A charcoal chimney starter or pyrometer is a device used for initiating and igniting charcoal briquets or lumps. It usually consists of a stainless steel tube with a grate on the top to hold lighter-colored coals. There are several variations on this theme. In some models, the grate has a reinforcing bar running through it to further reinforce the integrity of the tube. The other variation features a hollow metal tube, which contains holes drilled through it.
Charcoal Chimney Starter Tips
Other types of chimney starters include those that have a nozzle and one or more feeders. The feeder version is placed at the base of the chimney. As smoke rises from the bottom of the chimney, it blows out to the feeder holding the coals. Feeder models should be placed so that they do not catch fire due to the hotter exhaust gases.
Fuel Igniters
Propane or natural gas igniter can be used in place of wood. The insert is placed directly into the fireplace opening. It is turned off before it is completely heated. It then goes to the igniter base. After the igniter base is heated, it can be turned on and connected to the chimney.