Smoker heats but cannot reach the set temperature; stalls well below target.

Safety first: Unplug and cool before physical checks.

Steps:

• Check door seal: Inspect the silicone or rubber gasket around the door for gaps, tears, or compression. Replace if it does not seal evenly.
• Vent position: Ensure the exhaust vent is not fully open during preheat; partially close to help reach temperature, then adjust for smoke flow.
• Element test: Measure element resistance and compare to specifications. A significantly higher resistance than normal can reduce power; replace the element.
• Sensor accuracy: Compare chamber temperature with an oven thermometer. If the display reads higher than actual, replace the temperature sensor.