Temp issue on my excel

[ped]

Hi there

Can anyone advise me on how to reduce the temp on my excel?, last week when cooking, it refused to drop below 250 despite closing all lower vents, in the end I had to partially close the top vent, is this ok as I believe that the top vent should never be touched? I used the Minion method and pretty much understand how to control temp now by anticipating drops and increases, this time though I just couldn't get the temp down, I used the clay saucer, and as the temps continued to rise added boiling water which normally reduces temp, but not this time so I don't know what the alternative is now, any ideas guys?

Many thanks

[Swindon_Ed]

I had the same problem at mayhem in may and I ended up pouring cold water in the water pan to bring the heat down.

How sheltered is your smoker from the wind? as I think that could be part of the problem. the high winds we've had recently could be getting air in some of the leaks the smoker could have.

[British BBQ Society]

You didnt mention whether you were using lump or briquettes, if you are using the minion method I would avoid briquettes as they are not as pure.

[ped]

I reckon it must have been too much fuel as it was sighted out of any wind and I was using lump.

Thanks for this guys