Temp control

MLBguru8

Hi everyone.. I've had my large egg for over a year now but lately I can't seem to get the temp to settle at anything below 300*. I used to be able to hold 225-250 with no issues. The only change has been a new top vent. I got the smokeware vent. It's installed and seated properly. Right now it's at 315* with the lower open about 1/8 and the top basically closed.

where am I going wrong? dumb question, but will direct sunlight alter the temps at all?

stlcharcoal

Only thing that can result in higher temps is the oxygen.....it's getting it somewhere.  Check your base for cracks and the gasket for leaks.

Battleborn

You have air getting in somewhere. Check the main gasket. I can’t help with stoneware cap, I’ve had the daisy wheel since I got it. Direct sunlight and ambient temperatures don’t really affect it. Mine sits in direct Las Vegas sunlight and my vent settings are consistent. 

Dondgc

since the only thing that changed is the top vent - why not eliminate that variable and put the old vent on for a cook? 

lkapigian

All of the above , but check your calibration first 

MLBguru8

Dondgc said:

since the only thing that changed is the top vent - why not eliminate that variable and put the old vent on for a cook? 

Doing that with this cook currently. No change. 

I’ve completely closed the bottom vent to see if the temp hold. I assume if that happens then air is getting in somewhere else. 

Acn

Agree with all above but will also ask when was the last time you checked your thermometer.  You could also be getting an incorrect reading.

MLBguru8

Acn said:

Agree with all above but will also ask when was the last time you checked your thermometer.  You could also be getting an incorrect reading.

Checked it last cook and adjusted, so that’s good. Also use a thermapro digital both on the grate and in the meat. 

Dondgc

@lkapigian has a great point about checking the thermometer. You can pull it out and do that while you’re cooking. 

fishlessman

check the silicone seal around the lower vent but if you want a lower temp set the lower vent under 1/16 and see if that works, mine is even less than that for 225 dome temps

lousubcap

Unrelated but welcome aboard and enjoy the journey.  Above all, have fun.  

Mark_B_Good

It's all been said above, but if you need it for additional moral support, air is getting in somewhere, find out how, and you will have solved this problem.

stlcharcoal

It's not the cap.....it's getting O2.  Leaky seal or a crack in the base

YukonRon

Check your base for cracks. That is too 3 for temp control. I struggled with mine for a month before checking it out.

dstearn

Is there any smoke leading out between the dome and base? Could be the gasket or an alignment issue or both.