How Long Do Pellets Last in a Pellet Grill?
Running out of pellets in the middle of a cook is a terrible feeling and can ruin your BBQ. It’s happened to me and it sucks. If you are wondering how long pellets last, the answer is a bit tricky. In my experience, pellet grills burns between one to three pounds of pellets per hour. This means the average 20 lb bag of pellets will last between 7 and 20 hours.
Seem like a big range? Well, it definitely is. If you are in the market for a pellet grill, or already have one, don’t go another day without understanding this topic!
In this article, we explore the everything you need to know about pellet consumption so you don’t make the same mistakes I have. You’ll learn:
- Important factors to consider
- If pellets can “go bad”
- How to maximize how long pellets last
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How Long Do Pellets Last? – Factors to Consider
If there ever was a loaded question in grilling and smoking, this is it. You have to know how a lot of different things can impact pellet usage and burn rate.
It’s very hard to give a hard answer without considering the following factors (click factor below for more details):
| Factor | Why is it important? |
|---|---|
| Cooking Temp | Most important! Higher temp = more pellets used |
| Size of Pellet Grill | Bigger grills = more pellets used |
| Quality | Premium, high-quality pellets burn slower and have better flavor |
| Storage Method | Moisture is the enemy! How and where you store pellets matters |
| Weather | Cold weather or wind can increase pellet burn rate |
Heres a little more detail for each one…
Cooking Temperature – The Biggest Factor
Without a doubt, the temperature you are grilling/smoking your BBQ at is one of the most critical factors impacting pellet consumption. The higher the heat, the more pellets you’re going to burn.
The burn rate for any pellet grill is going to be greatly influenced by high temperature grilling versus low temperature smoking.
In other words, if you’re smoking at a low temperature setting, say around 225°F, your pellets will last much longer than if you’re grilling at higher temperatures, say around 450°F.
Size of Pellet Grill
The bigger the pellet grill, the more pellets it will take to heat it. The concept is very similar to how much gas is used in vehicles. A big SUV is going to consume more gas than a tiny compact car.
In similar fashion, different size pellet grills will have different fuel efficiencies. Larger grills have more space to heat and will naturally burn through pellets faster. A small portable pellet smoker will consume fewer pellets.
Pellet Quality
Not all wood pellets are created equal. Don’t just grab the cheapest bag! Opt for higher quality pellets to ensure optimal burning efficiency as premium wood pellets are typically made from top-grade wood without any additives or fillers.
Additionally, the type of wood used also impacts pellet quality. Hardwood varieties like oak, hickory, and maple burn longer and impart a more robust flavor compared to softwood pellets such as pine or spruce.
Pellet Storage Method
Ever tried starting a campfire with damp wood? If you have, you know it’s a no-go. If not stored properly, pellets can soak up moisture and wreak havoc on your grill.
Moist or damp pellets will burn inefficiently at best. Worst case, they can damage your grill or not ignite at all.
I recommend storing pellets in an airtight container or in a temperature controlled environment. I store my pellets in my garage which isn’t really temp controlled, but it’s controlled enough that I don’t have issues.
With some pellet grills, you need to minimize how many pellets you leave in the the pellet hopper.
Weather or Climate
Believe it or not, weather or climate plays a significant role in how efficiently your wood pellets burn. Cold temperatures will naturally require more heat to maintain the desired temperature in your pellet grill, thus burning through pellets faster. On the other hand, in a hot, calm climate, your grill will be more fuel-efficient.
Windy conditions can also affect your pellet consumption as it can cool down your grill quicker and force it to burn more pellets to keep up the heat.
Can pellets go bad?
Yes, wood pellets can indeed go bad if not properly stored. Like any other wood product, they are susceptible to the effects of moisture.
If they get wet or damp, you’ll find your pellets won’t burn as efficiently—if they burn at all.
What are some signs my pellets are bad:
- They look bloated and mushy — signs they’ve picked up moisture
- They crumble easily when you try to break them, instead of snapping cleanly
- There’s a noticeable musty or moldy smell to them, rather than the crisp, fresh scent of wood
How to maximize how long pellets last
A little effort goes a long way to preserve pellets. Here are a few handy tips:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Keep Pellets Dry | The number one rule is to keep your pellets dry at all times. Moisture is the main enemy here. Store pellets in a dry place. Sheds and garages usually work fine. |
| Buy Quality Pellets | Investing in quality pellets upfront can prevent future issues. They are less prone to crumbling and breaking, ensuring better longevity. |
| Use Airtight Containers | Store your wood pellets in airtight containers to keep unwanted moisture and pests out. This not only protects the pellets but also preserves their flavor. |
| Avoid direct sunlight | Sunlight can also break down the quality of your pellets, so storing them in a shaded area is best. |
| Check Your Stock | Regularly check your stock for signs of dampness, pests, or any other potential issues. It’s better to catch a problem early before it ruins your entire supply. |
| Use oldest first | Try to use the oldest pellets you have first, which will minimize exposure to all the risks that degrade pellets over time. |
Can you leave pellets in Hopper?
Most pellet grill manufacturers don’t recommend leaving pellets in the hopper for extended periods of time. Their standpoint is that moisture can get into the pellets and cause issues from not operating quite right up to damaging the auger.
While you can leave pellets in the hopper of your pellet grill, it’s not the best practice if you’re not grilling regularly. Pellets left in the hopper are exposed to the elements and can absorb moisture, which can lead to inefficient burning and/or potential damage to your pellet grill.
Conclusion – How long do pellets last in pellet grills?
As we’ve covered, there are many things to consider when estimating how long pellets will last. Consider cooking temperature and pellet smoker size among other things.
I’ve learned a lot from years of using a pellet grill. By following the tips I learned from the school of hard knocks, you can ensure your wood pellets remain in top condition for a delicious and efficient BBQ experience every time.
More Pellet Grill Resources from New Creation Food…
- How a pellet grill works
- Pellet Smoked pork belly burnt ends
- Pellet Smoked Brisket
- Spatchcocked Smoked Chicken
- Best Smoker for a Beginner
- Best Grill Smoker Combos (for anyone)
FAQ – Pellet Lifespan
How long do pellets last if stored properly?
Generally, if all criteria outlined above is met, wood pellets will last 6 – 12 months in storage.
How long does a 40 lb bag of pellets last?
A 40 lb bag of pellets can last approximately 26 – 40 hours, considering an average consumption rate of about 1 to 1.5 pounds per hour smoking at 225°F.
How many hours does 20 lbs of pellets last?
A 20 lb bag of pellets should last about 13-20 hours if you are smoking between 225 – 250 degrees F. Cooking at a high temperature will reduce this number.
How long do pellets last at 250?
At a moderate temperature of 250 degrees, a 20 pound bag of pellets can last around 13 – 20 hours. Lower temperatures mean slower pellet consumption, providing a longer burn time.
Are wood pellets cheaper than propane?
Generally speaking, wood pellets tend to be more expensive than propane. Along with me, other smoking enthusiasts argue that the smokey flavor imparted by wood smoke is worth the extra cost.
What wood pellets last the longest?
Hardwood pellets, such as oak or hickory, typically last longer than softwood pellets because they burn slower and hotter. Again, the exact burn time can depend on your specific grilling conditions.
How long will a bag of pellets last at 225?
At a low and slow smoking temperature of 225°F, a 20 lb bag of pellets can last anywhere from 13 – 20 hours, depending on the efficiency of your pellet grill and the specific conditions at the time of cooking. Remember, lower temperatures will generally lead to a longer burn time.
