Katerina Swanson
The Weber Smokey Mountain (WSM) 14 is a popular choice for those looking for a fuel-efficient smoker. Users have reported that the WSM 14 has a low fuel consumption rate, with some claiming that it uses only 1/3 to 1/2 the fuel of its larger counterparts, such as the WSM 18.5 or 22. The amount of fuel used will depend on the length and temperature of the cook, with longer and hotter cooks requiring more fuel. Some users have reported being able to smoke meats for up to 10 hours using Kingsford lump briquettes or charcoal. The type of charcoal used can also impact fuel consumption, with some users recommending lump charcoal over briquettes due to the reduced ash production and longer burn times. Overall, the WSM 14 is a popular choice for those looking for a small, fuel-efficient smoker.
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What You'll Learn
The WSM 14's fuel efficiency
The WSM 14 is a highly fuel-efficient cooker, using approximately 1/3 to 1/2 less fuel than its larger counterparts, such as the 18.5 and 22-inch models. Its smaller size means it requires significantly less charcoal to achieve and maintain desired cooking temperatures.
Users have reported being able to cook for extended periods with the WSM 14, with some achieving cook times of up to 10 hours using Kingsford lump briquettes. Others have managed 12 hours or more with 3 lbs of charcoal. The length of the cook and the cooking temperature are crucial factors in determining fuel usage. For example, cooking at 160-170 degrees will result in lower fuel consumption compared to cooking at 225-250 degrees.
The type of charcoal used also impacts fuel efficiency. Lump charcoal is preferred by some users for its hotter burn and longer burn time, especially for cooks longer than 8 hours. Briquettes, on the other hand, produce more ash and are better suited for shorter cooks. However, Kingsford Briquets are recommended by some for their ability to maintain lower temperatures for slower cooks.
Overall, the WSM 14 is a highly fuel-efficient cooker, providing excellent value for money. Its compact size, versatility, and ability to accommodate different charcoal types make it a popular choice for those seeking a fuel-conscious option.
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Lump charcoal vs briquettes
The Weber Smokey Mountain (WSM) is designed to use charcoal as its fuel source. The two most common types of fuel used in the WSM are charcoal briquettes and lump charcoal. Both fuels have their advantages and disadvantages, and the choice between the two depends on factors such as temperature control, flavour, and longevity.
Charcoal briquettes are a convenient and inexpensive source of fuel for the WSM. They tend to burn longer and more consistently than lump charcoal but at a lower temperature. The consistency of briquettes is due to the fact that they are an engineered product, made using a "recipe" that can be duplicated. Briquettes are also easier to stack together for a long smoke. Kingsford Charcoal Briquets is the most common variety of briquettes in the United States and is favoured by many WSM users for its availability and price. Some users also report that briquettes are easier to control in terms of temperature.
Lump charcoal burns hotter and faster than briquettes, and it does not have the odd odour that briquettes sometimes emit when first lit. Lump charcoal is also preferred by some for its flavour and lack of fillers. However, lump charcoal can be more expensive than briquettes, and the temperature can be harder to control. Some users have also reported issues with the varying sizes of charcoal pieces in a bag of lump charcoal, which can affect burn time.
Some WSM users prefer to use a combination of both fuels to take advantage of the benefits of each. For example, one user reported using Kingsford briquettes for overnight cooks for easier temperature control, and lump charcoal for high-temperature cooks. Another user reported using briquettes to start the fire and then adding lump charcoal for additional heat when cooking outdoors in cold weather.
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Using a smaller ring
The amount of fuel used by a Weber Smokey Mountain (WSM) cooker depends on the length of the cook and the temperature. Using a smaller ring in a larger cooker can be a way to reduce fuel consumption. Some people have reported success using a smaller ring in their WSM, particularly for shorter cooks. For example, one person reported using a smaller ring for 3-4 hours with plenty of charcoal leftover. Another person reported using a smaller ring in their 22" WSM for cooking chicken breasts, which turned out to be a success.
However, it's important to note that the amount of fuel used also depends on the volume of the cooker. A larger cooker will have a greater volume than a smaller one, and it will take more fuel to heat up that space regardless of the charcoal chamber used. For example, if you use an 18" charcoal chamber in a 22" WSM, you may need to run the bottom vents more open to burn more fuel to reach your target temperature. This means that using a smaller ring in a larger cooker may not always result in reduced fuel consumption.
Some people have suggested that using a smaller ring can help keep the charcoal held together tighter, which can improve fuel efficiency. However, others have pointed out that if the charcoal is held too tightly together, there is a chance for ash to snuff out the fire. Additionally, if the cooker is tight, you can shut the vents and reuse any leftover charcoal, which can also help reduce fuel consumption.
Overall, while using a smaller ring in a WSM can be a way to reduce fuel consumption, particularly for shorter cooks, it may not always be the most efficient option. The decision to use a smaller ring should be based on the size of the cook and the volume of the cooker, as well as personal preferences for cooking dynamics.
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The minion method
To begin, fill the charcoal chamber with unlit charcoal briquettes. Some sources recommend using charcoal briquettes over lump charcoal, as they burn more evenly. However, others prefer lump charcoal for its cleaner flavour, due to the lack of additives in this fuel type. It is also possible to mix the two. Intersperse the charcoal with wood chunks, which will provide smoke flavour.
Next, place a small amount of lit charcoal on top of the unlit charcoal. This will maintain a consistent heat and slowly light the charcoal underneath, giving a long, consistent burn time. The amount of unlit charcoal used should be appropriate for the length of the cook. For a 12-hour cook, fill the charcoal ring completely. For shorter cooks, you may only need to fill the ring 3/4 full.
Some users recommend filling a chimney starter with lit charcoal briquettes, and then adding these to the unlit charcoal. Others suggest cutting the bottom out of a coffee can, placing it in the middle of the charcoal grate, and filling it with lit charcoal. The can can then be removed with tongs.
It is important to note that the Minion Method requires good temperature control. Keep the vents open while smoking, and adjust them as necessary to maintain the desired temperature. For cooks under 300 degrees Fahrenheit, keep one lower vent partially open. For cooks above 300 degrees, open two vents.
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Cost of charcoal
The cost of charcoal varies depending on the type and quality. Lump charcoal, for example, can be expensive, with premium bags costing over $50 for a couple of dozen pounds. Some users recommend B&B's oakwood charcoal, which is suitable for those new to lump charcoal. It lights easily, burns efficiently, and produces minimal ash, making cleanup easier.
When it comes to charcoal briquettes, Kingsford is a commonly mentioned brand. While some users prefer Kingsford for its ease of lighting, others opt for B&B briquettes for their performance. The choice between briquettes and lump charcoal may depend on factors such as burn time, temperature control, and personal preference.
In terms of quantity, the amount of charcoal required can vary based on factors such as cooking temperature, size of the meat, and cooking time. For a WSM 14, users recommend filling the charcoal ring to the maximum for longer cooks, such as ribs, pulled pork, or brisket. With Kingsford charcoal, this can provide around 6 hours of cooking time before refuelling is needed.
To save costs, some users suggest reusing charcoal. By knocking off the ash or gently shaking the charcoal grate to separate unused charcoal, it can be reused for future cooks. This practice aligns with the fuel efficiency of the WSM, which allows for the reuse of leftover coals.
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Frequently asked questions
The WSM 14 uses less fuel than the WSM 18. One user reports that their 14.5 WSM can typically get about 8 hours out of a full ring of charcoal, while another user reports that their 18.5 WSM uses 1/3-1/2 the fuel of their 18.5 WSM at any temperature.
The amount of charcoal used depends on the length and temperature of the cook. One user reports that 3 lbs of charcoal can last at least 12 hours, while another user reports that they can get about 8 hours out of a full ring of charcoal.
Lump charcoal is recommended for the WSM 14, as briquettes produce too much ash. However, briquettes can be used for cooks of 8 hours or less.
