I am aware of the penchant for some to wrap wood in foil to avoid the dreaded belch or flame. My Amerique has belched on occasion. More like a whoomph. No damage and the smoke continued till done. As for a water pan, I have never used one. Supposedly it allows the use of cider, beer or whatever to the smoke. And they may be (MAY BE) a necessity from time to time with an analog unit that can swing high of the set temp by 30 or so degrees and create a drying effect. I don't know. It might also be a personal preference, like doing ribs following the 3-2-1 or 2-2-1 method where the middle digit is the ribs wrapped in foil rather than just naked on the racks for the entire smoke. It is a learning experience to get what you like every time. And the Amerique makes it easy.
I have had my Amerique since April 2012 and have never had a need for added moisture.
Enjoy and happy smoking.