Dyna-Glo DGX376VCS User manual

1
Compact Vertical
Charcoal Smoker & Grill
MODEL #DGX376VCS / DGX376VCS-D /
DGX376BCS / DGX376BCS-D
Français p. 24
Español p. 47
ATTACH YOUR RECEIPT HERE
Serial Number ________________________________ Purchase Date _________________________________
70-10-125 Rev. 12/19/16
Questions, problems, missing parts? Before returning to your retailer, call our
customer service department at 1-877-447-4768, 8:30 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. CST,
Monday – Friday or e-mail us at [email protected].
Save these instructions for future reference. If you are assembling this unit for
someone else, give this manual to him or her to read and save for future reference.

2
DYNA-GLO® COMPACT VERTICAL CHARCOAL SMOKER & GRILL
STOP!
NO NEED TO RETURN TO THE STORE
Questions With The Assembly?
Require Parts Information?
Product under Manufacturers Warranty?
Call Toll Free : 1-877-447-4768
8:30 a.m. - 4:30 pm CST, Monday - Friday
Retain This Owner's Manual And Proof Of Purchase For Future Reference
MODEL NUMBER AND PRODUCT SERIAL NUMBER CAN BE FOUND ON
THE RATING LABEL OF YOUR GRILL
To help us help you
Fill in the information below
Date of Purchase Place of Purchase Model Number Product Serial No.

3
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Safety Information ...........................................................................................................................4
Package Contents ...........................................................................................................................7
Hardware Contents .........................................................................................................................8
Preparation ......................................................................................................................................8
Assembly Instructions ..................................................................................................................9
Operating Instructions ...................................................................................................................13
First Use .............................................................................................................................14
Lighting Instructions ..........................................................................................................14
Smoking Instructions .........................................................................................................15
Grilling Instructions ............................................................................................................16
Adding Additional Charcoal/Flavored Wood.......................................................................17
Adding Additional Water ....................................................................................................18
Controlling Flare-ups .........................................................................................................20
Tips .....................................................................................................................................20
Care and Maintenance ..................................................................................................................21
Replacement Parts List ................................................................................................................22
Warranty ......................................................................................................................................23
WARNING
For Outdoor Use Only (outside any enclosure)
DANGER
Never operate this appliance unattended.
WARNING
Do not store or use gasoline or other ammable liquids or vapors in the vicinity of this or
any other applicance.
WARNING
1. Improper installation, adjustment, alteration, service or maintenance can cause injury or
propery damage.
2. Read the installation, operation, and maintenance instructions thoroughly before installing
or servicing this equipment.
3. Failure to follow these instructions could result in re or explosion, which could cause
property damage, personal injury, or death.
4. This instruction manual contains important information necessary for the proper assembly
and safe use of the appliance.
5. Read and follow all warnings and instructions before assembling and using the appliance.
6. Follow all warnings and instructions when using the appliance.
7. Keep this manual for future reference.

4
Please read and understand this entire manual before attempting to assemble, operate or install the
product. If you have any questions regarding the product, call our customer service department at
1-877-447-4768, 8:30 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. CST, Monday - Friday.
WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS:
• This smoker is for outdoor use only, and shall not be used in a building, garage or any other
enclosed area.
• For residential use only. This smoker is NOT for commercial use.
• Never use charcoal that has been pre-treated with lighter uid. Use only a high grade plain
charcoal, charcoal/wood mixture, lump charcoal or cooking wood. The conversion to or attempted
use of any other fuel source in this smoker is dangerous and will void your warranty.
• This smoker is not intended for and should never be used as a heater. TOXIC fumes can
accumulate and cause asphyxiation.
• DO NOT use smoker for indoor cooking. Toxic carbon monoxide fumes can accumulate and
cause asphyxiation.
• DO NOT operate, light or use this appliance within ten (10) feet (3.05 m) of walls, structures or
buildings. Do not use this appliance under any type of overhang or roof.
• Apartment Dwellers: Check with management to learn the requirements and re codes for using a
smoker in your apartment complex. If allowed, use outside on the ground oor with a ten (10) foot
(3.05 m) clearance from any structure. Do not use on or under balconies.
• DO NOT use gasoline, kerosene or alcohol for lighting.
• DO NOT use in an explosive atmosphere. Keep smoker area free and clear from combustible
materials, gasoline and other ammable vapors and liquids.
• DO NOT store or use gasoline or other ammable liquids or vapors within 25 feet (7.62 m) of
this appliance.
• DO NOT alter or modify smoker in any manner. Any modication or alteration will void your warranty.
• DO NOT use the smoker unless it is COMPLETELY assembled and all parts are securely fastened
and tightened.
• This smoker should be thoroughly cleaned and inspected on a regular basis. If smoker has not been
cleaned, a grease re can occur that may damage the product.
• Use only manufacturer’s factory authorized parts. The use of any part that is not factory authorized
can be dangerous and will void your warranty.
• DO NOT use this appliance without reading “Operating Instructions” in this manual.
• DO NOT touch metal parts of smoker until it has completely cooled (about 45 min.) to avoid burns,
unless you are wearing protective gear (pot holders, gloves, BBQ mittens, etc.).
• Never touch grates (charcoal or cooking), ashes or coals to see if they are hot.
• DO NOT use on wooden decks, wooden furniture or other combustible surfaces.
• Always place your smoker on a hard, non-combustible level surface. An asphalt or blacktop surface
may not be acceptable for this purpose.
• DO NOT use in or on boats or recreational vehicles.
• Position smoker so wind cannot carry ashes to combustible surfaces.
• DO NOT use in high winds.
• Never lean over the smoker when lighting.
• DO NOT leave a lit smoker unattended. Keep children and pets away from smoker at all times.
• DO NOT attempt to move smoker when in use. Allow the smoker to cool (about 45 min.) before
moving or storing.
SAFETY INFORMATION

5
• When cooking, re extinguishing materials shall be readily accessible. In the event of an oil/grease
re, do not attempt to extinguish with water. Use type BC dry chemical re extinguisher or smother
with dirt, sand or baking soda.
• Always open smoker lid carefully and slowly as heat and steam trapped within smoker can severely
burn you.
• DO NOT leave smoker unattended while preheating or burning off food residue. If smoker has not
been cleaned, a grease re can occur that may damage the product.
• DO NOT place empty cooking vessels on the appliance while in operation.
• Use caution when placing anything under or in the smoker while the appliance is in operation. Use
oven mitts or gloves to protect your hands, and avoid touching hot surfaces.
• Never add lighting uid to hot or even warm coals as ashback may occur causing serious injury or
damage to property.
• Always wear protective gloves when adding fuel (charcoal briquettes, wood or lump charcoal) to
retain desired heat level.
• DO NOT remove the ashes until they are completely and fully extinguished. Hot briquettes and
coals can create a re hazard.
• Always empty the ash pan and smoker after each use.
• DO NOT place fuel (charcoal briquettes, wood or lump charcoal) directly into bottom of smoker.
Place fuel only on the charcoal grate (Part No. 5, Pg 7).
• DO NOT allow charcoal to rest on the walls of smoker. Doing so will greatly reduce the life of the
metal and nish of your smoker.
• Check to make sure the air vents are free of debris and ash before using the smoker.
• Make sure charcoal grate is securely and completely in place before using the smoker.
• DO NOT move smoker while water bowl contains liquid.
• Always use the water bowl and ash pan designed for this smoker when using smoker.
• Use only authorized replacement parts supplied by manufacturer.
• Always keep a thin layer of water in ash pan to extinguish any falling ashes and embers.
• DO NOT allow water in water bowl to completely evaporate while smoker is in use. Check water
bowl at least every 2 hours and add water if level is low. Add water per “Adding Additional Water”
section in this manual (Pages 18-19).
• DO NOT remove water from water bowl once food is removed. Allow smoker to cool and water to
evaporate.
• Before smoker can be left unattended (after cooking is complete):
• Smoker must be cool.
• Remaining coals and ashes must be carefully removed and placed in a noncombustible
metal container and saturated with water.
• Allow saturated coals and ashes to remain in a noncombustible container and keep it
saturated with water for 24 hours prior to properly disposing.
• With a garden hose, completely wet the surface beneath and around smoker to extinguish
any ashes, coals or embers that may have fallen during the cooking or cleaning process.
• Extinguished coals and ashes should be placed a safe distance from all structures and
combustible materials.
• Keep all electrical cords away from a hot smoker.
SAFETY INFORMATION

6
SAFETY INFORMATION
• Always use a meat thermometer to ensure food is cooked to a safe temperature.
• Never cover entire cooking area with aluminum foil.
• Use protective gloves when assembling this product.
• Do not force parts together as this can result in personal injury or damage to the product.
• Use caution when lifting or moving cooled smoker to prevent strains and back injuries.
• Death, serious injury or damage to property may occur if the above is not followed exactly.
CALIFORNIA PROPOSITION 65:
• Combustion by-products produced when using this product contain chemicals known to the
state of California to cause cancer, birth defects, and other reproductive harm.
• Wash your hands after handling this product.
WARNING
CARBON MONOXIDE WARNING
• Burning wood chips gives off carbon monoxide, which has no odor and can cause death.
• DO NOT burn wood chips inside homes, vehicles, tents, garages or any enclosed areas.
• Use only outdoors in a well-ventilated space.

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PACKAGE CONTENTS
A
1
3
5
2
4
8
7
10
9
6
13 14
11
12
15
PART DESCRIPTION QUANTITY
9 Lid Handle & Left/Right
Side Handles 3
10 Upper Support Brackets 3
11 Water Bowl 1
12 Cooking Grate 2
13 Temp Gauge w/ Nut 1
14 Lid Assembly 1
15 Lid Damper Plate 1
16 Dyna-Glo Badge 1
PART DESCRIPTION QUANTITY
1 Lower Damper Plate (L/R) 2
2 Bottom Smoker Section 1
3 Smoker Body Latch 3
4 Ash Pan 1
5 Charcoal Grate 1
6 Lower Support Brackets 3
7 Middle Smoker Section 1
8 Access Door Assembly 1
16

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PREPARATION
HARDWARE CONTENTS
A B
M4 x 15 mm
Screw
Qty. 9
M4 Wingnut
Qty. 9
C D
M5 x 12 mm
Shoulder Screw
Qty. 4
M5 Wingnut
Qty. 18
E
M5 x 12 mm
Screw
Qty. 12
Before beginning assembly of product, make sure all parts are present. Compare parts with package
contents list and hardware contents list. If any part is missing or damaged, do not attempt to
assemble the product.
For Ease of Assembly:
• To avoid losing any small components or hardware, assemble your product on a hard level
surface that does not have cracks or openings.
• Clear an area large enough to lay out all components and hardware.
• When applicable, tighten all hardware connections by hand rst. Once the step is completed, go
back and fully tighten all hardware.
• Follow all steps in order to properly assemble your product.
Estimated Assembly Time: 30 minutes
Tools Required for Assembly (Not Included): No. 2 Phillips Head Screwdriver

9
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1
Step 2
1
2
2
4
3
5
Hardware Used
AM4 x 15 mm
Screw x 6
1
Parts Used
1Side Damper
Plate x 2
2Bottom Smoker
Section x 1
3Smoker Body
Latch x 3
BM4 Wingnut x 6
CM5 x 12 mm
Shoulder Screw x 4
DM5 Wingnut x 4
D
C
A
B
Parts Used
4Ash Pan x 1
5Charcoal Grate x 1

10
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
Step 3
Step 4
A
B
D
E
3
4
7
Hardware Used
EM5 x 12 mm
Screw x 4
Parts Used
7Middle Smoker
Section x 1
9Left/Right Side
Handles x 2
DM5 Wingnut x 4
9
Hardware Used
AM4 x 15 mm
Screw x 2
Parts Used
8Access Door
Assembly x 1
BM4 Wingnut x 2
8

11
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
Step 5
Step 6 6
10
E
6
5
Hardware Used
EM5 x 12 mm
Screw x 6
Parts Used
6Lower Support
Brackets x 3
10 Upper Support
Brackets x 3
DM5 Wingnut x 6
D
Fig. 1a
Fig. 1b
Place the smoker body onto the base.
To lock the smoker base:
Lift the lock lever upwards until the wire engages
on the lip of the smoker body. See Fig 1a.
To unlock the smoker base:
Lift lock upwards until the wire disengages from
the lip of the smoker body. See Fig 1b.
CAUTION:
• All transporting and storage should be done
when smoker is cool and with the fuel supply
removed.
• Always lock the smoker base before transporting.

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Step 7 7
13
14
ASSEMBLY INSTRUCTIONS
Hardware Used
AM4 x 15 mm
Screw x 1
Parts Used
13 Temp Gauge
w/ Nut x 1
14 Lid Assembly x 1
15 Lid Damper Plate x 1
BM4 Wingnut x 1
EM5 x 12 mm
Screw x 2
DM5 Wingnut x 4
9Lid Handle x 1
B
E
9
15
D
A
Step 8 8
12
11
Parts Used
11 Water Bowl x 1
12 Cooking Grate x 2
16 Dyna-Glo Badge x 1
16

13
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
.
This appliance is designed for use only with quality charcoal briquettes, lump charcoal and cooking
wood.
CAUTION:
• Never use charcoal that has been pre-treated with lighter uid. Use only a high grade plain
charcoal, charcoal/wood mixture, lump charcoal or cooking wood.
• Always place your smoker on a hard, non-combustible, level surface. An asphalt or blacktop
surface may not be acceptable for this purpose.
• Do not use on wooden decks, wooden furniture or other combustible surfaces.
• Position smoker so wind can not carry ashes to combustible surfaces.
• Position smoker to prevent smoke from entering house through open doors or windows.
• Do not use in high winds.
First Use
1. Make sure all labels, packaging and protective lms have been removed from the smoker.
2. Remove manufacturing oils before cooking on this smoker for the rst time:
a. Light smoker per “Lighting Instructions” section in this manual.
b. Operate smoker for at least 2 hours with the lid closed. This will “heat clean” the internal parts
and dissipate odors.
c. Do not touch the exterior of the smoker or open the lid during this process.
d. After the 2 hours, follow “Smoking Instructions” or “Grilling Instructions” sections in this manual.
3. Apply a protective coat:
a. Remove water bowl and charcoal grid from smoker.
b. Apply a light coat of vegetable oil or vegetable oil spray to all interior surfaces of smoker.
CAUTION:
• Do not apply vegetable oil to charcoal grid or charcoal pan.

14
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Lighting Instructions
CAUTION
• Do not apply vegetable oil to charcoal grate or ash pan.
• Check to make sure the air vents are free of debris and ash before using the smoker.
• Before each use check smoker for any damaged or loose parts. Tighten any loose parts and
replace any damaged parts before using smoker.
• Make sure ash pan is empty and securely and completely in place before using the smoker.
1. Remove lid, cooking grates, and water bowl. Set aside.
2. Make sure charcoal pan is empty and secure.
3. For grilling or smoking, start with approximately 30 standard charcoal briquettes (1.6 lbs / 0.7 kgs).
Colder climates may require more charcoal. DO NOT FILL PAST THE TOP OF THE PAN.
(Figure 1, Page 15)
4. Light per instructions on fuel package.
5. TIP: Wood chips may be used with charcoal, during the cooking process. Prior to adding
wood chips, allow the charcoal to burn until covered with a light ash. To add wood chips
before cooking, wrap the desired amount of wood chips in aluminum foil and place directly onto
the charcoal. Poke holes on the top of the foil wrapping to allow smoke to escape. Wood chips
can also be placed directly onto the charcoal without aluminum foil, but the height of the wood
chips should not exceed the height of the ash pan. The bottom of the water bowl should not touch
the wood chips or charcoal during use. If the fuel level is too high, remove the water bowl with
heat-resistant gloves and; while wearing the gloves, use metal tongs to spread the top layer of
fuel evenly across the ash pan. The amount and type of wood you use is entirely dependent on
the desired amount of avor. Always follow the instructions on the avored wood packaging prior
to use.
CAUTION
• When using a liquid starter always check ash pan before lighting. Fluid can collect in the ash pan
and could ignite resulting in a re below the pan.
• Never add lighting uid to hot or even warm coals as ashback may occur causing serious injury
or damage to property.

15
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
• Never add lighting uid to hot or even warm
coals as ashback may occur causing serious
injury or damage to property.
Smoking Instructions
1. Place charcoal briquettes or other solid fuel on
charcoal grate (Figure 1) and light per "Lighting
Instructions" in this manual.
2. While wearing heat resistant gloves, carefully
place water bowl on lower support brackets.
(Figure 2)
3. While wearing heat resistant gloves, carefully ll
water bowl to approximately 1 in. (2.54 cm)
below the water bowl rim. (Figure 3).
Do not ll past “Max Fill Line”.
Note: Water bowl holds 2 quarts of liquid and
will last about 2 – 3 hours when smoker is in
use.
4. While wearing heat resistant gloves, carefully
remove the smoker lid. Make sure to open the
lid away from you. This will allow the steam to
escape away from you.
5. While wearing heat resistant gloves, carefully
place cooking grate on the lower bracket
supports. (Figure 4).
6. While wearing heat resistant gloves, carefully
place food in a single layer and space it evenly
on the lower cooking grate.
7. While wearing heat resistant gloves, carefully
place 2nd cooking grate on upper support
brackets. (Figure 4).
8. While wearing heat resistant gloves, carefully
place the food in a single layer and space it
evenly on the upper cooking grate.
9. While wearing heat resistant gloves, carefully
place lid on smoker.
10. Check water level per “Adding Additional
Water” and charcoal per “Adding Additional
Charcoal/Flavored Wood” section in this manual.
CAUTION:
• Always use a meat thermometer to ensure food
is cooked to a safe temperature.
1"
(2.4 cm)
Figure 4
Figure 1
Figure 2
Figure 3
Figure 4

16
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Grilling Instructions
Option 1 - Grill: Direct Cooking
CAUTION
• Always check to make sure the smoker/grill is free of debris and ash before using it. Always use a
meat thermometer to ensure food is cooked to a safe temperature.
Cooking directly over hot coals is ideal for searing in juices and grilling food requiring less than 25
minutes of grilling time, such as steaks, hamburgers, hot dogs, chicken parts, vegetables and fruit.
1. Remove lid, cooking grates and water bowl. Set aside.
2. Unlock and remove smoker body. Set aside.
3. Make sure ash pan is empty and secure.
4. Start with approximately 30 standard charcoal briquettes (1.6 lbs / 0.7 kgs). Colder climates
may require more charcoal. DO NOT FILL PAST THE TOP OF THE PAN. (Figure 1, Page 15)
5. Light per instructions on fuel package. Leave lid off.
6. Allow fuel to burn into glowing coals before cooking.
7. While wearing protective gloves, carefully remove the smoker lid. Make sure to open the lid
away from you. This will allow the steam to escape away from you.
8. While wearing protective gloves, carefully spread hot coals evenly around charcoal grate with
a long handled tool.
9. While wearing protective gloves place grate on the lower support brackets, place lid and allow
grill to preheat.
10. While wearing protective gloves open lid and place food onto cooking grate above the hot
coals with long handled tongs.
11. Allow charcoal to burn out by closing the lid, side access door and all dampers. Except in the
case of an emergency, do NOT pour water on hot coals.
WARNING:
• Never add lighting uid to hot or even warm coals as ashback may occur causing serious injury or
damage to property.
CAUTION:
• When using a liquid starter always check ash pan before lighting. Fluid can collect in the ash pan
and could ignite resulting in a re below the pan.

17
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Option 2 - Grill: Indirect Cooking
CAUTION:
• Check to make sure the smoker/grill is free of debris and ash before using the grill.
Not cooking directly over hot coals is ideal for slow cooking and grilling foods requiring more than 25
minutes such as most roasts, loins, chops, whole chickens, turkey, sh and baked goods.
1. Remove lid, grate and water bowl. Set aside.
2. Unlock and remove smoker body. Set aside.
3. Make sure ash pan is empty and secure.
4. Arrange charcoal briquettes and/or wood on the left or right side of charcoal grate.
5. Light per instructions on fuel package. Leave lid open.
6. Allow fuel to burn into glowing coals before cooking.
7. While wearing protective gloves, carefully remove the smoker lid. Make sure to open the lid
away from you. This will allow the steam to escape away from you.
8. While wearing protective gloves, carefully spread hot coals to the outsides of charcoal grate
with a long handled tool.
9. While wearing protective gloves place cooking grate on lower support brackets, close lid and
allow grill to preheat.
10. While wearing protective gloves open lid and use long handled metal tongs to place food on
the cooking grate. For best results, do not place food directly over the briquettes or
avoring wood.
11. With lid open or closed, cook until desired internal food temperatures are achieved.
12. Allow charcoal to burn out by closing lid, side access door and all vents. Except in the case of
an emergency, do NOT pour water on hot coals.
CAUTION:
• When using a liquid starter always check ash pan before lighting. Fluid can collect in the
ash pan and could ignite resulting in a re below the pan.
• Never add lighting uid to hot or even warm coals as ashback may occur causing serious injury or
damage to property.
Adding Additional Charcoal/Flavored Wood
1. Remove food from cooking grate.
2. While wearing protective gloves, remove the cooking grate.
3. Place additional briquettes
without disturbing the hot coals.
4. Carefully replace cooking grate and food.
WARNING:
• Never add lighting uid to hot or even warm coals as ashback may occur causing serious injury or
damage to property.
CAUTION:
• Never use charcoal that has been pre-treated with lighter uid. Use only a high grade plain
charcoal, charcoal/wood mixture, lump charcoal or cooking wood.
• Open lid slowly as are-up can occur when fresh air suddenly comes in contact with the re.

18
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
1. While wearing protective gloves, carefully remove the smoker lid. Make sure to open the lid away
from you. This will allow the steam to escape away from you.
2. Using as smoker:
a. While wearing protective gloves, carefully open side access door. Make sure to open the
door away from you. This will allow the steam to escape away from you.
b. While wearing protective gloves and using long cooking tongs, lightly brush off ashes from
hot coals.
c. While wearing protective gloves and using long cooking tongs, carefully add more
charcoal or avoring wood onto charcoal grate, through the door.
d. Once the new charcoal or avoring wood is burning strong, close the door and replace the
lid on smoker.
Using as direct or indirect grill:
a. While wearing protective gloves and using long cooking tongs, remove food and
cooking grate.
b. While wearing protective gloves and using long cooking tongs, lightly brush off ashes from
hot coals.
c. While wearing protective gloves and using long cooking tongs, carefully add more
charcoal or avoring wood onto charcoal grate.
d. Once the new charcoal or avoring wood is burning strong, replace the cooking grate, food,
and lid on grill.
Adding Additional Water
While using the smoker, check water level at least every 2 hours. If water is needed it can be added
through top of the smoker or through the smoker side access door. See instructions below.
Note: Low water level can be detected by listening for the sound of water sizzling.
Adding Water Option 1 - Through Top of Smoker
CAUTION:
• Open lid slowly as are-up can occur when fresh air suddenly comes in contact with the re.
1. While wearing protective gloves, carefully remove the smoker lid. Make sure to open the lid away
from you. This will allow the steam to escape away from you.
2. Determine water level in water bowl:
a. If water is needed continue to step 3.
b. If water is not needed, replace lid on smoker.
3. Adding water while only using the upper cooking grate:
a. While wearing protective gloves and using long cooking tongs, slide food over to one side
of cooking grate.
b. Carefully rell the water bowl to approximately 1 inch (2.54 cm) below the water bowl rim.
(Figure 3, p. 15). Do not overll water bowl.
CAUTION:
• Stand to side of smoker

19
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Adding Water Option 1 - Through Top of Smoker (cont.)
c. Move food back to the proper location.
d. Replace lid on smoker.
Adding water while using the upper and lower cooking grate:
a. While wearing protective gloves and using long cooking tongs, remove food and upper
cooking grate.
b. While wearing protective gloves and using long cooking tongs, slide food over to one side
of lower cooking grate.
c. Carefully rell the water bowl to approximately 1 inch (2.54 cm) below the water bowl rim.
(Figure 3, p. 15). Do not overll water bowl.
CAUTION:
• Stand to side of smoker and use extreme caution while pouring water as it may turn
directly to steam.
d. Move food back to the proper location on lower cooking grate.
e. Replace upper cooking grate and food.
f. Replace lid on smoker.
Adding Water Option 2 - Through Side of Smoker
CAUTION:
• Open lid slowly as are-up can occur when fresh air suddenly comes in contact with the re.
1. While wearing protective gloves, carefully open the smoker side access door. Make sure to stand
on the opposite side of door opening. This will allow the steam to escape away from you.
2. Determine water level in water bowl:
a. If water is needed continue to step 3.
b. If water is not needed, close side access door on smoker.
3. Using a funnel or a container with a spout, carefully rell the water bowl to approximately 1 inch
(2.54 cm) below the water bowl rim. (Figure 3, p. 15). Do not overll water bowl.
CAUTION:
• Stand to side of smoker and use extreme caution while pouring water as it may turn directly to steam.
4. Close side door on smoker.

20
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
Tips for Better Cookouts and Longer Smoker Life
1. There is very little difference in temperature and cooking times between the upper and lower
cooking grid. The food that requires the least amount of cooking time should be placed on the
upper cooking grid.
2. To get the best results with your smoker, remember to keep the water bowl lled with water or other
liquids, keep your charcoal hot and keep the lid closed. If using fruit juices or other marinade,
consider lining the water bowl with tin foil to prevent scorching the water bowl during the cooking
process.
3. To reduce are-ups, keep smoker clean, use lean cuts of meat (or trim fat) and avoid cooking on
very high temperatures.
4. Place delicate foods like sh and vegetables in aluminum foil pouches and indirect cook or place
on upper cooking levels.
5. To avoid losing natural juices, use long handled tongs or spatulas instead of forks and turn foods
over just once during cooking.
6. When indirect cooking roasts and larger cuts of meat, place meat onto a roasting rack inside a
heavy gauge metal pan.
7. Allow smoker to fully cool after every use.
8. Clean cooking grates and racks after every use with a quality smoker brush designed for your grate
material. Wear protective gloves and gently remove the build-up while grates are hot.
9. Then protect clean cooking grates with a light coat of cooking oil, clean out all ashes, wipe outside
surfaces with a suitable kitchen cleaner and protect surfaces with a quality cover that properly ts
your smoker.
Controlling Flare-ups:
WARNING:
• Do not use water on a oil/grease re. This can cause the grease to splatter and could result in
serious burns, bodily harm or other damage.
CAUTION:
• Do not leave smoker unattended while preheating, cooling or burning off food residue. If smoker had
not been cleaned, an oil/grease re can occur that may damage the product.
• When cooling, re extinguishing materials shall be readily accessible. In the event of an oil/grease
re, do not attempt to extinguish with water. Use type BC dry chemical re extinguisher or smother
with dirt, sand or baking soda.
• Flare-ups are a part of cooking meats on a smoker and add to the unique avor of smoking.
• Excessive are-ups can over-cook your food and cause a dangerous situation for you and your
smoker.
• Excessive are-ups result from the build-up of grease in the bottom of your smoker.
• If excessive are-ups occur, DO NOT pour water onto the ames.
• If grease re occurs, close the lid until the grease burns out. Use caution when opening the lid as
sudden are-ups may occur.
Minimize Flare-ups:
1. Trim excess fat from meats prior to cooking.
2. Ensure that your smoker is on a hard, level, non-combustible surface.