So this is the latest. Pit Boss wants me to take this thing apart to diagnose what is wrong. I am not a handy person and the chances of a wrong diagnose is very possible. Is there a brand that provides service if needed ?
Makes sense. I am evaluating this option insteadBased on your statements, I really think you would be much happier with a low tech, charcoal smoker. They are very basic in operation, cleaning, maintenance, etc. Also, if you go with a barrel smoker, you can get replacement parts for every component. Many can be gotten at your local hardware store.
You can still get near set and forget control on a charcoal smoker by use of a pit controller.
You don't really need to be handy to hook one up or use a pit controller.
My $0.02
JC