Commercial pellet smokers are easy to use, cook evenly, and impart rich flavor to your meats. They also offer precise temperature control, reducing the need for constant adjustment. Here are five features to look for when shopping for pellet smokers:
1. Unit Size and Capacity
Your production needs determine the size and capacity of your commercial pellet smoker. Pellet grills come in many sizes, including compact models for small outdoor catering events and large options for commercial restaurants. Capacity is measured in square inches or the pounds of food you can cook in a single batch. The number of racks also varies, affecting how much you can cook per batch. Small and medium pellet smokers are ideal for families and small outlets. Large smokers designed for commercial grilling are suitable for cooking bigger cuts of meat. 2. Temperature Control Look for pellet smokers with precise temperature control and consistent heat. Leading models feature digital controls with a wide temperature range, allowing you to set the right grilling and smoking temperatures. The digital controller should have an easy-to-read display for quick adjustments. Some units feature remote monitoring capabilities through Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity. Such capabilities allow you to connect to your phone and control the smoker remotely. The temperature range should also allow low-temperature grilling, high-heat searing, and everything in between. Match the temperature range with the cooking temperatures of the meals you prepare at your facility.
3. Pellet Hopper Capacity
The hopper holds the wood pellets and acts as the fuel tank. A large hopper accommodates more pellets, allowing you to cook for longer sessions without refilling. If you smoke briskets, pulled pork, or other meals that require several hours, choose a smoker with a large capacity. The capacity is usually measured in pounds. You can also check the auger feed rate, which impacts temperature control. The auger mechanism feeds pellets into the firepot and helps to maintain consistent temperatures.
4. Smoker Versatility
You can use a pellet smoker to smoke, roast, or sear meat, fish, and vegetables. Some models have adjustable heat plates or open-flame searing zones for both indirect smoking and direct grilling. These versatile features are beneficial if your business serves a wide range of dishes, from barbecue classics to grilled seafood. Smokers that accept a variety of wood pellets allow for flavor customization, further increasing versatility.
5. Durable Construction
Peller smoker builds feature stainless steel to resist rust and corrosion. You can find constructions with high-quality steel, heavy-duty insulation, and heat-resistant finishes. The insulation helps to maintain consistent temperatures, while the heat-resistant finish allows your smoker to retain its aesthetics. Look for units with stainless steel shelves, ash cleanout systems, and removable racks and drip trays. Such constructions are easy to clean and maintain. The smoker should be able to withstand smoking and high-temperature searing without bending or warping.
Find a High-Quality Commercial Pellet Smoker
Pellet smokers have unique builds and features tailored to specific needs and food capacities. Whether you run a small outdoor catering business or a large bar and grill, you can find a unit that meets your cooking requirements. Contact a commercial pellet smoker supplier today to start comparing your options.