Mar 6, 2022 · Charcoal Grills Explained. Here are some basic aspects you need to understand. How do Charcoal Grills Work? Charcoal grills operate on a very basic principle. Every charcoal grill has a place which houses the coals. Over the lit coals sits a cooking grate. You light up the charcoal, place the cooking grate on top, and place the food on top of