Here are some answers so you can retain your throne as grill master at the next gathering.

1. Is the lump charcoal organic/all natural?

Lump charcoal is made from 100% natural hardwood. These products are environmentally friendly and made from waste wood that would otherwise be burned or discarded.

2. Why does my lump charcoal give off sparks?

Lump charcoal is a natural wood product so it will experience some sparking. Although some sparking is expected, Royal Oak uses our years of knowledge to select woods that don’t spark and limit the use of woods that do cause sparking. To keep sparking to a minimum, limit the amount of airflow during ignition and spread out the charcoal prior to ashover.

3. How is lump charcoal made?

Creating lump charcoal is a result of burning oak, hickory and other hardwoods purchased primarily from sawmills. The wood is converted to charcoal by burning in a concrete and steel kiln. The burning process is stopped before the burning wood turns to ash--the result being charred wood, which is charcoal. There are no additives or other items used in the burning process. For more info take a look at our Tip & Techniques section “All about Charcoal”.

4. Why won't my instant charcoal light or burn?

Usually from one of the following:

1. Poor air circulation around the charcoal, due possibly to the design of the grill itself or an accumulation of ashes in the bottom of the grill. Try removing the ashes or accumulation of anything in the bottom of the grill prior to cooking when the grill is cool.

2. If the bag had been mishandled during shipping and a small tear or hole had been put in the bag, this would allow some of the fluid to evaporate, making the briquets hard to light. You may need to use lighter fluid to get it burning.

3. The charcoal has absorbed an excessive amount of moisture or gotten wet. If the charcoal is damp or wet, we recommend discarding it as the performance will be drastically reduced if not completely eliminated.

5. Why won’t my regular charcoal light or burn?

Usually from one of the following:

1. Poor air circulation around the charcoal, due possibly to the design of the grill itself. An accumulation of ashes in the bottom of the grill could also be a reason. Try removing the ashes or anything in the bottom of the grill prior to cooking when the grill is cool.

2. The charcoal has absorbed an excessive amount of moisture or gotten wet. If the charcoal has gotten wet, we recommend discarding it as the performance will be drastically reduced if not completely eliminated.