How to Compare Electric Smokers
Electric smokers allow you to set whatever cut of meat you are cooking at a desired temperature and walk away until the meat finishes cooking. The meat smoker takes no effort on your part other than the preparation of the meat for smoking. Electric smokers range from models that simply smoke the meat to high-end models with automatic timers and temperature controls. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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1
Set a budget. Consider how often you plan to use the electric smoker. If you are only going to use it a couple times a year, it may not make sense to invest a lot of money in a high-end smoker. Plan to spend more if you plan to use the smoker regularly.
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2
Find a barbeque smoker that is easy to load. There are top-loading models and front-loading ones; Amazing Ribs author Meathead indicates front-loading typically make it easier to load both the wood and the meat.
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3
Shop for a model that has amperage your outdoor electrical circuit can handle. Electric smokers usually draw between 10 and 20 amps. You may need to hire an electrician if you choose a model that draws more power than you have available.
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4
Check the cord on the electric meat smoker to see if it's long enough. If you can't find a model with a long enough electrical cord, use a 10 amp, 12 gauge, three-pronged cord. Another option is to hire a qualified electrician to put a longer cord on the electric smoker.
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5
Pick a meat smoker that has high, medium and low settings. If possible, choose a model with a thermostat that allows you to pick a precise temperature for smoking meats.
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6
Select a model that allows you to use regular wood for the smoke flavoring. Some models require you to use specially made composite wood blocks in the unit. While these blocks are usually not expensive, if for some reason you can't buy the blocks, then you won't add smoke flavoring to the meats.
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Choose an insulated model. They cost less to operate and hold more heat inside the unit.
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Pick a model that keeps moisture out of the cooker box when it's not in operation. Some models have vents on the top of the box that will allow moisture to seep inside the unit.
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Check if a model has pans and racks that are dishwasher safe to make clean-up easier.
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