Specs & Tech: Combustion EngineUpdated 6 days ago

The Combustion Engine is the only wireless, rechargeable draft-control fan on the market. Here's a full look at what's inside and what it can do:

At a glance

Temperature control & airflow

The Combustion Engine maintains your grill temperature within approximately ±9°F (5°C) of your target and can be set as high as 575°F. It uses a variable-speed fan that delivers up to 15 CFM of airflow, pulsing air into the fire based on live temperature feedback instead of running continuously. When you need maximum heat, Max Sear mode runs the fan at full power to bring the grill up to temperature as quickly as possible.

For automatic temperature control, the Engine must be paired with either a Giant Grill Gauge or a Predictive Thermometer to provide the grill temperature. The Giant Grill Gauge offers the most accurate measurement of the grill's internal temperature, making it the preferred control device. Without one of these devices, the Engine operates only in manual mode as a variable-speed fan and cannot maintain a target temperature.

Because the Engine regulates temperature by controlling airflow to the fire, it can raise and maintain your target temperature but cannot actively cool the grill. If the grill gets too hot, the Engine simply reduces or stops airflow and allows the fire to settle naturally.

Battery & charging

The Combustion Engine is powered by a built-in 1,500 mAh, 3-cell rechargeable lithium-ion battery. Because the fan pulses air only when needed instead of running continuously, a full charge typically provides about 24 hours of normal cooking. If the fan runs at full speed continuously, battery life is approximately 2.5 hours. Actual runtime depends on cooking conditions, with colder weather or a struggling fire requiring the fan to work harder.

The Engine charges via USB-C and is compatible with any standard USB-C charger, including 5V chargers and USB Power Delivery up to 15V.

Connectivity

The Combustion Engine communicates over Bluetooth. During setup, you'll use the Combustion app to pair the Engine and choose which device will control it, either a Giant Grill Gauge or a Predictive Thermometer.

For automatic temperature control, the Combustion app acts as the coordinator, relaying temperature data from your Giant Grill Gauge or Predictive Thermometer to the Engine. Because of this, the app needs to remain connected while the Engine is operating in automatic mode.

If you're using the Engine in manual fan mode, the control dial works independently and does not require the app after the initial setup.

Durability

The Combustion Engine is weather-resistant, with built-in drain holes, but it is not fully waterproof. If it gets caught in an unexpected rain shower during a long cook, it should continue operating normally. However, do not hose it down or submerge it in water.

To clean the Engine, simply wipe it with a damp cloth or use a sponge with a small amount of dish soap. After each cook, remove the blower unit from the mount and store it in a dry place until your next use.

Temperature unit options

The Engine comes in a Fahrenheit version and a Celsius version, priced identically. Pick whichever matches how you cook.

FAQ

How long does the battery last?

The Engine typically runs for about 24 hours on a full charge during normal cooking because the fan only runs when needed. If the fan operates continuously at full speed, battery life is approximately 2.5 hours. Runtime will be shorter in cold weather or when the fire requires more airflow to maintain temperature.

Can I use it while it's charging?

Yes. The Engine can operate while connected to a USB-C charger, making it ideal for especially long cooks.

How powerful is the fan?

The Engine's variable-speed fan delivers up to 15 CFM of airflow. It also includes a Max Sear mode that runs the fan at full power for rapid heat-up. During normal cooking, the fan pulses at lower speeds as needed to maintain your target temperature.

Is it waterproof?

No. The Engine is water-resistant, with built-in drain holes, but it is not fully waterproof. It can handle an unexpected rain shower during a cook, but it should not be hosed down or submerged in water. Clean it with a damp cloth or a sponge and mild dish soap.

Can I travel or fly with it?

Yes. The Engine's battery has passed UN38.3 transportation testing, making it safe for air travel. Before packing it, place a piece of tape over the control dial to prevent it from turning on accidentally during transport.

Still have a question?

If there is a specification here you need and cannot find, email [email protected] and ask. We would rather answer than have you guess.

If your Engine is not performing the way these numbers suggest it should, for example, much shorter battery life than expected or trouble holding a target temperature, start with Getting started with your Combustion Engine, which covers the usual causes.

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