I’ve had the XL for 2 yrs. 17 briskets, 4 turkeys and a boatload of ribs. My dome looked like a geology experiment. I had to do 2 clean burns to get it white. I noticed the food wasn’t tasting right. It was because if all the soot like you said. This will be a yearly mandatory exercise for my egg. Thanks a ton Ron! Simple for simple guys like me!
Just did this. Wow, what a difference. My BGE is over 15 years old and I never did this. It was nasty. I did the burn in 2x. The amount of smoke the first time was insane. Second time was not as much. In between burns while the egg was still warm, I lightly scrubbed with a scouring pad. It removed a ton of charred debris. Second burn turned the inside white again. This will be an annual thing for me now. Thanks for sharing this!!
I’d do it every couple years. My suggestion is just do it when you come due for a gasket replacement. Since you risk ruining the gasket and it’s recommended replacing every 2-3 years I believe that to be a perfect time to do a clean burn as well.
Great video. I've had my large BGE since the mid 80's and never done this. I've replaced just about every part, bands, fire bowl, ring, grates, bottom draft door, top vent cap, thermometer, gasket. Everything but the outer ceramic. I have a Weber Performer and a Traeger Lone Star as well. And the BGE consistently puts out better food flavor than the other 2.
Mid 80’s Eggs were made from fire brick/clay. If you tried this on one of them you would likely destroy it. The only ceramic in them was the fire box, fire ring and sometimes the fire grate. Of course the newer ones have the enamel coated ceramic dome and body so no problem with them. The vintage Eggs shouldn’t be heated much over 400 degrees although I accidentally got mine a little over 500 once with no ill effects.😬
Just had a big green egg given to me From a good friend. I don’t think he cleaned it very often. It’s full of grease and creosote. I’ve been looking on line as to how to restore this to its close to original glory. My friend shared plenty of good food from this grill. I was thrilled that he decided to give it to me. I did give him a $100.00 for it. I felt I needed to pay something and he took the money so I feel good about that. Thank you for this video. It was really helpful. Good tip on removing the thermometer.
@@FOGOcharcoal thanks again for the video. I can’t wait to try this and get it cleaned up because I’ve got a pork shoulder in my freezer that is dying to be smoked and turned into pulled pork sandwiches. Grilling is truly an addiction. Can’t wait to see the difference between the egg and my Weber kettle…
Great video! I have a large BGE and love it. Did my first clean burn and temp gauge came past 750 around to 350. I would guess around 1300 degrees. And yes if your going to just have to look,,,you must pay attention and open slow open. The hair on my arm will grow back. It will flash if you jerk lid open. The gasket did melt and had to open with kitchen knife and hammer, and was amassed how clean the inside was. I am now watching the Gasket replacement video.
Ahhh yes Carl, there is nary an Egger anywhere that has not singed the arm hair or even some eyebrow hair. Be careful! I'm glad that you liked the video!
Followed your method, worked great. Appreciated others comments as well. They were helpful. I also replaced the gasket per your other video and it was also great.
In my 90's era egg, I have done this every year or so, though I sorely need to adjust or replace my bands (they twisted a bit when movers dropped it and broke the top about 15 years ago) since the gasket fries every time. Also, if you've left your egg out uncovered in wet weather and the ceramic has absorbed moisture, then start the cooks/cleans low and slow or the water will make millions of hairline cracks on the exterior enamel as it is pushed out. This also happened to mine about 10 years ago. Functions perfectly though I take care to cover it now to protect its metal nest and wood panels better.
I did this with mine last year, left the top off and the bottom wide open. Wife thought i was going to start the deck on fire! Had flames shooting out the top, the heat was shimmering, it was awesome! My gasket was fried and brittle. I left my cast iron grates in and they came out looking new too!
Just watched your video after picking up a curb side, FREE for the taking [GrillMaster] EGG that is blackened, coated in grease, sticky and left out in days and days of heavy rain. The egg seems to be undamaged, though clearly neglected. It was FREE! So, with all your great info, I'm letting it dry out for a few days, then going to run your process. Thank you SOOOO much for the tips! I'll update my post after I've completed the process. Pretty excited and drooooling just thinking of the fun we'll have when it's brought back to life and gaskets are replaced!
Just did this for the first time in 21 years! I couldn't believe that the inside is actually white. Although after getting all the soot and dirt cleaned up my husband thought I had just come out of a coal mine. I have a new gasket to replace but when I went to scrap off the old (never replaced it before) there was literally nothing left of the old one. That should make the job of replacing it a little easier.
I found out (kind of serendipitously) that my main problem is dripped oils going rancid inside because I don't cook frequently. I only cook once every month or two these days. So I find it easiest to cook pizza at 500-600°F every few cooks. That "higher than slow smoking" temperature won't burn off the black layer like a 1000° temp will but it makes the inside like a seasoned cast iron dutch oven (which you do the same way...coat in oil and cook at high temperature). This is a simple strategy to prevent offensive odors or tastes from the rancid drippings...and I always use a drip pan now.
I followed your instructions to clean out my Medium BGE today. I've had it for about three years and have never done it before. Gasket is shot and I can't do low and slow with an Egg Genuis like I used to. Anyway, I knew I needed a new gasket and knew I needed to clean out the Egg so I went for it. Cleaned everything out. Topped off the kickash with lump and lit it. Put the congeggerator in feet down and opened everything up. It got hot (675) but not for very long. All of the grime is still there. Start to finish less than three hours. I'm thinking about loading up my Webber chimney for the next go. Get all that stuff blazing and dump it in the bottom of a clean egg. Then dump a lot of lump on top. The Medium Egg is a bad compromise, but it was a gift meant to turn an egg skeptic into a true believer. They got that done but I sure wish they had sprung for a large :).
HI Frank! I'm glad they got you into the addiction! One reason the grime may still be there is due to the conveggtor being in there. I eliminates some of the heat from getting to the grime as well as we would like. Also, a full charcoal basket is necessary, especially in the smaller eggs like the medium.
@@FOGOcharcoal I went ahead and tried my second idea. Got to 900 this time and it stayed at 800+ for a couple of hours. Top of the egg, conveggtor, fire ring and fire box as white as new. Bottom half of the egg still pretty black. Fire ring now in two pieces. Fire box has major cracks. Gasket pretty much dust but that was expected. The other parts failures were not. I'll use a different cleaning method next time. Also considering chucking this thing instead of spending more money on it and buying a Kamado Joe Classic II and a Fireboard Pro.
Always great information thank you Ron.. Haven't tried the red bag yet but I am definitely going to try those. Need to restock on my fogo eucalyptus lump Charcoal which is my favorite as well. 😊
Cap'n I've been meaning to send a note thanking you for these BGE videos. I have owned a BGE since the 80s and shipped all over the world (US Navy vet 25 years). I wish that I had these reference videos along the way. I stumbled on them via FOGO and now I'm really a happy camper. I've to come your solutions only through trial and error, but now you have provided the reasons for my successes! Now I know the "why". Again, thank you and continue to press on.
Wow, thanks so much, you really just made my day. It is so nice to know that folks are actually getting something out of these videos. Your feedback and comments are truly appreciated!!! 🙏
Received a BGE Medium today from a friend and did a clean burn but now can’t open it. Suspect the gasket (nasty to begin with) melted together. Will see what I can do to pry it open tomorrow. Been watching your videos for a few weeks! Learning a lot! Thanks
Hey Tina, I am so glad that you are enjoying them. Just be very careful when trying to pry it open. You may want to try to put a few pieces of lit charcoal in the very bottom and heat it up a bit, that may help loosen it.
I use a wire brush to clean out the lid a couple of times a year. The lid is tan to black and I don't smell anything bad during high temp coats. Remove all your cooking surfaces before using the brush.
Sorry to hear that. That should never happen, they are fired in kilns much hotter than we can burn it at. Hit your local dealer for warranty replacement.
Great Video. Gave it a try last night. I had the conveggtor in and the dome didn't get as clean as I'd have liked so will try a second without anything inside. Be sure to tell close neighbors what you're doing. Mine thought the house was burning down there was so much nasty smoke. Newish gasket toast.
Love a lot of you Egg vids. I have the Red competitor, but a lot of the concepts are the same. I do the high heat clean 3-4 times a year. Mainly to clean my deflector plates.
Nice job on a very controversial subject! As you mentioned Ron, at the beginning, I also sometimes thrown the plate setter in legs down to clean it too. Thanks!!
My husband is watching your videos since we just got this grill and I was excited to watch you clean out the egg and when you just wiped it once and left the rest dirty I cringed so hard lol. Make a satisfying cleaning egg video please!
First, Thanks for tuning in! Next, it doesn't need to be 100% spic and span clean. There will always be a little bit of ash or discoloration on it. I hope you all enjoy the new grill. Welcome to the addiction.
Thanks Ron i’ve had my big green egg extra-large 12 or 14 years never cleaned it once it was pretty bad did this looks like brand new gasket is toast but I needed a new one anyway thanks.
I just do high heat cooks pretty regularly in my joe, and never had to do a full burn off. original gasket on a classic 1 (felt gasket like the BGE) for 4 years and no leaks. also when I do shorter cooks ill do a "burn off" and open the vents wide open and bring it to a high heat for like fifteen to twenty minutes or so, and then shut her down. yeah theres still black in the dome but its not caked on crap. basically looks like i have only ever used it a few times since it was new. When my gasket does need to be replaced though I will do a full burn off because why not.
I replace my gasket in October every year. After I do a super hot clean, My BGE is 17 this year, and I am here to say it will not crack. You'll need to find a 4-foot section of 4.5-inch stove pipe. Cut the male end and bend in the pipe so it will fit on the flu of the BGE lid. This is to really draw air, chimney effect. I don't use a basket just great in the bottom. Load the lump to the top of the upper ring. Light, close lid, and attach Chimney. This is very important. Please don't leave. Unattended, it has the ability to get very hot. I have an 800-degree thermometer, and it pegged it the first time. Let it reach 700 degrees; remove the chimney over the next 2 hours, and it will slowly go down. Let the egg cool completely. You then have to replace the gasket. You will smell what has been cooked into your food. Not very pleasant.
One thing that will help in preserving the gasket is to ensure the dome and the based are aligned; no overbite/underbite and a good seal around the whole Egg. At the temperature that was used in this video any part of the gasket exposed to the heat and flame will burn; even more so if the gasket is greasy. How clean you want the ceramics is up to the user. The Egg will clean up nicely at 800*. It will be back to black in no-time. I personally do not enjoy replacing the gasket. The biggest pain is cleaning the ceramics to get good adhesion for the gasket.
That's highly recommended! You can buy a new gasket right on our website. www.fogocharcoal.com/collections/grill-accessories/products/replacement-gasket-kit
Hi Ron, thanks for another fun, informative video. I have done clean burns, but the inside has never gone back to white. Maybe, I am not letting it get hot enough. I am due for a gasket replacement and would enjoy watching an expert (you) demo the various options for gaskets. What do you think - wanna do a gasket comparison video? Excellent idea. I knew you could do it. Thanks again. :-)
Great video. I have had my BGE for 13 years and have never done this. I use it 2-3 times a week and the build up is tremendous. I will probably have to do it 2X . I have a new gasket and ring assembly I was going to install this weekend. I guess I have another project first.
After having some really smoky pizza and veggies i decided to give this a try. I have a L BGE. It got to temp, but the temp started coming down after only 45 min. Didn't get clean. How do you keep it that hot for that long?
I did this about a month ago and it definitely damaged the gasket, but she still ain’t leakin’ so I will have to replace it sometime soon. Had I known, I would’ve bought a new gasket lol.
Good video my friend say my dome don't line up with my base very well there is about 3/8 to 1/2 underbite on the front so overbite in the back witch is a sure fire way to fry the gasket is there a way to line the dome and base up perfectly or do are some miss matched from the factory do you know.
Hey Jeremy, that's a pretty common problem. First, make sure your bands are level. There should be about 1/4" space all around between the band and the groove in the ceramics in the egg. The band should be nearly at the lip of the dome and base. I hope I'm explaining that well.
@@FOGOcharcoal I think I'm understanding you are talkng about the space between the base and dome rite? I have had it apart several times to to fix it always using the spacers provided and ican line it up good until everything is tightened up it throwing me for a loop, if its a common problem maybe a video would help a bunch of people.
I'm 8 years into cooking on my BGE and have never done a full nuclear clean burn. I've heard horror stories of cracking bases. My current gasket is well past it's useful stage and I'm installing a Rutland soon. I think I'll do a full clean burn to send my old gasket off in style before I install the Rutland. I do intend to remove my thermometer, though. Ron, what are your opinions on leaving the grate on as well? Mine could use some cleaning under the grate.
I tried this and the bottom came out clean. The Dome is still black. I used a charcoal I will never buy again, B&B Char Logs. Should I do another burn with Fogo? I did the clean burn because my gasket had fused together. I got it to open, but still having trouble getting all of the gasket off.
I am getting a used medium BGE that is in good shape with a cover and a lot of accessories. Hopefully I did good for $250. Anyway, instead of doing a clean burn, could I go ahead and power wash it? Also, what do you recommend for cleaning the outside?
Hey Tbone! 2 great questions my friend. First, yes, you can definitely do this for mold. Second, the basket is made by Big Green Egg and can be purchased on their website. biggreenegg.com/product/stainless-steel-fire-bowls/
@@FOGOcharcoal Does it replace the original cast iron fire grate? Is that the kind you have in your grill, yours doesn't look like the Kick Ash Baskets I've seen online.
@@FOGOcharcoal Thanks. My original fire grate did not survive me trying to clean all the rust off if it and a new one is like $70. I will cut one out of carbon steel myself before I pay $70 for a new one.
Every time I've done this it completely toasts my gasket. I usually wait until the gasket needs to be replaced before I do it. I wish BGE would come out with gaskets like the Joe has.
Interesting, I have never tried this before. So how long do you let it burn for? Seem like you did it for 2 hours and 45 minutes or until the coals/fire was done. Right? Thanks!
Is once a year too often if you aren’t cooking on it all the time? I’m wondering if it’s better to look for certain signs that it’s time to clean things out. 🤔
Hey Adam, great question. You can look for a lot of flaky build up and signs that it needs cleaning. If you're not cooking too much, it may not need it as often. Just be careful of mold.
Just an FYI. DO NOT DO A CLEAN BURN IF YOU HAVE YOUR EGG MOUNTED IN A WOODEN TABLE!! I did it today and my wooden table caught file. By the time I noticed it was too late, and damage had been done. It burned the top of the table and the shelf that the Egg sits on really bad and not salvagable. Luckily my Egg does not sit close to the house as this is a real safety concern. That being said, I've already ordered a new table...a METAL table this time, and I will not be doing anymore clean burns. FM
Wow, sorry that happened! There should always be an air gap in between the egg and any table that it sits on. That can happen just from cooking too. I am glad it was not worse for you!
@@FOGOcharcoal Thanks for your comments. My table was one that I bought from a BGE dealer and it did have an air gap surrounding it. The bottom of the Egg sat on the small ceramic feet the Egg used to come with, but that burned right through the shelf it was sitting on. The only thing I can think of is that my Egg is at least 25 years old, and over time the wood has probably gotten quite dry after many cooks. In any case, I am getting a table nest this time for the new table. Stay safe everyone.
I just did my clean burn on the egg. I reached probably 1100 degrees. But after it was done, I didn't get the clean look you have in the video. My lid and sides kept their dark charred look. But the fat and grease are gone. Any ideas why I didn't get the same outcome?
@@FOGOcharcoal I was at that temp for at least 3 to 4 hours. I let my charcoal burn all the way down. I have a FLIR camera and would check temp periodically from the top. I've smoked at least 3 turkey in it since I've owned my egg and noticed with a drip pan and saturated turkey from brining that moisture builds up and actually seeps from the vent at the bottom. Could the excess moisture from those cooks create that permanent charred look? Also, I smoked a pork butt a few days ago and it turned out good. No off flavors or anything thankfully.
I was thinking about getting a big green egg but it’s just doesn’t evolve like the Kamado Joe every series is evolving now with the Gen 3 it has the slow roller and other stuff to it’s just better in my opinion if the big green egg had similar stuff to the kamado joe I will get it
@@FOGOcharcoal hahaha sorry to late I’ve already started it was VERY NASTY inside anyways. Any tips for a new/old egg owner so I don’t make the same mistakes?
@@FOGOcharcoal if your Egg has soaked up moisture from the air, and you get your Egg hot quickly, the moisture can turn to steam and pop the ceramics. I'm based in the UK and this is an issue. If I were to do a clean burn, I would allow the Egg to sit at 350°F for an hour or two to make sure it has dried out before turning up to 700°+. I have 8 Eggs and have only ever broken any part during a clean burn. I run a BGE cookery school.
I just cracked mine doing this stupid step. I live in middle Georgia and shouldn’t have any problems with cracking because of the temp. It’s a stinkin grill. Kinda sad that you can’t get your grill and as hot as you want, when you want. These eggs are beginning to be an expensive money pit. I have my dad’s old Weber Kettle from the 70s still. Never had to replace anything on it. So far on my egg, I’ve had to replace the bands ($189), the gaskets ($49), and now the stupid fire ring ($134). It’s just like owning a boat. A big, giant, expensive, pain in the butt.
If you are watching and enjoying these videos, please leave us a comment!
I’ve had the XL for 2 yrs. 17 briskets, 4 turkeys and a boatload of ribs. My dome looked like a geology experiment. I had to do 2 clean burns to get it white. I noticed the food wasn’t tasting right. It was because if all the soot like you said. This will be a yearly mandatory exercise for my egg. Thanks a ton Ron! Simple for simple guys like me!
You are very welcome Matt, I am so glad it was able to help you out! Egg on!!!
Just did this. Wow, what a difference. My BGE is over 15 years old and I never did this. It was nasty. I did the burn in 2x. The amount of smoke the first time was insane. Second time was not as much. In between burns while the egg was still warm, I lightly scrubbed with a scouring pad. It removed a ton of charred debris. Second burn turned the inside white again. This will be an annual thing for me now. Thanks for sharing this!!
You are very welcome! I am glad that it helped
I’d do it every couple years. My suggestion is just do it when you come due for a gasket replacement. Since you risk ruining the gasket and it’s recommended replacing every 2-3 years I believe that to be a perfect time to do a clean burn as well.
Great comment thx. Mine is pretty bad started this process but got nervous and shut it down. Will try again with your method.
Great video. I've had my large BGE since the mid 80's and never done this. I've replaced just about every part, bands, fire bowl, ring, grates, bottom draft door, top vent cap, thermometer, gasket. Everything but the outer ceramic.
I have a Weber Performer and a Traeger Lone Star as well. And the BGE consistently puts out better food flavor than the other 2.
Yes sir, while they may put out very good food, I believe that the BGE puts out the best tasting food there is.
Mid 80’s Eggs were made from fire brick/clay. If you tried this on one of them you would likely destroy it. The only ceramic in them was the fire box, fire ring and sometimes the fire grate. Of course the newer ones have the enamel coated ceramic dome and body so no problem with them. The vintage Eggs shouldn’t be heated much over 400 degrees although I accidentally got mine a little over 500 once with no ill effects.😬
Incredible results! I just bought my egg second hand and I couldn’t be happier with how clean the ceramic is now, especially for a 12y/o BGE!
Amazing! Welcome to the addiction
Just had a big green egg given to me
From a good friend. I don’t think he cleaned it very often. It’s full of grease and creosote. I’ve been looking on line as to how to restore this to its close to original
glory. My friend shared plenty of good food from this grill. I was thrilled that he decided to give it to me. I did give him a $100.00 for it. I felt I needed to pay something and he took the money so I feel good about that. Thank you for this video. It was really helpful. Good tip on removing the thermometer.
Welcome to the addiction Jeff. That sia great friend and a great deal. You are off to a great start. I'm glad the video helped!
@@FOGOcharcoal thanks again for the video. I can’t wait to try this and get it cleaned up because I’ve got a pork shoulder in my freezer that is dying to be smoked and turned into pulled pork sandwiches. Grilling is truly an addiction. Can’t wait to see the difference between the egg and my Weber kettle…
Another great video to watch, always the best information. Thank you Ron 😊
Glad you enjoyed it
Great video! I have a large BGE and love it. Did my first clean burn and temp gauge came past
750 around to 350. I would guess around 1300 degrees. And yes if your going to just have
to look,,,you must pay attention and open slow open. The hair on my arm will grow back.
It will flash if you jerk lid open. The gasket did melt and had to open with kitchen knife and hammer, and was amassed how clean the inside was. I am now watching the Gasket replacement video.
Ahhh yes Carl, there is nary an Egger anywhere that has not singed the arm hair or even some eyebrow hair. Be careful! I'm glad that you liked the video!
Thanks again Ron for gasket replacement video. It was easy, just dont get in a hurry!
Good to meet you at Pincrest today. The clean burn got my BGE worked well. Thanks for all the videos.
Great to meet you too! You are very welcome, thanks for watching!
Followed your method, worked great. Appreciated others comments as well. They were helpful. I also replaced the gasket per your other video and it was also great.
Glad it helped
In my 90's era egg, I have done this every year or so, though I sorely need to adjust or replace my bands (they twisted a bit when movers dropped it and broke the top about 15 years ago) since the gasket fries every time. Also, if you've left your egg out uncovered in wet weather and the ceramic has absorbed moisture, then start the cooks/cleans low and slow or the water will make millions of hairline cracks on the exterior enamel as it is pushed out. This also happened to mine about 10 years ago. Functions perfectly though I take care to cover it now to protect its metal nest and wood panels better.
That's all great stuff and sound advice Matt. Ouch, those movers would have gotten a serious piece of my mind!
I did this with mine last year, left the top off and the bottom wide open.
Wife thought i was going to start the deck on fire! Had flames shooting out the top, the heat was shimmering, it was awesome! My gasket was fried and brittle. I left my cast iron grates in and they came out looking new too!
I love it when a plan comes together....
Just watched your video after picking up a curb side, FREE for the taking [GrillMaster] EGG that is blackened, coated in grease, sticky and left out in days and days of heavy rain. The egg seems to be undamaged, though clearly neglected.
It was FREE! So, with all your great info, I'm letting it dry out for a few days, then going to run your process.
Thank you SOOOO much for the tips! I'll update my post after I've completed the process. Pretty excited and drooooling just thinking of the fun we'll have when it's brought back to life and gaskets are replaced!
That is too cool, congrats! Feel free to reach out anytime with any questions. Insta & FB- @cptnron302
@@FOGOcharcoal Thank YOU 👍😁
Thank you for this video! Once a year….just 11 months to go.
I got my first BGE last month 😉👍🏻
Hey, congrats Thomas. Welcome to the addiction.
Just did this for the first time in 21 years! I couldn't believe that the inside is actually white. Although after getting all the soot and dirt cleaned up my husband thought I had just come out of a coal mine. I have a new gasket to replace but when I went to scrap off the old (never replaced it before) there was literally nothing left of the old one. That should make the job of replacing it a little easier.
Fantastic! Nice that the gasket cooperated and sacrificed itself and just disappeared for you!
I found out (kind of serendipitously) that my main problem is dripped oils going rancid inside because I don't cook frequently. I only cook once every month or two these days. So I find it easiest to cook pizza at 500-600°F every few cooks. That "higher than slow smoking" temperature won't burn off the black layer like a 1000° temp will but it makes the inside like a seasoned cast iron dutch oven (which you do the same way...coat in oil and cook at high temperature). This is a simple strategy to prevent offensive odors or tastes from the rancid drippings...and I always use a drip pan now.
Those are some great points that you bring up, thank you!
You guys have the best egg channel out there! Ive ordered from you and plan to order some more special charcoal soon!! Along with some swag . Thanks
That is fantastic Jerome, thanks so much!
I followed your instructions to clean out my Medium BGE today. I've had it for about three years and have never done it before. Gasket is shot and I can't do low and slow with an Egg Genuis like I used to. Anyway, I knew I needed a new gasket and knew I needed to clean out the Egg so I went for it. Cleaned everything out. Topped off the kickash with lump and lit it. Put the congeggerator in feet down and opened everything up. It got hot (675) but not for very long. All of the grime is still there. Start to finish less than three hours. I'm thinking about loading up my Webber chimney for the next go. Get all that stuff blazing and dump it in the bottom of a clean egg. Then dump a lot of lump on top.
The Medium Egg is a bad compromise, but it was a gift meant to turn an egg skeptic into a true believer. They got that done but I sure wish they had sprung for a large :).
HI Frank! I'm glad they got you into the addiction! One reason the grime may still be there is due to the conveggtor being in there. I eliminates some of the heat from getting to the grime as well as we would like. Also, a full charcoal basket is necessary, especially in the smaller eggs like the medium.
@@FOGOcharcoal I went ahead and tried my second idea. Got to 900 this time and it stayed at 800+ for a couple of hours. Top of the egg, conveggtor, fire ring and fire box as white as new. Bottom half of the egg still pretty black. Fire ring now in two pieces. Fire box has major cracks. Gasket pretty much dust but that was expected. The other parts failures were not. I'll use a different cleaning method next time. Also considering chucking this thing instead of spending more money on it and buying a Kamado Joe Classic II and a Fireboard Pro.
Always great information thank you Ron.. Haven't tried the red bag yet but I am definitely going to try those. Need to restock on my fogo eucalyptus lump Charcoal which is my favorite as well. 😊
Please do! I love it as well
@@FOGOcharcoal Most definitely, I need my favorite lump Charcoal stocked lol 😂
Cap'n I've been meaning to send a note thanking you for these BGE videos. I have owned a BGE since the 80s and shipped all over the world (US Navy vet 25 years). I wish that I had these reference videos along the way. I stumbled on them via FOGO and now I'm really a happy camper. I've to come your solutions only through trial and error, but now you have provided the reasons for my successes! Now I know the "why". Again, thank you and continue to press on.
Wow, thanks so much, you really just made my day. It is so nice to know that folks are actually getting something out of these videos. Your feedback and comments are truly appreciated!!! 🙏
Received a BGE Medium today from a friend and did a clean burn but now can’t open it. Suspect the gasket (nasty to begin with) melted together. Will see what I can do to pry it open tomorrow. Been watching your videos for a few weeks! Learning a lot! Thanks
Hey Tina, I am so glad that you are enjoying them. Just be very careful when trying to pry it open. You may want to try to put a few pieces of lit charcoal in the very bottom and heat it up a bit, that may help loosen it.
I agree Gasket replacement would be something I would want to know before starting this process
Yes sir, no doubt about it
I love using a shop vac to get rid of all the extra charcoal gunk after each cook. I normally do it the next day or when the egg is cool.
Great tip!
Thanks for sharing - Did the clean burn, and replaced the gaskets.
Thanks again for the info. Cheers.
You are very welcome Mike!
Wow, amazing it turns white again! Thanks for great info again
We are so glad that you are finding these vids useful! I was pretty blown away the first time I saw it happen!
I use a wire brush to clean out the lid a couple of times a year. The lid is tan to black and I don't smell anything bad during high temp coats. Remove all your cooking surfaces before using the brush.
Hey, that works too. There are different ways to do things and they are all correct!
Did this following this video last fall and all was good. Did it again just now and the base of my XL Egg just cracked. Awesome.
Sorry to hear that. That should never happen, they are fired in kilns much hotter than we can burn it at. Hit your local dealer for warranty replacement.
Will do! No idea why it split, but it split from the bottom of the front vent all the way to about half way up the back side
Thank you very much sir for taking time and teaching all that stuff. I have a BGE for two years now have to take more care of it as from now on.
That’s great, I’m glad you’re finding them helpful!
Great Video. Gave it a try last night. I had the conveggtor in and the dome didn't get as clean as I'd have liked so will try a second without anything inside. Be sure to tell close neighbors what you're doing. Mine thought the house was burning down there was so much nasty smoke. Newish gasket toast.
Hah, yes, the neighbors definitely may get concerned. I'll bet that conveggtor looks as good as new!
Thank you. You made it so easy for me to follow with the directions. You also had a lot of good things you pointed out throughout the install.
You are so welcome!
Love a lot of you Egg vids. I have the Red competitor, but a lot of the concepts are the same. I do the high heat clean 3-4 times a year. Mainly to clean my deflector plates.
Very cool! I'm color blind when it comes to grills. As long as you're out there whipping up some tasty treats, its all good!
@@FOGOcharcoal 100% agree
Thanks for the tips. I have a VISION GRILL!
Glad I could help!
Nice job on a very controversial subject! As you mentioned Ron, at the beginning, I also sometimes thrown the plate setter in legs down to clean it too. Thanks!!
Hey Craig, thanks so much my bud. Controversial is definitely the right word!
Well done. Love the enthusiasm.
Thanks Christopher, Glad you enjoyed it!
Videos are great dude I’ve got a medium I love it
Glad you like them! That is one size that I need to add to my collection
@@FOGOcharcoal I really like it man done a Boston butt yesterday brother it was great again love your videos
My husband is watching your videos since we just got this grill and I was excited to watch you clean out the egg and when you just wiped it once and left the rest dirty I cringed so hard lol. Make a satisfying cleaning egg video please!
First, Thanks for tuning in! Next, it doesn't need to be 100% spic and span clean. There will always be a little bit of ash or discoloration on it. I hope you all enjoy the new grill. Welcome to the addiction.
Thanks Ron i’ve had my big green egg extra-large 12 or 14 years never cleaned it once it was pretty bad did this looks like brand new gasket is toast but I needed a new one anyway thanks.
Hey, that's great Joe! I'm so glad that it helped.
Great Videos! Can you show ist a simple was to change the gasket?
Glad that you like it! Here is the link to the video for changing a gasket. ua-cam.com/video/0L3T-SUW5Jc/v-deo.html
I just do high heat cooks pretty regularly in my joe, and never had to do a full burn off. original gasket on a classic 1 (felt gasket like the BGE) for 4 years and no leaks. also when I do shorter cooks ill do a "burn off" and open the vents wide open and bring it to a high heat for like fifteen to twenty minutes or so, and then shut her down. yeah theres still black in the dome but its not caked on crap. basically looks like i have only ever used it a few times since it was new. When my gasket does need to be replaced though I will do a full burn off because why not.
Sounds like you've got it down pat
Great video Ron! How about a video on seasoning the BGE cast iron grate, if it even needs to be seasoned? Thanks!
Oh, they require seasoning alright, again and again and again and again and..........
I did it! First time ever and it worked like a charm! Thanks for all the tips!
With reverence (😉)
Jim
Hey Jim, that's great, I'm glad that it helped!
I definitely do this after cooking fish. The “egg flavor” with fish cooks is very noticeable in the follow up cooks.
Yes sir, that taste can certainly stick around when it wants to!
That's awesome !wow!
Thank you! Cheers!
I replace my gasket in October every year. After I do a super hot clean, My BGE is 17 this year, and I am here to say it will not crack. You'll need to find a 4-foot section of 4.5-inch stove pipe. Cut the male end and bend in the pipe so it will fit on the flu of the BGE lid. This is to really draw air, chimney effect.
I don't use a basket just great in the bottom. Load the lump to the top of the upper ring. Light, close lid, and attach Chimney.
This is very important. Please don't leave. Unattended, it has the ability to get very hot. I have an 800-degree thermometer, and it pegged it the first time. Let it reach 700 degrees; remove the chimney over the next 2 hours, and it will slowly go down. Let the egg cool completely. You then have to replace the gasket. You will smell what has been cooked into your food. Not very pleasant.
Excellent stuff for sure
This works so well. It is recommended to do once a year or so.
Yes sir, it really does make a difference!
One thing that will help in preserving the gasket is to ensure the dome and the based are aligned; no overbite/underbite and a good seal around the whole Egg. At the temperature that was used in this video any part of the gasket exposed to the heat and flame will burn; even more so if the gasket is greasy. How clean you want the ceramics is up to the user. The Egg will clean up nicely at 800*. It will be back to black in no-time. I personally do not enjoy replacing the gasket. The biggest pain is cleaning the ceramics to get good adhesion for the gasket.
That is a lot of great information Mike, thanks for sharing it. Oh, I just replaced the gasket and I agree, it was the hardest part of the project!
thanks! great tip, I'll try it but get my gasket before! 🙂
That's highly recommended! You can buy a new gasket right on our website. www.fogocharcoal.com/collections/grill-accessories/products/replacement-gasket-kit
Great video! This worked really well for me so thank you for the advice! New subscriber!!
Hey John, welcome aboard!
about to say. maybe tell is 1st of where to get a new felt replacement
Ahhh, stay tuned...... LOL, any BGE dealer should have some in stock.
Hi Ron, thanks for another fun, informative video. I have done clean burns, but the inside has never gone back to white. Maybe, I am not letting it get hot enough. I am due for a gasket replacement and would enjoy watching an expert (you) demo the various options for gaskets. What do you think - wanna do a gasket comparison video? Excellent idea. I knew you could do it. Thanks again. :-)
LMAO David. All I can say is that you may very well enjoy the video that will be coming out on Sunday...........
I agree Gasket replacement would be something I would want to know before starting this process
Appreciate the tips you share!
Fantastic, I’m glad you’re enjoying them.
Last time I used my BGE, the insert burned VERY dirty for 45 minutes due to a previous spill. Guess it's time to clean it.
It certainly does sound that way!
Gasket replacement video would be nice to see Ron.
Yes sir, I definitely like that idea!
It’s easy dummy
@@FOGOcharcoaldid you make one?!
@@flashtastic4180 ua-cam.com/video/0L3T-SUW5Jc/v-deo.html
@@flashtastic4180 ua-cam.com/video/fN7uFolFxuM/v-deo.html
Love your videos... very useful. love you wearing a Rolex while cleaning
LOL! Good eye Ken, good eye. It never comes off of my wrist
Where did you get your charcoal basket? Thanks
Kick Ash Basket is available on our website. shop.kookio.com/kickash-basket
Great video. I have had my BGE for 13 years and have never done this. I use it 2-3 times a week and the build up is tremendous. I will probably have to do it 2X . I have a new gasket and ring assembly I was going to install this weekend. I guess I have another project first.
Ahhh yes, definitely do it before you change the gasket etc
What charcoal basket is that?
That is the basket made by Big Green Egg. We actually sell the kick ash basket on fogocharcoal.com
My large egg is 15 years old, and I've never done a clean burn. I need to do this
Sounds like it may be time
Great video!
Hey Steve, so glad you liked it!
Can i toss in my cast iron griddle?
Sure you can, just make sure to season it right away
So I did this clean burn. It melted my gasket and now the lid is sealed shut. Any advise on getting it open??
Yes! Use a butter knife or paint scraper to get in between them. Like we say in the video, it will probably destroy your gasket.
Great video! What gloves are you using?
Thanks Michael, those are charcoal gloves from @kickashbasket
I'm going to try this for the first time soon. Is it okay to leave the grill grate in place in order to burn off that gunk, too?
Absolutely. It'll be sparkling!
Thank you👍
No problem 👍
Can I leave my conveggtor inside during the burn to clean it as well?
Absolutely, it will clean it up like new. The dome may not get quite as clean if you don't let it burn for a bit longer than normal though.
@@FOGOcharcoal You nailed it. The lower surfaces and the conveggtor came out nice and clean but the dome is still discolored.
Great video! Thanks
You bet! Thanks for the feedback!
After having some really smoky pizza and veggies i decided to give this a try. I have a L BGE. It got to temp, but the temp started coming down after only 45 min. Didn't get clean. How do you keep it that hot for that long?
YOu have to make sure that you have enough charcoal in it. That's usually the culprit.
I just received my new large egg. It has a grate at the bottom for the coals but no basket for the coals. Is that ok?
Yes, absolutely. You can purchase a basket for it on our website. I'd highly recommend it!
Big clean egg 🥚
and the comment of the day goes to....... 🏆
@@FOGOcharcoal its an honor sir 🫡
@@MikeHart84 if you have instagram or FB, hit me up at cptnron302 and I will mail you some stickers.
@@FOGOcharcoal cool 😎
Where did you get the stand your bge is sitting in?
It is a modular nest and it is made by Big Green Egg. It should be available at your local BGE dealer
I did this about a month ago and it definitely damaged the gasket, but she still ain’t leakin’ so I will have to replace it sometime soon. Had I known, I would’ve bought a new gasket lol.
Well, I definitely think that the video coming out on Sunday will be a good one for you then.
@@FOGOcharcoal Lookin’ forward to it.
Good video my friend say my dome don't line up with my base very well there is about 3/8 to 1/2 underbite on the front so overbite in the back witch is a sure fire way to fry the gasket is there a way to line the dome and base up perfectly or do are some miss matched from the factory do you know.
Hey Jeremy, that's a pretty common problem. First, make sure your bands are level. There should be about 1/4" space all around between the band and the groove in the ceramics in the egg. The band should be nearly at the lip of the dome and base. I hope I'm explaining that well.
@@FOGOcharcoal I think I'm understanding you are talkng about the space between the base and dome rite? I have had it apart several times to to fix it always using the spacers provided and ican line it up good until everything is tightened up it throwing me for a loop, if its a common problem maybe a video would help a bunch of people.
I'm 8 years into cooking on my BGE and have never done a full nuclear clean burn. I've heard horror stories of cracking bases. My current gasket is well past it's useful stage and I'm installing a Rutland soon. I think I'll do a full clean burn to send my old gasket off in style before I install the Rutland. I do intend to remove my thermometer, though. Ron, what are your opinions on leaving the grate on as well? Mine could use some cleaning under the grate.
Leaving the grate in is a great idea. It will really clean up nicely. I definitely like the Rutland that I installed on mine.
I tried this and the bottom came out clean. The Dome is still black. I used a charcoal I will never buy again, B&B Char Logs. Should I do another burn with Fogo? I did the clean burn because my gasket had fused together. I got it to open, but still having trouble getting all of the gasket off.
Did you have the conveggtor in?
No @@FOGOcharcoal
I am getting a used medium BGE that is in good shape with a cover and a lot of accessories. Hopefully I did good for $250. Anyway, instead of doing a clean burn, could I go ahead and power wash it? Also, what do you recommend for cleaning the outside?
Hey Rich, sounds like a heck of a deal. I don't think I'd powerwash it, the ceramic inside may be porious and take in too much water.
Great video. 🔥🔥🔥
Thanks for watching! Great job on your BGE takeover yesterday bud!
@@FOGOcharcoal thank you!
2 questions: can i do this to rid of mold? where can i get a charcoal basket like that? thanks for the video!!
Hey Tbone! 2 great questions my friend. First, yes, you can definitely do this for mold. Second, the basket is made by Big Green Egg and can be purchased on their website. biggreenegg.com/product/stainless-steel-fire-bowls/
@@FOGOcharcoal thanks!!
I have to replace the fire grate in my XL BGE with something and want to know what kind of charcoal basket that is and where do I get one?
We recommend the Kick Ash Basket. Here is a link for you to check it out.
@@FOGOcharcoal Does it replace the original cast iron fire grate? Is that the kind you have in your grill, yours doesn't look like the Kick Ash Baskets I've seen online.
Yes, it can replace the original charcoal plate.
@@FOGOcharcoal Thanks. My original fire grate did not survive me trying to clean all the rust off if it and a new one is like $70. I will cut one out of carbon steel myself before I pay $70 for a new one.
my gasket melted and I cannot get the lid open after a clean burn. any suggestions
Hmmmm, maybe try putting some charcoal in through the vent door and heating it up a bit? I have never heard of that happening.
Every time I've done this it completely toasts my gasket. I usually wait until the gasket needs to be replaced before I do it. I wish BGE would come out with gaskets like the Joe has.
Yes sir, the clean burn is definitely not a friend of the gasket!
The Joe gaskets fail too.
Interesting, I have never tried this before. So how long do you let it burn for? Seem like you did it for 2 hours and 45 minutes or until the coals/fire was done. Right? Thanks!
I do believe that it was about 2 hours. You'll get the same effect if you just make some pizzas at a higher temp.
Nice
Thanks so much!!
Is once a year too often if you aren’t cooking on it all the time? I’m wondering if it’s better to look for certain signs that it’s time to clean things out. 🤔
Hey Adam, great question. You can look for a lot of flaky build up and signs that it needs cleaning. If you're not cooking too much, it may not need it as often. Just be careful of mold.
Where can i buy the charcoal basket you had in your egg? I have a large green egg and would like the coal basket?
Hi, we sell them on our new website, here you go: kookio.com/collections/grill-accessories/products/kick-ash-basket
@@FOGOcharcoal That's not a BGE fire bowl, as shown in the video?
Hi,
Does this work for all BGEs? I want to clean my mini max
Hi! Yes, it sure does.
So Cool👍
Glad you enjoyed it!
Will any lump charcoal work well with the BGE? Are they basically the same, or continue to use BGE lump?
We highly recommend our Premium Charcoal for grilling and shorter smokes and Super Premium for longer smoking sessions
@@FOGOcharcoal thx sir!
Just an FYI. DO NOT DO A CLEAN BURN IF YOU HAVE YOUR EGG MOUNTED IN A WOODEN TABLE!! I did it today and my wooden table caught file. By the time I noticed it was too late, and damage had been done. It burned the top of the table and the shelf that the Egg sits on really bad and not salvagable. Luckily my Egg does not sit close to the house as this is a real safety concern. That being said, I've already ordered a new table...a METAL table this time, and I will not be doing anymore clean burns.
FM
Wow, sorry that happened! There should always be an air gap in between the egg and any table that it sits on. That can happen just from cooking too. I am glad it was not worse for you!
@@FOGOcharcoal Thanks for your comments. My table was one that I bought from a BGE dealer and it did have an air gap surrounding it. The bottom of the Egg sat on the small ceramic feet the Egg used to come with, but that burned right through the shelf it was sitting on. The only thing I can think of is that my Egg is at least 25 years old, and over time the wood has probably gotten quite dry after many cooks. In any case, I am getting a table nest this time for the new table. Stay safe everyone.
I’m doing this right now and I’m getting a ton of brownish sweat coming off the dome of this thing. Is this normal?
Absolutely. That is years worth of oils sweating out of the pores.
@@FOGOcharcoal sort of what I figured but I didn’t think the coating they use is porous. Thanks for the reply! It came out so nice!
thank you. I have a Kamado Joe, but your video was helpful and.......................enjoyable.
We are glad you enjoyed it, plus, you have an AWESOME first name!
I just did my clean burn on the egg. I reached probably 1100 degrees. But after it was done, I didn't get the clean look you have in the video. My lid and sides kept their dark charred look. But the fat and grease are gone. Any ideas why I didn't get the same outcome?
Hmmm, that is odd. Maybe not at temp for long enough?
@@FOGOcharcoal I was at that temp for at least 3 to 4 hours. I let my charcoal burn all the way down. I have a FLIR camera and would check temp periodically from the top.
I've smoked at least 3 turkey in it since I've owned my egg and noticed with a drip pan and saturated turkey from brining that moisture builds up and actually seeps from the vent at the bottom. Could the excess moisture from those cooks create that permanent charred look?
Also, I smoked a pork butt a few days ago and it turned out good. No off flavors or anything thankfully.
@@JasonW5700 Hmmm, that is a good question. I don't think so though.
Just did this to my egg and now....the lid is dome is sealed to the egg; unable to open it. I know it is because the gasket fused together. Now what?
have you been able to open it? try a paint scraper, I have heard of many people doing that.
@@FOGOcharcoal yes thanks for the reply. used a paint scraper and a rubber mallet to free it up.
I was thinking about getting a big green egg but it’s just doesn’t evolve like the Kamado Joe every series is evolving now with the Gen 3 it has the slow roller and other stuff to it’s just better in my opinion if the big green egg had similar stuff to the kamado joe I will get it
Hey, that's cool, everybody has the right to go with whatever they like best. KJ is a good grill too!
@@FOGOcharcoal but I do like watching the videos because the guy in the video always has good vibes
Pls make a video of the mini max
Sounds good, what would you like to see us cover on the MiniMax?
@@FOGOcharcoal eveything🏋♂️
Will this eliminate the lighter fluid taste? I was gifted a used egg and they used lighter fluid. NASTY TASTE! Serious answers please
Oh no!!! Just keep burning it. I’ve heard that the fluid taste & smell will go away.
@@FOGOcharcoal hahaha sorry to late I’ve already started it was VERY NASTY inside anyways. Any tips for a new/old egg owner so I don’t make the same mistakes?
BTW I’m a soldier, I have problems with waiting for the replies..haha my bad and thanks
BTW I’m a soldier, I have problems with waiting for the replies..haha my bad and thanks
BTW I’m a soldier, I have problems with waiting for the replies..haha my bad and thanks
My friend cracked the base of his egg doing this ……… so, YES, you can crack your egg (no pun intended)
That should not happen. They are fired in kilns much hotter than that when they are made.
@@FOGOcharcoal Well, maybe it should not have happened, but it did. It was replaced under warranty, however.
@@FOGOcharcoal if your Egg has soaked up moisture from the air, and you get your Egg hot quickly, the moisture can turn to steam and pop the ceramics. I'm based in the UK and this is an issue. If I were to do a clean burn, I would allow the Egg to sit at 350°F for an hour or two to make sure it has dried out before turning up to 700°+.
I have 8 Eggs and have only ever broken any part during a clean burn. I run a BGE cookery school.
@@MeatSmokeFire that actually makes a lot of sense. Let me know if you’d ever like to Collab on some projects together! @cptnron302@gmail
I just cracked mine doing this stupid step. I live in middle Georgia and shouldn’t have any problems with cracking because of the temp. It’s a stinkin grill. Kinda sad that you can’t get your grill and as hot as you want, when you want. These eggs are beginning to be an expensive money pit. I have my dad’s old Weber Kettle from the 70s still. Never had to replace anything on it. So far on my egg, I’ve had to replace the bands ($189), the gaskets ($49), and now the stupid fire ring ($134). It’s just like owning a boat. A big, giant, expensive, pain in the butt.
Make pizza and after that clean it. Because temp is already hot after pizza
Hi Manfred. I actually only cook my pizza at 475-500°. That's really not hot enough to fully clean it.
WOW. I have seen the raging debates about this but had never actually SEEN what it does
It is definitely a debatable topic for sure. I hope you enjoyed it!
But... why??
To burn out all of the impurities etc that build up over time. Much the same way you'd clean a pan or clean the oven when it is dirty.
Why not
I got mine up to 600 + to sear steaks and it cracked my top ring in two places.
Oh no, talk to your local dealer and they should be able to warranty it.
I did and they did. But i would be hesitant to do it again
@@howarddenney5331 I can definitely understand that. It is a very controversial topic for sure!