Sand Question

[curious dave]

I've read that putting sand in the WSM's water pan helps stabilize cooking temperatures. Is that correct? And if so, how much sand should the user put in the pan of the 22.5-inch version? I assume that playground sand is okay. Also, would unscented cat litter work just as well?

 

[flash]

I use playbox sand, especially during the colder months in Florida. I prefer Playbox sand due to its moisture content. You can use it several times, but must remoisten it some, when needed.  I fell the pan up atleast 3/4 or a little more for each use. It does allow for higher and more constant temps when using charcoal, but I even use it in my propane smoker also. Remember you will want to spritz or mop you meat when using sand.

 Not sure I like the cat litter idea.

 

[meateater]

Is it USDA approved? Remember it's dirt.

 

[SmokinAl]

I guess I'm behind the times.

I still use water in the water pan in the WSM & the Smoke Vault.

 

[squirrel]

I wouldn't use the cat litter. Don't they have some sort of chemical clumping agent? Might put off some toxic fumes.

 

[flash]

I wouldn't use the cat litter. Don't they have some sort of chemical clumping agent? Might put off some toxic fumes.

Plus Chlorophyll, I believe.