Smokin-It

[joeymac]

Hi.  I'm looking at the model 3.  I'd like to be able to leave it outside running all night when smoking shoulders and briskets.  Is there anyone out there who has a smokin-it that does this.  Being electric, I'm just not sure about it being plugged in if it rains or gets wet from dew, etc.

Thanks!

 

[old sarge]

I do not have a Smokin-it but I do have an electric smoker on a covered patio and do let it run all night.  The patio is not enclosed, just covered.  It is somewhat shielded from blowing rain by the house and an adjacent grill and I've not had any problems.  But like I said, it is partially shielded.  I would suggest contacting Smokin-it and ask this question. As with anything electric, exposure to wet is not a good idea. I think your question is valid and applicable to any electric smoker regardless of make.  You might just have to get a cover for it and be a fair weather smoker (nothing wrong with that!).  This is from the Smokin-it FAQ on the web site:

Q: Is it safe to operate the smoker in any type of weather?

A: Your smoker can be used safely in the rain or snow. We recommend a sheltered well ventilated location. Please keep the cover on for protection while not in use.

 

[chef jimmyj]

I have a MES. It plugs into a Covered outdoor 20A GFI outlet. And I have an inverted disposable 1qt Glad food storage container over the Electronics. That set up runs Rain or Shine and gets a good soaking on a regular basis as it sits on my second floor balcony. I never have a problem...JJ

 

[old sarge]

JJ,

Unlike the MES which vents smoke from the side (I think), the Smokin-it vents out the top so not sure what a hard rain would do to the contents.  I don't imagine much water would enter thru the vent but one never knows. But the site says it is ok to use in the rain.  No mention of covering the electronics, or control which I think is a good idea. 

 

[wolfpackpilot]

Joey,

I will be getting my #3 delivered any day now. Expect a full detailed analysis (with maybe a video or 2) of the smoker and accessories.

My smoker will be set up under a patio with a roof over one side. I did purchase the cover as well.

Billy V in NC

 

[chef jimmyj]

JJ,

Unlike the MES which vents smoke from the side (I think), the Smokin-it vents out the top so not sure what a hard rain would do to the contents.  I don't imagine much water would enter thru the vent but one never knows. But the site says it is ok to use in the rain.  No mention of covering the electronics, or control which I think is a good idea. 

Hi Sarge, The MES I have, 2011 series has a 3" Vent top right corner. I never closed it except between uses to keep bugs out but have not noticed a problem with a lot of water getting in. The Electronics module on the other hand is exposed and vulnerable to the weather. I did look hard at the Smokin-it as an option when I was shopping new electrics. The vent is actually a small hole on top, it is about 1" in diameter . And the heat control looks like an analog rheostat though there may be digital controls within the top of the unit that are not visible. I agree I would still cover the control and adding a piece of Conduit or a length of 2" PVC pipe would make a fine chimney to extend/waterproof the top vent...JJ

Here is the Smokin-it... 

    and the MES... 

 

[old sarge]

JJ,

Thanks for clearing that up.  About all I know about the Masterbuilt line is what I read here (I do have their turkey fryer - great item).  The vent on the Smokin-it and Cookshack are considerably smaller than 3 inches so he should be ok, I would think. 

 

[chef jimmyj]

JJ,

Thanks for clearing that up.  About all I know about the Masterbuilt line is what I read here (I do have their turkey fryer - great item).  The vent on the Smokin-it and Cookshack are considerably smaller than 3 inches so he should be ok, I would think. 

I concur...You are correct regarding the New Generation MES, they moved the vent to the left side in an attempt to even out the temp buy having the vent further from the heating element rather than directly over it. However, they created a whole new problem as now a slight breeze plays havoc causing back drafts...JJ

 

[mark4mn]

I have had my Smokin-it #2 for almost 2 years. I run it all night all the time. I use an easy up if it is raining. No issue with the cold at all. Very nice to put brisket on at 6PM for the next day's dinner.

Mark

 

[joeymac]

Thank you all for your replies.  Billy V...I'll be waiting for your review and videos of the #3!