How to Make a Meat Smoker from a Refrigerator
Old refrigerators make quite effective smokers since they provide more insulation than a shed-type smoke house. For a heat source you can use a butane gas burner or electric hot plate, although hibachi grills also work well. You will first have to get your hands on an old refrigerator, preferably one with two compartments. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Stand the fridge up, so the smaller of the two compartments (usually the freezer) is at the bottom. Cut an 8-inch hole between the two compartments; then mount a metal plate to use as a baffle, which will diffuse and direct the smoke and heat.
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Cut a 3-inch hole into the top of the fridge, through which you will fit the pipe. You may need to drive the pipe in using a rubber mallet. Half of the pipe should be sticking out from the top of the fridge.
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Remove the bottom compartment's motor if it has one, as well as the compressor. Remove any polystyrene foam insulation, which could release poisonous fumes if exposed to high temperatures.
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Place a electric hot plate or hibachi grill into the bottom compartment. Keep in mind that the fridge is not meant to withstand heat, so using any other heat source may pose a serious safety hazard. Drop in some water-soaked smoking wood chips, like hickory or peach. Close the door once the fire gets going.
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Open the top door (the larger one) and place the meat or fish you will be smoking onto the fridge's metal racks. If the fridge has plastic racks you will have to remove them, since the heat could cause them to melt. Replace them with metal racks that will hold up to the heat.
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Tips & Warnings
Make sure that children aren't able to lock themselves inside the fridge.
