Preheat times vary by temperature setting and outdoor conditions, with the following general guidelines at an ambient temperature of 68°F.
| Target Temp | Approx. Preheat Time (68°F ambient) |
|---|---|
| 225°F (smoke / BBQ) | 10–15 minutes |
| 350°F (roast / bake) | 12–15 minutes |
| 450°F-500°F (grill / sear) | 15–30 minutes |
Preheat times are for reference only. Actual times may vary due to weather, pellet quality, and outdoor conditions, especially at temperatures above 275°F. In cold ambient temperatures (below 40°F), allow an extra 5–10 minutes for preheating. Wind can also slow preheating. Position the grill to block the prevailing wind if possible.
💡 Don’t skip preheating. Placing food on a cold grill leads to uneven cooking and sticking. Allow the temperature to stabilize for 5 minutes after reaching your target before adding food.
