Do I need two ThermoWorks Bellows units for my 22" WSM?


 
C

Christopher Newkumet

New member
Hi all. I’ve used the Bellows rig — probes + Signals unit — for a while now, and I continue to struggle to get temperatures up above 220ish. I’ve never been able to get it above 275ish for any extended period. Last night I started a cook with six pork shoulders — I know, that’s a lotta meat so gonna be a challenge — but still I couldn’t get the smoker hot enough. In frustration I removed the bellows and opened all the vents. That did the trick, but I’m wondering now if I need two Bellows units for my 22” WSM. I seem to recall when I first installed the Bellows that the instructions made some mention of a second unit. Thoughts?
 
No, you do not need a second unit.
I can get up into the 400+ range with my single Bellows on the WSM 22.5"
To fully understand what is happening, if you could describe how you are setting up the WSM w/Bellows, ie charcoal amount, arrangement, smoking wood location, starting procedure, vent opening positions, water pan status, etc, that would really help.
 
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A 8' x 8' burlap square draped over the smoker will retain heat in your WSM. The mesh is loose enough to allow smoke to escape right through the top. Good luck
 
Bob Bass said:
No, you do not need a second unit.
I can get up into the 400+ range with my single Bellows on the WSM 22.5"
To fully understand what is happening, if you could describe how you are setting up the WSM w/Bellows, ie charcoal amount, arrangement, smoking wood location, starting procedure, vent opening positions, water pan status, etc, that would really help.
Click to expand...
Thanks Bob…for an overnight smoke, I pack the fuel ring with charcoal plus 3-4 chunks of smoke wood. I pour on top of that lit coals from a chimney starter (about 3/4 full). I then assemble the WSM sections and attach the lid. Two of the three bottom vents are closed completely and the third has the billows installed with the remaining two openings sealed with heat tape. Top vent is 1/8 open. I set the fan temp on the Signals unit to 275, but rarely can I get it that high. I fill the water pan halfway.
 
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