Choosing the Right Water Smoker - Charcoal, Propane or Electric

When it comes to choosing a water smoker, you have three options;

1. Charcoal Smoker and Grill
2. Propane Smoker
3. Electric Smoker

Deciding on what type of water smoker you purchase depends on a few things;

1. What is your budget?
2. Does it need to be portable?
3. How much time do you want to spend?
4. What type of food do you plan on preparing?
   

A Charcoal Smoker and Grill is my personal preference, but requires a little more effort. Generally, a charcoal smoker and grill (aka Bullet/Vertical Smoker) consists of three parts; fire pan, water pan, grilling surface. Since most meat you will be smoking will require several hours of cooking (approx. one hour per pound), then you will need to be continually monitoring the temperature. On average, you'll need to be added additional charcoal ever hour. The best way to prepare the charcoal is to use a Charcoal Chimney. Once the charcoal is hot, you can add it to the fire pan.

A Propane Smoker is portable, easy and convenient. The biggest advantage to a propane smoker is that you can easily control the temperature. They tend to be more expensive, but are a great low maintenance option for smoking meat.

An Electric Smoker is comparable to a Propane Smoker as far as portability, ease of use and convenience goes. The biggest downside to most electric smokers is that they do not have a temperature control. Another issue that some people have is that the heating elements tend to go bad. If you live in a location like an apartment, that does not allow charcoal or propane grills/smokers, then an electric version may be the choice for you.

As you can see, there are plenty of options available for choosing a water smoker. The most important thing is that you choose one and start smoking. I'm sure you'll find the experience to be enjoyable and the food wonderful.