New problem with my Smoke Hollow propane smoker

[NyleRN]

I've had this smoker for 2yrs now. It's made some of the best smoked meat I've ever had. The last 2 smokes I've noticed my wood chunks are not burning and turning to ash. They are blackened. The smoker in turn obviously isn't producing the smoke it once has in the past. I know by looking at the chunks that they're not get enough oxygen to burn/smoke into ash. Here where it gets odd. I haven't changed a single thing since I used it the first time. This includes the damper position in the upper smoke chamber or place/position of the smoker itself. It hasn't moved a mm since I put it in my barn. Why now am I not getting the chunks to burn down? I'm almost ready to drill a couple holes in the side in the lower chamber

 

[bocefus78]

Moisture content of the wood is my guess. Other options could be wind speed or direction, as well as air humidity. Those all effect draft.

 

[SteveM4A1]

Moisture content of the wood is my guess. Other options could be wind speed or direction, as well as air humidity. Those all effect draft.

Bingo

 

[Sniper 79]

Time to take it apart for a good cleaning and inspection.

 

[Sniper 79]

Time to take it apart for a good cleaning and inspection.

I know a commercial grade gas grill only lasts me two years. I cook year round and burn them out.

Could be spiders in it or something. Never know.

 

[NyleRN]

I may do that. Or just sit it outside in a shady area next time so a little airflow can go under it.

 

[EyeCarry]

Time to take it apart for a good cleaning and inspection.
.......Could be spiders in it or something. Never know.

Is your smoker still making normal temp? Check the burner tube for obstruction. You do have the burner knob turned off before opening the propane tank, Yes?

 

[midget]

Make sure you have enough airflow.

 

[NyleRN]

Is your smoker still making normal temp? Check the burner tube for obstruction. You do have the burner knob turned off before opening the propane tank, Yes?

Yes, not having any problems with temps