Cold weather hints?

[smokingwxman]

Must be a passion right?  I'm planning on waking up Saturday morning with temps in the single digits just so I can smoke a brisket.  I've got a pork butt that's been sitting in my freezer so I'm gonna throw that on as well, figure if I got it going the more food the better.  

There is a very real chance that when I step outside to begin the process the temp will be sitting around 2° ( at least that is what my forecast says).  Anyone have any tips on smoking food when it's this cold?  Besides layering the clothing lol.  I smoked a pork butt one weekend when temps were down in the 20's and of course it took a bit longer.  Just curious if anyone has any good tips.

 

[crankybuzzard]

My first question would be what type of smoker?  Some electrics won't start up if the temp is too cold.  Also, cold is one thing, wind could be your enemy.

Dress warm, plan on extra time, and try to have fun!

 

[SmokinAl]

I can't believe you guys are even going outside, much less outside to tend to a smoker in weather like that!

Kudo's to you!

Al

 

[dirtsailor2003]

We're sitting at 3°f right now. Its supposed to warm up a few degrees before getting really cold tonight.

If you are using charcoal, wood, or propane to fuel your smoker plan on using more so make sure you have enough on hand. This is the only time that I would recommend over shooting your pit temp by 20°-30° before putting the meat on. Having a good wind break will save you a ton. Also insulating the smoker is a good idea. Not knowing what type of smoker you have can't really recommend how to insulate it.

 

[cal1956]

having done a lot of single digit smoking , i can tell you there is not a lot of difference except the need to wear long johns  ( no pun intended }

 

[smokingwxman]

It is a custom built wood smoker my late brother in law made.  I hate the cold, and I mean despise it but I have been only smoking for a little over a year and half now and I can't get enough of it.  After the busy weekends of the holiday, I don't want to waste a weekend at home.  I picked up some more wood today so should have enough.  Winds don't look to be too much of a problem, just gonna be damn cold lol.

 

[smokingwxman]

Forecast getting worse.  Now probably going to be below zero as I trudge out to fire up the smoker.  Doesn't matter!  My mind is made up!  Tomorrow night I will dine on brisket!!!!

 

[stolps]

One thing I do to help retain heat inside my smoker, and to reduce the use of extra fuel (no getting around this 100% in cold weather smoking, you are going to burn more fuel regardless) I wrap my smoker in a water heater blanket.  It really helps against the wind and the cold weather.  This picture is one that is similar to what i use.  If you are going to be smoking in those temperatures, i highly reccomend something like this.

 

[Bearcarver]

Depends on your Smoker:

With an MES Unit, they are insulated real good, so the only problem I ever have is wind---I have to keep it away from my Top Vent, or it will suck the heat right out of that Vent.

A lot of guys cover what they can with a " Welder's Blanket".

Bear