Outdoor grilling is great, but it's important to consider equipment safety, especially when it's raining.
As a seasoned culinary expert, I love trying out different smoking techniques. However, I've encountered numerous scenarios where the weather condition wasn't favorable for me to use my electric grill outside.
I did comprehensive research to ensure I was handling my smoker appropriately. I even consulted several grill manufacturers to find out if using an electric smoker in the rain is safe.
You can find some of the best grill covers online at an affordable price. All you need is to look for one that matches your budget and type of grill.
Continue reading to learn more about my findings.
Quick Summary
- You can use an electric smoker in the rain, but you must observe necessary precautions to avoid electrocution, damage, and fire, especially if water enters the control box.
- Using an electric smoker in the rain is accompanied by risks such as water entering the grease catcher and top vent and potential rusting of the device.
- To minimize these risks, use a waterproof cover, appropriately position the smoker, and regularly maintain the control box.
Is It Possible To Use AN ELECTRIC SMOKER IN THE RAIN?
It’s possible to use an electric smoker in the rain. The electric smokers on the market today are designed for outdoor use, so you can use them even when there is light rain to get that smoky food taste. However, they are not waterproof.
And we all know that water plus electricity is a terrible combination that can lead to fatal consequences.
What Are the Risks?
The risks of using an electric smoker in rainy weather include electronic damage, water entering the grease catcher and the top vent, and rusting.
1. Electronic Damage
Electronic damage is the biggest hazard of using an electric smoker in direct rain.
Water and electricity are fatal when they interact, and if the electronic components of the device get wet, it could cause a short circuit. This may damage the smoker and be an electrocution or fire hazard.
“Seven out of every 10 adults in the U.S. have a grill or smoker, which translates to a lot of tasty meals. But it also means there’s an increased risk of home fires”
- National Fire Protection Association
No one wants their electronics to be damaged due to water. But it is even more important to operate the device safely, so no one is killed or injured.
For this reason, you must ensure the control box is dry and free of water before and during the use of your smoker.
2. Water In the Grease Catcher
Another risk of using an electric smoker in harsh weather is that water can get into the grease catcher.
The purpose of the grease catcher is to catch any fat or juices that drip from the food as it cooks.
This prevents the fat from dripping onto the heating element and causing a fire instead of smoke.
But if moisture gets into the grease catcher, it can quickly fill up with standing water and overflow.
It can cause the fat to splatter, making a mess and potentially causing a fire. It can also cause the heating element to rust.
This is exactly what happened to me on one occasion so I’ve learned this lesson the hard way.
3. Water in the Top Vent
One more danger of using this device in inclement weather conditions is that water can get into the upper vent.
The top vent allows smoke to escape, so the food doesn't become coated in creosote instead of new, clean smoke.
Also, it allows heat to flow upwards, so the food doesn't become overcooked.
If water gets into the upper vent, it can make it more difficult to temperature control the smoker, negatively impacting the quality of smoke within the chamber. You may also overflow the water pan.
4. Rusting
The final risk for electric smoker use in wet a environment is rusting. Rust results from water and air oxidizing metal. Even a masterbuilt electric smoker will eventually rust if not maintained properly.
Rains can cause the metal parts of the grill to rust, which can weaken them and shorten the smoker's lifespan.
How to Use Electric Smoker in The Rain To Minimize The Risks
There are ways to minimize the risks of using an electric smoker in the rain. These include using covers, positioning the smoker correctly, and control box maintenance.
1. Covering
One way to minimize the risks of cooking with an electric smoker in the rainy season is to cover it during the smoking session.
A cover will protect the device from the direct impact of the rain, and it will also help keep the smoker protected and water from getting into any of the vents or openings.
Like cover protection used to store a smoker when not in use, a rain cover should be waterproof and have a securing mechanism so that wind doesn't blow it off.
However, it should not tightly adhere to the device during use because of the temperature.
Instead, it should act more like a house roof or BBQ canopy, so you have room to operate under the cover with the electric smoker not getting wet.
2. Positioning
Another way to reduce the concern of cooking with an electric smoker in the rain is to position it correctly.
If possible, try to place the device under an awning or other shelter.
This will help to protect it from the direct impact of the rain.
Just make sure there is plenty of ventilation. Smoke can displace oxygen, and it contains carbon monoxide.
Carbon monoxide can poison and kill people and pets [1].
If it is not possible to place the smoker under shelter, try to place it so that the wind blows the rain away from the device.
This will help keep water from getting into any vents or openings.
3. Control Box Maintenance
The final way to minimize the risks of cooking with an electric smoker under heavy rain is to maintain the electrical box properly. This box contains the internal electronics of the device.
Most control boxes have a gasket or seal that helps to keep water out. Over time, these can degrade and allow water to enter the box. Inspect the gasket or seal regularly.
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FAQs
Can You Cook With an Electric Smoker That’s Been Rained On?
Yes, you can cook with an electric smoker that's been rained on. However, before doing so, ensure that the control box is dry. You should also wipe down the device and ensure no water is in the grease catcher or main drum.
Does an Electric Smoker Work in the Snow?
Yes, an electric smoker works in the snow.
As long as the device is not exposed as much as possible to prevent frozen water from getting in the device and melting, using it to smoke meat should not pose a significant danger and does not matter.
Can You Use an Electric Smoker in the Garage?
No, you should not use an electric smoker in the garage. The lack of airflow within a garage can lead carbon monoxide to build up quickly.
Carbon monoxide is an odorless and colorless gas. If you are exposed after it builds up in a confined space like a garage, you can have brain, heart, and organ damage.
Can You Leave a Masterbuilt Smoker Outside?
You can leave a masterbuilt smoker outside. However, it is crucial to take precautions like placing it in a sheltered area to protect it from the elements to prolong its performance and lifespan.
References:
- https://www.cdc.gov/co/faqs.htm
