brinkman electric smoker

Got one for Christmas and pretty excited to try it out.  I know it is not a purist form of smoking meat.  Anyone have any tips and tricks for using one?  Can't wait for summer to really use it hard.

allbees-

jasonwhitesknee is a BBQ'er...he might have some idears.  

Hello,

digital thermometer i meant to say.  the type where it stays inside the meat as it smokes and you can constantly see the temp without opening to check.

get one of those rib rack holders (it will hold 4 sitting on their sides, not laying flat) This saves space and you can put a few pieces of chicken around the edges. Try apple cider cut with water in the pan ( i do approx 14 oz of cider and the rest water. Be sure and clean your element in the bottom after each use. iT tends to get wet and will rust out if not careful (though it will still last a long time) I also use an old window screen and a shop vacuum to clean up the ashes. Your family and friends will love you more than they already do.  

got this bad boy assembled and ready for use.  Thanks for all the suggestions.  Can't wait to give it a try.

All this BBQ talk is making me hungry and I am definitely going to look into getting a smoker.  

smoked duck jerky yesterday, temps in the 50's.  Took about 2 hours per batch and it turned out great.  Think I am going to like this machine.

used this a couple of times now.  Country style ribs and now split chicken breasts.  Really, really good stuff.  Going to try a whole chicken or beef roast next.  

Smoked chicken is fantastic.  I mostly do whole chicken, but every now and again I like to just do drumsticks.  Tasty stuff.  Don't forget to brine your chicken before smoking it, if you aren't already doing this.  Makes a difference.