Old Smokey Grease Management / Drainage Issue

Old Smokey electric smoker has grease leaking from the bottom or running down the sides during cooks.

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Possible Causes

Overfilled drip pan, Misaligned drip pan, Excessive grease buildup on interior surfaces, Smoker not level

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Allow the smoker to cool before cleaning. Hot grease can cause burns and fire.

Steps to control grease leaks:

  • 1. Check drip pan placement: Ensure the Old Smokey drip pan is correctly positioned under the cooking grate to catch drippings. Adjust supports if bent.
  • 2. Do not overfill the pan: Empty the drip pan between long cooks if it approaches full. A full pan will overflow and leak.
  • 3. Level the smoker: Use a small level to confirm the smoker sits flat. Adjust legs or place shims under them so grease flows into the pan, not toward the walls.
  • 4. Clean interior surfaces: Regularly remove built-up grease from the walls and bottom with a plastic scraper and degreaser safe for smokers. Excess grease can liquefy and run out seams.

Warning: Heavy grease buildup is a fire risk. Keep the interior reasonably clean, especially around the heating element.

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Repair Difficulty

Very Easy 1/5

Required Part

Drip Pan
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