James St. Pierre
TVWBB Member
Since condos in California now cannot have open flame, I had to go electric for the (3rd floor) patio cooker.
I have cooked with it a few times, and I am not sure if I have a problem. I thought I would post some thoughts and see if anyone sees something I don't.
Pre-heat seems good, glowing element, etc. The power regulator has a light that indicates it is on. The light is on for about 8-10 minutes then goes into a toggling state. I am guessing the probe on the regulator that goes into the grill chamber is some sort of thermostat, regulating temperatures.
Once food goes in, I start to question the whole situation.
I get a little sizzle as the food hits the grate, but the temp seems to drop and the grill doesn't seem to want to recover. The indication of this is when the power unit doesn't kick back on as indicated by the LED.
As things cook the power unit toggles on and off occasionally, but in my initial opinion it just doesn't want to get the heat up.
After a few seconds, no sizzle. No smoke. I can place my hand an inch off the grate with no need to immediately pull it away for 3-5 seconds. Frustrated.
I am thinking I will need to change my tactics a bit. Longer pre-heat. All food to room temp before going in. Work extra hard to minimize lid open time.
Not sure if I have a problem or not. I wonder if I just need to get used to grilling a new way. Any thoughts form the group are appreciated.
(I also checked AC power at the socket. 121Vac without load, 115Vac under load.)
I have cooked with it a few times, and I am not sure if I have a problem. I thought I would post some thoughts and see if anyone sees something I don't.
Pre-heat seems good, glowing element, etc. The power regulator has a light that indicates it is on. The light is on for about 8-10 minutes then goes into a toggling state. I am guessing the probe on the regulator that goes into the grill chamber is some sort of thermostat, regulating temperatures.
Once food goes in, I start to question the whole situation.
I get a little sizzle as the food hits the grate, but the temp seems to drop and the grill doesn't seem to want to recover. The indication of this is when the power unit doesn't kick back on as indicated by the LED.
As things cook the power unit toggles on and off occasionally, but in my initial opinion it just doesn't want to get the heat up.
After a few seconds, no sizzle. No smoke. I can place my hand an inch off the grate with no need to immediately pull it away for 3-5 seconds. Frustrated.
I am thinking I will need to change my tactics a bit. Longer pre-heat. All food to room temp before going in. Work extra hard to minimize lid open time.
Not sure if I have a problem or not. I wonder if I just need to get used to grilling a new way. Any thoughts form the group are appreciated.
(I also checked AC power at the socket. 121Vac without load, 115Vac under load.)