How to Light a Dyna-Glo Grill
Whether you have a propane gas grill, natural gas grill, or charcoal grill, here are step-by-step instructions for lighting your Dyna-Glo — plus what to do when it won't ignite.
Lighting a Dyna-Glo Gas Grill (Propane or Natural Gas)
- Open the lid. Never light a gas grill with the lid closed — gas can accumulate inside and cause a dangerous flashback when ignited.
- Turn on the gas supply. For propane: open the tank valve by turning it counterclockwise. For natural gas: ensure the shutoff valve on your gas line is open.
- Ignite the first burner. Turn the far-left burner knob to the HIGH/LIGHT position. Press the electronic igniter button 2-3 times. You should see the burner ignite through the cooking grates.
- Light remaining burners. Once the first burner is lit, turn on adjacent burners one at a time. The flame from the lit burner will crosslight them.
- Close the lid and preheat. Let the grill run on HIGH for 10-15 minutes with the lid closed. This burns off residue and brings the grill to cooking temperature.
- Adjust temperature and cook. Turn burners down to your desired setting. Use the lid-mounted thermometer to monitor temperature.
Applies to all Dyna-Glo gas grills including 2-burner, 3-burner, 4-burner, 5-burner, and 6-burner models. Always consult your model's owner's manual for model-specific instructions.
Lighting a Dyna-Glo Charcoal Grill
- Remove the cooking grate and open all vents (top and bottom) fully.
- Fill the charcoal tray. Use the adjustable charcoal tray crank (a signature Dyna-Glo feature) to lower the tray. Fill with charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal.
- Light the charcoal. Use a chimney starter (recommended) or lighter fluid. A chimney starter is safer and doesn't leave a chemical taste. For Signature Series models with an offset firebox, light in the firebox for indirect smoking.
- Wait for coals to ash over. The coals are ready when they're covered in gray/white ash — about 15-20 minutes. Don't rush this step.
- Adjust the tray height. Use the charcoal tray crank to raise coals closer to the grate for high-heat searing, or lower them for slower cooking.
- Replace the grate and cook. Control temperature with the top and bottom vents. Open vents = hotter; closed vents = cooler.
Troubleshooting: Dyna-Glo Grill Won't Light
No spark from igniter: Replace the igniter battery (AA or AAA, located behind the control panel). If still no spark, the igniter electrode may be cracked or corroded — replacement igniters are available on Amazon for most models.
Spark but no flame: Gas isn't reaching the burner. Check that the propane tank is not empty and the valve is fully open. If the tank is new, the safety valve may have tripped — turn the tank valve off, disconnect the regulator, wait 30 seconds, reconnect, then slowly open the valve.
Low or uneven flame: Clogged burner ports or a faulty regulator. Clean burner ports with a thin wire. If the regulator is the issue (flame stays low on all settings), replace the regulator hose assembly.
Only one burner lights: The crossover tube between burners may be blocked. Clean the crossover ignition tube that connects adjacent burners. It's a small tube at the front of the burner assembly.
Safety Reminders
- Always grill outdoors in a well-ventilated area — never in a garage, covered patio, or indoors.
- Keep your grill at least 10 feet from your house, deck railings, and overhanging structures.
- Check gas connections for leaks before each grilling season — apply soapy water to connections and look for bubbles.
- Never leave a lit grill unattended.
- For more safety information, see the NFPA grilling safety guidelines.