Smoker makes loud popping or banging noises during heating and cooling

Safety first: Allow the smoker to cool before tightening screws or adjusting parts.

• Identify source: Listen carefully to locate whether the noise comes from the cabinet walls, racks, or drip pan.
• Tighten hardware: Check and tighten screws on side panels, back panel, and internal brackets.
• Stabilize loose parts: Ensure racks and drip pans sit firmly in their supports and are not flexing excessively.
• Accept minor noise: Some popping from metal expansion is normal and not a defect, but excessive or new noises after damage should be investigated.