can i use charcoal and propane at the same time?

[Bodra]

I have a vertical propane smoker, but I struggle to get heat up in the cold winter of Canada.

I do have a very large smokebox tray, and I am thinking of using charcoal in there as well as propane at the same time, any issues you think with that?

 

[indaswamp]

I don't see any reason why not... I use fist sized chunks of hardwoods in a 16" cast iron pan in my propane smokehouse. I cook with wood, and use the propane to moderate and hold an even temp.; probably 80~85% of the BTU's come from wood... When the coals get hot and the heat creeps up, I dial back the propane a little. you could do the same with charcoal.

 

[crazzycajun]

Yup it gives added flavor on a smoker tried adding some with my chips on the gas grill. I didn’t notice any flavor but a smoker yes

 

[mike243]

Yes but you will need to experiment in order to find the best amount so you can control the temps, I have had too many chunks in mine during the summer and ran a lot hotter than I wanted

 

[SmokinAl]

Sounds like it would work just fine to me. I may give that a try in my Smoke Vault!
Al

 

[Bodra]

Thanks guys! , I just read some of those duel fuel manuals and they clearly say, DO NOT USE BURNER WHEN LIGHTING CHARCOAL, but they may do that for liability issues, I will try using both next time and will overwatch it.

Page 20 here

http://pdf.lowes.com/operatingguides/872076013860_oper.pdf

 

[indaswamp]

That's because of the charcoal dust. If there is a lot, like when you dump the last of a bag and all the dust is in the bottom, and you light the propane, the fine airborne dust could explode.
I recommend lighting the charcoal first and letting it get hot, then light the propane burner.

 

[Bearcarver]

I don't know much about it, but I keep picturing the Gas flame going out, but the Gas keeps flowing, until the Charcoal decides to ignite the accumulated gas & send it into Orbit.

Can't Happen??? Just a Thought.

Bear

 

[Bodra]

I don't know much about it, but I keep picturing the Gas flame going out, but the Gas keeps flowing, until the Charcoal decides to ignite the accumulated gas & send it into Orbit.

Can't Happen??? Just a Thought.

Bear

mine is well ventilated but yea that might happen definitely! although my burner never went off, but must be careful

 

[Bodra]

mine is well ventilated but yea that might happen definitely! although my burner never went off, but must be careful

So i just tested that , the charcoal actually goes off, as it looks like the propane sucks all oxygen out , even with all vents open, it didnt add any heat, maybe some flavor

 

[Bodra]

So i just tested that , the charcoal actually goes off, as it looks like the propane sucks all oxygen out , even with all vents open, it didnt add any heat, maybe some flavor, will try with large wood chunks next time