Smoker Maintenance in the Winter

If you live in the midwest, chances are you’re already feeling those temperatures drop by the minute. Smoker maintenance in the winter will ensure that it will last for a long time. If your smoker isn’t located in a sheltered area that you can use safely year-round, it’s time to start thinking about winterizing your smoker.

Winterize Your Smoker to Keep it Performing at its Best.

Winterizing your smoker doesn’t have to be a long and lengthy process. If you keep up on your smoker maintenance in the winter, this should be a fairly simple process. However, it is always best to give your smoker a good, deep clean before you get ready to store it for an extended period of time.

Step 1: Clean & remove any removable racks and cooking surfaces.

The first step in getting ready to store your smoker for the winter is to clean and remove any of the removable stainless steel cooking racks, grilling rakes, and prep surfaces. When cleaning your racks, it’s best to use a bristle-free grill brush. You can use either a nylon grill brush or a coiled bristle-free brush. Using a wired bristle brush can be hazardous because the bristles often tend to break off and can end up in your food.

Step 2: Wipe out the interior with a damp cloth.

After you’ve cleaned the grates, remove them so you can gently wipe out the interior of your smoker. Smoke and soot can build up on the inside of your smoker so it is a good habit to get into wiping down the interior every once in a while.

Step 3: Remove and clean out the charcoal basket and ash pan.

When storing your smoker for an extended period of time, take the extra time to give the charcoal basket and ash pan a good clean as well. Remove any last pieces of charcoal, and dump out the ash pan. Wipe these areas down with a damp cloth to remove any lingering soot. You’ll be thankful you did next season!

Step 4: Remove or wipe down accessories and additional parts.

If you have a model with a pellet system, or any additional accessories, now is the time to clear and clean those out as well.

Step 5: Wipe and cover the exterior to store.

After all of the interior pieces have been thoroughly cleaned, place them back in their respective locations. Wipe down the exterior with a clean, damp cloth, and follow with a dry towel to avoid any streaking from grease or dirt. After the exterior of your smoker has been dried, place your custom cover over the top of your smoker for safe keeping.

For more information on how to keep your American Barbecue Systems smoker in the best shape, check out our Service and Maintenance page.