Winter is Coming!

Smokster

New member
Has anyone used the model #3 during the cold winter months?  If so, how has it performed?  Any noticeable difference in cook times or any other relevant feedback.  Posts from owners of other models are also welcome.
 
Sadly, Smokester, I'm in the same boat as you on this question!  I plan to find the answer as the weather gets colder, though!  I'm one of those nuts that's out grilling in a sub-zero snow storm!  Hehe...my neighbors must think I've lost it!  But hey, good Q doesn't wait for warm weather only! ;D  I bet we'll see a little increase in cook time, but these units are well-insulated and efficient, so I bet they'll work great.
 
Thanks DM.  I figure it won't be long before we find out.  I have read about similar units (the competition) performed fairly well in cold weather, however I haven't seen much feedback on this forum.  I am fairly confident that these units will do well.
 
I got my #2 back in January this year, but I can't remember smoking anything in less than 40 degree weather.  The unit did fine for me in Jan/Feb, but we had a fairly mild winter last year in Delaware.  I keep the #2 covered on my back deck, but I doubt I will leave it out when I know snow is coming (unlike the Weber grill that lives outside year around)!
 
I would have to agree with you as I plan on storing my #3 in the garage for the winter with the intent of rolling it out (love those wheels on these units) when I get an opportunity to do so.
 
I cannot remember if I replied to this and hit delete or not.  Or maybe thought about a reply.

I have read elsewhere where folks in clod climates have adapted a water heater insulating jacket to their smoker (mostly charcoal) with good results. I see no reason why it would not work with an electric.

As for leaving the smoker out in cold weather, I am guessing you mean not letting the weather get to it when not in use. Steve's cover should protect it just fine.  Or, you may be able to locate a large canvas or heavy vinyl patio furniture cover at an end of season discount.  A couple of bungee cords would secure it.

Hope this helps!
 
Great idea, Sarge!  It'd be pretty easy to fit a water heater blanket to our smokers.  I'll probably be trying this as as the weather gets colder.  I bet you could even make a box out of 1" insulation board to sit over the smoker.  Necessity is the mother of all great inventions!
 
Sarge, you're correct, from a storage perspective, it is not the cold weather that I am concerned about but rather the elements such as snow, freezing rain, etc.  The cover that comes with it is not long enough nor solid enough to withstand our winter weather.  In the first week of getting the smoker (in August) we had some rain that penetrated the cover and left water marks on the smoker.  I do have a good tarp ready for the smoker in the event that I have to leave it outside for the winter.

The intent of this post is really see if there was a difference in the performance of these units as the outside temperature dropped. I do like the idea if the insulated cover, now you got me thinking!
 
Smokster,  From the FAQ section on the 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.

I will give an unqualified yes to your question about the performance of the smoker in cold weather. I don't know if performance would be degraded significantly or not; but weather (humidity, wind) does play a part regarding smoke so I would guess that temperature could also have an effect, which is why I suggested the blanket.  Here is a link for a blanket and explanation for its use:
http://www.smokehouseproducts.com/ez-catalog/X381642/20/9999-940-0000

I don't know if it would fit your smoker or not. Many home stores have water heater blankets or bulk stock you can cut to fit.

Good luck.
 
It's pretty well insulated.  I've smoked in temps down to maybe 20 F with no issues.  Mine is out of the elements but exposed to the cold, no real problems with temps.  But I will say that I don't pay much attention to temps anymore; the final results are great whether the #3 runs at 250 or 200 F.  Time is the only thing that I adjust.
 
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