pellets and smoke quality

[SmokinVOLfan]

Might be late to the party but I’ve experienced the same problem to an extent.

I only use the amazen brand pellets. Had trouble keeping them lit then started microwaving for 2 minutes stirring in between. Haven’t had any problems since especially with cold smoking.

Problem I think was my MES40 is so well insulated that if you don’t have enough airflow or use water in the water pan then they tend to go out fairly easily.

I keep mine inside now in a closet and microwave before I use.

Good luck and try the amazen brand I don’t think you will be disappointed.

 

[bill ace 350]

Might be late to the party but I’ve experienced the same problem to an extent.

I only use the amazen brand pellets. Had trouble keeping them lit then started microwaving for 2 minutes stirring in between. Haven’t had any problems since especially with cold smoking.

Problem I think was my MES40 is so well insulated that if you don’t have enough airflow or use water in the water pan then they tend to go out fairly easily.

I keep mine inside now in a closet and microwave before I use.

Good luck and try the amazen brand I don’t think you will be disappointed.

I microwave also. I use whatever pellets are on sale. Never had an issue with smoke, flavor etc, with the exception of on time. The pellets returned to full flame during the smoke.

 

[saltysandman]

***UPDATE***

So after all this testing, it really was the moisture in the pellets. My new pellets came in and now staying lit and producing TBS. Using my 6x6 pellet tray which works fine. The dried pellets, especially the ones that i dried for 2 hours seemed to be okay as well but they burned quickly. I think there needs to be a balance. Lesson learned is to keep my pellets in sealed or airtight containers until ready for use. I'm going to melt my old pellets and dry them to use as dust.

Thank you for all your suggestions.

Ribs in the smoker now and i know they will be amaZn.