Finishing my Cook During Shutdown

[Dougr]

Using the controller on your phone, it still reads the pit and food temps during the shutdown. I found that the pit temperature is held between 5 and 10 minutes. So now when I am getting close to the end of my cook, I start the shutdown process. Doing so saves a few pellets. Does anyone else do this?

 

[dudemcnally]

No. Frankly I can't imagine the savings in pellets is worth the potential that you shut down early, and it turns out you needed just a few more minutes. I'm paying $9 for 20lbs of pellets, what are you saving? a quarter ounce? I'll happily let mine burn on. In fact, instead of shutting off directly from grilling temps, I reduce the temps to 225 or so in order to reduce the possibility of catching the hopper on fire. Typically I let it drop in temps (while still running) while we eat dinner, and only go out afterward to do the proper shutdown.

 

[laketater]

Using the controller on your phone, it still reads the pit and food temps during the shutdown. I found that the pit temperature is held between 5 and 10 minutes. So now when I am getting close to the end of my cook, I start the shutdown process. Doing so saves a few pellets. Does anyone else do this?

I thought about that too. I think it's a good idea. I'll do some experimenting and see if my times match yours so we can share it with the group. Saving pellets is always good.