Unopened Charcoal in Garage

[Lenny]

Since I use lump charcoal for my Big Green Egg, and propane for my Weber Summit, I had unopened bags of Kingsford charcoal sitting in my garage for a couple years. I just received a Weber Kettle as a Christmas present. Is that charcoal still good? Or should I toss it? I live in the Philadelphia area with summer temperatures hitting high 90's - low 100's, and winters that are often in the teens.

[DWCowles]

It should be good as long as it’s been in a dry environment.

[Huskee]

Yep, and even if it gets wet it dries out similar to wood. I'd check for mold but most likely it's as good as new if it's dry.

[Lenny]

Thanks for the quick replies. As I mentioned, I have stepped away from the charcoal world, with my main grills. So there was little use for the charcoal until now. We have temperatures in the teens, with high winds and about 8 inches of snow, so I think my new Weber Kettle will stay unused for a bit.

[JeffJ]

Worse case scenario try it out. You'll need to season your new kettle anyway. If the coals fire up and burn properly when seasoning the grill you'll know you are good to go.

[kmhfive]

Can’t wait for temps on the positive side of zero! Already planning cooks for next week!

You Our should be fine with the charcoal, but you’ll know for certain when you go to season the kettle! BTW, when you do your seasoning run, check the lid closely for a tight fit. I’ve noticed some lids may need a little adjustment to seat perfectly flat.

[FishTalesNC]

I think it'll be fine, too. I'm admittedly lazy, and keep an opened bag of Kingsford in the plastic container under the table of my Weber Performer which is often uncovered. As long as it is in the bag with the top folder over, I've never had a problem with it - consistent as ever. Not too long ago tho, I used 2 baskets of briquettes that had been out in the open air - they were on the screened in porch, never exposed to any rain or anything, but apparently the humidity here got to them. Those briquettes never really got up to the expected temp, only hit about 325F. Luckily that is what I needed that day, but lesson learned... I've since used the rest of the briquettes from that same bag and never saw an issue.

[jfmorris]

I routinely stockpile Kingsford blue bag when it is on sale 2 for $9.99 every Memorial Day/4th/Labor Day at Home Depot, and vary from 10 to 20 bags piled up in my shed out behind the pool and grilling area. As long as it stays dry, it is good. I just opened 2 20# bags that were at least a year or two old, as this year all the 2 packs on sale were 18 pounds. It burned just fine.