I was used to regular kingford charcoal and since using the big block i'm saving money --as it burns slower.  another savings is that once you are finished cooking, turn off all the airb vents the big joe and the big block goes out --  saved for another day. 

I add some coconut charcoal when searing steaks as it gets hotter than anything I have found.    Mix it with the big block and some hickory --and you have a steak.