I've read through several other threads describing different problems and possible fixes to MES's shutting off periodically, and wanted to get y'all's take on mine. I've had my MES 40 (gen 1 I think) for a little less than a year and smoked somewhere around 6 or 7 briskets, a few racks of ribs, a pork shoulder and some chicken quarters. Everything has worked great up until last week when I went to smoke some chicken quarters. The entire smoker kept shutting off and I realized the power outlet kept tripping off and I had to go into the garage to press the reset button on the GFCI outlet. I had just smoked a brisket over the previous weekend and the smoker worked flawlessly for 19.5+hours! I couldn't figure out what suddenly changed. I talked to Masterbuilt and they said it sounds like the heating element is causing the problem and are sending me a new one. Do y'all think this could be the culprit? I'm just wondering if the short could be in the control panel somewhere as it is suddenly causing a few minor problems too. Half the time I have to turn the smoker on with my remote, as the on/off on the control panel won't work. Once the unit is on, the entire panel works fine, but the initial power on seems to be finicky. Any input would be greatly appreciated!
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