No matter the season, we all crave delicious food like grilled meat and fish. In winter, using a Traeger grill is a great option for satisfying those cravings. It’s safe to use in cold weather as long as the temperature stays above -44°F (-42°C). Adjustments may be needed to maintain proper cooking temperatures, and you might notice slightly more smoke due to changes in oxygen levels. Heating the grill may take an extra 5-10 minutes in freezing conditions. So go ahead and enjoy grilling your favorite dishes even during winter!
Does Cold Weather Affect Traeger Grill?
The temperature difference may prolong heating time for your Traeger grill, directly affecting food quality. Unlike other grills using charcoal or gas, Traeger Grills utilize pellets for heat. Retaining heat within the grill is crucial, achieved through its cover. Without the cover, extra time is needed to defrost ice, typically 15 to 20 minutes. Hence, I recommend both novice and experienced grillers always use a durable cover for their Traeger grills to prevent ice and snow buildup and protect against severe weather conditions.
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How Cold is Too Cold for a Traeger Pellet Grill?
As the temperature drops below 35 degrees Fahrenheit, the burning temperature gradually rises. Regardless of temperature, consistently covering the grill extends its lifespan. To protect your Traeger grill, use a high-quality thermal insulated cover. Opt for 100% hardwood pellets for optimal heat production. Always close the grill lid to achieve the desired taste and flavor for your grilled food.
5 Important Steps to Start a Traeger Grill in the Cold Weather
The 5 essential steps that you need to follow while starting your Traeger grill in the cold winter season are as follows.
Step 1: Clean the Grill Properly
First, you need to remove any ice and existing dirt from your Traeger grill after removal of its cover.
Also make sure there are enough hardwood pellets present in your Traeger pellet box.
Step 2: Insulate Your Grill Carefully
In extreme cold weather conditions, it becomes important to use a thermal blanket for your grill.
You can wrap it around your grill and offer an extra protection layer against cold and chilly weather conditions.
The thermal blanket helps you get the consistent temperature in your grill while cooking and grilling the food in winter.
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Step 3: Power on Your Traeger Grill
Once you properly insulate your grill, then you can switch on its power by pushing the start button.
Now, you can set a bit higher temperature level to counteract the freezing cold weather conditions outside.
However, it usually takes an extra 5 to 10 minutes to properly ignite your Traeger grill.
Step 4: Preheat Your Grill
It is equally important to wait for next 10-15 minutes once you switch on the power of your grill.
This is known as Preheating time.
This time essential to reach a stable cooking temperature level so that you can cook and grill your food properly.
Step 5: Adjust Heat As per Your Requirements
While you perform your cooking and grilling meat sessions on your Traeger grill, you need to pay close attention to heat or temperature level of the grill.
Do not wait too long if you see the temperature level of your grill is going down rapidly.
In that case, you need to increase the grill temperature to adjust the cooking heat level.
Also, make sure that there is enough wood pellets supply inside the grill for proper temperature maintenance.
In the cold weather environment, you also need to follow few safety precautions such as using good quality heat resistant gloves and setting up your Traeger grill on a flat and sturdy surface.
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Keeping my Traeger Grill Outside in the Winter
If you are living in a region where the temperature reaches – 35 degrees or colder, then I recommend you to wrap your Traeger grill with an insulated thermal blanket. It is equally important to cover your grill with the best quality Traeger grill cover.
After that, you can comfortably keep the grill outside for the whole year-round. The insulated blanket will keep your Traeger safe for the whole period.
5 Tips Care for a Traeger Grill in the Winter
In winter season, you need to take extra precautions to safeguard your Traeger grill.
Here are my 5 simple tips to keep your grill in the top shape for higher performance in the cold weather.
1. Thoroughly clean your Traeger Grill and hopper.
2. Mix the Diatomaceous earth in a hopper to get rid of the poisonous substances.
3:.Place the grill in the well-protected area.
4. Always use a strong and durable grill cover with protected material that comes with the Traeger grill.
If it is not available, then I would recommend wrapping up with another homemade cover or a bedsheet too.
5. When not in use, it’s a best practice to always disconnect your Traeger grill from its main power source.
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