The journey begins on April 28, 2020.
I saw that The Home Depot had a sale on a smoker. It was for a Masterbuilt Pro MDS 230S Dual Fuel Smoker.
I decided to do some research, and although I was told that an electric smoker was the better option for beginners and this one uses a combination of propane and charcoal (either or both), I figured that for $150 I couldn’t say no.
Problem is, delivery is set for May 15th, and I’m not known for being patient when I’m excited.
Not one to sit and wait with my hands folded together, I started reading about Masterbuilt vertical smokers. While they have many pros they also have some cons (which comes with the territory when you buy a low tier product). There were 3 main cons that stood out, and I was able to find simple modifications for them:
- ISSUE #1:
- The knob on most propane tanks can’t be adjusted with small adjustments, which means that a small turn can make a difference between 200°F and 300°F.
- Solution:
- A better propane regulator which allows for better minute adjustments.
- ISSUE #2:
- The smoker leaks a lot of smoke from around the door, this means that the temperature fluctuates more than it should, since escaping smoke means escaping heat.
- Solution:
- Heat resistant stick on gasket, which acts as an additional sealant and tightens the door.
- ISSUE #3:
- The temperature gauge on the unit can’t be trusted, can sometimes be off with +/-50°F!
- Solution:
- An external thermometer with more precision.
So, I ordered the above and I’ll test them as soon as I get the smoker.
Here’s to a continuation of the waiting game…