TEMP CONTROL

[JoeBara]

Does anyone have a rheostat that they would recommend to use with a heating element. The temp in my smoker is too hot and would like a way to adjust it.

 

[motocrash]

Joe,you should ask this in the electric smokers section for better results.
Bill

 

[johnmeyer]

A true rheostat is probably not what you want. Any high powered light dimmer (for loads at least as large as your heating element wattage) will do. They use a triac, but your heating element will be quite happy with the chopped electrical waveform they produce. Don't use it if the over or smoker controls will also be using the modified power.

 

[old sarge]

Here is a link to a company that makes high quality controllers. Look for the bulb and capillary unit. Simple and reliable. You can also get a protective sleeve to fit over the temperature sensor to protect it. Lots of other option here as well. Any questions and the folks at Tempo can and will answer to get you the right item.
http://www.tempco.com/controls/Temperature_Control_hub.htm