test burning in homemade reverse flow

[thahorrah]

As in test burning today it seems that I'm having to add a few, 4-5, chunks of wood 2-3 times an hour to a bed of coals to maintain around a 225 degree temperature. Does this seem about right?

 

[lendecatural]

How big is the smoker? Are those chunks split firewood? Did you have a thread on here when you built the smoker that can be used for reference? 

 

[thahorrah]

http://www.smokingmeatforums.com/t/161765/my-build#post_1171335

That is the link to my build. I'm using 1.75 - 2.5 inch cubes added toa bed of charcoal coals

 

[lendecatural]

That sounds about right for that size of wood chunks into a firebox that isn't insulated. Your box isn't inset to the cook chamber like some but that isn't bad overall. You could use larger chunks of wood to cut that down.

 

[daveomak]

http://www.smokingmeatforums.com/t/161765/my-build#post_1171335

That is the link to my build. I'm using 1.75 - 2.5 inch cubes added toa bed of charcoal coals

You can also add more charcoals.... Lit or unlit.... but you will have to keep an eye on the temp if adding lit charcoal....

 

[thahorrah]

It seems that I get more great out of wood. Basically it's more a matter of keeping a real close eye on it it seems. Also, would more of a split firewood approach as opposed to small chunks be a better approach?

 

[daveomak]

Yes.... splits 2" or 3" across and 12-14" long work very well.... make sure they are dry aged.... and preheat them.... some folks will stack them on top or under the FB to warm and dry more.... I have even seen folks put the splits on the food rack in the smoker.... If your FB is large enough, and there is room on the side of the fire.... place one or 2 in there.... move to the fire and place another in there to preheat.... they seem to burn better and produce less "WHITE" smoke when preheated....

Dave