Diagnosing & Repairing The Electric Smoker

[@cattracks22]

Outstanding root-cause-analysis and part replacement video. Clear mentions of safety and electricity. Step-by-step so nothing was left out or assumed.

[@bodhi974]

You have no idea how happy I am that I found your video. I’m having the same exact problem that you were having. Great you were able to get it repaired. Mine is no longer under warranty but I am contacting char broil anyway and see what can be done. Thanks a lot for the video!

[@thekaylornator]

Thank you for the video. Very well done and very helpful. My unit was only used once, then stored in my garage. I tried to use it this Thanksgiving (second use) and it kept tripping the GFCI. My unit was out of warranty but Charbroil provided the new heating element and thermostat at no charge (except for a $4.50 shipping charge) anyway since I'd only used it once. Many thanks to you for helping me to understand the procedure. I will be working on my smoker, probably this coming Monday, December 9, 2019. The Charbroil company didn't send the Troubleshooting Guide as promised but I went on the site and chatted with someone who sent me the link to download it. Hopefully, I'll have the same success as you seem to have had. Thanks again from a fellow smoker fan in Alabama.

[@CookingWithRy]

I'm so glad this video helped you!

[@terrypease5155]

Just watched your video and replaced my heating element! No electrical experience!! Smoker works again! Smoker was under warranty and the Charbroil folks sent the element in 5 days. (had to pay $4.95 for S&H!!, , but all good!). . . Thanks for your help!!!

[@davidlgti1]

Hi Terry - I am unable to loosen up the side screws to get the element out. Tried WD 40 but nothing. Were yours locked in too? Any advice?

[@mark-1901]

I have exact same smoker. Garage kept. Outside only when using. Yesterday no heat. Took lower cover off back one wire corroded off. Easy fix. Glad to be back cooking. It's only 2 years old .used 30 times. I love it. Check connections.

[@joebauer6114]

Very helpful video...i was able to fix my smoker using this video!!

[@davidh2025]

Thanks for this video. Super helpful in troubleshooting and how to remove the heating elements. Thank you!!

[@antonbrinovec4646]

Hey Ry thanks for the video. I saw that one of the connections to the element burnt out immediately and fixed it with him minutes. I’m back smoking again!

[@mark-1901]

I want to see you back cooking . I watch all the time. Thanks for the videos.

[@GarciaDF123]

Thank you for a detailed video. I'm going to tackle as soon as my element arrives thanks to you!

[@darunealbane]

Mine started to blow GFI once it started to start cycle but sitting there not break GFI Sending cord (backordered till nov ) and new thermostat .. I can feel a "buzz" when i touch shell

[@davidlgti1]

I am unable to loosen up the side screws to the element plate. Tried WD40 and no movement. Any advice?

[@larrykeesee1442]

Thanks for the video..I have the same problem..u have helped me..Retired Larry in Indianapolis....

[@RW-ix2to]

Same problem: tripping several GFIs. Waiting for my replacement element. Looking at all the "I have the same problem" comments, this'll be my last Charbroil smoker....

[@jpemydura4860]

My heating element connectors that go through the back wall melted. So I figured I'd try and fix it myself. Those 2 screws that attach the heating pan to the side panel are impossible to remove. I found a fix though, I took a sledgehammer to the smoker. Broke up nice enough to fit all nice and tidy into my recycling bin.

[@TheMooleytuna]

Thats great.. I feel the same way.. Those stupid screws about ended the life of my smoker..

[@tmess13]

I ended up drilling out the back wall screw and taking a Dremel to the side screws. Will replace with sheet metal or wood screws for (hopefully) easier future removal.

[@jimmystacoshack4847]

Ry, I wish you had replaced one component at a time, because now we will never know which part was faulty. Also, I wondered if you happened to test for continuity, end to end, of the heating element, and whether you checked for "ground to case" condition?? I am having same issue with same machine, so about to tear into it. Thanks for the info in your video!!!

[@ronwise3069]

I think I'm having a ground-to-case issue. If it's not on a GFI, touching the unit will give you a jolt. Otherwise, it pops the GFI if I'm using one of those outlets. I'm just starting to tear into mine now, too. How did yours come out?

[@judygarcia1219]

Thanks for posting. We were able to change out the heating element and the smoker is up and running!

[@CookingWithRy]

That’s fantastic 👍

[@in_the_red6798]

Thanks for the video. Very helpful. Worked one year fine, then started popping breaker at pre-heat. Different outlets, same issue. I would have liked to see if the issue was with either the element or the thermostat. Since you changed both, we don't really know. Did Charbroil recommend replacing both? Mine is no longer under warranty and I got by the issue by using an extension cord into a non-GFCI outlet. Stupid, but it works. Planningn to contact Charbroil and see how much the parts will cost. Thanks again.

[@in_the_red6798]

After posting my comment, I have just found that Charbroil had issued a recall on my digital electric smoker February 15 2024 for this very issue. They will be sending a "repair kit" with instructions they value at $32.99, for free. Let's hope it fixes the issue.

[@in_the_red6798]

The GFCI Pigtail kit they sent me did NOT resolve the issue. Not even 1 minute after I selected pre-heat the GFCI breaker flipped. Had to plug the smoker into an extension cord and into a standard outlet in my house in order to use it. Very very disappointing Char-Broil.

[@AA-fx6ku]

Have to agree with the positive comments made below. Good explanations and video coverate. Having just had a total shoulder replacement, I do not have your patience with the diagnosticsl Thanks again for your video and coverage.

[@michaelland8029]

Thank you for this video because I am having the same issues

[@Michigan_Backwoods]

Great job, very detailed, good videography........big help!

[@jg2611]

Thanks for making this vid. I have had great luck with 2 charbroil grills but the smoker i bought started exhibiting same problem. Still under warranty so contacting charbroil.

[@CookingWithRy]

Glad it helped :)

[@afsteelersfan34]

Thanks.. I just ordered a replacement element and thermostat. My is doing the exact same thing.

[@carolhamilton1967]

Ry, when I removed the back cover to check wires they were burned, is there anyway to replace these wires in the back?

[@CookingWithRy]

I don't know. If those are burned it might mean they shorted out.

[@carolhamilton1967]

@@CookingWithRy Thank you, yes I believe its the power cord. Thank you Ry

[@habanero6332]

Mine was also tripping. I saw the when was on the power cord and moved that and also wiped the very bottom of the grill under the element. It was fine after that. It was the same last time I used it, maybe moisture on the heating element causes the trip. It happened when I used it last summer, once after winter not being used. The same yesterday after not being used all winter. Twice and then after I moved it off the cable and wiped inside it worked fine. Weird.

[@jonthornton4083]

Ry how does the temp on your external thermometer compare to factory. Compared mine & factory was around 275 & mine was around 225. I’ve had smoker for good while changed element about a year ago & noticed that my cooks just kept getting longer & longer.

[@CookingWithRy]

I trust my external thermometer. It seems to me the built in one 'catches up' after about an hour of smoking so that they are withing about 10 F of each other. I've replaced the element as well but I'm not noticing any longer cooks at this point :)

[@jonthornton4083]

Thanks for input mine does not get any higher than 220-225 external even though it still reads 275-280 internal. Just don’t know if it is thermostat or digital control. I’m getting w/ masterbuilt after Christmas. Hope they can help. Like you mentioned my smoker is so versatile when cooking for a crowd even if you are not smoking. Thanks again you do a great job I learn something new all the time keep’em coming....Jon

[@vocals4378]

Mines is doing the same thing can you send me info how to order this great video definitely informative

[@DanChisari]

Great video. I have my new element. But my wires are shot. Do you know the gauge of wire I can use?

[@CookingWithRy]

No, I sure don't. I didn't have to deal with that.

[@jpenn466]

You can get a pair of wire pliers that have the multiple shots slots on it and place over the wire to you get the one that it fits good and tight you know what gauge wire to need

[@dexd1]

I was cleaning mine and it wasn't completely dry. When I plugged it back in and turned it on it popped and now I don't get power to it anymore. Is that the heating element, cord or another issue?

[@CookingWithRy]

That sounds like it could be a fuse or the control board. I don't think I heard the heating element make that sound when it failed.

[@mustangmadd3172]

My father in-law just gave me one. He turned it on to use it one day and after a few minutes it turned off and hasn't came back on since. It acts like it isn't even plugged in. We replaced the thermostat and that didn't fix it. Didn't see any blown capacitors, but could have missed something. Do you have any suggestions? Thanks in advance

[@CookingWithRy]

That sounds like a bad switch somewhere. I’d definitely call the manufacturer.

[@mustangmadd3172]

What exactly do you mean by switch? Sorry for the questions lol

[@CookingWithRy]

@@mustangmadd3172 Possibly some internal electronic switch or relay. But I'm no expert. Just a thought.

[@mustangmadd3172]

@@CookingWithRy ok thanks. When I get a chance I'm gonna break out the multimeter and check all my capacitors and what not. Thanks

[@nicholassuerdieck6172]

Can we get links to all the parts please

[@stephaniewright7193]

My connection is charred. What do I need to do to replace it?

[@CookingWithRy]

If the actual connection is burned, it's probably best to replace the smoker unless it's under warranty and the company can repair it.

[@jackdoppelt1]

I can't seem to get the smoker dials to work. When off, it reads 88:88 softly, and when I turn it on, it doesn't move.

[@CookingWithRy]

That sounds like a bad control module.

[@rayb7295]

such a small area to heat up .....I would think it would preheat faster....My smoker takes a long time to pre heat also...

[@ronmamo1020]

how long did it take you to get out the stripped screw head, you didnot want to show that

[@CookingWithRy]

It wasn't actually stripped. I just couldn't get a good angle on it and I didn't want to put too much pressure since it was a bit misaligned :)

[@jackiehash1296]

I know what's wrong with mine but don't know if I know enough to rewire it cause it burned off from connection

[@leobeers6475]

I'm surprised you didn't use the pre heat after you installed the new parts. I have the same smoker and it instructs me to always use the pre heat. Do you usually start your unit without the preheat? Also, this is a great video. My unit just stopped working today. Panel works, but no heat.

[@CookingWithRy]

I did when I first got the smoker for a short time but it really made no difference from what I could see. It just heated up to the same temp in the same time. Kind of a curious process.

[@leobeers6475]

@@CookingWithRy, thanks!!!!!

[@counselorphil1658]

Thanks Ry.....I just replaced the heating element and thermostat just as you showed on your video.....happy to report I am not tripping the GFI and smoke is not coming out of the vents!!! I can almost taste the salmon. Thanks Phil

[@CookingWithRy]

Awesome!

[@longjoe7939]

Did you check the ohms on the old element, should show less ohms if it has a short!

[@CookingWithRy]

I'm not that technically inclined :)

[@kmet222]

My new element seems to be working fine but I am not getting much smoke?

[@CookingWithRy]

Not sure what would cause that if the temp is hitting its mark.

[@kmet222]

@@CookingWithRy Yeah I took out the wood chip pan and and it is smoking but a little more smoke than I want. I have used this master Built for years.. Strange.

[@DD-pg4nd]

Changed heating element and still not heating. Control panel seems to be ok. What else could it be?

[@dberry1052]

a simple continuity check with a multimeter will tell you if the heating element is good. Its a wire..it either reads continuity or it doesn't.

[@mikeinpcola5543]

Dude, ever had any issues with this brand smoker not reaching full internal temp set for food, as in going into keep warm mode only an hour or two into a 10+ hour smoke?

[@CookingWithRy]

I've never had that issue and I've done 12 hour smokes. I wasn't even aware there is a keep warm mode. Mine only had issues because of the failed heating element, but none before or after that.

[@mikeinpcola5543]

Thanks for reply. CB told me not to have food probe in smoker when pre-heating (bogus advice), then sent me new thermostat, new heating element. I'm thinking it is more of food temp probe or even control panel issue. As far as the pre-heat mode, I believe it goes to 140F once your meat temp is reached, nice feature as long as your meat actually reaches proper temp :). Thanks again.

[@CookingWithRy]

Yeah I never use the included probe for meat temp, only for a backup pit temp. The probe just sits in that slot on the right side inside the smoker.

[@mikeinpcola5543]

Ahhh, then your smoker may have similar issue, may not, but if you always use your own food temp probe, then you are golden because you bypass the potential issue of using CBs cook to temp feature. I want this CB to work as advertised with stock food temp probe, so I am curious if CB can/will fix issue. Good videos by the way, nice work!

[@scottknight6944]

Mike Hamlin kkmkjmoooo

[@jonbraddock5545]

Good video but when diagnosing you should only change one part at a time. So was it the element or the thermostat that was causing the issue. We will never know.

[@CookingWithRy]

Well I'm not a pro at this so I did the best I could.

[@jonbraddock5545]

@@CookingWithRy still a good video. It all of helps people get there smoker going. Just an fyi for future. Cheers.

[@joebot2127]

I just bought one and Tried to season it. Fresh out of the box, I got error codes 2 & 4. Waiting for an exchange.

[@CookingWithRy]

I wonder if your model is a newer version. I never got any error codes. Those might have been helpful. Hope your replacement goes smoothly.

[@swdw973]

If you are tripping the GFI, you nee to take a resistance reading from the tab to the outside of the heating element., if you get measurable resistance , the heater is shorted to ground (Should read OL on a digital meter, or peg the needle on an analog meter). This ground will cause the GFi to trip. Sometimes it won't short until it heats up. Here's a good videos on testing the heating element for both continuity and shorts to ground. kzbin.info/www/bejne/oJ-4epmKYqhlp9E

[@nickdeliso7026]

I have the same issue with my Masterbuilt. They sent me a new element, cord, thermostat (it’s all in one). I still have the same problem. Guess I’ll trash it.

[@counselorphil1658]

...correction, smoke "is coming" out of the vents

[@kevinwittenauer6892]

In the video it looked like you were plugging a red drop cord into the ground fault outlet. If the ground fault was tripping it could have bern moisture in the cord cap where the smoker plugged into the drop cord. I would recommend trying a regular outlet without a drop cord to troubleshoot. This would take 2 potential problems out of the equation, the drop cord and the ground fault outlet

[@CookingWithRy]

It was a bad heating element. GFI was okay :)

[@christopherpacey3420]

I have a similar Char Broil, not tripping the breaker, but the display screen keeps turning off when trying to start preheat. Think thermostat replacement is all that’s needed?

[@CookingWithRy]

Not sure. I haven’t seen that issue.

[@unityjasont]

Did you ever figure this out, mine is doing this now.

[@hello-hn6hs]

Replace one at a time. Then test. You shouldn't do thermostat and heating element at the same time. What if they sent you a bad part?

[@CookingWithRy]

Heating element is the thing that fails most on these to cause this issue so it is the best choice to replace. And it worked.

[@mark-1901]

Question. My charbroil grill is set for 225 and my store bought temp like you have always reads 15 degrees warmer then the smoker. Do you get that.

[@CookingWithRy]

Yes that difference is common. I trust my remote thermometer to be more accurate.

[@ronrudsinski3321]

I have the same issue w/ mine. Gonna tackle it soon

[@CookingWithRy]

It's actually pretty easy. A lot easier when you're not trying make cameras fit inside the smoker while repairing it :)

[@josevideos3]

Thanks.

[@dberry1052]

these boxes are not insulated enough in the element connection area. I've had to replace the element once on mine and just after two uses, i've had to replace the connectors on the cord to element. I think the cord is not heavy enough gage myself. Its probably 14 gage but because of the current it draws probably should be a 12. I do not like the fact that i have to put a meat thermometer in the smoker to see what the actual temperature is. That's ridiculous. Also this is supposed to be a smoker..the element does not get hot enough to burn chip so they will smoke. I start hem with a butane torch which helps. My remote went out and the new one will not talk to the smoker. I would not buy another one from char broil

[@mikeinpcola5543]

So I returned my CB smoker, and now have Smoke Hollow. Let me ask you please, how do you start a smoke with your electric and add chips to get the best smoke quality/flavor...do you preheat, do you add wood chips first/after/at same time as meat, do you add second and third loads of chips, etc. Also, how would you score smoke flavoring on your meats when using your electric vs using your charcoal grill vs offset? I'm guessing on a scale of 1-10, with 10 being best flavor, electric 5, charcoal 7, offset 9. Thanks for doing your channel!

[@CookingWithRy]

I start the smoker with the chips in the box and by the time it's at temp the smoke is usually beginning. I add more chips only on long cooks, but rarely do anything beyond a 3-2-1 for ribs in there, which really only needs it in the 3. I usually get between 2 and 3 hours of smoke on a full box, though when it's full it does take a bit longer to generate smoke. I'd rate them electric 5, charcoal 8, and offset 9, so close to yours.

[@mikeinpcola5543]

Do you sweat the whole white vs blue smoke issue with either your electric or offset smokers? I could see it being a larger issue when burning whole pieces of wood with offset, not as much with electric/chips??? Also, with respect to fire management on all these 3 smoking devices, I assume electric is 1 on a scale of 1 to 10 with 10 being steepest learning curve/time consuming, charcoal 5, and offset 8? Thanks for sharing your experiences, I in time, will garner my own experiences, but I think its cool the gain insight from experienced folks like yourself.

[@CookingWithRy]

For the electric, the smoke is usually what it's going to be. The temperature management built in to most modern electric smokers just heats the chip container to the point of near ignition while heating the chamber. Unless there are precise airflow controls, the smoke is really not a concern. With the offset, for me, it's all about airflow. The better the airflow the less chance of producing really thick smoke. I don't mind if the smoke isn't perfectly 'blue'. I just don't want it to look like the exhaust pipe of a car with engine issues :) Yeah, electric is a 1. Charcoal is maybe a 3. Offset a 6.

[@lynnd627]

So annoyed right now, Same charbroil cmoker,same tripping switch problem when it turns on, USED IT TWICE! called charbroil - ya they sent me the replacement element and a thermostat, and when i asked how easy this was to replace i was assured it was super easy. Ya right, So annoyed right now, that I have to do this to repair an almost new unit , when I dont know what im doing, Its been sitting there for a year now! Todays the day, or maybe tomorrows the day, No more charbroils for me, thats for sure. Expensive boat anchor.

[@jr3454]

As a person that owns an electronic screw driver i feel sorry for this man. They are 20 bucks please some one buy this man an electronic screw driver. Lol

[@CookingWithRy]

I have drill drivers. A little awkward to use in this space while filming.