Ever Use a timer to start an SM045?

I wouldn't be overly concerned with the ambient outside temps that much given the 800 o insulation factor of the smoker. The 2 briskets will entail a heat sink factor and the initial outside temp will require some additional time insofar as getting the internal cabinet up to set temp.

What temp were you planning to smoke the briskets at?

I've considered using a timer before to start the smoker but always chicken out in fear of possible hiccups. Can anyone else weigh in on the timer option?

Overall, you're time frame sounds about right depending on the temp setting.

Welcome to the forum.

Thanks for the feedback and the welcome. I was thinking 220 for the temp. As for fear of hiccups, I am a bit nervous but the event in question is for me and my wife and I have a backup plan.

How late do you normally stay up? For overnight brisket/pork butt cooks I normally set the smoker at 180 then turn it up in the morning when I wake up. But I usually serve around 4-5 pm. The briskets will stay hot it a cooler for a good three hours at least.

I have a lot of home automation here and always have my 055 connected to an Insteon switch. I don't use the timer all that often but occasionally start things up at 5am or so. The difference might be that the 055 is totally non-auto in itself (no electronic controls) so there is not much chance of a hiccup. And of course, I wouldn't put food in the smoker to sit if the outside temps are in the food danger zone. YMMV