Smokette Thermometer

Don't!

Unlike other units, the CS's have insulation in the walls. If you drill a hole you risk affecting the integrity of the machine.

A more simple solution is to buy a remote probe thermometer, like a Polder, and run the sensor probe & cable down through the vent hole. The accuracy of these units is much better than the large dial thermometers.

You don't need to monitor the temp of the unit like you do in offsets in order to maintain a certain temp. Just set the dial and it will "average" the temp you set. Just like an offset, the temp will vary some, up and down, but the average will be what you want.

The only time I use a probe is 1) insert in what I cook and 2) about once a year to check the temp dial and see that it's working.

Hope that helps.

Smokin'

Smokin',

Thanks. I do have a polder, but it will show large temp swings no matter what type cooker you are using. Figured the slower responding thermometers might be best..I just don't trust an uncalibrated knob. What kind of insulation is in the wall or door that a small whole would destroy the unit's integrity?

WS

don't know the exact make-up of the insulation, but the humidity in the smoker itself could leak into the insulation and thereby make it less than effective.

I've never like the "single" point probes like your talking about because they only show the temp at that spot in the smoker.

I like my polder(s) because I can move them to where I want, on whatever shelf I need.

Yes, they've fast reacting, but I periodically test my smoker "uncalibrated" know and it's +/- 5 degrees on average.

Hope that helps.

Smokin'

Stick a cigarette filter on the tip of the remote temp cane, stick thru the vent hole to the center of a CS, for a better avg feeling.

Q,
Lamar

Lamar,

Thanks, a good idea and another excuse to start "smokin" again.

WS