There’s nothing quite like fall for grilling. The crisp air, the smell of wood smoke curling through the backyard, and hearty, slow-cooked meals – that’s just some of the reasons fall is one of the best times to fire up your wood pellet grill. Whether you’re watching the game, preparing a family dinner, or simply enjoying a cool evening outdoors, using your pellet smoker the right way matters.

At Knotty Wood BBQ, we’ve spent years perfecting our craft—creating premium wood pellets that deliver steady heat, clean smoke, and unbeatable flavor. But to get the most from your grill this season, you also need the right habits, setup, and care. 

Fall weather presents unique challenges—cooler temperatures, wind, and moisture can all present challenges. Fortunately, with a few adjustments and smart practices, you can keep your grill running smoothly and your food tasting incredible.

Prepare and Clean Your Wood Pellet Grill Right

To ensure your meals come out perfectly, you’ll want to start with a clean wood pellet grill. Even a small buildup of ash or grease can affect airflow, temperature control, and the overall quality of your cook.

Before your first fall session—and ideally before every use—take a few minutes to do a thorough inspection and cleanup:

• Empty the ash. Excess ash can cause uneven heating or even extinguish the fire.
• Wipe down the grates to remove any leftover grease, debris, or charred bits.
• Check your grease bucket and drip tray to ensure they’re clean and functioning properly.
• Inspect the hopper and auger for dust or moisture buildup that could affect pellet flow.

When your grill is clean, it performs efficiently and produces a pure, clean smoke. As we crafted our pellets without fillers or additives, that can also help minimize residue, too. 

Keeping your grill clean isn’t just about performance; it’s about safety, too. A buildup of grease can lead to flare-ups or fires, especially during extended cooks. A little preparation goes a long way toward ensuring every fall grilling session goes right. 

Choose the Right Location for Your Wood Pellet Grill

Cooler temperatures and unpredictable weather mean it’s more important than ever to set up your grill in a safe, sheltered area. Your grilling location affects heat retention, airflow, and pellet burn rate—all of which influence how your food cooks.

A few key considerations for ideal placement:

• Choose a level, stable surface away from dry leaves, wood piles, or overhanging branches.
• Keep at least ten feet of distance between the grill and any structure, fence, or combustible surface.
• Position your grill where it’s protected from wind—such as near a wall or in a covered patio—but still open enough for ventilation.
• Avoid using your grill indoors, even in a garage or shed.

Grilling in fall weather often means managing fluctuating wind and humidity. By setting your grill up in a stable and protected spot, you’ll enjoy steadier temperatures and more predictable results.

Manage Temperature and Airflow on Your Wood Pellet Grill

As autumn temperatures fall, your grill has to work harder to maintain consistent heat. Pellet grills rely on steady air circulation and precise fuel feeding to hold their target temperature, and cold air can cause fluctuations if not managed properly.

Here’s how to ensure even cooking when it’s chilly outside:

• Preheat your grill longer than usual to reach stable cooking temperatures before placing food inside.
• Keep the lid closed as much as possible. Every time you open it, cold air rushes in, dropping the temperature and extending cooking time.
• Invest in a grill blanket or thermal cover designed for pellet grills. It helps retain heat and reduces pellet consumption.
• Make sure your pellets are dry and stored in an airtight container; damp pellets can cause inconsistent burns or jams in the auger.

If your goal is to maintain perfect sears or long, slow smokes, controlling the environment inside your grill is key. Our pellets are made for consistency—they ignite cleanly, burn evenly, and respond predictably to temperature changes. That reliability makes it easier to cook confidently, no matter how cold the air gets.

Be Mindful of Wind and Moisture

Fall weather can bring gusty winds, light rain, or morning dew—all of which can interfere with grilling if you’re not prepared. Wind in particular can cause uneven burns and sudden spikes or drops in temperature.

To manage wind effectively:

• Position your grill with the hopper side facing away from prevailing winds to protect the flame from direct gusts.
• Avoid grilling on extremely windy days, or use a windscreen or natural barrier to create a buffer zone.
• Keep a close eye on your temperature readings, adjusting vents and feed rates if necessary.

Moisture is another factor to watch. Even a small amount of dampness can affect pellet quality. Always store your pellets in a dry, sealed container to prevent swelling or crumbling. Once pellets absorb moisture, they no longer burn efficiently, which can cause your grill to produce excess ash or even go out mid-cook.

Our all-natural almond and plum wood pellets are carefully kiln-dried for optimal performance. That means they’re less likely to absorb ambient humidity and deliver a more consistent burn, even during those cool, misty fall evenings.

Get the Most Flavor from Your Fall Meals

One of the biggest rewards of fall grilling is the chance to work with rich, seasonal flavors—think roasted squash, smoked pork loin, apple-glazed chicken, or maple-infused ribs. The key to unlocking those flavors lies in matching your wood pellets to your ingredients.

For a clean, slightly nutty smoke that enhances savory meats and sweet glazes alike, almond wood pellets are an excellent choice. The mild aroma of almond wood for smoking complements poultry, pork, and vegetables without overwhelming their natural taste. 

Our pellets are made from single-source, 100% pure wood grown in California’s orchards. That purity means every cook delivers real, consistent flavor from start to finish. With high-quality fuel and proper fall grilling practices, you can turn everyday recipes into rich, smoke-infused meals that feel tailor-made for the season.

Maintain Pellet Quality for Smooth Wood Pellet Grill Cooking

The performance of your grill is only as good as the quality of your pellets. In fall, moisture in the air and temperature fluctuations can make storage more challenging. Proper pellet care ensures steady heat output and efficient burning throughout the season.

To protect your pellets:

• Store them in airtight containers or sealed bins to prevent exposure to damp air.
• Keep storage containers off the ground and away from walls where condensation might form.
• Avoid leaving pellets in the hopper for long periods if you’re not grilling regularly.

Because our pellets are made without binders or fillers, they burn cleanly and leave minimal ash residue, helping you maintain optimal airflow in your grill. That makes it easier to keep temperatures stable even when outdoor conditions vary.

Experience Fall Grilling with Knotty Wood BBQ

Grilling in autumn brings out some of the best flavors of the year, and the key to mastering it lies in preparation, care, and quality. From maintaining your equipment to managing weather challenges, each step contributes to a better cook. When you combine those practices with pellets made from pure California-grown wood, your grill performs at its best every time.

At Knotty Wood BBQ, we’re dedicated to helping you make the most of your wood pellet grill. 

The right fuel makes all the difference—turn your next cook into something unforgettable. If you’re ready to get the most out of your cooking this fall, visit Knotty Wood BBQ and explore our selection of premium pellets.