Grilling in the summer is more than just a tradition—it’s a way to slow down, enjoy the outdoors, and make food that brings people together. With longer days and warmer evenings, summer is the perfect season to put your pellet grill to work. But not all pellets perform the same under the heat of summer. That’s where our smokehouse pellets come in. Designed for peak performance and full-bodied flavor, these pellets—made from pure plum wood, cabernet wine-soaked oak, and a carefully balanced plummond blend—offer a smoky signature worthy of summer.

Whether you’re grilling for a weekend get-together or slow-smoking ribs for the neighborhood block party, understanding how to get the most out of our pellets can take your summer cookouts to the next level.

Prep with the Weather in Mind

Summer heat affects not just your grill, but also your pellets and your cook times. High outdoor temperatures can make your pellet grill reach target temps faster, which might sound like a good thing—until it throws off your timing. 

To counter this, preheat your grill with the lid closed and monitor internal grill temps before placing food inside. Since our pellets burn consistently, you’ll have less fluctuation than with filler-heavy blends, but it still pays to keep an eye on things when ambient temps push past 90°F.

Also, store your pellets properly. Humidity and heat can impact their performance. Keep them sealed in a dry, shaded area—not in direct sun or near a hot grill. 

As our pellets are 100% pure wood with no added binders or oils, they retain quality when stored right, giving you that clean, even burn all season long.

Optimal Pellet Grill Setup for Hot Weather

Summer heat affects pellet grills differently than gas or charcoal cookers. Since pellet grills rely on electronic controllers, auger systems, and precise airflow, environmental factors like extreme temperatures and humidity can influence performance. Here’s how to adjust your setup for flawless summer grilling.

In summer, the grill’s metal components absorb ambient heat, which can cause initial temperature spikes. 

Direct sunlight can raise the grill’s exterior temperature, leading to uneven heat distribution. Position your pellet grill in a shaded area or use a grill cover (removed during cooking) to shield it from intense sun.

Avoid placing the grill near reflective surfaces (like glass doors or metal siding), which can amplify radiant heat.

Remember: on 90°F+ days, your pellet grill may reach and hold temperatures faster than usual. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness. Additionally, for low-and-slow cooks (like brisket or pork shoulder), monitor the grill’s internal temp more frequently to avoid overshooting.

Hot, humid air can reduce oxygen flow, making it harder for pellets to combust cleanly. Considering cracking open the grill’s smokestack vent slightly wider than usual to improve airflow.

If your grill has adjustable intake vents, open them incrementally in high humidity. Avoid overcrowding the cooking grates, as poor airflow can create “hot spots.”

Let It Rest and Serve with Confidence

After your food comes off the grill, don’t rush to slice or serve. Allowing meat to rest—even in the summer heat—lets juices redistribute, making for a more flavorful bite. Tent your meat loosely with foil and give it five to ten minutes depending on size. This final step ensures that all the smokiness imparted by your pellets is sealed in, not lost to steam when cut too early.

Serving from the grill is one of summer’s pleasures. With our pellets, you’re not just feeding your guests—you’re giving them an experience. The aroma, the flavor, the texture—all of it comes together thanks to the consistent burn and full-bodied smoke these pellets provide.

Smokehouse Pellets to Make the Most of Every Summer Cookout

Grilling with our smokehouse pellets during the summer is about enjoying the process as much as the outcome. With the right wood, stored properly and used intentionally, your pellet grill becomes a versatile, reliable tool for incredible meals.

Our lineup of pure plum, cabernet wine, and plummond blend pellets offers everything you need for a full summer of great cooking. Whether you’re experimenting with new recipes or sticking with your go-to favorites, these pellets enhance every dish with flavor that only comes from clean-burning, thoughtfully sourced wood.

And when the sun goes down and the smoke lingers just a little in the air, you’ll know the cook was worth it. To see everything we offer, check out our catalog. 

Pellet Grill Maintenance for Summer Use

Summer grilling means more frequent use, which demands extra attention to maintenance. Smokehouse pellets burn cleanly, but heat, dust, and humidity can still impact your grill’s performance. 

By fine-tuning your pellet grill’s setup and sticking to a proactive maintenance routine, you’ll maximize the performance of Knotty Wood BBQ’s smokehouse pellets all summer long. Whether you’re searing steaks, smoking whole chickens, or grilling vegetables, these adjustments ensure consistent results—no matter how high the mercury rises.

For the best flavor, experiment with pure almond wood pellets or try blending them with fruitwoods for a touch of summer sweetness. Happy grilling!