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Cooling down the WSM


 

Grim

TVWBB Member
How can I drop the temp in my WSM when I'm already underway on a cook?

I just put a 6lb pork shoulder on the WSM and I must have had the bottom vents open too much. After about 20 minutes the smoker temp was almost 350 degrees. I want to cook the shoulder at 225-250, so I'm running much hotter than I would like. I closed the bottom vents to about 1/4 or less open and poured some cool water into the water pan.

Does anyone have any suggestions for getting the temp to drop more quickly? Thanks!
 
I would close the bottom vents completely. Depending on how much charcoal you lit, wind, temp, etc. 1/4 open will keep your temp way above 250.

If that doesn't work, I have seen some people suggest putting some ice in the water pan. But wait, it should take at least 20 mins for a vent change to fully take place.
 
You can close the top vent up to 1/2 if the other doesn't work. I have on a few occasions actually used long handle tongs and removed a few briqs. Obviously you need to be careful and have something to put the hot briqs into. I used a large CI pot.

Paul
 
Adding some Ice or Ice cold water to the pan will also help bring it down quick just make sure you have room for the extra water.
 
definitely close all the bottom events all the way. Put cold water/ice in the water pan, close the top vent just a tiny bit, then be patient. Don't open the door or lid more than you absolutely have to. Each time you do, you'll get another influx of oxygen that will spike your temp.

Good luck.
 

 

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