A Green Mountain Grill hot start is the best way to get the fire going when the igniter fails or the firepot goes cold. It's a simple manual process that ensures the grill starts up properly without needing immediate repairs.
From our experience, the key steps include adding pellets to the firepot, lighting them with a torch, and using the control panel to activate the fan.
After putting it to the test, we've found that this method works quickly and reliably, getting the grill back up to temperature in just a few minutes. In this guide, we'll walk through each step so you can confidently perform a hot start and get back to grilling without hassle.
How to Hot Start Your Green Mountain Grill
If you're struggling with how to start a Green Mountain grill and a Green Mountain grill reset isn't doing the trick, a hot start manually gets the fire going. This method is especially useful if the igniter has failed. Instead of waiting for repairs, you can get your grill running again in just a few simple steps.
After putting this method to the test, we've found it to be reliable, quick, and easy for any Green Mountain Grill owner to perform. Here's exactly how to do it:
Step 1: Prep Your Grill
Before starting, make sure your grill is completely powered down. Unplug it from the outlet and confirm that the control panel is off.
This prevents any unexpected power surges while working inside the grill. Next, remove the heat shield and grease tray to access the firepot. These components sit directly above the firepot and can be easily lifted out. Setting them aside will give you a clear workspace, making it easier to get the fire going.
Step 2: Add Pellets To The Firepot
Now that you have access to the firepot, grab a small handful of wood pellets—about ¼ cup is plenty. Drop them directly into the firepot, making sure they settle evenly. You don't need a massive pile of pellets; too many can smother the flame instead of helping it grow.
From our experience, keeping the amount small allows the fire to build naturally without overloading the system. If the firepot already has old or damp pellets, it's best to remove them and start fresh to ensure a clean burn.
Step 3: Light The Pellets
To ignite the pellets, use a butane or propane torch for the best results. While a long gas lighter might work in a pinch, a torch provides a stronger and more direct flame. Hold the torch steady and apply the flame to the pellets while keeping the grill turned off.
Let the pellets catch fire until you see a steady, strong flame forming. It's important to get them burning well before moving to the next step. If the flame is weak or flickering out, keep applying heat for a few more seconds to ensure a proper burn.

Step 4: Power On The Grill
Once the firepot has a steady flame, it's time to turn the grill back on. Plug it into the outlet and check the display—it should read "OFF". Press the power button once, and you'll see "0" on the screen. Then, press and hold the power button until a temperature reading appears.
At this point, you should hear the fan engage, which helps the fire grow by feeding it oxygen. The fan is a key part of the process, as it prevents the flame from dying out and ensures the grill heats up properly.
Step 5: Reassemble The Grill
Once the grill is running and the fire is stable, it's time to put everything back in place. Carefully place the heat shield and grease tray back where they belong, making sure they sit correctly. These components help distribute heat evenly, so proper placement is important.
Finally, set your desired cooking temperature using the control panel. The grill should now be fully operational, ready to heat up, and primed for your next barbecue session.

Conclusion
Performing a Green Mountain Grill hot start is a quick and effective way to get your grill running when the igniter fails or the firepot goes cold. By following these steps, you can have your grill back up to temperature in just minutes. From our experience, this method is reliable and easy for any grill owner to do.
Keeping your grill in top shape means having the right tools and supplies on hand, and we've got everything you need at DDR BBQ Supply. Check out our selection of Green Mountain grills and BBQ accessories to keep your Green Mountain Grill performing at its best!
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