What is the ignition rod?
The ignition rod or “hot rod” extends into the bottom of the fire-pot and is responsible for igniting the wood pellets in the fire-pot.
It works like the resistance electric heating element in a hot water tank, or hot water kettle. Electricity runs through a coiled wire and gets very hot (red hot), enough to ignite the wood pellets.
How long does it operate?
The controller powers the ignition rod for 5 minutes each time the grill it turned from Shut Down Cycle to Smoke. It will also switch on for 5 minutes if the grill temperature ever drops below 60ºC.
Once there is fire in the fire-pot the ignition rod can turn off as regular delivery of pellets will keep the fire going.
How much power does it draw?
The ignition rod draws 200W of electricity, but only runs for the first 5 minutes after turning the grill on so doesn’t use very much electricity in total.
Click here to learn how much electricity a Z Grill uses.
How to replace the ignition rod?
Check out this page for step by step instructions to replace a faulty/dead ignition rod.
Can I run the grill without the ignition rod?
Yes, you can manually run the grill off less than 250W power supply, or with a faulty ignition rod. Click here for more information.
Learn more….
Check out the video below to learn more about how Z Grills work!