I'm Norm, living in Tijuana, Mexico, where we have a childrens home and bible institute. I have been using charcoal for smoking for years, but recently my wife bought me a Cajun Injector electric, and so far have used it once for ribs and a tri-tip, with good results. I have heard a number of complaints about short element life since receiving the smoker, but have also read one review that said his problem wasn't the element, but the connector. Also, most reviews said they could not find the replacement part, but I have found a listing for the element at appliancefactoryparts.com.(same as for Masterbuilt 30"). Hope I don't need them. Am enjoying reading entries on the forum.