Noob

[dew]

Hi all I'm Dewey and I am new to smoking meat. I just bought a new Smoky Mountain charcoal smoker. When I first seasoned it the temp stayed right at 250 but since then I cant get it over 200. The outside temp was about 85 here yesterday with a slight breeze. I tried to block the wind as much as I could but I still couldn't get it over 200. My ribs turned out great though. Any Ideas?

 

[meowey]

Welcome to SMF! Glad you found us!

Wind can sometimes be an issue. Your attempt to create a wind block is on track. I don't know much about your particular smoker, but someone else will be along soon who may have some insight!

Take care, have fun, and do good!

Regards,

Meowey

 

[catfish]

welcome dewey. You should post in the roll call section to let everyone know you are here. There is a forum for charcol smokers that might have the info you need. I use a GOSM gassr myself. Make sure to check out jeff's free E-course on smoking it is loaded with info. Congrats on the rib smoke. We like to see lots of Q-views. Welcome and look around have fun.

 

[smokin for life]

Dewey welcome to the fourm, sorry I can't help you. I too have a gasser, but I'm sure some will come along soon and help you out.

 

[ron50]

I use a vertical gas smoker so i can't be much help on the charcoal but I'm sure someone will shortly. Grats on the ribs and next time, we love photos.

 

[smokebuzz]

Welvcome Dewey, never used a vert., i'm a hoizontal stick burner. you may try opening it up to get hot at the begining to get a good draw going. when blocking the wind, don't block the air inlet to your smoker, as the wind blows around your wind block you may be makeing somewhat of a vaccuum/low pressure and not letting the fire draw enuff air, justa thot.

 

[big_pete_of_wv]

Do you have your water pan full/empty??

 

[deejaydebi]

Hi Dewey -

Do you have cold water in the water pan? That'll draw the heat down some.
Try using just a few cups of hot water at a time.

Did you check the calibration on ypur thermometers? Or are you isimg the one on the smoker?

 

[dew]

I have been filling the pan all the way full. When I first fired it up I only filled it about half way. Next time I'll try using less water and I'll check the acuracy of the temp gauge on the unit before I use it again.