Napoleon NK18 Premium Charcoal Kettle Grill User Manual

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential instructions for the safe assembly, operation, and maintenance of your Napoleon NK18 Premium Charcoal Kettle Grill. Please read this manual thoroughly before first use and retain it for future reference. Proper use and care will ensure optimal performance and longevity of your grill.

Image 1.1: The Napoleon NK18 Premium Charcoal Kettle Grill. This image displays the complete grill with its black porcelain-enameled lid and bowl, chrome-plated cooking grid, and sturdy leg design with wheels.

2. Safety Information

WARNING: Failure to follow these safety instructions could result in fire, explosion, or burn hazard, which could cause property damage, personal injury, or death.

• For outdoor use only. Do not operate this grill indoors or in an enclosed area.
• Keep children and pets away from the grill at all times.
• Never use gasoline, kerosene, or alcohol to light charcoal. Use only charcoal lighter fluid that complies with ASTM E1630.
• Do not move the grill while it is in use or contains hot charcoal.
• Always use heat-resistant gloves when handling hot components.
• Ensure the grill is placed on a stable, non-combustible surface.
• Keep a fire extinguisher readily available.
• Proposition 65 Warning: This product can expose you to chemicals including carbon monoxide, which is known to the State of California to cause birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov.

3. Package Contents

Carefully unpack all components and ensure all parts are present before beginning assembly. If any parts are missing or damaged, do not attempt to assemble or operate the grill. Contact Napoleon customer support.

• Porcelain-Enameled Lid with Accu-Probe Temperature Gauge and Stay Cool Handle
• Porcelain-Enameled Bowl
• Chrome-Plated Hinged Cooking Grid (17.5-inch diameter)
• Charcoal Grate
• Vortex Heat Management System / Ash Bucket Assembly
• Legs (x4)
• Wheels (x2)
• Bottom Storage Rack
• Hardware Pack (screws, nuts, washers)
• User Manual

4. Assembly Instructions

Assembly is required. Please follow these steps carefully. It is recommended to have a second person assist with certain steps.

1. Attach Legs to Bowl: Secure the four legs to the bottom of the grill bowl using the provided hardware. Ensure they are firmly attached for stability.
2. Install Wheels: Attach the two wheels to two of the legs. Ensure the locking casters (if applicable) are facing outwards for easy access.
3. Assemble Bottom Storage Rack: Connect the bottom storage rack to the lower section of the legs. This provides additional stability and storage.


Image 4.1: Illustration of the sturdy four-legged design with wheels and the bottom storage rack. This image shows the assembled lower section of the grill, highlighting the stability provided by the legs and the convenience of the wheels.

4. Install Vortex Heat Management System / Ash Bucket: Attach the Vortex heat management system and ash bucket assembly to the underside of the grill bowl. Ensure the precision controlled air inlets are correctly aligned and the ash bucket is securely in place. The air vent cover with handle and heat plate should be assembled as follows: handle, then heat plate, then the two cylinder cups (often packed with wheels) that screw into the bolts, then insert onto the top and screw down on the bottom with the hanging assembly. Ensure the angle of the handle for the top air vent is upwards.

Image 4.2: Diagram illustrating the Vortex Heat Management System. This image shows the airflow patterns (red for hot, blue for cool) within the grill, demonstrating how the system improves convection for searing and smoking, and directs ash into the ash bucket.
5. Place Charcoal Grate and Cooking Grid: Insert the charcoal grate into the bottom of the bowl, followed by the chrome-plated hinged cooking grid.


Image 4.3: Close-up of the chrome-plated cooking grids. This image highlights the 17.5-inch cooking diameter and the hinged design of the stainless steel grids, which allows for easy addition of charcoal or wood chips.

6. Attach Lid and Handle: Place the lid onto the bowl. The lid features a built-in hanger for convenience.


Image 4.4: View of the grill with the lid open, showcasing the built-in lid hanger. This feature allows the lid to be conveniently hung on the side of the grill, keeping it off the ground and within easy reach.

5. Operating Instructions

5.1. Lighting the Charcoal

1. Open all air vents (top and bottom) to allow maximum airflow.
2. Place charcoal briquettes or lump charcoal on the charcoal grate. Arrange them in a pyramid shape for efficient lighting.
3. Apply charcoal lighter fluid according to its instructions, or use a charcoal chimney starter.
4. Light the charcoal. Allow approximately 15-20 minutes for the charcoal to ash over and glow red before spreading it out.

5.2. Temperature Control

The Napoleon NK18 uses adjustable air vents for precise temperature control. The integrated Accu-Probe Temperature Gauge on the lid helps monitor the internal temperature.

• Increasing Temperature: Open the top and bottom air vents further to increase airflow, which will make the charcoal burn hotter.
• Decreasing Temperature: Close the top and bottom air vents partially to reduce airflow, which will lower the charcoal burning temperature.
• The Vortex Heat Management System improves convection for better searing and smoking. Adjust the bottom vents to direct airflow for desired cooking methods.

Image 5.1: Close-up of the Accu-Probe Temperature Gauge on the grill lid. This image shows the gauge with marked ranges for 'Smoking Range' and 'Searing Range', allowing for precise temperature monitoring during cooking.

5.3. Cooking

• Place food directly on the chrome-plated cooking grid.
• The hinged cooking grid allows for easy addition of extra charcoal or wood chips for smoking without removing all food.
• Close the lid to maintain consistent temperature and infuse smoky flavor.

Image 5.2: Various foods, including meats and vegetables, cooking on the grill's cooking grid. This image demonstrates the grill in use, showcasing its capacity and the direct grilling method.

6. Maintenance and Cleaning

Regular cleaning and maintenance will extend the life of your Napoleon NK18 grill.

• After Each Use:
  • Allow the grill to cool completely.
  • Empty the ash bucket. Dispose of cooled ashes properly.
  • Brush the chrome-plated cooking grid with a grill brush to remove food residue.
• Periodic Cleaning:
  • Wipe down the porcelain-enameled lid and bowl with a damp cloth and mild soap. Rinse thoroughly and dry.
  • Clean the interior of the bowl to remove any grease buildup.
  • Inspect air vents for blockages and clean as necessary.
• Storage: Store the grill in a dry, protected area when not in use, especially during inclement weather. A grill cover is recommended.

7. Troubleshooting

If you encounter issues with your grill, refer to the following common problems and solutions:

8. Specifications

Image 8.1: Technical diagram showing the dimensions of the Napoleon NK18 Kettle Grill. The diagram indicates a height of 38.5 inches, width of 21 inches, and depth of 24.5 inches.

9. Warranty and Support

For warranty information, please refer to the warranty card included with your product or visit the official Napoleon website. If you require technical assistance, replacement parts, or have any questions not covered in this manual, please contact Napoleon customer support.

Napoleon Customer Support: Please visit www.napoleon.com for contact details and further resources.