Big Green Egg Question

[eaglegrad07]

A buddy of mine recently got himself a large egg and is having problems getting the heat to come up when he first lights it up. He says it takes about 45 minutes to get it up to 225 degrees. He says he was told it should take 7-10 minutes. Any thoughts?

 

[strokin99]

Is it vented correctly

 

[dixietruckman]

Sounds like he doesn't have the bottom vent opened. Is he using the correct kind of charcoal??? (lump not briquettes) How is he starting the fire?? (electric starter, starter sticks, etc. not lighter fluid!!!)

 

[eaglegrad07]

He uses lump charcoal and starter squares. He says that the bottom vent is fully open.

 

[Shovelhead]

Obviously a defective egg.. I'll give him $100 for it

 

[georgia357]

Not sure, I've never had that problem with mine. Sounds like something is blocked somewhere.

 

[PJ Martin]

Leave the lid open for the first few minutes. When I close the lid I stand by and open it often to help get the smoke out as it will choke the fire down. Try that and see if it helps. I had the same problem when I first got mine.

 

[hatchetjack]

simple thing but make sure the opening in the bottom ceramic piece is aligned with the vent opening . And make sure all the holes in the tray and ceramic side are clear...sometimes small pieces of charcoal get in it.