Hello from Alabama

[Spence]

Recently ordered and received my number 3.  Only done a couple of smokes but so far so good.  Like some others my temps seem a little low (highest I've seen is 226) but hopefully it won't hold me back.  An overall well built smoker.

 

[UWFSAE]

Welcome to the club, Spence.  A few things:  did you measure temp during the seasoning process to confirm that you're unable to achieve temps above 226?  Have you calibrated your thermometer?  Are you running the smoker with only a small load when you're measuring?

 

[Spence]

Did not monitor during break in smoke but did during smoke of five racks of ribs using Maverick temp gauge.  Smoked a total of 5 hours and unit never reached over 226 at highest, mostly 190s to 205.

 

[UWFSAE]

Hmmm, that's a decent load so you can eliminate that issue.  I've had the #3 since March and have never had an issue with being able to peak at, or slightly above, the 250 setting.

A few things to check before you call customer service:
1.  If you're using an extension cord, try it without it.
2.  Visually inspect the element and smoker box to see that they seat properly.
3.  Consider using a water pan to help stabilize temps on your next smoke.
4.  Run an empty chamber smoke and set it to 250; use wood as you normally would and measure temp every fifteen minutes through a 3-4 hour session.
5.  Calibrate your Maverick using boiling water, just to be sure.

If you're concerned I know Steve will get back to you in short order to help allay your concerns and come up with a solution if a hardware issue exists. 

 

[afratki]

Welcome Spence!

 

[Spence]

I'll try the boiling water check first as that's quick and simple then, if Maverick checks out , I'll do the empty cook test suggested.  Thanks for the advice.  Oh, no extension cord was used.

Say, do most people use Pam on racks for easier cleanup?

 

[swthorpe]

Sounds like a plan!  I do not use PAM on the racks, but others have commented that they do.  The clean up for me has been fine just by soaking the racks for a bit and then using a brush to clean.  I have also used HD foil balled up to get as a cleaning device.

 

[UWFSAE]

Pam is fine (it definitely wouldn't hurt) but in my experience it's not necessary; the racks clean up very easily with a bit of degreaser or even some Dawn detergent and a brush.

 

[Spresso]

Regarding PAm. I don't use it, nothing has been so sticky yet that I felt the need.
I have designated 1 rack to be a workhorse. A Dirty grill if you will as I use the Bradley smoker racks for everything else. It's smaller , easier to clean , goes in the dishwasher. Unlike the rack of the #3. too big.
For ribs and brisket. no choice they have to go on the original racks....due to size.

 

[DivotMaker]

Welcome, Spence!  Sounds like you're definitely on the right track.  Lots of good smokes ahead of you!  As for my 2-cents on the Pam issue:  I use it, and find the grills scrub clean with just a little hot water and one of those nylon scour pads.  Another spray I found that works better is Weber grill spray.  It's hard to find sometimes in my area, but it handles higher temps better than Pam.  I've also rubbed the grates with a little olive oil, too!  I'm into easy clean-up! ;D

Throw some pics up of your cooks, if you can - we love pictures!  Mmmm, mmmm!

 

[bigboy74]

Welcome to the forum. This forun has a great group of people that help out as much as possible.