Water or NO water?

[paul6]

It really is a matter of preference ,  I smoked ribs on my electric  using the water pan and thought it was so so !!! I smoked a chicken on the electric using the water pan and thought it was great ! They wouldn't put a water pan in a smoker if it wasn't intended to be used .

 

[krex1010]

the main function of the water pan is a heat sink...some cookers need a heat sink more than others. In my experience a water pan has very little to do with the quality/moisture/smoke absorption of the end product beyond its function as a temp regulator and buffer from direct radiation from the heat source.

 

[westby]

the main function of the water pan is a heat sink...some cookers need a heat sink more than others. In my experience a water pan has very little to do with the quality/moisture/smoke absorption of the end product beyond its function as a temp regulator and buffer from direct radiation from the heat source.

Exactly.