NOTICE: The True North Electric Food Smoker (Model 11001) was discontinued in 2015 and is no longer available.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: I just tried my new smoker on a small pork loin and after 4 hrs. the inside temp of the meat only reached 121 F. What's going on?

True North smokers are not designed to "cook" meat but to smoke and to dry.  They operate best as designed, at about 160 degrees F. 

When smoking a roast, impart the smoke flavour with a pan or two of wood, then remove from the smoker and finish in your oven or BBQ. These and other instructions are in the True North Operations Manual (PDF) and recipe book received with your smoker purchase.

Q: I am not getting any heat from my smoker, what should I do?

A common problem that is overlooked is a tripped breaker when using a GFI (Ground Fault Interrupter) outlet. Try to reset the breaker, or try another outlet. Click here for more information (PDF Download).

If the problem is not breaker related, you may need to replace the element. The element is easily removed and replaced if there is a problem with its performance. Wear protective gloves as the metal parts can be sharp.

Ensure that the smoker is unplugged and the element is cool. Bend back the tabs that hold the element down to the floor. Grasp the element where the two, straight ends enter the element box. Pull the element out of the element box by wiggling and squeezing lightly. Remove the two wire leads from the element terminals. Secure the leads so they don’t slip back inside the box. To install the replacement element attach the leads to the new element and reverse the process outlined above.

Q: I need a new part for my True North Smoker. Where can I purchase it?

Replacement parts (if available) can be ordered from our factory and will be mailed to you directly. Parts available include wire racks, drip and chip pans and elements. We no longer have cords in stock and despite our best efforts, have been unable to source any replacement UL/CSA certified cords with the proper specs. We apologize for the inconvenience this may cause. Click here to order your part online. Note: You will be re-directed to www.shoplenthompson.ca.

Q: What do I need to do to take care of my True North Smoker?

Very little maintenance is necessary to ensure trouble-free operation of your smoker. However, these tips on cleaning and care may help extend the life of your smoker:

  • It is normal for the interior of the smoker to become discolored. If you wish to remove this, do so with a scraper only. Detergents may add an unpleasant taste to smoked foods and make it necessary to re-season your smoker.
  • A helpful clean-up hint is to spray the drip pan and the wire racks with a non-stick cooking product. This will help ensure that food does not stick to the racks and that cleanup will be easier. It is important to clean the drip pan and the food racks after each smoking.
  • When not using your smoker, pack it up and store it in a sheltered area.

Q: I'm noticing that my True North Smoker is not working very well. What should I look for?

If your smoker is not performing as you feel it should, please download the True North Operations Manual (PDF) and see "Troubleshooting" (page 4). 

Q: I cannot find your products with the retailers you listed, what should I do?"

Sometimes retailers completely sell out of our products.  Also, certain stores within some retail chains simply do not have the storage space to stock all of our products.  In both of these cases, they should have the ability to order our products in from their warehouse to meet your request. 

If you are still having trouble locating our products (such as our very popular Sweet Pepper, Original and Hot Barbeque Jerky cures), visit the Len Thompson online store.