To fix the tiny hopper issue. Take a bucket that just covers the hopper, probably 2 gallon and cut a hole in it. Fill the hopper and then with the lid open place the bucket with the hole on it and fill the bucket. Obviously the larger the bucket, the longer the burn. To fix temp stability drape a towel over it. Don't bother with a fire proof blanket because 275 degrees isn't going to burn cloth. Don't block the holes for the smoke to get out. Then make sure the "P" setting is correct or less than factory if you are having issues. Factory is P3 so for stability try P2. In the windy winter I run P0 and then switch to P3 for summer. I am covered up with an insulating blanket which makes the pellets last longer. Don't waste money on the Traeger blanket either. Tried to find smoking shelves for the Junior but couldn't. Get a grate and suspend it on 4 soup or tuna cans for extra surface. If you have a family of four, I'd recommend the Pro 575. With smoking shelves, you can have 14 eight inch racks of ribs. Remove them and do 2 full turkeys. Baked beans on the bottom, chicken in the middle and ribs on top.
Thanks for the good info! We just bought one at a Costco road show - trying the Chicken Challenge tonight! Looking forward to getting more familiar / comfortable with it.
Great video. I have that exact smoker. My biggest complaint in the six years ive had mine has been the control board. Not enough ability to fine tune youe temps and so u get these big swings. I did replace mine with a smoke daddy pellet pro control board. Bout a hundred bucks but great upgrade. Also those traegers eat fire rods about every three years. All in all tho love my smoker. Keep vids comin!
I was told by a traeger dealer to go one size bigger then whatever size your looking at just because of the cooking area that you mentioned. I ordered the ironwood 885 should be here soon, I can't wait.
How has it been 1 year later. I have looked at that one as well, but keep seeing an abundance people having issues with peeling paint when it hits 500 degrees
One size bigger lmao. That makes me cry laughing. You know you have a problem with your product when that’s the advice you give. These things are a joke.
Temp fluctuations are normal. It’s flame, it’s moving air, it’s outside weather, and even the size and temp of the meat from raw and throughout the cooking process will affect the temp readings. I also clean after every cook and I make sure to wipe down the probe and the surrounding area. This is not a crock pot. You cannot just walk away. You do need to check on the cooking progress. While doing that just take a peek at the hopper and either add or stir if needed.
I have the same issue with the pellets not shuffling down on my tailgater. They kind make a tunnel down towards the augur. I've found if you fill the hopper and kind of make a mound over where the auger is it helps.
Fortunately, Traeger grills are available in many sizes to fit a wide variety of needs. Consider carefully what you intend to use it for, and choose a model that will fit your needs. 🍖🥩🍔🍕🍗
I have a junior as well. Agree with your pros and cons. If you can afford a bigger Treager, go with that, but for me this was enough. Slow cooked wing, burgers chicken that takes a hour. This thing is perfect. Long slow cooks it is ok because of the reason he mentions. Temp fluctuations and pellet feed.
How do rate for cooking steaks, burgers and brats? At cookout yesterday and friend had one of these. Never got hot enough for regular grilling and after looking around for reviews I don't see much about high temp grilling for burgers and brats. He had temp all way up but stayed in 250-270 degree range and kept hood closed as much as possible.
@@ozzyruleshere If you live where it gets cold or windy don't bother. I'm extremely dissatisfied with my traeger. Bought it because if the big name and set it and forget it and no flare ups. Nope. Wrong! Mine has caught fire. Stopped working showing Ler code several times in the middle of a cook. Pellet box doesn't funnel right. Will pile up weird and maybe drop in about 2/3 of the pellets. 50 to 70 degree temp fluctuations. Hot spots. Usually top left is the hottest. Thing is great when it works but that's usually only half the time. I would NEVER consider an overnight cook even with a pellet box extension. You still want high end and pay top dollar the Grilla Grills chimp. Just a home grill that's not portable then Pit Boss. My buddy has one and it's great. And you can open it up to sear at 600 degrees or smoke at 225 all night and day. Just my experience and honest opinion bud
@@ozzyruleshere Mine has never had a issue with getting up to the 450 max temp. I don’t live up north with the real cold, so can not say how that changes things. Basic summer grilling it has been great. Long cooks I have done 4 hour ribs with temp giving issues, but ribs usually are perfect. I have learned to use the P setting (search if you don’t know) to get it to better control temp. I did a pork butt on it and it turned out good with a lot of keeping a eye on it. I would never do a brisket on it. For your list of foods, I never had a problem with them. Brother got a $800ish Treager with the Wi-Fi and other bells and whistles. That thing is spot on with temp control. After trying mine food onmy treager he got the better one and loves it. For me I have seen too much that for this price range you can do better with another brand and would follow this videos recommendations and any other you may find comparing this class. As for the upper price Treagers I have seen personally 3 of them cooking with my brothers, co workers or friends. They work great and would recommend them if you can afford. Other than than I have seen a lot of people recommend green mountain, but they are pricey like Treager. I would never recommend pit boss.
Bringing home a Traeger tomorrow that belonged to my friends dad. Rip Hutch, I am going to learn pellets 😁🙏👍 I will be watching all your videos man, thank you
My Ironwood 650 worked for less than one year.Then wouldn't hold the correct temp. Changed temp probe and "new" replacement d2 controller. Still ran 10 to 15 degrees higher. Was told that's in range. Live and learn
I will say ive owned 3! all from costco, the first one caught on fire it started smoking and that was cool, but the smoke engulfed into a small fire. took it back, the second one the welding was absolutely cheap from the cheap aluminum they use, the lid just came off. the third one also from costco, is a brownish one with a lid that sits on the outside when it opens. it definitely has hot spots, top right corner always burns food way faster than the bottom left which takes a lot longer to cook. take it for what its worth, just being honest. the flavor is descent to good, not like a real piece of wood that is smoked straight to your food, the pellets are a step below.
I had a tough time spending $700 on a Treager that is made in China and will be left outside. My Weber kettle for $100 does a good and is still made in the USA
Matthew/// I HAVE A GMG THAT'S MADE IN AMERICA AND IT HAS NEVER SET OUTSIDE OVERNIGHT,IT'S ALWAYS STORED INSIDE WITH A COVER ON IT!!!!!! MY WOOD/STICK BURNERS STAY OUT AND COVERED UP BUT THEY DON'T HAVE ELECTRONICS!!!!!!
So sad you buy this to eat a low vibrational cruel diet of dead animal bodies. Jokes on you as eating that junk does more damage to your own body, health, and mental sharpness/intellifence. Eating meat literally makes you inferior
Good Video. Grills are like anything else, NEVER SKIMP,ALWAYS BUY THE BIGGEST AND BEST THAT YOU CAN AFFORD,YOU'LL ALWAYS BE HAPPY,SO WHAT IF YOU NEED TO SAVE A LITTLE LONGER!!!!! YOU'LL NEVER HAVE BUYERS REMORSE!!!!!!
As a previous Traeger user, switching to Asmoke was a game-changer for me. The Asmoke Essential Smart Pellet Grill is not just a grill, it's a complete cooking solution. The precise temperature control using the FlameTech patent was a major upgrade, and the ability to adjust temperatures remotely via the app made grilling more convenient. I noticed a significant improvement in the taste of my food due to the different flavored wood pellets available. The portable design also made it easy for me to carry on camping and road trips. I must say, the Asmoke Essential has transformed my outdoor cooking experience - it's efficient, versatile, and most importantly, it delivers delicious results every time. #Asmoke.
Just had my first experience with this grill at friends cookout. Burgers and brats. Do you recommend for high heat grilling. Grill never got up to proper heat for grilling. Kept hood closed as much as possible but stayed in 250-270 range and heat control turned max. Is this mainly a low and slow smoker?
The junior lineup has pretry large temperature swings. This is due to how this series of grills works. Essentially it detects the need for heat, dumps a bunch of pellets in the fire pot, and when the temperature hits the set temperature value the auger stops pumping pellets. At this point you have to wait for the pellets to burn down and during this time you get a temperature swing above your set point. I cooked 2 years like this, then upgraded to a smoke daddy pid. Almost no temp fluctuations with this pid.
I gave away a small Traeger to a friend's son, going off to college. Not to date myself, but back in my day, rent parties. I gave him the Traeger so he can have rent parties to raise money to pay rent and books. Mother told me that Traeger didn't disappoint, but 21st century pups don't say ' rent party'. 🤪
Perhaps you need to learn how to cook on it. Their is a learning curve with them; can’t imagine using a Webber where you have no control of temperature. Kind of like driving my dad’s Oldsmobile.
I have a Traeger Lil' Tex Elite. It's the perfect size for feeding 2-4 people, even 6 sometimes. I was thinking of getting the next size up but am glad I didn't. Great video but I think that your 'cons' are a bit off. First one that you mention is the small size, that's not a con, you bought a grill that was too small for your needs. Simple. The second one about the pellet feed, I have the same problem. All I do is stir the pellets up every hour or so. I have heard of this problem on other makes also. You shouldn't leave your grill alone for hours anyway due to a 'flame out.' Read up on that, very dangerous. As for the third one, again this is a common problem with many smokers. Impossible to keep a constant temperature. Mine varies 20-30 degrees also, especially when the auger slows down and the smoke starts every so often. Enjoy smokin'.
As I said in the video - it fits my needs perfectly. I was just listing this as a potential downside for someone looking to buy. In fact, all of these downsides are more informative for potential buyers, rather than deal-breaking complaints for me personally. I will say that I wish the hopper could run longer on its own. If I don’t shuffle mine down by an hour at the latest, it will run out and needs to be restarted. I would prefer a slightly longer runtime
@@david.ledbetter Ok, but I think that you should allow others to decide what is right for them. I looked at the next size up when I was shopping but made the choice to get the smaller one and have never been sorry. As for the pellet feed in the hopper, I also have to "swish" the pellets around every hour or so as they tend to make a "funnel effect" and a void forms in the middle. A bit of a bug but liveable. They need to redesign the shape of the hopper in my opinion to stop the problem. One other thing I'm going to try is buying a different brand of pellets, I have seen and read that Lumberjack have more smoke flavour than Traeger. Have a good smoke David.
@@tazman572 You as well! I have not used lumberjack yet but I hear they work great. I’m currently using Kingsford’s new line of hardwood pellets and they’ve made for great flavor so far 👍
@@david.ledbetter I just watched a TH-cam video that showed them being used in a taste test among 6 brands. Traeger came in last and second to last in three tries, although I have used only Traeger since 2013 I still like the flavor. Everybody will have their own opinion on each brand
Sadly my pro22 is junk paint falling off after 8 months they say too bad so sad so much for a premium grill try another brand and look at their forums before you spend your money.
Me: If I can afford to buy a Microtech Combat Troodon, I can afford to buy one of these! But will I hate myself for it in the morning’s the question. 🤔
@@ThurstonHowell3rd well I am just looking to get my dad a smoker for Father's day. But I just bought a Kiser Feist Blade HQ limited edition the other day :)
Not necessarily. The smoke comes from the burning of wood pellets inside the bottom of the grill. That burning is also the heat source - so essentially the higher you set the temperature, the faster the grill will dispense pellets to burn.
the smoke you see rolling during start up and temp climbs is not the actual hardwood smoke that is being applied to the food. the normal smoke on pellet grills is translucent blue, almost invisible to the naked eye because it's pure hardwood smoke not dirty smoke
These www.amazon.com/dp/B0112VMC3I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_JW0HQTDKZ7B5VHPXDDF2 Covered with these www.amazon.com/dp/B07MVWY6XR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_AYCR62Z7QN7AHK240P71
You can’t grill on them they don’t get hot enough to sear. I have had mine for 10 years and love it but will go with Pit Boss whenever this dies. Better price and more heavy duty.
I've been on the fence about that too, but I've seen ALOT of reviews from people mentioning the pit boss grills not performing as well and needing replacement parts after 3-5 years. I haven't really came across that complaint of the traeger line. I don't have either but that is my biggest concern, anything over $500 is considered an investment (at least to me anyway) and I'd believe I'd be way more comfortable knowing it'll last 10 years. I don't have either yet but will before next weekend gets here; been stick smoking for 5 years now and am simply ready to let the new age, automatic technology take over most of the smoking so I've been all in the reviews. I see all the complaints about wifi capabilities but honestly, I have know intentions of starting a cook then going on am 8 hour trip anywhere. I'm perfectly fine with going out to check on it every hour or 2 as opposed to making sure enough wood is in the box every 15 minutes haha
That’s not realistic imo. That tiny grill being 4-500 dollars is ridiculous. I want one, but not that bad. You know you’ve reached an insane level when ur grill costs more than your rent payment, in the 2nd most expensive city in the US. The prices are insulting. Ive seen what they’re made of and it’s so overpriced. I just left Costco today and the prices have skyrocketed. When you factor in pellets it’s really bad. One thing that doesn’t sit well with me is that you have to pay way to much to get an insulated model? Traeger let me do you a favor. Start making all your models with insulation and I’ll believe your not trying to corner the grill pellet market. I could go on and on but this is already a long winded rant. I could go on for paragraphs. Traegers are nice, but not 4500$ nice. It’s still insane for me to see people are still buying them. Another manufacturer is gonna do it better and cheaper and traeger will be that over priced model soon. Watch.
Metal is so thin temperature very and cooking take longer then you think and rust stated in a month. Try to use four four months and took it back aka china made cheap made and over priced 2021 November Thur 2022 march 👎
These things are garbage if you’re used to charcoal and real wood. Nothing beats the real thing. I’ve been a charcoal guy for decades, finally got a gas grill and decided to expand my bbq game to include a Traeger pellet grill. So now I have 1 charcoal, 1 gas, and 1 pellet grill. The charcoal grill gets the best results 99% of the time. The gas grill is great for heating up some burgers or carne asada. The pellet grill isn’t good at anything so far. I’ve tried roast, sausages, and steaks. I’ve never been so disappointed by a bbq. I can’t even call it a bbq, a grill, or a smoker. It’s an outdoor oven. Maybe it’s good for making bread, but that’s about it
The most important thing you need to know before buying a treager is that you should have bought a camp chef. The design is superior to traegar offerings
You know what’d be great? If my Traeger grill held a temp - any temp - at any time. I’ve suffered through over a year of this stupid thing and put it in the trash can yesterday. I’d rather screw around with charcoal than ruin one more pork butt or end up burning my house down. What a piece of garbage!
If you use this to smoke meat and I’m invited to your gathering, I’m not gonna be impressed. Its a freaking easy bake oven. 🤣You’ll never come close to stick burning results. 4th con is you obviously wear skinny jeans while using these. 🤣💀
To fix the tiny hopper issue. Take a bucket that just covers the hopper, probably 2 gallon and cut a hole in it. Fill the hopper and then with the lid open place the bucket with the hole on it and fill the bucket. Obviously the larger the bucket, the longer the burn.
To fix temp stability drape a towel over it. Don't bother with a fire proof blanket because 275 degrees isn't going to burn cloth. Don't block the holes for the smoke to get out. Then make sure the "P" setting is correct or less than factory if you are having issues. Factory is P3 so for stability try P2. In the windy winter I run P0 and then switch to P3 for summer. I am covered up with an insulating blanket which makes the pellets last longer. Don't waste money on the Traeger blanket either.
Tried to find smoking shelves for the Junior but couldn't. Get a grate and suspend it on 4 soup or tuna cans for extra surface. If you have a family of four, I'd recommend the Pro 575. With smoking shelves, you can have 14 eight inch racks of ribs. Remove them and do 2 full turkeys. Baked beans on the bottom, chicken in the middle and ribs on top.
The best advice on here. Thanks 👍🏾👍🏾
So excited just got my today for Father’s Day
I think you're mistaken. I didn't recieve a dam thing.
@@davidlopez7209because you're not a good father, you're a good boy
Thanks for the good info! We just bought one at a Costco road show - trying the Chicken Challenge tonight! Looking forward to getting more familiar / comfortable with it.
Great video. I have that exact smoker. My biggest complaint in the six years ive had mine has been the control board. Not enough ability to fine tune youe temps and so u get these big swings. I did replace mine with a smoke daddy pellet pro control board. Bout a hundred bucks but great upgrade. Also those traegers eat fire rods about every three years. All in all tho love my smoker. Keep vids comin!
Good tips. Ive been thinkin of getting one cause your video
I’m
Buying one soon. Friend told me I can set it and forget it. Put on a roast and go to work. I live almost next door so I can check it if need be.
Very intelligent video. Good job 👍🏼
I was told by a traeger dealer to go one size bigger then whatever size your looking at just because of the cooking area that you mentioned. I ordered the ironwood 885 should be here soon, I can't wait.
How has it been 1 year later. I have looked at that one as well, but keep seeing an abundance people having issues with peeling paint when it hits 500 degrees
@@HvyMetal4Ever so far I have not had any issues. I have had it up to 450 a few times and it still looks great.
One size bigger lmao. That makes me cry laughing. You know you have a problem with your product when that’s the advice you give. These things are a joke.
I didn't know Traeger made such a small unit. If you are happy with that, I'm sure I will enjoy the 885. Thanks!
Word. My Pro 780 does absolutely amazing. From Cooking a whole turkey to a full brisket
@@kingching4711 Maybe I should rethink getting the 885 if the 780 can do a whole turkeys. If size is the only difference the 780 could work for me.
Just bought a 780 pro with Wi-fire
Temp fluctuations are normal. It’s flame, it’s moving air, it’s outside weather, and even the size and temp of the meat from raw and throughout the cooking process will affect the temp readings. I also clean after every cook and I make sure to wipe down the probe and the surrounding area. This is not a crock pot. You cannot just walk away. You do need to check on the cooking progress. While doing that just take a peek at the hopper and either add or stir if needed.
I have the same issue with the pellets not shuffling down on my tailgater. They kind make a tunnel down towards the augur. I've found if you fill the hopper and kind of make a mound over where the auger is it helps.
Fortunately, Traeger grills are available in many sizes to fit a wide variety of needs. Consider carefully what you intend to use it for, and choose a model that will fit your needs. 🍖🥩🍔🍕🍗
Requesting video on how to make Slim Jim’s with your Traeger
Great video and great information, I’ve been looking a video just like this. Appreciate you and happy grilling!
I have a junior as well. Agree with your pros and cons. If you can afford a bigger Treager, go with that, but for me this was enough. Slow cooked wing, burgers chicken that takes a hour. This thing is perfect. Long slow cooks it is ok because of the reason he mentions. Temp fluctuations and pellet feed.
How do rate for cooking steaks, burgers and brats? At cookout yesterday and friend had one of these. Never got hot enough for regular grilling and after looking around for reviews I don't see much about high temp grilling for burgers and brats. He had temp all way up but stayed in 250-270 degree range and kept hood closed as much as possible.
@@ozzyruleshere If you live where it gets cold or windy don't bother. I'm extremely dissatisfied with my traeger. Bought it because if the big name and set it and forget it and no flare ups. Nope. Wrong! Mine has caught fire. Stopped working showing Ler code several times in the middle of a cook. Pellet box doesn't funnel right. Will pile up weird and maybe drop in about 2/3 of the pellets. 50 to 70 degree temp fluctuations. Hot spots. Usually top left is the hottest. Thing is great when it works but that's usually only half the time. I would NEVER consider an overnight cook even with a pellet box extension. You still want high end and pay top dollar the Grilla Grills chimp. Just a home grill that's not portable then Pit Boss. My buddy has one and it's great. And you can open it up to sear at 600 degrees or smoke at 225 all night and day. Just my experience and honest opinion bud
@@ozzyruleshere Mine has never had a issue with getting up to the 450 max temp. I don’t live up north with the real cold, so can not say how that changes things. Basic summer grilling it has been great. Long cooks I have done 4 hour ribs with temp giving issues, but ribs usually are perfect. I have learned to use the P setting (search if you don’t know) to get it to better control temp. I did a pork butt on it and it turned out good with a lot of keeping a eye on it. I would never do a brisket on it. For your list of foods, I never had a problem with them. Brother got a $800ish Treager with the Wi-Fi and other bells and whistles. That thing is spot on with temp control. After trying mine food onmy treager he got the better one and loves it. For me I have seen too much that for this price range you can do better with another brand and would follow this videos recommendations and any other you may find comparing this class. As for the upper price Treagers I have seen personally 3 of them cooking with my brothers, co workers or friends. They work great and would recommend them if you can afford. Other than than I have seen a lot of people recommend green mountain, but they are pricey like Treager. I would never recommend pit boss.
Bringing home a Traeger tomorrow that belonged to my friends dad.
Rip Hutch, I am going to learn pellets 😁🙏👍
I will be watching all your videos man, thank you
My Ironwood 650 worked for less than one year.Then wouldn't hold the correct temp.
Changed temp probe and "new" replacement d2 controller. Still ran 10 to 15 degrees higher. Was told that's in range.
Live and learn
Got a busted one for 40 bucks. Had a power wire pop off lol. This thing is weird compared to conventional charcoal/wood. Trying to get some ideas.
Going to get me one of these bad boiz
Great review! Thanks!
great video, thanks! straight to the point
That was really helpful.
I will say ive owned 3! all from costco, the first one caught on fire it started smoking and that was cool, but the smoke engulfed into a small fire. took it back, the second one the welding was absolutely cheap from the cheap aluminum they use, the lid just came off. the third one also from costco, is a brownish one with a lid that sits on the outside when it opens. it definitely has hot spots, top right corner always burns food way faster than the bottom left which takes a lot longer to cook. take it for what its worth, just being honest. the flavor is descent to good, not like a real piece of wood that is smoked straight to your food, the pellets are a step below.
Good info.Was and am still thinking about buying one.Thank you.
Thanks for posting this video. Very helpful!
I just got mine sooo excited 😆
Adorbs! Thanks
Good review young man! You convinced me to go for one ;)
LOL I love it. First pro is the first con. For me, the second pro, is the second con haha.
You need to teach Mauercio Deleon how to grill with his men hood fails to exist!!!
I had a tough time spending $700 on a Treager that is made in China and will be left outside. My Weber kettle for $100 does a good and is still made in the USA
Matthew/// I HAVE A GMG THAT'S MADE IN AMERICA AND IT HAS NEVER SET OUTSIDE OVERNIGHT,IT'S ALWAYS STORED INSIDE WITH A COVER ON IT!!!!!! MY WOOD/STICK BURNERS STAY OUT AND COVERED UP BUT THEY DON'T HAVE ELECTRONICS!!!!!!
Can't remember the last time I seen anyone cook rice and noodle on a grill. just say'n.
However you probably typed this comment on a $1000+ phone made in china…..lol
So sad you buy this to eat a low vibrational cruel diet of dead animal bodies. Jokes on you as eating that junk does more damage to your own body, health, and mental sharpness/intellifence. Eating meat literally makes you inferior
@@OkiDingofair point 😂
huge fan of your channel man! love it!
Very helpful. Thank you!
This was really informative. I’m headed to go purchase a larger Traeger.
Thank you! Very helpful and to the point.
Thank you! Mine just arrived today (a 575).
Good Video. Grills are like anything else, NEVER SKIMP,ALWAYS BUY THE BIGGEST AND BEST THAT YOU CAN AFFORD,YOU'LL ALWAYS BE HAPPY,SO WHAT IF YOU NEED TO SAVE A LITTLE LONGER!!!!! YOU'LL NEVER HAVE BUYERS REMORSE!!!!!!
As a previous Traeger user, switching to Asmoke was a game-changer for me. The Asmoke Essential Smart Pellet Grill is not just a grill, it's a complete cooking solution. The precise temperature control using the FlameTech patent was a major upgrade, and the ability to adjust temperatures remotely via the app made grilling more convenient. I noticed a significant improvement in the taste of my food due to the different flavored wood pellets available. The portable design also made it easy for me to carry on camping and road trips. I must say, the Asmoke Essential has transformed my outdoor cooking experience - it's efficient, versatile, and most importantly, it delivers delicious results every time. #Asmoke.
David Ledbetter, great review. Thanks a lot. Q: What about the smoke that produces? Any grease fire? Those temp swings spoil the cooking process?
Treagers are great and you can use them at an apartment complex most ban grills using gas and charcoal pellet grills aren't on the list
Hey maybe the temp fluctuations go back to what you said about the the pellet funneling.
I found a Traeger Tailgater (TFB30LVB) at Home Depot for 56.25, I'm curious if it's worth it. Might give it a shot
*”the Treager”
GOOD INFO THANKS...VID WELL DONE TOO!
Thanks for sharing those pros/cons
Just had my first experience with this grill at friends cookout. Burgers and brats. Do you recommend for high heat grilling. Grill never got up to proper heat for grilling. Kept hood closed as much as possible but stayed in 250-270 range and heat control turned max. Is this mainly a low and slow smoker?
The junior lineup has pretry large temperature swings. This is due to how this series of grills works. Essentially it detects the need for heat, dumps a bunch of pellets in the fire pot, and when the temperature hits the set temperature value the auger stops pumping pellets. At this point you have to wait for the pellets to burn down and during this time you get a temperature swing above your set point. I cooked 2 years like this, then upgraded to a smoke daddy pid. Almost no temp fluctuations with this pid.
This is super helpful. Thank you!
Better yet, get a Recteq !!
I gave away a small Traeger to a friend's son, going off to college. Not to date myself, but back in my day, rent parties. I gave him the Traeger so he can have rent parties to raise money to pay rent and books. Mother told me that Traeger didn't disappoint, but 21st century pups don't say ' rent party'. 🤪
Neat!
My new one turned $180 if food into hockey pucks.
Get a different smoker.
Perhaps you need to learn how to cook on it. Their is a learning curve with them; can’t imagine using a Webber where you have no control of temperature. Kind of like driving my dad’s Oldsmobile.
I have heard that on some of the Traeger grills, you need to calibrate the temperature probe before using.
I have a Traeger Lil' Tex Elite. It's the perfect size for feeding 2-4 people, even 6 sometimes. I was thinking of getting the next size up but am glad I didn't.
Great video but I think that your 'cons' are a bit off. First one that you mention is the small size, that's not a con, you bought a grill that was too small for your needs. Simple.
The second one about the pellet feed, I have the same problem. All I do is stir the pellets up every hour or so. I have heard of this problem on other makes also.
You shouldn't leave your grill alone for hours anyway due to a 'flame out.' Read up on that, very dangerous.
As for the third one, again this is a common problem with many smokers. Impossible to keep a constant temperature. Mine varies 20-30 degrees also, especially when the auger slows down and the smoke starts every so often.
Enjoy smokin'.
As I said in the video - it fits my needs perfectly. I was just listing this as a potential downside for someone looking to buy. In fact, all of these downsides are more informative for potential buyers, rather than deal-breaking complaints for me personally. I will say that I wish the hopper could run longer on its own. If I don’t shuffle mine down by an hour at the latest, it will run out and needs to be restarted. I would prefer a slightly longer runtime
@@david.ledbetter
Ok, but I think that you should allow others to decide what is right for them. I looked at the next size up when I was shopping but made the choice to get the smaller one and have never been sorry. As for the pellet feed in the hopper, I also have to "swish" the pellets around every hour or so as they tend to make a "funnel effect" and a void forms in the middle. A bit of a bug but liveable. They need to redesign the shape of the hopper in my opinion to stop the problem. One other thing I'm going to try is buying a different brand of pellets, I have seen and read that Lumberjack have more smoke flavour than Traeger.
Have a good smoke David.
@@tazman572 You as well! I have not used lumberjack yet but I hear they work great. I’m currently using Kingsford’s new line of hardwood pellets and they’ve made for great flavor so far 👍
@@david.ledbetter
I just watched a TH-cam video that showed them being used in a taste test among 6 brands. Traeger came in last and second to last in three tries, although I have used only Traeger since 2013 I still like the flavor. Everybody will have their own opinion on each brand
Yoder smokers are the best!
David? Nice review thx
The best bang for your buck with pellet grill/smoker is pitboss 1100 absolutely the best versatile and big cooking space for the cost
The temp will always be a problem with any grill
It’s funny that the more expensive versions have the vent out the back, yours has it. The Pro series do not lol, interesting.
"Fluctating" temps are no good. No good at all!! LOL
I would have titled this "8 Things To Know Before Buying a (tailgater) Traeger" because the majority the content here regards it's size.
I'm planning to get a pro 780. That's why I came here
how much smoke do these put out? apartment living here
Can we use other than the wood pellets?
Now I need to smoke 3 briskets, see what you did
Sadly my pro22 is junk paint falling off after 8 months they say too bad so sad so much for a premium grill try another brand and look at their forums before you spend your money.
How’s the flavor on that vs a regular grill/smoker?
Light but good. It has a more subtle smoke flavor compared to an offset - which some people (usually non BBQ enthusiasts) actually prefer
Me: If I can afford to buy a Microtech Combat Troodon, I can afford to buy one of these! But will I hate myself for it in the morning’s the question. 🤔
A man of good taste I see ;)
@@dylankaylor842 I ended up going with the recteq 700 bull.😅 Really happy with that decision.
@@ThurstonHowell3rd well I am just looking to get my dad a smoker for Father's day. But I just bought a Kiser Feist Blade HQ limited edition the other day :)
Found one used for $75
Temp issue is due to your P setting being too high. My Tailgater is on P5 now and went from 150 degree swings to 20. It was in P1 when I got it.
I usually keep my p setting right in the middle, so I’m not sure! The fluctuation changes depending on the weather that day
If you’re tired of the grease pail, we’ve got your fix!
Ummm... I thought setting it and leaving it with the ability to maintain consistent temperature were supposed to be hallmarks of a Traeger?
isn't the temp fluctuation intentional to generate the smoke?
Not necessarily. The smoke comes from the burning of wood pellets inside the bottom of the grill. That burning is also the heat source - so essentially the higher you set the temperature, the faster the grill will dispense pellets to burn.
the smoke you see rolling during start up and temp climbs is not the actual hardwood smoke that is being applied to the food. the normal smoke on pellet grills is translucent blue, almost invisible to the naked eye because it's pure hardwood smoke not dirty smoke
Thanks! What sort of gloves do you use?
These www.amazon.com/dp/B0112VMC3I/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_JW0HQTDKZ7B5VHPXDDF2
Covered with these www.amazon.com/dp/B07MVWY6XR/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_AYCR62Z7QN7AHK240P71
You can’t grill on them they don’t get hot enough to sear. I have had mine for 10 years and love it but will go with Pit Boss whenever this dies. Better price and more heavy duty.
I've been on the fence about that too, but I've seen ALOT of reviews from people mentioning the pit boss grills not performing as well and needing replacement parts after 3-5 years. I haven't really came across that complaint of the traeger line. I don't have either but that is my biggest concern, anything over $500 is considered an investment (at least to me anyway) and I'd believe I'd be way more comfortable knowing it'll last 10 years. I don't have either yet but will before next weekend gets here; been stick smoking for 5 years now and am simply ready to let the new age, automatic technology take over most of the smoking so I've been all in the reviews. I see all the complaints about wifi capabilities but honestly, I have know intentions of starting a cook then going on am 8 hour trip anywhere. I'm perfectly fine with going out to check on it every hour or 2 as opposed to making sure enough wood is in the box every 15 minutes haha
@@davidhunt4129 I have no need for a WiFi smoker either hahahahah.....
Get some grill grate sear stations... Problem of grilling temps solved
no smoke stack????
Your the only one here who mentions this. No wonder the temperature fluctuates
F... the HOA...
the cheapest version is 999 Euros here.. damn
Buy a REC-TEQ better quality, better grill!
Last con. Doesn't sear. And an oven pie and a smoker pie taste the same. Good unit but not unicorns and fairy dust. It's a smoker that's it.
Sorry, 400 to 500 isn't really that affordable for many people. Save some cash ($100) and buy a Pit Boss. Most people prefer these to Tragers also. )
I think the tech is cool but not worth the cost. I think I will just make one myself.
My Niehbor gave me one for 120 bucks
You went full blown Traeger, never go full blown Traeger....
I bought one a couple years ago. Worst purchase ever. Auger is always clogging and fire moving into the Pettit box.
I’m curious - why are you watching a review on one?
You should rediscribe it to things you should know before buying a SMALL Treager
Music is annoying.
That’s not realistic imo. That tiny grill being 4-500 dollars is ridiculous. I want one, but not that bad. You know you’ve reached an insane level when ur grill costs more than your rent payment, in the 2nd most expensive city in the US. The prices are insulting. Ive seen what they’re made of and it’s so overpriced. I just left Costco today and the prices have skyrocketed. When you factor in pellets it’s really bad. One thing that doesn’t sit well with me is that you have to pay way to much to get an insulated model? Traeger let me do you a favor. Start making all your models with insulation and I’ll believe your not trying to corner the grill pellet market. I could go on and on but this is already a long winded rant. I could go on for paragraphs. Traegers are nice, but not 4500$ nice. It’s still insane for me to see people are still buying them. Another manufacturer is gonna do it better and cheaper and traeger will be that over priced model soon. Watch.
Metal is so thin temperature very and cooking take longer then you think and rust stated in a month. Try to use four four months and took it back aka china made cheap made and over priced 2021 November Thur 2022 march 👎
Wait so he bought a small grill but he’s mad that it’s small? 🤣
bigger is better
These things are garbage if you’re used to charcoal and real wood. Nothing beats the real thing. I’ve been a charcoal guy for decades, finally got a gas grill and decided to expand my bbq game to include a Traeger pellet grill. So now I have 1 charcoal, 1 gas, and 1 pellet grill. The charcoal grill gets the best results 99% of the time. The gas grill is great for heating up some burgers or carne asada. The pellet grill isn’t good at anything so far. I’ve tried roast, sausages, and steaks. I’ve never been so disappointed by a bbq. I can’t even call it a bbq, a grill, or a smoker. It’s an outdoor oven. Maybe it’s good for making bread, but that’s about it
The 22' Weber Smokey Mountain is the best smoker I have ever used. Love hanging my ribs and chicken on hooks!
so this is a video about your specific model, make sure to reflect the title next time.
If you have to plug in your smoker, you already failed....
Grilling on a balcony like that is a fire code violation. Shame. Lol
The most important thing you need to know before buying a treager is that you should have bought a camp chef.
The design is superior to traegar offerings
You know what’d be great? If my Traeger grill held a temp - any temp - at any time. I’ve suffered through over a year of this stupid thing and put it in the trash can yesterday. I’d rather screw around with charcoal than ruin one more pork butt or end up burning my house down. What a piece of garbage!
No PID controller no thank you
Biggest thing to know..... Don't buy a pellet grill/smoker.
Pellet grills are like easy bake ovens for little girls 😂🤣
Found the chomo
@@jasondyer3262
Found the hhhhhomo!
If you use this to smoke meat and I’m invited to your gathering, I’m not gonna be impressed. Its a freaking easy bake oven. 🤣You’ll never come close to stick burning results. 4th con is you obviously wear skinny jeans while using these. 🤣💀
You bought the gay one. You have no right to review them.
You heard it here first folks - I bought the gay one.
The correct vernacular is homosexual it’s 2021 big fella watch how you say things
Well he _does_ live in San Francisco after all so...
There is a straight one?