new Smoker

[spyder7447]

Hi Everyone,

Im new to the smoking world but recently purchased a Char-Broil 1000 electric smoker.  i do like it however there seems to be far too many vents on this thing.  one cross wind and you loose all the smoke and heat.  anyways my question is ive considered adding a cold smoke to it for additional smoke.  just doesnt seem to be smoking very well.  could i be over filling my wood box?  what are thoughts on pellets vs wood chips?  also it seems almost impossible to get a good bark on my pork butts.  not sure if im able to get or keep the temp high enough.  any suggestions are greatly appreciated.

Ben

 

[ab canuck]

Hello and welcome to SMF from the Great white North 

. Browse the forums and ask lots of questions, get involved. There is a an amazing amount of info, recipes and knowledge here that are second to none. Enjoy good luck and share your experiences. 

 You are just beginning your newest addiction.....

 If you are thinking of adding a cold smoke unit I would Definitely recommend the Amnps products from A-MAZE-N. They are a sponsor here. Now if you think you have too many vents and the wind is a problem is there any way you could close some of them off or relocate your smoker? You don't want to close them all off, you need airflow for everything to work properly. 

 

[SmokinAl]

Welcome to SMF!

I'm not familiar with your smoker, but as said above.

A lot of the guys with electrics add an AMAZEN tray to give them continuous smoke for hours without having to refill it.

http://www.amazenproducts.com/

Al

 

[bellaru]

Welcome
You'll find tons of good info and plenty of inspiration here.
I have a tube smoker for cold smokes. Vents are usually a good thing and you don't want to close it up too much. Read some of the creosote threads and I'm sure someone has your smoker and can help.
Good luck and enjoy