If your electric smoker is heating up but not producing smoke, don’t panic.
In most cases, it’s not broken.
An electric smoker not producing smoke is usually caused by:
- Temperature set too low
- Soaked wood chips
- Poor airflow
- Overfilled chip tray
- Cold UK weather conditions
Let’s diagnose it properly.
First: Is It Actually Hot Enough?
Electric smokers need sufficient temperature before wood chips ignite.
Wood chips begin smoking at around 260°C (500°F) surface temperature.
If your smoker is set below 110°C (225°F), the chip tray may never get hot enough.
Quick Fix:
Set your smoker to 120–130°C for 10–15 minutes to kick-start ignition.
Once smoke begins, reduce to cooking temperature.
Wood Chips Not Igniting Properly
This is the most common cause.
❌ Mistake 1: Soaking Wood Chips
Electric smokers do NOT require soaked chips.
Soaking delays ignition and creates steam instead of smoke.
❌ Mistake 2: Overfilling the Tray
Too many chips restrict airflow.
Use a thin, even layer instead.
❌ Mistake 3: Using Large Chunks
Large wood chunks take longer to ignite.
Standard chips work better in electric models.
UK Weather Can Delay Smoke Production
If you’re smoking outside in winter:
- Cold air absorbs heat
- Wind reduces chamber temperature
- Damp air slows combustion
In colder UK conditions, it can take 45–60 minutes before consistent smoke appears.
Consider:
- Shielding from wind
- Allowing longer preheat time
- Starting at higher temperature briefly
Check the Heating Element
If your smoker isn’t producing smoke AND isn’t heating properly:
- Inspect the heating element
- Check power supply
- Look for damaged wiring
- Ensure the chip tray sits directly above the element
If the smoker heats but chips don’t smoke, airflow or chip loading is the likely issue.
Airflow Problems
Electric smokers still need oxygen.
If the vent is fully closed:
- Smoke cannot circulate
- Chips may smoulder poorly
- Combustion is restricted
Open the top vent slightly during startup.
What Good Smoke Should Look Like
You want:
- Thin blue smoke
- Light, steady flow
- Clean smell
You do NOT want:
- Thick white clouds
- Bitter odour
- Billowing steam
Electric smokers are designed for controlled, subtle smoke.
When to Add Food
Wait until:
- Smoke is steady
- Temperature is stable
- At least 20–30 minutes preheat has passed
Adding food too early can reduce chamber temperature and delay smoke further.
Quick Troubleshooting Checklist
If your electric smoker is not producing smoke:
- Increase temperature temporarily
- Remove soaked chips
- Reduce chip quantity
- Open vent slightly
- Check heating element
In 90% of cases, one of these fixes solves the issue.
Why is my electric smoker not producing smoke?
Most commonly due to low temperature, soaked wood chips, restricted airflow, or cold weather conditions.
How long should it take for an electric smoker to start smoking?
Typically 20–45 minutes, up to 60 minutes in cold UK weather.
Should I soak wood chips in an electric smoker?
No. Soaking delays ignition and reduces smoke efficiency.
Does cold weather affect electric smokers?
Yes. Cold air increases preheat time and slows wood chip ignition.
Final Answer
An electric smoker not producing smoke is rarely a serious fault.
Most problems are caused by:
- Low startup temperature
- Incorrect wood chip use
- Cold outdoor conditions
Allow proper preheat time, use dry chips, and ensure airflow — and smoke should begin within 20–45 minutes.
Further reading
