Powering a Masterbuilt 30" smoker from a light socket adapter?

[aftaylor87]

Title says it all...I'm looking to buy a Masterbuilt 30" smoker for my apartment patio, but there's no outdoor outlet - only a lightbulb.  Is it possible to run the smoker out of an extension cord coming from a light socket power adapter, or is that asking too much?

Thanks!

 

[s2k9k]

I think it's a bad idea. The wires on the light fixture that attached it to the Apt. wiring are probably only 18 or 16 gauge which is way to small to carry the current load of the MES.
Anytime you use too small of a wire on a higher current load you are risking a fire.

 

[chef jimmyj]

I was in the same situation. Since Electric Grills or Smokers are optional but the tenants responsibility, I contacted Management and they arranged for a new weather proof GFI outlet on the second floor deck at my expense. Took the Electrician 1 hour and for $126 dollars I was up and running...JJ

 

[aftaylor87]

 
I was in the same situation. Since Electric Grills or Smokers are optional but the tenants responsibility, I contacted Management and they arranged for a new weather proof GFI outlet on the second floor deck at my expense. Took the Electrician 1 hour and for $126 dollars I was up and running...JJ

Not a bad idea; I'll try to see if I can pitch it to them as a capital improvement :) Thanks

 

[chuck41]

Lots of luck on that "capital improvement" thing.  Don't know of many landlords that would buy that one, but nothing ventured, nothing gained.

 

[chef jimmyj]

Under no circumstances use the light. Another option is to use a 12/3 AWG Outdoor Extension Cord, shorter the better. A 25 foot cord is of sufficient size to handle the Wattage of the MES30 and you will be plugging in to a grounded outlet...JJ

 

[chuck41]

I have a 2000 watt smoke machine that I use in a local theater production with a 100' heavy duty extension cord. That is about twice the current drain, but it is intermittent, not continuous as with a cooker. It is a heavy duty outdoor 12/3 AWG as Chef Jimmy J recommended and works just fine so that gauge should work for you as well.  Had a smaller gauge one and it did get a bit warm to the touch which is certainly not good for your unit or for safety. Your unit uses about 9 Amps so a cord rated for 10 to 12 Amps should work fine.