Hi, we got rid of our burned out side-mounted firebox smoker a month ago in favor of the 22" WSM. So far I've smoked a pork butt, and about 6 slabs of ribs. I am very happy with how the big WSM is cooking, though I have had some smoke leaks despite trying to seal with foil. I also have condensation in the lid thermometer (no biggie) and am wondering how well it will work in cold weather? Anybody wrap their WSM (with a welder blanket for example) to help keep the heat up in cold wet and windy weather?

--VDeKnight

Welcome VDeKnight, You didn't mention where the leaks were coming from or how bad it is. I had some leakage from between the seals of the rings the first few smokes but they stopped once the insides were coated with gunk from smoking. It ok and quite normal to have a little leakage. Leakage from the door can be addressed by shaping the door a little at a time. There is an replacement SS aftermarket door available.

Have not smoked in cold weather yet but I would assume fuel consumption would be higher. Looking forward to doing it this winter.

Hello VDeKnight, some smoke "leaks" are normal. It won't be air tight. Is it out of round? Read this • Cooking In The Wind, Rain & Cold, under Operating Tips and Mods on this site.

Tim, the smoke comes out one corner of the door, and all around the lid. Bottom seal seems ok.

The WSM did not stay hot in a day of rain, and though the food did ok, the temp was barely holding 200-210 with a ring full of briquets (Minion starting method) after about 5hrs.