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Pellet Usage Calculator

Quick answer: Multiply your cook hours by your grill's pellet burn rate in pounds per hour, then divide by bag size to see how many bags to have on hand. Burn rate depends on the grill, pit temperature, weather and wind, so take it from your manual or your own records rather than a generic number.

Planning estimates only — not food-safety advice. Cook to a safe internal temperature checked with a food thermometer; see the USDA FSIS safe minimum internal temperature chart. Time is a guess; temperature is the test.

How it works

Pellets (lb) = hours × burn rate (lb/hr). Bags = pellets ÷ bag size, rounded up. Cold, windy days and higher temperatures burn more; insulated grills and mild days burn less. Keep a spare bag so you never run dry mid-cook, and store pellets dry because damp pellets can swell and jam augers.

Worked example

Figures below are illustrative examples (2026-10-29), not quotes or guarantees.

Assumptions: a 12 h cook at a burn rate of 2 lb/hr (invented input) with 20 lb bags. Pellets: 24 lb, so 2 bags. Add the hours from the smoking time calculator.

FAQ

Where do I find burn rate?

Your grill manual or manufacturer, or weigh the hopper before and after a cook.

Do wood flavours burn differently?

Slightly, depending on blend; see the wood pairing chart.

Does temperature affect it?

Yes; see 225 vs 250 vs 275.

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