How do I tell if the rocks in the bottom of my grill are lava rocks or charcoal briquettes?

Answer by  lgk (2426)

Lava rocks are almost coral looking and usually red or black. They do not tend to burn to ash after use. Charcoal, on the other hand, if you had used it before, would turn into a big pile of gray ashes all over the inside of your grill. Both can be found in most department stores.

Answer by  mcymom (67)

If they were charcoal briquettes they would not have lasted a few years. Lava rocks are longer-lasting and are generally used with a gas/propane grill. Charcoal burns up rather quickly in comparison.

Answer by  malone (4817)

They are lava rocks. Charcoal briquettes would have disintegrated a long time ago.

Answer by  moonman12 (119)

You could try lighting them. The purpose of lava rocks it to absorb and trap heat in the grill, resulting in better cooking. If they light easily, then you have charcoal. If not, you have lava rocks. You can replace them easily, just scoop and toss in a bag/box for the trash.