MES reliability

[mikemmm]

I have a MES G1 smoker that I loved when it worked. But have had reliability issues. After maybe he first 5 uses the digital readout stopped working. It was out of warrantee but Masterbuilt was really nice and replaced it. I literally got one good use out of it before the readout started acting up again and crapped out after the 3rd use. I will now have to pay for the controller or move on. Was looking at maybe the MES 40 BT. But I'll be pissed if I spend $400 and maybe have the same issues. Are the controllers better now? Any thoughts that would help me decide would be appreciated.

 

[browneyesvictim]

Well, It sounds like you already know what you will be getting yourself into. Just curious, how old was the Gen 1, and how much use did you get out of it? Did you store it outdoors in the weather? All these things are relative, I guess. By my observations the newer MES units have more bells and whistles, at the sake of quality/durability. In my opinion, your money is better spent on another Gen1 and buy the separate remote/Bluetooth options if that is important to you. Otherwise, pony-up for a higher end unit such as a smokin-it.

 

[mikemmm]

Thanks for the response. About 5-7 uses with the first controller and 3 uses on the second controller. I stored it outside with an awesome cover that I also bungied around the bottom. I pulled the cover off after a long torrential downpour once to check and it was bone dry. In the winter it was in the garage. We do have some salt in the air as we are close to the Chesapeake bay. I thought for sure the outside storage was my problem but I'm shocked to see that many people store theirs outside without a problem. Maybe mine was just a lemon.

 

[mikemmm]

Sorry, I have had it for two years purchased from Home Depot. Havent used it since it broke the second time last summer.

 

[Bearcarver]

To answer your question:

The Gen #2.5 is a Better Smoker than the Gen #1, however I believe there has actually been less problems with the Gen #1 Controllers than with the Gen #2.5.

And I would avoid the Gen #2 at all cost.

I kept my Gen #1 MES 30, Gen #1 MES 40, and now my Gen #2.5 Gen #40 under my front porch roof with a cheap cover, and never had any troubles.

Hope that helps,

Bear

 

[mikemmm]

Thanks Bear.

 

[tallbm]

I have a MES G1 smoker that I loved when it worked. But have had reliability issues. After maybe he first 5 uses the digital readout stopped working. It was out of warrantee but Masterbuilt was really nice and replaced it. I literally got one good use out of it before the readout started acting up again and crapped out after the 3rd use. I will now have to pay for the controller or move on. Was looking at maybe the MES 40 BT. But I'll be pissed if I spend $400 and maybe have the same issues. Are the controllers better now? Any thoughts that would help me decide would be appreciated.

Hi there and welcome!

That sucks to hear.  PM incoming, I may be able to help you with a controller :)

 

[mikemmm]

Thanks TallBM.

 

[somerset]

I had the MES 30 and hated it so I sold it and got a pitbarrel smoker and love it, me I would never have another smoker but the pitbarrel.