Boy, that's a loaded question around here! My advice is to check the termometer for accuracy in boiling water. If it reads correctly, it's good to go. I only use the lid therm on my WSM and as long as it reads somewhere between 200-275 I'm happy. Follow the Minion method, adjust your vents to 10-25% when you're within 25 degrees of your target temp, and you'll cook up great Q.