Smoker makes loud popping or banging noises during heating and cooling.

Safety first: Allow the smoker to cool before tightening any hardware.

• Identify source: Listen carefully during operation to locate the general area of the noise (top, sides, bottom).
• Tighten fasteners: With the smoker cool, tighten cabinet screws, rack supports, and element mounting brackets.
• Check pans: Remove the drip and water pans and inspect for warping. Replace if severely distorted and flexing loudly.
• Accept minor noises: Some popping from metal expansion is normal, but it should not be excessively loud or accompanied by visible movement of parts.