What am I doing wrong with temperatures

BigBobBBQ

In the last few months I have struggled with getting my large egg much over 350 degrees for steaks.  I am using natural charcoal.  I am using two wax lighting squares.  I have the bottom opening about at 1 inch.  I have the main top vent at 1/2 inch and the round circle set so all the openings are open.  What am I missing?

SMITTYtheSMOKER

BigBobBBQ said:

.  What am I missing?

Air flow...you need more of it.   Open that thing up!

nolaegghead

For searing you don't even need the daisy wheel on top.  Take it off.  Open the bottom damper up all the way.  When you get up to the temp you want, you can damp it back. 

If you're not getting there with everything open, you're probably not getting enough airflow through the grate and lump.  That means it's time to clean it - too much ash or tiny lump/dust clogging up the system.

lousubcap

Don't know your desired steak cooking method-below link will offer a few, but the whole deal with the BGE is fuel and (as mentioned above) air-flow.  So, should you decide you want to go the sear route-do it with the dome open and a serious fire with your lump-then to finish, shut the dome and dial in around 400*F on the dome.  Please do NOT shut all vents and let the temp drop-this "dwell" technique will turn any well-meaning cook down a dirt road.  FWIW-

http://www.nakedwhiz.com/recipes2.htm#beef  Enjoy the journey!

 

Brownie

Great advice from others, and like nola said, maybe its time to remove some ash.