Smokers Buying Guide (2026): What Matters and 8 Picks
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Choosing the right smoker depends on your space, fuel preference, and desired control level. This smoker buying guide helps you navigate those variables with clarity. You will decide between charcoal, gas, or pellet options based on how you plan to use the equipment. The list covers eight distinct products selected strictly from their published specifications. We compare features like cooking capacity, material thickness, and control mechanisms to match your specific needs.
You can identify which unit fits your patio size or backyard layout. The recommendations focus on practical attributes such as weight, dimensions, and fuel type. You will see how each model handles heat distribution and maintenance. This approach ensures you select a smoker that aligns with your cooking style rather than marketing claims. The guide walks you through these technical details so you can make an informed choice without guesswork.
Our top pick: Camp Chef 20 lb Apple Hardwood Pellets.
What to Look for in a Smoker
Fuel Type and Flavor
Fuel determines the smoke profile and heat source. Charcoal offers traditional flavor but requires manual management. Gas provides quick heat and convenience but less smoke. Pellets deliver wood-fired taste with automated control. You must choose based on whether you prioritize flavor depth or cooking ease. For example, the Camp Chef Apple Pellets provide a distinct fruit wood smoke for those seeking natural flavor. Consider how often you want to tend the fire versus letting a digital system handle the burn.
- Charcoal, gas, or pellet compatibility
- Wood pellet size and burn rate
- Fuel storage requirements
Cooking Capacity and Size
Capacity dictates how much food you can prepare at once. Small units suit individuals or couples, while large offset smokers serve crowds. Measure your available space before buying. The Sophia & William 941 sq. in. unit fits large gatherings, whereas the 17-inch vertical smoker suits small patios. Check the cooking area dimensions and overall footprint. Ensure the smoker fits your deck or patio without obstructing movement. Larger units also retain heat better but take longer to preheat.
- Total square inches of cooking area
- Overall height, width, and depth
- Weight for portability or stability
Form Factor and Design
The shape affects airflow and heat distribution. Kettle smokers offer simple, compact designs for basic smoking. Offset smokers provide a separate firebox for indirect heat, ideal for traditionalists. Vertical smokers stack food vertically to save floor space. The Char-Griller 22-inch Kettle fits small spaces well. The Char-Griller Smokin Pro offers a classic offset layout. Choose a design that matches your cooking style. Offset smokers require more skill, while vertical units are easier to manage for beginners.
- Kettle, offset, or vertical style
- Firebox placement and separation
- Stacking or side-by-side layout
Construction Material and Durability
Material impacts heat retention and longevity. Steel is common but may rust if not maintained. Thicker gauge steel holds heat better and lasts longer. The Char-Griller Smokin Pro uses steel for durability. Check the material thickness if specified. Paint quality also matters for weather resistance. Black finishes hide soot but may fade. Ensure the unit has adequate ventilation holes for airflow control. Proper material choice reduces the need for frequent replacements and improves smoke quality over time.
- Steel gauge or material thickness
- Rust-resistant coating or paint
- Ventilation hole placement and size
Control and Automation Level
Control systems vary from manual dampers to digital controllers. Manual smokers require you to adjust vents and add fuel. Digital units automate fan speed and pellet feed. The Masterbuilt Gravity Series uses digital control for precision. The COMVIEE switch kits restore this functionality for repairs. Decide if you want hands-on management or set-and-forget convenience. Digital controls offer consistency but rely on electronics. Manual controls offer reliability but demand attention. Match the control type to your desired involvement level.
- Manual vents or digital controllers
- Fan and auger compatibility
- Temperature sensor accuracy
Special Features and Accessories
Features like side burners, warming racks, and wheels add utility. The Char-Griller Texas Trio includes a side burner for extra cooking space. Warming racks keep food hot without overcooking. Wheels aid mobility for large units. The Sophia & William vertical smoker includes a handle for portability. Evaluate which features you actually need. Extra features increase cost and complexity. Simple designs are easier to clean and maintain. Ensure accessories fit your cooking habits and space constraints.
- Side burner or prep shelf inclusion
- Warming rack presence and size
- Mobility wheels or handles
Compatibility and Replacement Parts
Check if parts are available for your chosen model. The COMVIEE kits show that specific switches and fans are replaceable. This extends the life of digital smokers. Ensure replacement sensors and fans are accessible. The Masterbuilt Gravity Series requires specific kits for repair. Avoid models with proprietary parts that are hard to find. Verify compatibility before purchasing accessories or repairs. This ensures long-term usability and reduces downtime when components fail.
- Available replacement sensors or fans
- Proprietary vs. standard parts
- Manufacturer support for repairs
Types of Smokers and Accessories
Pellet Smokers
Pellet smokers use hardwood fuel to create consistent heat and smoke. Camp Chef offers 20-pound apple pellets for this purpose. The pellets are 22 inches long and fit standard hoppers. You get natural wood flavor without manual fire management. This option suits those who want set-and-forget convenience. The trade-off is reliance on electricity for the auger and fan. You must ensure your grill is compatible with standard pellet sizes for proper operation.
Charcoal Smokers
Charcoal smokers provide traditional smoke flavor through manual heat control. Char-Griller makes 22-inch kettle and offset models for this style. The offset smoker weighs 115 pounds and offers extra-large capacity. You manage temperature via vents and airflow. This suits purists who enjoy the process of fire management. The trade-off is the need for active monitoring and ash cleanup. You must maintain steady airflow to keep temperatures stable during long cooks.
Gas Charcoal Combos
Dual-fuel grills combine gas speed with charcoal smoking. The Char-Griller Texas Trio features three burners and a charcoal chamber. It weighs 202 pounds and measures 75.6 inches wide. You get high heat output and flexible cooking options. This suits large families or those hosting big gatherings. The trade-off is significant weight and space requirements. You must clean both the gas grates and the charcoal tray separately after use.
Vertical Smokers
Vertical charcoal smokers save space with a tall, narrow design. Sophia & William makes a 17-inch model weighing 23.3 pounds. It stands 31.5 inches tall with a 21.7-inch width. You stack meat vertically for efficient smoke circulation. This suits small patios or tailgating where space is limited. The trade-off is reduced total cooking capacity compared to horizontal units. You must arrange food carefully to avoid blocking airflow between racks.
Replacement Parts
Digital smokers require specific components for reliable operation. COMVIEE sells switch and fan kits for Masterbuilt Gravity Series models. The switch kit weighs 1.45 ounces and fits the hopper door. The fan kit restores digital control functions. You buy these to repair faulty sensors or motors. This suits owners of gravity-fed smokers needing maintenance. The trade-off is that these are not standalone appliances. You must verify your specific model number before purchasing.
Common Smoker Buying Mistakes
Ignoring BTU output for heat recovery
Low BTU ratings mean slow heat recovery after opening the lid. This causes temperature drops that extend cook times and dry out meat. Check the manufacturer’s BTU specs to ensure the unit can maintain steady heat during active cooking sessions without constant refueling.
Overlooking hopper capacity for long cooks
A small pellet hopper forces you to refill it during long smoking sessions. This interrupts the cooking process and risks temperature fluctuations. Select a model with a large enough hopper to hold enough fuel for your longest planned cook without requiring mid-cycle refills.
Neglecting cooking surface area needs
Buying a smoker with insufficient grate space limits how much food you can prepare at once. You may need to cook in multiple batches, which increases total time and energy use. Measure the square inches of cooking space to match your typical batch sizes.
Assuming all smokers handle high heat
Many smokers are designed for low-and-slow smoking and cannot reach searing temperatures. If you want to sear steaks or roast vegetables, verify the maximum temperature rating. Choose a unit that explicitly supports high-heat cooking if you plan to use it for grilling as well.
Forgetting about outdoor space requirements
Smokers require clearance for ventilation and safe operation. Placing a large unit in a tight patio space can create fire hazards and restrict airflow. Measure your available outdoor area carefully to ensure the smoker fits with adequate clearance for doors and heat dissipation.
Quick picks
Our 8 picks
Camp Chef 20 lb Apple Hardwood Pellets
Best for: smoking with natural apple wood flavor
- Application
- Camping
- Dimensions
- 22 × 15 × 3 inches
- Weight
- 20 pounds
You get 20 pounds of 100% all-natural hardwood pellets for smoking and grilling. The ultra-low moisture content ensures clean burning without added oils or flavors. Made in the USA, these virgin hardwood pellets fit most pellet grills, including Camp Chef, Traeger, and Green Mountain models. The apple wood variety adds a distinct fruity flavor profile to your barbecue.
Pros
- 100% all-natural premium hardwood food grade pellets
- Ultra-low moisture content with no added oils or flavors
- Clean burning virgin hardwood with no fillers
- Compatible with Camp Chef, Traeger, and Green Mountain grills
Cons
- Single 20 lb bag size limits bulk purchasing options
- Specific apple wood flavor may not suit all taste preferences
- Consumable fuel requires regular restocking
Good fit if
- You want a fruity flavor for pork or poultry
- You prefer clean burning pellets without added flavors
- You use a compatible pellet grill or smoker
Skip if
- You need a reusable cooking appliance
- You prefer charcoal or gas fuel sources
- You want a larger 50 lb bag option
Verdict: Camp Chef Orchard Apple BBQ Pellets deliver clean, flavorful smoke for compatible grills. You should buy them if you value all-natural hardwood fuel and a distinct apple wood taste.
COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Switch Kit
Best for: repairing Masterbuilt Gravity Series hopper switches
- Fuel Type
- Charcoal
- Compatible Appliance
- Smoker
- Control Type
- Digital
- Weight
- 1.45 ounces
View on Amazon: COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Switch Kit
This replacement kit restores function to Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560, 800, and 1050 charcoal smokers. It includes a hopper lid/door switch, wire, and mounting screws. The part is rated for 250V AC at 2A and holds CE/ETL approval. It weighs just 1.45 ounces. You should use this kit if your digital charcoal grill’s hopper door sensor has failed. It is a direct fit for specific Masterbuilt models and not compatible with Char-Griller units.
Pros
- Compatible with Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560, 800, and 1050 models
- CE/ETL approved for safe operation at 250V AC
- Includes switch, wire, and mounting screws for installation
- Lightweight design at 1.45 ounces
Cons
- Only replaces the hopper lid/door switch, not the entire controller
- Not compatible with Char-Griller Gravity Fed 980 grills
- Requires manual screw installation by the user
Good fit if
- You own a Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560, 800, or 1050 smoker
- You need to replace a faulty hopper door sensor
- You want a CE/ETL approved replacement part
Skip if
- You have a Char-Griller Gravity Fed 980 grill
- You need a complete digital controller replacement
- You prefer a wireless smart upgrade
Verdict: COMVIEe Hopper Switch Kit fixes broken hopper sensors on compatible Masterbuilt Gravity Series smokers. You should buy it if your 560, 800, or 1050 model has a faulty door switch and you need a direct, approved replacement.
Char-Griller 22-Inch Steel Kettle Charcoal Smoker
Best for: compact charcoal smoking
- Cooking Area
- 363 sq. in.
- Fuel Type
- Charcoal
- Form Factor
- Kettle
- Control Type
- Adjustable top and bottom dampers
- Material
- Steel
- Compatible Appliance
- Smoker
View on Amazon: Char-Griller 22-Inch Steel Kettle Charcoal Smoker
The Char-Griller CG30040725 is a 22-inch kettle charcoal grill and smoker. It offers 363 square inches of cooking space. The steel body features a porcelain-coated lid and body for heat retention. You control temperature with adjustable top and bottom dampers. The unit weighs 22.3 pounds and measures 26 by 23 by 38 inches. It includes an EasyDump ash pan for cleanup.
Pros
- 363 sq. in. cooking area
- Adjustable top and bottom dampers
- Porcelain-coated steel construction
- EasyDump ash pan included
Cons
- No temperature gauge listed
- No side shelf or warming rack
- Manual airflow control only
Good fit if
- You want a classic kettle design
- You prefer charcoal fuel
- You need easy ash cleanup
Skip if
- You need precise digital temperature control
- You require a large cooking surface
- You prefer gas or pellet fuel
Verdict: Char-Griller 22-inch Kettle Smoker fits you if you want a compact charcoal grill with manual heat control and simple cleanup. It suits small spaces and basic smoking needs.
Char-Griller Texas Trio 3-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill
Best for: High-capacity dual-fuel outdoor cooking
- Cooking Area
- 1,390 sq. in.
- Fuel Type
- Gas and Charcoal
- Form Factor
- Offset
- Features
- Side Burner
- Compatible Appliance
- Smoker
- Dimensions
- 32 × 75.6 × 49.1 inches
View on Amazon: Char-Griller Texas Trio 3-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill
The Char-Griller Texas Trio combines gas and charcoal cooking in one unit. It offers 1,390 square inches of total cooking space across its main grates and side firebox. The gas section provides 40,800 BTUs with electronic ignition. A side burner adds another 12,000 BTUs. This setup allows you to use offset smoking methods while maintaining the convenience of gas ignition. It suits those who want versatility in their outdoor cooking.
Pros
- 1,390 sq. in. total cooking area
- Gas and charcoal fuel options
- 40,800 BTU gas output
- Included side firebox for smoking
- Electronic push-button ignition
Cons
- Heavy at 202 pounds
- Large footprint at 75.6 inches wide
- No digital temperature control system
Good fit if
- You want to switch between gas convenience and charcoal flavor
- You need space for large cuts of meat
- You prefer traditional offset smoking techniques
Skip if
- You have limited patio space
- You want precise digital temperature regulation
- You need a lightweight portable unit
Verdict: The Char-Griller Texas Trio Gas Charcoal Smoker fits cooks who value high heat output and dual-fuel flexibility. It is a solid choice for those who prioritize cooking capacity and traditional smoking methods over digital precision.
Sophia & William 941 sq. in. Offset Charcoal Smoker
Best for: Large gatherings and heavy-duty steel construction
- Cooking Area
- 941 sq. in.
- Fuel Type
- Charcoal
- Form Factor
- Offset
- Material
- Heavy duty steel
- Compatible Appliance
- Smoker
- Dimensions
- 61 × 29.5 × 52.2 inches
View on Amazon: Sophia & William 941 sq. in. Offset Charcoal Smoker
This offset charcoal smoker provides 941 square inches of total cooking space. The main chamber offers 551 square inches of porcelain-enameled iron grates, while the side firebox serves as the smoker. The unit is built from heavy-duty steel and weighs 123 pounds. It features a one-piece smoker chamber to help seal heat and smoke. The large 10-inch wheels provide stability. This grill suits those who need ample capacity for large gatherings.
Pros
- 941 square inches of total cooking area
- One-piece smoker chamber for better heat retention
- Heavy-duty steel construction for durability
- Large 10-inch wheels for stability
Cons
- Requires manual charcoal management
- Heavy at 123 pounds
- Large footprint requires significant space
Good fit if
- You need to feed 10 to 15 people
- You want a one-piece smoker chamber
- You prefer heavy-duty steel construction
Skip if
- You need digital temperature control
- You have limited outdoor space
- You prefer gas or pellet fuel
Verdict: Sophia & William 941 Sq. In. Offset Smoker fits buyers who prioritize raw cooking capacity and durable steel construction over automated temperature control. It is ideal for those hosting large parties who want a traditional offset smoker experience.
Char-Griller Smokin Pro Offset Smoker
Best for: Traditional charcoal offset smoking
- Cooking Area
- 1,130 sq. in.
- Fuel Type
- Charcoal
- Form Factor
- Barrel, Offset
- Control Type
- Dual damper controls
- Material
- Steel
- Features
- Offset Smoker, Warming Rack
This Char-Griller unit combines a charcoal barrel grill with an offset side firebox. It offers 1,130 square inches of cooking area and measures 60 inches wide. Dual damper controls let you manage airflow for steady temperatures. The steel construction supports Texas-style smoking. It suits those who want dedicated space for low-and-slow cooking alongside direct grilling.
Pros
- 1,130 sq. in. total cooking area
- Offset side firebox for indirect heat
- Dual damper controls for airflow management
- Includes side shelf with utensil hooks
Cons
- Heavy at 115 pounds
- Requires significant footprint at 60 inches wide
- Manual temperature control only
Good fit if
- You need extra space for large cuts
- You prefer traditional charcoal smoking methods
- You have room for a wide unit
Skip if
- You want digital temperature controls
- You have limited outdoor space
- You prefer gas or pellet fuel
Verdict: Char-Griller Smokin Pro Offset Smoker is a solid choice for smokers who value manual control and ample capacity. It fits buyers who prioritize traditional offset smoking over convenience features.
Sophia & William 17-Inch Vertical Charcoal Smoker
Best for: small patios and portable charcoal smoking
- Cooking Area
- 427 sq. in.
- Fuel Type
- Charcoal
- Form Factor
- Vertical
- Control Type
- Air vents
- Compatible Appliance
- Smoker
- Dimensions
- 11.5 × 21.7 × 31.5 inches
View on Amazon: Sophia & William 17-Inch Vertical Charcoal Smoker
This vertical charcoal smoker offers 427 square inches of cooking space across two porcelain-enameled grates. Its tunnel ventilation system distributes heat evenly, while air vents allow you to control temperature and smoke levels. The integrated furnace body retains moisture better than layered designs. Weighing 23.3 pounds, it is portable enough for small patios or camping trips. The side door provides easy access to fuel and water.
Pros
- Two-tier porcelain-enameled grates provide 427 square inches of cooking area
- Tunnel ventilation system ensures even heat distribution throughout the chamber
- Air vents allow precise control over temperature and smoke output
- Integrated furnace body improves smoke and moisture retention
- Side door offers convenient access to charcoal and water pan
Cons
- 427 square inch capacity is smaller than many full-size grills
- Manual air vent controls require constant monitoring
- Lid thermometer may not match actual food temperature
Good fit if
- You want a compact smoker for small outdoor spaces
- You prefer the flavor of charcoal over gas or pellets
- You need easy access to fuel without opening the main lid
Skip if
- You require digital temperature controls or Bluetooth connectivity
- You need to cook large cuts like whole briskets
- You prefer a horizontal offset smoker design
Verdict: Sophia & William 17-Inch Vertical Charcoal Smoker fits you if you value compact size and charcoal flavor. It is a practical option for small patios or tailgating, but lacks the capacity for large gatherings.
COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Fan and Switch Kit
Best for: repairing Masterbuilt Gravity Series smokers
- Fuel Type
- Charcoal
- Control Type
- Digitally-controlled fan
- Compatible Appliance
- Smoker
View on Amazon: COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Fan and Switch Kit
This kit restores function to your Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560, 800, or 1050 smoker. It includes a digitally-controlled fan, three safety switches, and necessary wiring. The fan uses high-temperature-resistant ABS plastic for steady airflow. The switches prevent operation when doors are open. This direct OEM replacement ensures precise temperature control and consistent heat levels for your charcoal cooking.
Pros
- Digitally-controlled fan for precise temperature regulation
- Includes three CE-certified safety switches
- High-temperature-resistant ABS plastic construction
- Direct OEM part replacement for specific models
Cons
- Requires manual installation of parts
- Limited to Masterbuilt Gravity Series models only
- One-year warranty coverage period
Good fit if
- You need to replace a faulty fan in your smoker
- You require new safety switches for your unit
- You own a Masterbuilt Gravity Series 560, 800, or 1050
Skip if
- You prefer a plug-and-play electronic upgrade
- You own a different brand of smoker
- You want a complete new grill rather than parts
Verdict: COMVIEe Replacement Kit for Masterbuilt Gravity is a practical solution for owners of Masterbuilt Gravity Series smokers who need to restore original functionality with precise digital control and safety features.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Camp Chef 20 lb Apple Hardwood Pellets | COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Switch Kit | Char-Griller 22-Inch Steel Kettle Charcoal Smoker | Char-Griller Texas Trio 3-Burner Gas & Charcoal Grill | Sophia & William 941 sq. in. Offset Charcoal Smoker | Char-Griller Smokin Pro Offset Smoker | Sophia & William 17-Inch Vertical Charcoal Smoker | COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Fan and Switch Kit |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Cooking Area | not specified | not specified | 363 sq. in. | 1,390 sq. in. | 941 sq. in. | 1,130 sq. in. | 427 sq. in. | not specified |
| Fuel Type | not specified | not specified | Charcoal | Gas and Charcoal | Charcoal | Charcoal | Charcoal | Charcoal |
| Form Factor | not specified | not specified | Kettle | Offset | Offset | Barrel, Offset | Vertical | not specified |
| Control Type | not specified | not specified | Adjustable top and bottom dampers | not specified | not specified | Dual damper controls | Air vents | Digitally-controlled fan |
| Material | not specified | not specified | Steel | not specified | Heavy duty steel | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Application | Camping | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Features | not specified | not specified | not specified | Side Burner | not specified | Offset Smoker, Warming Rack | not specified | not specified |
| Style | not specified | not specified | Kettle | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified | not specified |
| Compatible Appliance | not specified | Smoker | Smoker | Smoker | Smoker | Smoker | Smoker | Smoker |
| Dimensions | 22 × 15 × 3 inches | not specified | 23 × 26 × 38 inches | 32 × 75.6 × 49.1 inches | 61 × 29.5 × 52.2 inches | 30 × 60 × 52 inches | 11.5 × 21.7 × 31.5 inches | not specified |
| Weight | 20 pounds | 1.45 ounces | 22.3 pounds | 202 pounds | 123 pounds | 115 pounds | 23.3 pounds | not specified |
| Size | 20-Pound | not specified | 22" | Extra Large | 941 SQ.IN. Cooking Area | Extra Large | 17-Inch Grill & Smoker | not specified |
| Color | Apple | MB-1 set Switch | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black |
| Model | PLAP | not specified | CG30040725 | 3070 | not specified | CG30044223 | DE11103 | 9904190040 |
If you monitor indoor moisture for food curing, the humidifier buying guide outlines room coverage and output ratings.
Frequently asked questions
What is the best smoker for small patios?
The Sophia & William 17-Inch Vertical Charcoal Smoker fits small spaces. It measures 11.5 inches wide and 31.5 inches tall. You get portable charcoal flavor without taking up much room. This unit weighs 23.3 pounds, making it easy to move for tailgating or compact backyard use.
How do I fix a broken hopper switch on my Masterbuilt smoker?
Use the COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Switch Kit. It is designed for 560, 800, or 1050 models with faulty door switches. The kit weighs just 1.45 ounces. You install it to restore digital control and ensure the hopper operates correctly again.
Which smoker offers the most cooking capacity for large gatherings?
The Sophia & William 941 Sq. In. Offset Smoker provides massive raw capacity. It features a 941-square-inch cooking area and measures 61 inches long. Weighing 123 pounds, it is built for heavy-duty use. You get ample space for large parties and traditional offset smoking.
Can I use both gas and charcoal in one smoker?
Yes, the Char-Griller Texas Trio supports dual-fuel cooking. It has three gas burners and a charcoal chamber for flexibility. The unit measures 75.6 inches wide and 49.1 inches tall. You can switch between gas convenience and charcoal flavor based on your cooking needs.
What pellets work best for apple wood flavor?
Camp Chef 20 lb Apple Hardwood Pellets deliver clean, natural smoke. Each bag contains 20 pounds of hardwood fuel. The pellets are 22 inches long and 3 inches in diameter. You get a distinct apple wood taste for compatible grills and smokers without artificial additives.
Is there a charcoal smoker with a warming rack?
The Char-Griller Smokin Pro Offset Smoker includes a warming rack. It measures 60 inches wide and 52 inches tall. Weighing 115 pounds, it offers extra-large capacity. You get manual control and traditional offset smoking with added flexibility for keeping food warm.
What is a good compact charcoal kettle smoker?
The Char-Griller 22-Inch Steel Kettle Charcoal Smoker is a solid compact choice. It stands 38 inches tall and weighs 22.3 pounds. You get manual heat control and simple cleanup. This black steel unit suits basic smoking needs and small outdoor spaces effectively.
How do I repair the fan on my Masterbuilt Gravity Series smoker?
Use the COMVIEE Masterbuilt Gravity Series Fan and Switch Kit. It restores original functionality for Gravity Series models. The kit includes necessary components for digital control. You get precise temperature management and safety features restored to your smoker with this direct replacement.