
Masterbuilt MES-30B Analog Electric Smoker

SAFETY INFORMATION
Warning ![]()
- This manual contains important information necessary for the proper assembly and safe use of the appliance.
- Read and follow all warnings and instructions before assembling and using the appliance.
- Follow all warnings and instructions when using the appliance.
- Keep this manual for future reference.
CARBON MONOXIDE HAZARD ![]()
- Burning wood chips releases carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas that can be fatal.
- DO NOT burn wood chips inside homes, vehicles, tents, garages, or any enclosed areas.
- Use only outdoors, where it is well-ventilated.
Failure to follow these instructions could result in fire, explosion, or burn hazard, which could cause property damage, personal injury, or death. ![]()
GENERAL WARNINGS AND SAFETY INFORMATION ![]()
READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS
- Unit is for OUTDOOR HOUSEHOLD USE ONLY.
- Never use inside enclosed areas such as patios, garages, buildings, or tents.
- Never use inside recreational vehicles or on boats.
- Never operate a unit under overhead construction, such as roof coverings, carports, awnings, or overhangs.
- Never use a unit as a heater (READ CARBON MONOXIDE HAZARD).
- Maintain a minimum distance of 10 ft (3 m) from overhead construction, walls, rails, or other structures.
- Keep a minimum 10 ft (3 m) clearance of all combustible materials such as wood, dry plants, grass, brush, paper, or canvas.
- Keep the appliance clear and free from combustible materials such as gasoline and other flammable vapors and liquids.
- Use the unit on a level, non-combustible, stable surface such as dirt, concrete, brick, or rock.
- Unit MUST be on the ground. Do not place the unit on tables or counters. Do NOT move the unit across uneven surfaces.
- Do not use the unit on wooden or flammable surfaces.
- Do not leave the unit unattended.
- Never use a unit for anything other than its intended use. This unit is NOT for commercial use.
- Keep a fire extinguisher accessible at all times while operating the unit.
- Before each use, check all nuts, screws, and boltsto make sure they are tight and secure.
- Use of alcohol, prescription, or non-prescription drugs may impair userthe ’s ability to properly assemble or safely operate the unit.
- Keep children and pets away from the unit at all times. Do NOT allow children to use the unit. Close supervision is necessary should children or pets be in the area where the unit is being used.
- Do NOT allow anyone to conduct activities around the unit during, or following, its use until it has cooled.
- Avoid bumping or impacting the unit.
- Never move the unit when in use. Allow unit to cool completely (below 115° F (45° C)) before moving or storing.
- The unit is HOT while in use, and will remain HOT for a period of time afterwards and during the cooling process. Use CAUTION. Wear protective gloves/mitts.
- Do not touch HOT surfaces. Use handles or knobs.
- Do not use wood pellets.
- Never use glass, plastic, or ceramic cookware in the unit. Never place empty cookware in the unit while in use.
- Accessory attachments not supplied by Masterbuilt Manufacturing, LLC are NOT recommended and may cause injury.
- The wood chip bowl is HOT when the unit is in use. Use caution when adding wood.
- Be careful when removing food from the unit. All surfaces are HOT and may cause burns. Use protective glovesor long, sturdy cooking tools.
- Always use unthe it in accordance with all applicable local, state, and federal fire codes.
- Dispose of cold ashes by placing them in aluminum foil, soaking them with water, and discarding them in a non-combustible container.
- Do not store the unit with HOT ashes inside the unit. Store only when all surfaces are cold.
- Store product indoors when not in use, out of reach of children.
- When using electrical appliances, basic safety precautions should always be followed, including the following:
- Do not plug in the electric smoker until fully assembled and ready for use.
- Use only an approved grounded electrical outlet.
- Do not use during an electrical storm.
- Do not expose the electric smoker to rain or water at anytime.
- To protect against electrical shock, do not immerse the cord, plug, or control panel in water or other liquids.
- Do not operate any appliance with a damaged cord or plug, or after an appliance malfunctions, or has been damaged in any manner..
- Contact Masterbuilt Customer Service for assistance at www.masterbuilt.com/pages/customer-support.
- Longer, detachable power-supply cords, or extension cords, are available and may be used if care is exercised in their use.
- If a longer detachable power-supply cord or extension cord is used: 1. The marked electrical rating of the cord set or extension cord should be at least as great as the electrical rating of the appliance; and 2. The cord should be arranged so that it will not drape over the countertop or tabletop, where it can be pulled by children or tripped over unintentionally.
- The extension cord must be a grounding type 3-wire cord.
- Outdoor extension cords must be used with outdoor use products and are marked with the suffix “W” and with the statement “Suitable for Use with Outdoor Appliances.”
- CAUTION – To reduce the risk of electric shock, keep the extension cord connection dry and off the ground.
- Do not let the cord hang on or touch hot surfaces.
- Do not place on or near a hot gas or electric burner, or in a heated oven.
- Fuel, such as charcoal briquettes or heat pellets are not to be used in an electric smoker.
- Always turn the control knob to “OFF” before connecting to a power outlet.
- Always attach the controller to the appliance first, then plug the cord into the power outlet.
- To disconnect, turn the control knob to “OFF”, then remove the plug from the power outlet.
- Unplug from the outlet when not in use and before cleaning. Allow the unit to cool completely before adding/removing racks, the drip cup, or the water bowl.
- The drip cup is only for the bottom of the electric smoker. Do not put the drip cup on the rack. This may damage the electric smoker.
- Do not cover racks with metal foil. This will trap heat and cause severe damage to the electric smoker.
- Do not clean this product with a water sprayer or the like.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
STRUCTURAL PROXIMITY AND SAFETY USAGE RECOMMENDATIONS
REMINDER:
NEVER OPERATE THIS SMOKER UNDER ANY OVERHEAD CONSTRUCTION. MAINTAIN A MINIMUM DISTANCE OF 10 FEET FROM OVERHEAD CONSTRUCTION, WALLS, OR RAILS.

WARNING:
ELECTRIC POWER CORD IS A TRIP HAZARD
MASTERBUILT TIPS FOR SUCCESSFUL SMOKING
- This is a slow smoker… allow sufficient time for cooking.
- Pre-season smokebeforeto first use. See PRE-SEASON INSTRUCTIONS.
- Pre-heat smoker for 30 to 45 minutes at max temperature before loading food.
- DO NOT cover racks with aluminum foil, as this will not allow heat to circulate properly.
- Do not overload the smoker with food. Extra-large amounts of food may trap heat, extend cooking time, and cause uneven cooking. Leave space between food on racks and smoker sides to ensure proper heat circulation. If utilizing cooking pans, place pans on center of the rack to ensure even cooking. Never use glass, plastic, or ceramic cookware in the unit.
- Extreme cold temperatures may extend cooking times.
- Check the drip tray often during cooking. Empty the drip tray before it gets full. The drip tray may need to be emptied periodically during cooking.
- Do not open the smoker door unless necessary. Opening the smoker door causes heat to escape and may cause the wood to flare up. Closing the door will stabilize the temperature and stop flare-ups.
- Whether theoutside temperature is cooler than 65° F (18° C), and/or the altitude is above 3,500 feet (1067 m), additional cooking time may be required. To ensure that meat is completely cooked, use a meat thermometer to test the internal temperature.
- CLEAN AFTER EVERY USE. This will extend the life of your smoker and prevent mold and mildew. See HOW TO CLEAN AND STORE SMOKER instructions.
CAUTION ![]()
When doorthe s opened, a flare-up may occur. Should wood chips flare up, immediately close the door and vent, wait for the wood chips to burn down, then open the door again. Do not spray with water.
TIPS FOR USING WOOD CHIPS
- There will be a lot of smoke produced when using wood chips. Smoke will escape through seams and turn the inside of the smoker black. This is normal.
- Wood chips must be used to produce smoke and create the smoke flavor. Never use more than 1 cup of wood chips at a time. Never use wood chunks.
- Wood chips should be level with the top rim of the wood chip bowl.
- You may use dry or pre-soaked wood chips in your smoker. Dry chips will burn faster and produce more intense smoke. Chips pre-soaked in water (for approximately 30 minutes) will burn more slowly and produce a less intense smoke.
- If wood chips do not smoke on the low setting, increase the temperature. After 8 to 10 minutes or when wood chips begin to smolder, reduce the temperature to the desired low setting.
- Check the wood chip bowl periodically to see if the wood has burned down. Add more chips as needed.
- Do not leave old wood ashes in the wood chip bowl. Once the ashes are cold, empty the bowl. The bowl should be cleaned out before and after each use to prevent ash buildup.
HOW TO USE A WATER BOWL
- Wait until the smoker reaches the desired temperature.
- Fill the water bowl with wateror liquids like apple or pineapple juice.
- You can also add slices of fruit, onions, or fresh dried herbs into the water to blend subtle flavors into your smoked food.
Tip: For chicken or other foods high in moisture, little or no liquid is needed.
PRE-SEASON INSTRUCTIONS
PRE-SEASON SMOKER BEFORE FIRST USE.
Some smoke may appear during this time; this is normal.
- Make sure the water bowl is in place WITHOUT WATER.
- Set the temperature to the highest setting and run the unit for 3 hours.
- To complete pre-seasoning, during the last 45 minutes, add 1/2 cup of wood chips in wood chip bowl.
- Shut down and allow to cool. Some smoke may appear during this time. This is normal.
HOW TO CLEAN AND STORE A SMOKER
- Be sure to clean the smoker after each use. Make sure your smoker is unplugged and completely cool.
- For rack supports, racks, water bowl, and drip tray, use a mild dish detergent. Rinse and dry thoroughly.
- For the wood chip bowl, clean frequently to remove ash buildup, residue, and dust.
- Dispose of cold ashes by placing them in aluminum foil, soaking with water, nd discarding in a non- combustible container.
- For the interior and exterior of the smoker, simply wipe down with a damp cloth. Do not use a cleaning agent. Make sure to dry thoroughly.
- After cleaning, store the smoker in a covered, dry area.
- When not in frequent use, and when using a cover, remember to check your smoker periodically to avoid possible rust and corrosion due to moisture buildup.
ALWAYS MAKE SURE THE UNIT IS COOL
TO THE TOUCH BEFORE CLEANING AND STORING.
DO NOT RETURN TO RETAILER for assembly assistance, missing or damaged parts. Please contact MASTERBUILT customer service at www.masterbuilt.com/pages/customer-support. Please have the model number and serial number available. These numbers are located on the silver rating label on the unit.
PARTS LIST


HARDWARE LIST

* Hardware not included in blister pack. This hardware comes pre-packaged with the product.
BEFORE ASSEMBLY, READ ALL INSTRUCTIONS CAREFULLY.
- ASSEMBLE UNIT ON A CLEAN, FLAT SURFACE.
- TOOLS NEEDED: Phillips Head Screwdriver
- APPROXIMATE ASSEMBLY TIME: 25 minutes
* Actual product may differ from the picture shown.
** It is possible that some assembly steps have been completed in the factory. **
ASSEMBLY



OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS

- Step 1
Connect the controller to the smoker body. - Step 2
Plug the power cord into an outlet (refer to “Warnings & Important Safeguards” section of manual). - Step 3
Turn the control knob to the desired setting. The indicator light will turn off when the set temperature is reached.
Note: Temperature gauge on smoker door reflects setting on controller and displays temperature inside unit.
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE

MASTERBUILT 1-YEAR LIMITED WARRANTY
Masterbuilt warrants its products to be free from defects in material and workmanship under proper assembly, normal ususe nd recommended care for 1 year from the date of original retail purchase. The Masterbuilt warranty does not cover paint finish,, sh as it may burn off during normal use. The Masterbuilt warranty does not cover rust. Masterbuilt requires proof of purchase for a warranty claim, such as a receipt. Upon the expiration of such warranty, all such liability shall terminate.
Within the stated warranty period, Masterbuilt, at its discretion, shall replace defective components free of charge, with the owner being responsible for shipping. Should Masterbuilt require the return of component(s) in question for inspection, Masterbuilt will be responsible for shipping charges to return the requested item. This warranty excludes property damage sustained due to misuse, abuse, accident, or damage arising out of transportation.
This express warranty is the sole warranty given by Masterbuilt and is instead of all other warranties, expressed or implied, including implied warranty, merchantability, or fitness for a particular purpose. Neither Masterbuilt nor the retail establishment selling this product hasthe he authority to make any warranties or to promise any remedies in addition to or inconsistent with those stated above. Masterbuilt’s maximum liability, in any event, shall not exceed the purchase price of the product paid by the original consumer/ purchaser. Some states do not allow the exclusion or limitation of incidental or consequential damages. In such a case, the above limitations or exclusions may not be applicable.
California residents only: Notwithstandingthis limitation of warranty, the following specific restrictions apply; if service, repair, or replacement of the product is not commercially practical, the retailer selling the product or Masterbuilt will refund the purchase price paid for the product, less the amount directly attributable to use by the original buyer before the discovery of the nonconformity. The owner may take the product to the retail establishment selling this product to obtain performance under warranty. This express warranty gives you specific legal rights, and you may also have other rights which vary from state to state.

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Masterbuilt MES-30B Analog Electric Smoker- FAQs
How do I set up my Masterbuilt MES-30B smoker for first use?
Unbox the smoker, install the racks, drip pan, and wood chip tray, plug it into a grounded outlet, and run it empty at high heat for about 30 minutes to burn off manufacturing residue.
How do I use an electric smoker for the first time?
Preheat the smoker, add wood chips, set the temperature using the analog dial, and place food directly on the racks once smoke begins.
Do I need to preheat the Masterbuilt electric smoker?
Yes. Preheating helps stabilize temperature, improves smoke flavor, and reduces cooking time.
What temperature does the Masterbuilt MES-30B reach?
The smoker heats up to 275°F, making it ideal for low-and-slow smoking.
What are common problems with the Masterbuilt electric smoker?
Common issues include low heat, worn heating elements, faulty thermostats, wood tray problems, or poor door seals.
Should the vent be open or closed while smoking?
Keep the vent open to allow proper airflow and prevent bitter smoke buildup.
How often should I add wood chips?
Typically, add wood chips every 30–45 minutes, depending on how much smoke flavor you prefer.
Can I put meat directly on the racks?
Yes. Place seasoned meat directly on the cooking racks using tongs or heat-resistant gloves.
