Hi,
I've been trying to use the Minion Method in the firebox of my offset smoker, in order to do 8 hour plus smokes without having to change the coals frequently. I keep the vents almost completely closed, and the temp has no problem staying in the 220 to 240 degree range. However, the coals don't ignite over a long period of time like the method says. The few lit coals on the top tend to just start all the unlit ones and any wood chunks on fire quickly. I'm eventually forced to open the lid to reduce the heat, and the coals are spent in about 2 to 4 hours. Does this happen to anyone else? Any suggestions?
I've been trying to use the Minion Method in the firebox of my offset smoker, in order to do 8 hour plus smokes without having to change the coals frequently. I keep the vents almost completely closed, and the temp has no problem staying in the 220 to 240 degree range. However, the coals don't ignite over a long period of time like the method says. The few lit coals on the top tend to just start all the unlit ones and any wood chunks on fire quickly. I'm eventually forced to open the lid to reduce the heat, and the coals are spent in about 2 to 4 hours. Does this happen to anyone else? Any suggestions?