Simple DIY Backyard Electric Smoker

A large metal trash can is ideal for conversion to a simple electric smoker.

Many people assume that making an electric smoker is far beyond the level of a do-it-yourselfer, but you can make one with items you may already have on hand. Any kind of container that is heat-safe and can contain smoke is a possible candidate for a backyard smoker. A metal trash can is ideal for a simple smoker because it's tall, which allows for good smoker circulation. In addition, it doesn't need complex alterations as it already has a lid, and it is very inexpensive.

Things You'll Need

• Large metal trash can with lid
• Jigsaw with metal cutting blade
• Electric hotplate
• 4 L-brackets
• Drill
• Bolts and accompanying nuts
• Smoker box
• Woodchips
• Remote-read thermometer
• Round wire rack

Instructions

1. Cut a small hole near the base of a large metal trash can using a jigsaw. The hole will accommodate the power cord of an electric hotplate.

2. Evenly space 4 L-brackets around the sides of the trash can 1 inch below the rim. Attach the brackets with bolts long enough to go through the sides of the trash can and the L-bracket arms. Secure the bolts on the inside with nuts matched to the bolts.

3. Place the electric hotplate on the bottom of the trash can, and feed the power cord through the hole near the base. Place a smoker box filled with woodchips on top of the hotplate, and stick the heat-reading end of a remote-read thermometer into the trash can through the hole near the base.

4. Turn on the hotplate to around 220 to 255 degrees F. Place a round wire rack on top of the L-bracket arms, set the food to be smoked on top of the rack and place the lid on the trash can.

Tips & Warnings

• Always follow a smoking recipe, which will give the exact temperature and smoking time required for your chosen food.

• Experiment with different types of hardwood chips for imparting different flavors into your food. Also try sprigs of woody herbs, such as rosemary or sage.

• Always use work gloves and goggles when cutting metal.

• Don't reuse an old trash can unless you have thoroughly cleaned it and can ensure that the content previously kept inside the can cannot leave any harmful residue. New trash cans are relatively inexpensive.

References

• BBQ Smoker Guide: BBQ Smoker Plans -- Build Your Own Smoker