Using my 850 with PID in the winter is giving me trouble.

[the_horak]

So I know it makes sense that these grills are going to have more difficulty in the winter than in the summer, especially at smoking temperatures. I am trying to figure out if my struggles are normal or excessive.

It's a little below 40° today and I am having trouble getting it to stay around 250. I've got a moving blanket laying over the body as well. Is this normal or should I be looking into issues?

 

[Cowboy1955]

Welcome from Texas to the group!
Yes it’s normal
They actually make blankets for the smokers

 

[Sparky]

Welcome to the club from Texas

 

[Mike From R.I.]

Welcome from Rhode Island. Keeping it out of the wind is one of the biggest things to do in the winter months, I smoke year-round. Adjust your temperatures up some to compensate.

 

[WT2121]

I have been smoking on Pit Boss smokers in North Dakota winters for 4 years. Sometimes as low as 0 degrees Fahrenheit. Wind is biggest issue. My Louisiana eats pellets at a rapid pace in windy weather. I purchased an insulated cover before Thanksgiving. Cooked turkey 7 hours at 8 degrees Fahrenheit. I would guess I used about 50 percent fewer pellets. Very happy with the cover purchase.