New element for ECB

[juicegoose]

So as I type this I've got a pork shoulder in the electric ECB. It's kinda cold down here in Texas 40 degrees this am and my ECB just won't get to temp. I've had it on since about 4 and its 6 now and it's only gotten to 212. The element is glowing red but still not getting hot inside I have water in the pan and its creating smoke( chunks are on a tin pan right above element). Any suggestions?

 

[old sarge]

Assuming that ECB is el cheap brink man, it is not insulated and that can hamper getting to and maintaining temp. You might try using an insulating blanket (fire retardant/fire proof)  such as they make for water heaters and wrap the sides and bonnet the lid.

 

[hambone1950]

What if you took the water out and just went with the empty pan....I know that helps in my weber smoky mountain.

 

[juicegoose]

I've heard of putting sand in the pan

 

[hambone1950]

I've heard of putting sand in the pan

Yeah , water just absorbs too much energy that could go into your meat.....and sometimes , like when it's cold out , the water is just too good of a heat sink and it won't let your smoker get hot enough...I use about a pound of pea stone gravel in my water pan ( all covered with foil) But a clay saucer from a flower pot or even a brick will help keep your temp steady far better than water. FAR better. You will save on charcoal too.....or gas.....or electricity. Try it one time and see how it works.