Grilling with pellets is becoming increasingly popular among grillers. But just how long do those pellets last?
Good news: they’re actually quite efficient and can last up to a few months depending on storage and usage.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss the shelf life of wood pellet grills, tips for storing them, and more.
What Are Grill Pellets?
Grill pellets are a type of fuel used in grills and smokers to provide consistent heat and flavor.
They are a combination of sawdust and wood scraps that have been compressed into a pelletized form.
The sawdust is combined with natural binding agents that hold the pellets together when heated.
Grill pellets are known for providing reliable, even heat over long periods of time, as well as an intense smoky flavor.
When used properly, they can provide a consistent, flavorful cooking experience for all types of grilling or smoking.
How Long Do Grill Pellets Last?
The answer to how long grill pellets last depends on various factors. Generally, wood pellets should stay good for several years.
However, if stored properly, they can last up to six months. This time varies depending on the type of grill being used, the quality of the pellets, and the environmental humidity.
In regular conditions, a 20-pound bag of Traeger pellets will last for around 20 hours on low heat and 13 hours on high heat.
The same bag can last for around 1.5 lbs per hour when smoking. It’s important to note that if the air humidity regularly climbs, then pellets won’t last as long as they would in dry climates.
Factors Affecting How Long Grill Pellets Last
The shelf life of wood pellets is affected by a variety of factors, including the environment in which they are stored.
Humidity can significantly reduce the lifespan of pellets, so storing them in dry, cool locations will help them last longer.
Furthermore, the quality of the pellets can also affect how long they last. Higher-quality pellets usually last longer than lower-quality ones.
Additionally, how often you use your grill and the temperature at which you use it can also determine how long your pellets will last.
For example, at high temperatures, such as 500 degrees Fahrenheit, an entire 20-pound bag of pellets can be used up in just a few hours.
In contrast, a 20-pound bag of Traeger Pellets can last up to twenty hours if used in regular conditions.
Ultimately, by following proper storage guidelines and using higher-quality pellets, you can get the most out of your grill pellets and maximize their shelf life.
Storing Grill Pellets Properly
Storing grill pellets properly is a key factor in ensuring that they last as long as possible.
To extend the life of your pellets, it is important to store them in a dry, cool environment away from direct sunlight and moisture.
To further protect them, it is recommended to store them in an airtight container that can be sealed tightly and kept away from any heat sources.
Additionally, pellets should not be stored in the hopper of the grill for extended periods of time, as this can cause them to become damp or moldy.
Following these tips can help you get the most out of your pellets and ensure that they last as long as possible before needing to be replaced.
Reasons to Discard Old Grill Pellets
It’s important to discard old grill pellets to ensure your food is cooked safely and evenly.
Wood pellets can become moldy or rotten if stored for too long, and this can cause an unpleasant flavor and odor in the food.
Additionally, old wood pellets may not burn as efficiently as fresh ones, resulting in uneven cooking temperatures and inconsistent smoke levels.
Finally, the excess ash that is produced from burning these old pellets can clog up the auger tube and the ignition system, making it harder to start the grill.
To ensure the best grilling experience, it’s important to regularly check the freshness of your wood pellets and discard any that are past their expiration date.
How Many Hours Will a 20-Pound Bag of Traeger Pellets Last?
The answer to how many hours a 20-pound bag of Traeger pellets will last depends on the temperature you set your grill at.
Generally, if you cook at high temperatures, it will take 1 to 3 pounds of pellets per hour and a 20-pound bag should last 6-20 hours.
However, if you use lower temperatures for smoking, then the same bag will last longer. This means that depending on what type of cooking you are doing, a 20-pound bag of Traeger pellets can last anywhere from 6 to 20 hours.
Storing your pellets properly and using an external thermometer to monitor the temperature of your grill can help ensure that you get the most out of your bag.
Additionally, it’s important to be aware of the different types of wood pellets available as they can all affect how long your pellets will last.
How to Tell If Your Grill Pellets Have Gone Bad
It’s important to be aware of how to tell if your grill pellets have gone bad. The key indicators are changes in smell, color, and texture.
If the wood pellets have a musty smell, have changed color, or become soft and crumbly then they are no longer suitable for use.
Additionally, if the pellets are stored in an environment with more than 10% humidity, then they may not last as long as 6 months.
Therefore, it is important to store your pellets in a cool and dry place to get the most out of them. Lastly, you should always check the expiration date on the packaging before using the pellets.
By following these steps, you can be sure that your grill pellets will last and provide you with a delicious meal.
The Benefits of Wood Pellets for Grilling
Wood pellets are a convenient and cost-effective fuel source that can be used for grilling.
They burn at a consistent temperature, making it easier to control the cooking process and produce food with better flavor.
They also produce less smoke than other fuels, making them a healthier option for grilling.
Plus, burning wood pellets is more environmentally friendly than burning charcoal or gas, as the pellets are made from recycled sawdust and other wood byproducts.
Wood pellets also tend to last longer than other fuel sources, making them an economical choice for anyone who wants to get the most out of their grilling experience.
Types of Wood Pellets for Grilling
When it comes to wood pellets, there is a wide variety of options available on the market.
The most common types are hardwood, softwood, and fruitwood pellets. Hardwood pellets are denser and burn longer and hotter than softwoods.
The most popular types of hardwoods used in pellets are oak, hickory, and mesquite. Softwood pellets are not as dense as hardwoods and burn more quickly.
Popular types of softwoods used in pellets include pine and cedar. Fruitwoods, such as apple and cherry, create a more subtle smoky flavor when compared to hardwoods or softwoods.
It is important to keep in mind that different types of wood pellets will affect the taste of the food you are grilling, so it is important to choose the type that best suits your tastes.
How Can I Maximize the Lifespan of Pellets When Using a Wood Pellet Grill?
To maximize the lifespan of pellets when using a wood pellet grill, it’s important to store them in a dry place to prevent moisture absorption. Additionally, using high-quality pellets made from hardwood or a blend of woods will ensure better performance. For more tips, learn more about wood pellet grills.
Conclusion
In conclusion, wood pellets for grilling can last for several years if stored properly.
The longevity of pellets varies depending on the type of pellets, grill, and environmental humidity. A 20-pound bag of pellets should last between 6-20 hours of cooking, depending on the temperature and smoking process.
It’s important to store the pellets in a cool, dry place to ensure they don’t go bad prematurely.
Additionally, it is important to discard old pellets if they have been exposed to extreme temperature changes or moisture.
Wood pellets are an excellent choice for grilling, as they provide a flavorful smoke and even cooking temperature. With proper maintenance, you can enjoy delicious grilled meals for years to come.
