Lump charcoal pieces glowing red-orange in a chimney starter on a backyard deck

Lump Charcoal Prices Are Up 8-12% -- And the Quality Is Dropping at the Same Time

Lump charcoal prices are up 8-12% and bag quality is declining simultaneously. Here is what is driving it -- and how your grill's finish condition affects how much fuel you burn per cook.
Gas grill on display in a home improvement store aisle with a large price tag showing current retail cost

The 2026 Grill Math: Replacement Costs Are Up 23% in 18 Months and Owners Are Eating the Difference

Grill replacement costs are up 23% in 18 months, driven by 50% steel and aluminum tariffs. Here is the math that makes grill protection a 21% reduction in annual ownership cost.