Start smaller
A controlled fire is easier to build up than an oversized fire is to cool down. Light fewer points for long, steady cooks.
Kamado control made simple
Master the vents.
Own the fire.
Move the top and bottom vents, change the cooking setup and see how airflow affects the estimated temperature and smoke. A practical way to understand your kamado before the coals are lit.
Interactive guide
Kamado vent simulator
Select the size of the fire and the way the grill is set up, then adjust both vents. The model gives you an estimated temperature together with a quick read on airflow and smoke quality.
Interactive generic kamado diagram showing how top and bottom vents affect temperature, airflow and smoke
Starting fire
A smaller fire is easier to settle at low temperatures. A larger fire heats faster, but gives you less room to bring the temperature back down.
Cooking setup
Keep the vents working as a pair. Let the lower vent feed the fire, then use the top vent to fine-tune the draw.
Temperature
314°C
Airflow
Balanced
Smoke
Clean
This simulator gives an approximate guide rather than a guaranteed temperature. Kamado size, charcoal load, fuel quality, weather, gasket condition and how long the ceramics have been heating will all affect the result.
Move early
Begin closing the vents before the thermometer reaches your target. The ceramic continues absorbing and releasing heat.
Adjust gently
Make small vent changes and give the kamado time to react. Constant large adjustments make the temperature harder to settle.
New to Smokey Rebel
A kamado for every kind of cook
From fast weeknight grilling to an overnight pork shoulder, a ceramic kamado gives you a huge temperature range from one charcoal barbecue. The final product range, pricing and comparison content can be connected here for the next demo.
Test the vents again
