Masterbuilt Propane Smoker Manual & Troubleshooting Guide

Are you having a hard time understanding your propane smoker’s functionality? If that’s the case then you have come to the right place. Here we will be discussing the Masterbuilt propane smoker manual and what there is to learn from it. 

You will also have a deeper insight into many other aspects of a propane smoker. So without further ado, let’s get started.

Masterbuilt Propane Smoker Manual [5 Things To Learn]

Cooking juicy smoked meat is not very hard to do. But it can be difficult to make the meat flavourful. It’s tiring as you have to spend hours making the meat tender. 

What you need is a quality smoker like landmann or masterbuilt that provides consistent heat for hours and doesn’t produce any odor. This is where propane smokers come in handy.

How so?

Propane smokers can provide heat to your meat for hours. And the good thing is, a propane smoker doesn’t produce any smell that can possibly ruin your meat.

But it can be difficult to operate a propane smoker. However, with the help of a Masterbuilt propane smoker manual, you will get to learn all you need about operating such gadgets. 

Here are 5 things you can learn from the Masterbuilt smoker manual.

1. How does a propane smoker work
2. How to use a masterbuilt propane smoker
3. How to clean a propane smoker
4. How to pre-season propane smoker
5. Masterbuilt Propane Smoker Troubleshooting 

Not only these but also you know what can go wrong with a propane smoker and how can you solve them.  

Well, learning about all these points you will be able to operate your propane smoker more effectively like a pro.

What Is A Propane Smoker?

A propane smoker is basically a cooking device. To be more precise, a propane smoker uses propane as its fuel. The fuel’s heat cooks the meat or whatever you want to grill.

The propane smoker is a good option because it does not require any electricity but can provide consistent heat for a long duration. This is what you need to cook tender and flavourful meat. 

How Does a Propane Smoker Works

Propane smokers function in the same way as wood or charcoal smokers or electric smokers. The only difference is the heat source. Here is a basic overview of how the propane smoker works.

1.Gas Burner

There is a gas-powered burner that works as the heat source. The burner is connected to a propane tank. The fuel for the burning process comes from here.

2.Wood Pan

A tray or box of wood chunks is placed over the burner to give your meat a wood-smoked flavor. The type of wood determines the flavor of your meat. The wood you place on the tray slowly burns and its odor enters the meat giving it a nice taste. It’s better if the tray you are using is thin. Thinner trays can help to cast smoke quicker. 

3.Water Pan

Usually, a water bowl is placed above the wood. It is called the water pan. The water pan works as a heat regulator. The main function of the water pan is it absorbs the heat and distributes it evenly in the smoker. 

It allows the internal air of the smoker to remain moist and humid as well. 

A propane smoker mainly works in this way. To use these functionalities, you have to follow the instructions. It can be difficult to use a propane smoker if you don’t know the proper methods of using your smoker. But don’t worry, we have got your back. 

How to Use Masterbuilt Propane Smoker

You may find it difficult to use masterbuilt propane smoker if you don’t have any previous experience. But if you follow the below steps & try, you can use this device effortlessly and perfectly. Here’s how to operate a propane smoker with less than 10 easy steps.

1. Ignite The Burner: To start the smoker, ignite the burner at first.

2. Placing the Water Bowl: Now it’s time to set up the water pan. But first, put your protective gloves on. And then carefully position the water bowl on the water pan. 

3. Pre-Heating: Pre-heating is very important to get the perfect flavor. After proper ignition and perfect placement of the water, the bowl leaves it like this for 30 to 45 minutes. It’s crucial to set the heat to the maximum level.

4. Placing The Food: Now you may place food in the smoker. Put the food in the center of the smoking rack. 

5. Adjust The Smoker Temperature: Different types of food cook at different temperatures. Setting the temperature to high or low can result in undercooked or overcooked food. So depending on the food you are cooking, make sure to check if the temperature is set on the right level.

6. Wrapping up: After your food is cooked, it’s time to wrap it all up. Turn off the burner before removing your food from the smoker. This is how you can use a propane smoker in short. But when you want to use your Masterbuilt smoker like a pro, you need to know the ultimate guide on using your Masterbuilt propane smoker.

Now what you need to do is get to the cleaning process.

5 Things To Consider While Cleaning Your Propane Smoker

If you are intending on using your propane smoker for a long time then you will have to clean it properly. It’s important to clean your propane smoker every time you use it. 

Not keeping your propane smoker clean can make it oily. And oil easily catches dirt. This way your smoker’s condition gets ruined pretty fast.

So you probably realized why it is important to clean the propane smoker. But how to clean a propane smoker properly?

Here are 5 things you need to keep in mind while cleaning a propane smoker.

• Before getting to the cleaning process you have to make sure that the unit is not hot anymore. You have to let the smoker cool down first before you get to cleaning.
• Thoroughly wash racks, rack supports, wood pan, and water bowl with dish detergent. Rinse them after washing and let them dry.
• Before cleaning the wood tray remember to remove the ash build-up, dust, and residue.
• To clean the door seal, interior, and exterior of the unit, simply just wipe it down with a damp cloth after every use. Don’t use any cleaning agents in this area and dry properly after cleaning. 
• After completing the cleaning process always make sure to dry it properly before storing it in a safe place. Store your smoker covered in a dry place and check every few days to avoid a buildup of rust. If you keep these things in mind you can hope to have a properly cleaned smoker that will last for a long time  

4 Steps To Pre-Season The Propane Smoker

Do you need to pre-season your propane smoker? Yes, of course, you do. All new smokers need to be pre-seasoned to burn off the oil and chemicals left from the manufacturing process. These chemicals can affect your food badly.

So you realize why it is important to pre-season your smoker, right? But, how do you do it? Here’s how you can pre-season your propane smoker in less than 5 steps.

1. Perform Soapy Water Test:

Before setting your propane smoker you need to run it by a soapy water test first. A soapy water test basically allows you to check for leaks. This test is fairly simple but has a great impact. It can save you from severe damage.

Here’s what you will need to perform the test.

• Dish detergent
• Bowl
• Water
• Sponge

To perform the test here’s what you have to do.

• Pour some water and dish detergent in a bowl. Mix the solution well.
• Soak a sponge in this solution
• Apply the soapy water with the sponge to the entire hose assembly. Apply it to the tank’s valve and regulator as well.  
• Open the valve of the propane cylinder but don’t turn on your grill. The goal here is to pressurize the hose. Check the entire hose line 
• If you don’t see any bubbles or can’t smell rotten eggs then your hose is fine. But if you notice bubbles and get rotten eggs odor from the hose then there definitely is a leak
• Shut the valve immediately if you notice any bubbles or get the smell of rotten eggs. Do not use a leaking hose ever.  
• If there is no leakage, then simply rinse off the soap from the hose and let it dry. More or less this is how you can perform a soapy water test to determine the condition of your propane smokers’ hose.

2. Oil the Inside:

The next thing you will need to do is oil the inside of the smoker. Take a piece of dry napkin or cloth and use it to rub a light coat of cooking oil on the smokers inside, racks, and the door. After applying the oil properly, let it rest. Remember, the water pan must be empty during this process. It’s a very crucial point.

3. Burning Woods:

It’s crucial to fire up the woods for pre-seasoning. It helps to enhance the flavor of your food. Fill the wood chip tray with one cup of wood chips. You have to make sure that the woods are thinly cut into small pieces. 

After placing the wood you will have to light up the burner. Then close the doors right away so that the smoke can’t escape. Keep the smoker burning for 1 hour. Try to keep the temperature close to 177°C (350°F).

4. Cool and Repeat:

Let the smoker cool down and repeat the whole process. After the device has cooled down apply a light coating of cooking oil on the racks and inside in the same manner. 

Start the smoker again and this time let it burn for 20 minutes. Pre-seasoning is important to make sure your food is perfectly cooked but it can be a difficult task. However, if you follow the above-mentioned instructions you won’t have any problem pre-seasoning your smoker properly.

6 Masterbuilt Propane Smoker Troubleshooting

If you maintain all we have discussed so far you shouldn’t have any trouble with your propane smoker. But, can you tell when an accident will occur?

No! Even a Masterbuilt pro smokers manual, such as the Masterbuilt sportsman elite propane smoker manual can lead to a mishap. The ideal way to deal with this is to be cautious. If you know the problems and their solutions beforehand, you are less likely to suffer any damage or loss.

Right!

This is why take a look here at the 6 most common and dangerous problems you may have to face with your propane smoker. And don’t you worry, you will get to know about the solution to each problem as well.

1. Gas Leaking From Cut, Cracked, or Burned Hose:

Gas can leak due to a damaged hose. A leaking hose can lead to massive destruction. You surely don’t want that. When you notice such leaking simply turn off the gas at the LP cylinder. Most importantly, don’t forget to change the hose.

2. Gas Being Leaked From the LP Cylinder:

This problem can occur mainly for two reasons,

1. Rusty cylinder
2. Mishandled equipment

Whatever the reason may be, the only solution to this problem is replacing the LP cylinder.

3. Gas Being Leaked From The Gas Cylinder Valve:

Gas can leak from the cylinder valve due to mechanical failure, rust, or mishandled equipment. This problem needs your immediate attention. The first thing you have to do is to turn off the gas cylinder valve. And then you can either return the gas cylinder or repair the cylinder by a professional.

4. Gas Being Leaked Between LP Cylinder and Regulator Connection:

Improper installation, damaged threads, a bad rubber seal, or a loose connection can cause this leakage. If this happens you will need to turn off the cylinder valve first and then reattach the regulator to the cylinder.

When you find, this doesn’t solve the problem, then visually inspect for the leaking point. If neither of these is the case, then return the cylinder and get a new one.

5. Fire Under Control Panel:

Burner blockage can result in a fire in the tube of the burner. If you are faced with this problem turn off the burner control knobs and gas cylinder valve immediately. This will stop the fire. When the burner cools down, inspect it for debris. You may need to remove the burner to inspect it properly.  

6. Grease Fire:

A grease fire is an excessive blow of continuous flame. It’s as dangerous as it sounds. If you don’t clean your smoker after every usage, grease builds up around burner areas. This grease can easily get caught on fire. 

In case you notice such phenomena, turn off both cylinder valve and burner control knobs. Then wait for the fire to extinguish. You can use a fire extinguisher as well. After the unit has cooled down, clean off the grease.

You will find most of the dirt around the burner area. You may even find some grease on the surrounding surfaces.  

You may have to face other minor issues as well but none will be as severe as these discussed above. This is why being aware of the gas cylinder’s probable problems will allow you to use your Masterbuilt propane smoker with utmost efficiency.

10 Safety Tips for You While Using Propane Smoker

Do you know, you may have to endure heavy damage from your propane smoker?

Well, if you do not use a smoker with caution you may have to tolerate the worst. This is why it’s better to be careful beforehand. Here are 10 things you should be aware of while using a propane smoker so that you don’t have safety issues.

• Try not to insulate the unit with hot ashes inside the unit. 
• When the unit is in operation, don’t connect or disconnect the gas cylinder and also don’t twirl or alter the gas fittings. 
• Don’t use softer liquid with propane. 
• If you sniff, sense, or somehow discover the gas is leaking immediately keep yourself away from the gas cylinder and call the fire service department. Don’t take the situation lightly. Otherwise, it may cause some serious trouble.  
• When nobody is cooking, always disconnect the gas cylinder from the unit. 
• Open the upper smoker door(s) only if necessary. Heat escapes when you open the smoker door(s) and it extends the cooking time and may result in wood flaring up. Keeping the door(s) close will re-stabilize the temperature and stop flare-ups. 
• Keep foods at the center of the smoking rack. It will assist food drippings to go into the water bowl. 
• When cooking is done, always turn off the burner control valve first. Then turn off the gas cylinder valve and eventually disconnect the cylinder. 
• The cylinder must be kept outdoors where children can’t reach. And remember not to store it in a building, garage, or any enclosed areas. 
• When cooking is done, the gas must be turned off at the supply cylinder. 

No matter how much risk a propane smoker holds, if you are cautious enough you can deal with it all. Keep these above points in mind and you shouldn’t have any problem with your propane smoker.

FAQ:

To Conclude:

A propane smoker can gift you perfectly cooked food. But to make sure you are using the smoker in the right way there are a few things you have to maintain.

Masterbuilt propane smoker manual helps you to do just that. So cautiously follow the points of propane smokers discussed above and enjoy your grilling experience. 

Don’t forget to comment below if you are facing any problems with your smoker. We will be happy to respond to you.