grate, or adjusting coals

The Side Fire Box comes with legs to use as a standalone grill. Just like any other portable grill be sure to follow the setup instructions included with the purchase to ensure the grill is set up for portability. The Side Fire Box is designed with convenience in mind - small enough to carry but big enough to cook for your friends or family.

Controlling the temperature of your grill is all about controlling the air flow to the fire. MORE AIR = MORE HEAT. LESS AIR = LESS HEAT. By opening and closing the top and side dampers, you can easily control the temperature of your grill. The amount of charcoal used when grilling can also greatly impact your ability to control temperature. Dampers may need to be adjusted during the cook to account for changes in weather like wind or to accommodate for more or less fuel. When first learning how to operate your grill, always use the same amount of charcoal to best learn your grill’s damper control. By following these steps, you can effectively use Char-Griller's Side Fire Box as a portable grill for your outdoor cooking adventures. Just remember to exercise caution, especially when handling hot surfaces and disposing of hot coals.