Trouble keeping my temp up

[MikeWestmoreland]

The last few times I've tried to cook with temps at 325-350 I've had problems getting my 18.5 WSM above 250. The cooks still come out fine they just take a little longer. But I can't figure out what I'm doing wrong. I put the foil lined water pan in EMPTY. I fire a chimney full of kingsford and wait for it to get nice and cooking before I dump it. I add one more chimney full but I don't wait for it all to start glowing. Could that be my issue? All thoughts are appreciated.

 

[Dave from Denver]

couple things you can do:

1. wait for more coals to catch fire before assembling the cooker, or add another chimney of lit

2. offset the lid a quarter inch to increase airflow. Or, prop the door open a quarter inch.