Masterbuilt tripping GFCI

[Tango45]

I have a Masterbuilt 30-inch electric smoker (I believe it's the 20070910, based off what I see on Amazon.com) and have had it for probably two years. It's been working fine, but yesterday it was tripping the GFCI every time I plugged it in. Anyone have experience with this? I see online that people tend to replace the heating element, but it seems like those fixes are just for when it stops heating (i.e., it turns on and tries to heat, but the element does nothing). I don't want to burn (see what I did there?) the money on a new heating element if that's not the problem. Anyone have experience with this issue?

[MBMorgan]

Have you verified that the problem isn't with the GFCI? They do fail ...

[JimmieOhio]

Not only that, a GFCI will trip only when a load is applied even though the problem may be somewhere else. I had a poorly sealed outlet on my deck. When it rained, water would ingress there. Other devices plugged into another outlet in my garage (on the same circuit) would trip the GFCI. Sealing the other box fixed it.

[Spinaker]

Time for an up-grade! Step into the light my friend. The BBQ tastes much better over here.

[Breadhead]

I agree... Time to move away from an electric and step into real BBQ.😎

[DWCowles]

Hmmmm...if I remember correctly don't the KBQ operates with electricity

[DWCowles]

I was just messing with you Spinaker I seen the beautiful meat that the KBQ produces and i bet it's safe to eat too

[Spinaker]

Ha, I know man!! Sometimes sarcasm doesn't always come through the damn computer. May be....just maybe I get a little excite about my KBQ Apologies, my friend. I didn't mean anything by it. Guest

[DWCowles]

No need to apologize Spinaker your comment didn't offended me

[Tango45]

I'm pretty sure it's not the GFCI; I mean, other stuff works on that circuit. I was thinking of replacing it with a Camp Chef Smoke Vault 24. I have a place that sells it for $200. I figure that would work well with the relatively small deck on my townhouse. I figure that won't trip any circuits...

[choffert]

I went with a Camp Chef SV 24 instead of electric, see MHs discussion on smokers. Have been very happy with results and it works when the power goes out!

[droopie69]

I have the masterbilt as well and it trips the GFCI also. I replaced the GFCI to no avail. But what I did figure out was to run an extension cord into the house and plug it into a regular outlet for about 10 minutes. Once it's over 130 or so, it can be plugged into the GFCI. Mine is store on my covered patio, so I don't know if it's humidity getting tot he element or just juice and steam that drips down after it's turned off. I have heard it POP sometimes after a minute or two, like there is moisture in there. But that POP doesn't trip a regular outlet.