Any way to protect my new MES?

[torontoguy]

Hey all,

I picked up an MES from Bass Pro Shop last week, it's the "older" 30" model with the control panel on top at the back and no window. It has the access panel at back for element replacement so I know it's one of their 'updated' models. I'm pretty sure I've read every thread and discussion on it so I'm pretty well versed on its pros and cons, but what I have wondered is if there's anything I can do to prolong the element life, or protect the element connections from burning up and falling off? I've read quite a few threads on how their smoker stopped working only to find the connectors on the element burnt up and severed.

Is there any type of insulation or shielding I can put on it to prevent that, or at least slow it down? Or anything else I can do to make sure the element lasts as long as possible? There's the obvious stuff like don't let anything touch it or spill on it, but wondering if there's anything else before I fire it up for the first time.

I think it's too damn cold now to do anything so I've got some time to tinker :D

Thanks guys! Happy smoking.

 

[hoity toit]

don't fix it unless it's broken..   Master Electrician here talkin...I have a 30 and a 40.. no prob here yet.

mine are outside under patio cover and thats it.