Yesterday I tried two different 'tests' with my MES. First, I set the temp to 275 with no water in the pan. in about 45-50 minutes it was at or above 275.
Next, I did the same thing, but filled the water pan at least half full. In about an hour the temp was at or above 275. The damper was open while doing this.
I'm going to try and smoke something today to see how it does. I'll preheat to 275, then add my choice of me (probably a pork butt). I hope to have a better idea of how my MES smoker is working after that. I preheated for my smokes that didn't go well, but maybe not enough.
Judging by my first two 'tests' yesterday, does it seem like it's working right?