I have not had a problem getting it up to temp, although I do get the typical electric smoker swings of 20* - 30* (more occasionally) as the unit cycles. All electrics will do this, so it's not really a SI problem specifically. I was hoping due to the better insulated box it may be mitigated, but not so. I would not think any weather condition would effect the temps, the thing is so well insulated and you have a big element in that # 3.
I too have not had the best experience with getting replies from Steve, in fact he has never even acknowledged emails I have sent regarding this site and smoker registration emails I sent. He did answer emails during the selection and purchasing process though (average 2 day reply time), and I would assume based on all the activity on SMF lately that he is pretty busy. I know he just recently moved to a new location so maybe it's that. I would buy that as a reason not to reply to my non-essential emails, but to not reply to emails and phone calls about a unit that is not working correctly is a different story and not acceptable IMO.
I will be getting a PID once I have the spare $$, simply so I can control the swings better (not unique to SI, all electrics have them) at lower temps while making sausage.
Please let us know how Steve from Smokin-It Smokers handles your case, it will be important for everyone to see how they handle themselves after the sale when someone has a problem. Good luck!
