7 Things You Should Know Before You Buy a Barbeque Smoker

When buying a barbeque smoker, be sure you compare apples to apples and not apples to lemons. Here are a few features that can make a big difference in the durability and performance of your barbeque smoker. This article points out some aspects of a high quality smoker that will provide many years of dependable service and keep you smiling for a long time.

These features are standard on some smoker models and not on others, so remember to pay close attention to the list of standard features when you are price comparing.

Stainless Steel Grates

Does the smoker have T-304 food grade stainless steel grates? While this will add to the cost of your equipment initially, you can rest assured that the investment will pay off in the long run. Stainless steel grates do not rust, so they make clean-up easier and eliminate any contamination from rusty grates.

Double-Tiered Racks

How many racks does the barbeque smoker have? Some smoker models feature a second tier grate, which almost doubles the cooking surface. For example, Meadow Creek Barbeque Smokers come standard with two stainless steel grates. Both grates are full width and slide out on either side for easy access.

Door Latches

How many times have you seen smokers arriving at competitions and barbecue events with bungee straps on the doors? Many barbeque smokers on the market feature door latches that open while the unit bounces down the road. Choose a smoker with positive lock latches that close the doors tightly and keeps them closed.

Warming Box

A warming box is really handy to keep your chicken warm while you finish smoking the ribs and also works perfect to cook beans. Consider a warming box with several shelves so that you can cook beans and keep other food warm at the same time.

Some warming boxes can also be upgraded to a live smoke chamber for more space to smoke meat.

Removable Ash Pan

Your fire will burn more efficiently when the ash in the firebox can fall down through a grate into an ash pan. The ash pan also lets you easily remove the ashes when you are cooking.

Trailer License

When you are traveling with your smoker, you want to make sure that your trailer is legally licensed. Not all BBQ trailer manufacturers are licensed trailer manufacturers. If you want to take your trailer down the road, choose one that's designed by a professional trailer builder and offers road-worthy wheels and a light package.

Options

What options are available for the barbeque smoker? There are many great options on the market, such as stainless steel sinks, trim packages, a slide-out fire basket, and additional shelves. The best time to get the options you need is when you're buying your smoker.