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Old 10-31-20, 09:46 AM   #1
dguzzi
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Default Water heater element for smoker

Do you suppose a water heater element would get hot enough to use as a starter for wood chips or pellets? I'd like to use it for a cold smoker.

I wonder if they get red hot in open air?

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Old 11-01-20, 01:16 AM   #2
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If you put full power to one it will over heat and fail. Maybe if you put 120v on a 240V it wouldn't.
I think you best bet would be to use an "electric grill" or a hot water heater element on a varrac.
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Old 11-01-20, 07:16 AM   #3
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Yes i'll have to control it, probably only on long enough for good heat. Also overtemp protection.
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Old 11-01-20, 07:18 AM   #4
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Stovetop heating elements would probably be a better choice.
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Old 11-01-20, 07:20 AM   #5
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Maybe, but size is a factor.
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Old 11-01-20, 02:31 PM   #6
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I was thinking start with something like this.
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Old 11-01-20, 05:03 PM   #7
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I'm goin homemade on this, that is overkill for my needs at this time!
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Old 11-02-20, 07:22 AM   #8
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Umm how about a hot surface igniter? They're used in gss furnaces everywhere.
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Old 11-02-20, 09:45 AM   #9
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I think maybe that's to fragile, I would be able to clean a bigger element easier. Not a bad idea though. Water heater element is less than 15$, thats what made me think of it.
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Old 11-02-20, 10:17 AM   #10
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I'm guessing you could find an electric charcoal starter locally for around 9.95. Most are not tiny, use about 500 watts, and last a long, long time. I believe the one collecting dust in the garage is at least 30 years old. Think sporting goods or farm stores with a decent camping department.

Another idea is an element from a toaster oven.

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