Pellet Fan
All Things Considered => General Discussion--Non food Related => Topic started by: ba123 on August 28, 2020, 03:32:13 PM
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On the verge of starting the build and scared I'll wish I did something differently.
I'm set on a Memphis Elite as well as a Tec Grill. My space is limited and those are both large (the small Tec is too small).
Do I need a sink? Kitchen is not terribly close, and I thought I'd want it but maybe I don't. Would like a filtered water dispenser be of more use? I guess I may be able to add that if I ever decide I need it.
How's my layout? Would you change anything? What must I have that I don't?
It looks like there is a 36" Tec so maybe, but maybe they don't make it anymore...can't tell.
I'm open to all opinions and appreciate any help you could lend.
Thank you!
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I like your plan. I'd keep the sink because I like to be able to wash my hands frequently without touching a door knob and utensils, etc. And add a reverse osmosis unit for drinking water. I can't remember the brand we have in the kitchen but I can check if you'd like and it wasn't expensive. It's filtered and fits easily under the sink and doesn't need electricity. I visit the spring (as I call it) frequently this time of year. It's been triple digits here every day. Just my :2cents:.
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I would keep the sink also the with the TEC you can get a flat top so no need to add one of those, but I would look in to some type of burners like and induction or gas burners, two burners would probably be sufficient, that you could toss a pot of water or what ever if you need.
I just got back from where I get my propane. they have Sabre grills there, they are an infrared grill. Seem to be built nice an different variations. They also have Napoleon grills but lift the lid on both and you can tell a big difference.
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First thing you need to ask yourself about the sink is, do I "really" need it?
Can be a lot of work running water to it, running waste water away from it, and are you in a place were the water line(s) could freeze...
For the fridge, again would you really use it enough? If it sits out there in heat when you are not using it, it is an unnecessary expense unless you unplug it or turn it off when not in use.
If you have a large covered patio attached to your house, with the ODK there and you entertain right there a lot, then it might make sense.
I opted not to put either in the ODK as it is strictly used for cooking, not entertaining as it is away from house.
Our back patio (for entertaining) has a full size refrigerator we turn on day before we have guests, and turn back off after they leave.
Here is what I've done. I have the Memphis Elite as well.
https://pelletfan.com/index.php?topic=6014.msg60331#msg60331
If you search the forum for Outdoor Kitchen or ODK, you should find several threads of builds people here have done.
Hope that helps some.
FYI- Add plenty of electrical outlets. Cheap to add and avoids "wishing I had one here" later.
And don't forget some storage for pellets.
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@BigDave83: Yeah, with the Tec, you can use it as an infrared Grill (I'd use it to sear mainly after sous-vide), flat top, and you can ALSO use it an an induction cooktop by removing the grill and putting a pot on the glass. Pretty ingenious IMHO. Some other really cool attachments like a deep fryer as well, but don't plan on trying that one.
@02ebz06: Nice setup! I like your battery backup idea!
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Nice design! Keep the sink as long as you have access to running water, and a way to dispose of the grey water. I would also consider swapping the fridge with the tech ~ that will give you a food prep area next to the sink rather than at the end of the counter. That also lessens using the glass top of the tech for anything other than cooking.
Just the humble opinion of an old man.
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I will admit in advance that I did not read the recommendations of others in advance of this post.
One thing that I would suggest is replacing the sink with some sort of a griddle. You can always take the dishes inside to wash. I don't fully know your situation or preference. I have a deep sink in my garage that I use for cleaning large cooking pans. That may be an option for you, but maybe not.
My preference would be for more types of cooking options outside and leave the cleaning options for inside unless you have larger cooking pans that you can't clean inside. A power washer may be another option for those circumstances.
Anyway, let us know what you decide and share pics of your design and final outcome with us.
Best of luck to you.
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I wash my utensils and thermometer probes after touching raw and under cooked meat while cooking. I am always running into the kitchen to do it.
I think a sink would be great. I would take a sink over a refrigerator.
I would make sure that the corner does not present any issues opening cabinets or drawers. Also, I like prep space for things like cutting vegetables.
I am not sure if the refrigerator area counter top is also a prep area.
Do you need to be concerned about heat dissipation?
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We had an outdoor kitchen in Pasadena with no sink. Then had work done on the kitchen and was able to put in a sink outside. I was lucky, my outdoor kitchen backed right onto the wall in the house that had the indoor kitchen. They hooked into waste line and hot and cold water. Used that outdoor sink sink ALL the time to wash things -- boards, utensils, hands, veggies, etc. Also used it for cleaning up after gardening and gardening chores. But it does depend on your needs and uses.
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Where do you live. If you are going to have freezing weather in winter, then some special consideration with the sink. If your cook center backs up to a house wall, you can organize a freeze proof arrangement for winter. i.e. a shutoff valve that drains from the inside of the wall. I like your design and choice of grills. Not sure I saw a 36" Infrared unit. Anyhow, good luck on your project. :clap:
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I think that a double sink is more convenient than a single basin, so I would add that to the build.
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Yes, you want a sink!
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I have a sink and have found washing the grates in it keeps the mess outside. I used an electric hot water tank controlled by a switch which allows me to keep it turned off when not needed. Its tucked in under the counter and works like a charm...
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I've contemplated an outdoor kitchen a number of times but never got around to it. I started my design by considering the functionality, what do I need to accommodate the task to be performed. Grill (versatile pellet), sink (with disposal), refrigerator, ample prep area, lighting, storage space and environment protection. I would not have two grills, unless one was a traditional propane grill with side burners. :2cents:
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I love it, I wish I had the space for something like this. :)
MK
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@big lou: Yeah, I thouhgt about swapping those as well so that I can stand in the same place to use either grill. I think that would be really nice, although I would lose that corner area of counter top if I did that, but gain more area near the sink. That may be a good way to go though... Anyone else have thoughts on this?
@Bar-B-Lew: I can put a griddle on the Tec (they make one for it) and I will most certainly use it. If I had a sink in my Garage, I'd be happy, but do not and i think I'd use the sink unless it's a super tiny one. I originally thought I wanted a stand alone griddle, but I could even get one and put it on the Memphis and it would work the same. That Tec is just plain cool for multiple cooking methods.
@Thoreau: yes, the fridge area counter is prep area. Not sure what you mean about heat--meaning the area around the kitchen? It back up to a stucco wall that I will likely put brick as well or at least thin brick paneling.
@Kristin: I'm lucky as well... I have a guest studio above my garage and the wall my kitchen is going up against is wehere the hot water heater is for the guest studio. Also have a drain cleanout I can plug into for the drain. Seems like a no-brainer. Gas is even already here! Bam!
I guess Thoreau brought up another question I've been thinking about. Is that enough space between my grills and my wall? Should I have any spacer? Counter will be 30" deep so I meet the minimums for the grill manufacturers.
Thank you all! I really appreciate the thoughts.
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@big lou: Yeah, I thouhgt about swapping those as well so that I can stand in the same place to use either grill. I think that would be really nice, although I would lose that corner area of counter top if I did that, but gain more area near the sink. That may be a good way to go though... Anyone else have thoughts on this?
@Bar-B-Lew: I can put a griddle on the Tec (they make one for it) and I will most certainly use it. If I had a sink in my Garage, I'd be happy, but do not and i think I'd use the sink unless it's a super tiny one. I originally thought I wanted a stand alone griddle, but I could even get one and put it on the Memphis and it would work the same. That Tec is just plain cool for multiple cooking methods.
@Thoreau: yes, the fridge area counter is prep area. Not sure what you mean about heat--meaning the area around the kitchen? It back up to a stucco wall that I will likely put brick as well or at least thin brick paneling.
@Kristin: I'm lucky as well... I have a guest studio above my garage and the wall my kitchen is going up against is wehere the hot water heater is for the guest studio. Also have a drain cleanout I can plug into for the drain. Seems like a no-brainer. Gas is even already here! Bam!
I guess Thoreau brought up another question I've been thinking about. Is that enough space between my grills and my wall? Should I have any spacer? Counter will be 30" deep so I meet the minimums for the grill manufacturers.
Thank you all! I really appreciate the thoughts.
I asked above about your water supply. Will your cabinets etc back up to the house wall, and is there a faucet nearby. A lot will depend on where you live, and what kind of winters you have. How will you drain the sink as well. ??
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@Kristin: I'm lucky as well... I have a guest studio above my garage and the wall my kitchen is going up against is where the hot water heater is for the guest studio. Also have a drain cleanout I can plug into for the drain. Seems like a no-brainer. Gas is even already here! Bam!
I guess Thoreau brought up another question I've been thinking about. Is that enough space between my grills and my wall? Should I have any spacer? Counter will be 30" deep so I meet the minimums for the grill manufacturers.
Thank you all! I really appreciate the thoughts.
I asked above about your water supply. Will your cabinets etc back up to the house wall, and is there a faucet nearby. A lot will depend on where you live, and what kind of winters you have. How will you drain the sink as well. ??
I answered those within my responses above (quote modified to only show those) except I'm in California and no freeze worries. About being right up against the wall, that was my last added question in that post. Would love any advice on that as well!
Thank you!
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For the Elite, did you get the Heat Shield Kit ?
Without it, you need 18" clearance to combustibles on the sides, with it, only 1/8". Also need 18" clearance above.
On the rear, you only need 3-1/2" clearance, which is about the width of the rear bracket.
If you put it back against the wall and if you ever need to get to the electronics, fans, auger, etc., you will have to slide the grill out and work over top.
And weighing about 300 lbs. no easy task for one person.
Also have to swap hopper lid around so you can fill from front.
My suggestion would be to leave room so you can get back there, 18"-24".
That also give you the option to put access panels on the back for storage or whatever if you so choose.
If I hadn't left room in back, I would have been sliding mine out from the get-go.
Was DOA when I got it. Had a bad RTD that I had to replace (dang Chinese made stuff).
Also had to press the reset button on the wi-fi card and check status lights when trying to get that to work.
You could probably find the cutout document on the Memphis web site (If you don't have it). It shows the clearances on it.
Make sure it is for new style with wi-fi (I assume that is what you have).
f you can't find it, PM me your email address and I can send it to you.
Just my :2cents:
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@Kristin: I'm lucky as well... I have a guest studio above my garage and the wall my kitchen is going up against is where the hot water heater is for the guest studio. Also have a drain cleanout I can plug into for the drain. Seems like a no-brainer. Gas is even already here! Bam!
I guess Thoreau brought up another question I've been thinking about. Is that enough space between my grills and my wall? Should I have any spacer? Counter will be 30" deep so I meet the minimums for the grill manufacturers.
Thank you all! I really appreciate the thoughts.
I asked above about your water supply. Will your cabinets etc back up to the house wall, and is there a faucet nearby. A lot will depend on where you live, and what kind of winters you have. How will you drain the sink as well. ??
I answered those within my responses above (quote modified to only show those) except I'm in California and no freeze worries. About being right up against the wall, that was my last added question in that post. Would love any advice on that as well!
Thank you!
Sounds like you are good to go!. Sorry I missed your comments.
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I really can't decide on this stuff and worried I'm going to make the wrong decision...with all of it.
Those of you that have a Memphis, do you wish you had something else? If I get a Tec with it, is a 26" enough for the Tec? I had the design in there with the 44" Tec and it's just huge and takes up so much space. My yard isn't big enough to entertain that many people, so maybe the 26" is enough... I also want to make sure I'm happy with my storage out there. Would be nice to get my outdoor cooking stuff out of the garage.
Latest revision of the kitchen design attached from Grillnetics. Anyone use them or recommend someone else for the frame?
In this design, from left to right, is a Coyote Fridge, PCM Insulated Sink (will have access door from behind) Memphis control and trash. Memphis Elite, (here, I don't see why I can't fit a 3 drawer unit). then the Tec and the doors underneath are too small and I'm addressing that.
Any input on any-thing is welcomed and appreciated. I've never done anything like this and really want to enjoy this space.
Lastly, I will have a louvered roof (Equinox) above the kitchen and seating area. Thought about making a solid roof above the kitchen and the louvers for the rest, but not sure that would look right and likely making it he whole way.
Thanks again!
Thgnaks!
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For the Memphis...
Make sure you have easy access to the power cord. Memphis recommends unplugging after use (cool-down mode finished).
If you use a GFCI outlet, make sure you have access to replace it in the future. They do go bad.
For drawers/doors under the Memphis, height is limited unless you go with a higher countertop. (standard height is 36").
I got the drawer below at BBQGuys. It is same width as Elite (Made by Memphis). Pricey.
It is 2.5" off ground, 13" high, and 5" to bottom of grill for a 36" countertop.
Make sure any cabinets/doors will fit.
Make sure you have cutout specs for the new style grill/controller.
New style controller is taller and more square than rectangle (as your drawing indicates).
Have ability to pull cables from Controller to Grill and Grill to Controller. after all cabinetry/countertop work is done.
Have an outlet near grill for small shop vac for ash removal.
As much as I hate the fact that the Memphis is made in China and is inferior to the USA made ones, IMO it is still the best design with auger away from the burn pot.
Double wall construction is good too.
Louvered roofs are great. Had them in last two outdoor cooking areas.
I know absolutely nothing about the Tec.
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I have a Memphis Pro, it is the Only pit I need. I don't need charcoal or gas. Maybe that helps, maybe it does not.
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One thing I forgot...
You are concerned about storage for your BBQ tools.
I use this and it works great.
Just a tool cart on wheels from Home Depot.
Keep all the following in it:
Aluminum foil
Remote thermometers
Whole chicken racks
Stuffed Pepper racks
Chicken Wing racks
Jalapeno racks
Frog Mats (AKA Q-Matz)
Various other things...
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Big Fan of Equinox Roof. Had mine put in 2013. Just replaced motor that stopped working. I original bought a spare motor for future for about $100.00. Also ordered another just in case $450.00 now. Replaced motor myself. I Did not buy the solar setup. Great choice in Roof.
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Thank you... this input helps.
I think I'm going down to the 26" Tec. That other one is just so huge and It won't be my main grill.
Love that Rolling storage idea! I will have to do that, or maybe find a rolling bar to get two birds...
For the Memphis power, I plan on having access, but would love some sort of power control, like I can set it to turn off at X:00 or in X many hours if I'm doing a long smoke.
Lastly, anybody that's happy with their refrigerator? I've read so many bad reviews on stuff.
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Thank you... this input helps.
I think I'm going down to the 26" Tec. That other one is just so huge and It won't be my main grill.
Love that Rolling storage idea! I will have to do that, or maybe find a rolling bar to get two birds...
For the Memphis power, I plan on having access, but would love some sort of power control, like I can set it to turn off at X:00 or in X many hours if I'm doing a long smoke.
Lastly, anybody that's happy with their refrigerator? I've read so many bad reviews on stuff.
I'm not sure removing power from a running grill is a good idea.
I know it happens from time to time with storms, but I wouldn't want to add to the chances of something happening to electronics.
You can use the Memphis Probe and have it drop the grill temp to 180 once it reaches the temp you set.
Say you are cooking a brisket at 275, and want it get to 203 (Memphis probe in meat).
Once the Memphis probe gets to 203, it drops the 275 down to 180.
I can't swear 100% that it still does that, but did in older controller.
I will check manual and get back...
Just looked in manual. Still does it, but for Probe 1 only, not 2 and 3.
Apparently it has two modes, Read Only, and Keep Warm.
You have to take it out of Read Only mode for it to drop the temp to 180.
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I'm sure it does. My inexpensive GMG does that, so I'd hope this has the same abilities.
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For the memphis I would probably just wire up a switch to cut power to the outlet, be easier than trying to plug and unplug. Mount it right beside the controller. You can probably get one with a cover of some sort that you need to lift to access the switch,that would help keep from it accidentally getting turned on or off.
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Make sure you can get to the full back side of the Memphis. You need to take the back panel off in order to unplug the igniter rod and fish the wires back in and out as you replace it.
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My kitchen will be against a wall and no way will I be able to access the back without pulling it out at least partially. What can I do?
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My kitchen will be against a wall and no way will I be able to access the back without pulling it out at least partially. What can I do?
If you can't get around that, at least don't put a back on the cabinet the grill is in.
That will give you a little more room (3"+) to work should you have to pull it out.
Taking this picture made me realize I hadn't cleaned the outside after I cleaned the inside yesterday. Haha
EDIT: FYI - The grill can't go back any farther as side brackets go all the way to back of cabinet, and the rear bracket shown) sets on them.
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02ebz06, I appreciate the help, but really don't understand what you mean. Maybe if I had the grill,I would understand, but don't.
As far as not putting a backing, the counter depth will be 30" so I should have some space behind the grill, but the backing of the kitchen is against the wall and you will not be able to get back there.
Drawing attached. The larger Tec is actually the Memphis (no Memphis pic available for this or I couldn't find one for the Elite).
If possible, should I try to put the Memphis on the left wing with the open back? Not sure if it would fit there, but could check. The pergola ends right there though, and I also like to grill and smoke in the rain, so want to make sure that's not an issue. There are some trees right there and may not get wet at all, but then it might. There is also a pergola post right there and don't want it to get hot, so not sure this is the best idea.
Thoughts?
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OK lets start over.
You can use the four feet to support the grill or it can hang from the three brackets (both sides and back) or both.
If you use the feet to support it, it will make if more difficult to slide grill in/out unless you have a really slick surface.
Mine hangs from the brackets.
If you want to support it by the feet, the brackets STILL need to be there to prevent anything combustible from falling down sides or back.
Side brackets are all that are really needed as you can see by my earlier picture. They are solid.
Unless you are somehow going to have no combustible material for 18" on either side, you need to buy the heat shield kit as well.
Then only 1/8" to combustibles on sides.
The brackets on the sides are 25" deep, which is same depth as my counter (left over granite from kitchen remodel).
They line up with front edge of grill (bottom of first pic below).
So if your countertop is 30" deep, you will have 8-1/2" of space behind the grill. (30" - 25" + 3-1/2" after removing back bracket)
You may be able to slide the grill out 8" or so to give some working room.
With a wall behind you, you will have to lay on the counter to do any work.
Make sure the two cables will have enough length if you have to pull it out.
Another minor thing, you will have to load pellets in the hopper from the front.
Fortunately, you can just flip the hopper lid around.
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loading pellets from the front will be a bit of a pain IMO especially if you need to add pellets while cooking. You will probably also need some sort of stool to step on to be able to see how many pellets you have in the grill and load them.
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This whole thing has been slow going with the rest of the backyard having to be done first, but making progress. Settled on a design and having RTF do the frame. They make it out of steel , coat it for rust prevention, assemble it (mine will be in 4 pieces so I can fit it all in the space) and cement board on it and cut. Hope it works out how I hope it will! I'll just have to put it together in its place and have the brick veneer and countertop done.
Everything will be as shown, except the Memphis control panel...fits better on the right leg above the trash pullout. Hope I have no prob putting it there! From what I read, you used to have to have it on the left but now it can be mounted anywhere the 10' cable will reach. Hope that's the case!
Thanks!
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The Memphis control panel could always be mounted anywhere the 10' cable would reach, their installation guide just showed it on the left.
However, the network cable and the main cable are on the left rear side of the grill.
So there is a benefit of having it on left.
If installed on the right, you would only have about 7' of cable from back right corner.
Keep in mind that if the control panel ever needs to be replaced, you have the network cable (attached to the control panel) that would need to be disconnected from grill and pulled out.
Then you would have to fish the new network cable back to the grill.
If you can't do that with with your hands, you have a problem.
An option would be to run an 1-1/2" or 2" (2" probably better as main cable is rather stiff and has a large plug on end) PVC conduit for running the two cable thru.
Leave a pull string or two in the conduit.
The A/C power cord is on the controller and you need to take into consideration when installing an outlet for it.
Also, if the outlet is hidden, it should not be a GFCI outlet, but can still be on a GFCI circuit.
How the power cord is run is another consideration if the controller has to be replaced.
Memphis specifies in the manual that the grill be unplugged when not in use, so keep that in mind.
I was not doing that at first and was having some flaky issues with the controller.
Memphis Tech told me I needed to keep it unplugged.
Had no more issues after doing that.
Is your trash bin in an enclosed case, or just a front with trash bin on slides?
If open, you could put the outlet above it by the controller with outlet facing down.
That way you could just open the trash bin and reach up to plug/unplug the grill.
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That's a big help, thanks!!!
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A couple more things I thought of...
Have you tested your WiFi by the ODK?
Take a tablet or a laptop and see if you have good signal strength out there.
I had to put a stronger WiFi Extender in so the grill WiFi would work.
Something you should do before installing the grill.
Since you are backing up against a wall, I suggest you get a 4' to 6' Cat-5 cable and a Cat-5 coupler.
To connect the Cat-5 cable from the controller to the grill, you have to remove the back panel. Will not be easy in your setup.
With the short cable and coupler, you can remove the back panel, plug the short Cat-5 cable in, put a couple tie-wraps on it to hold in place, and put cover back on grill.
Then you can put the coupler on the end.
Now the cable from the controller can plug into the coupler with no need to pull back panel.
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Project is finally coming along. Thank you for all the tips! I have my Memphis Elite and kitchen is here, just chugging along on checking fitment and stuff. Speaking of which, the flipping Memphis bracket DOES NOT FIT. They say the opening needs to be at least 8.5 x 6.5 but the bracket is slightly taller than 6.5. Had fund today modifying it to work. Could not make my hole larger as it's welded steel tubing.
I will be able to reach around for the wiring, but I'm going to add a coupler and ethernet cable like 02ebz06 mentioned anyway. Looks like it can only make this easier if needed now that I see where the ethernet plug is on the grill.
Any other recommendations now that this is here?
2 pics attached. One of kitchen how it is now and one of modified and mounted control box bracket.
Thanks!
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Coming along nicely!!! :clap:
Nice mod to make the controller case fit.
Make sure you have easy access to the power outlet for the grill.
It is recommended to unplug grill when not using it.
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Make sure you have easy access to the power outlet for the grill.
It is recommended to unplug grill when not using it.
Maybe put in a switch or shut off breaker
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Might add and old school switch, but also got these bad boys that are Alexa and smartphone and timer controlled, however you want them:
Smart Plug 4 Pack, Treatlife 7 Day Heavy Duty Programmable Timer, Works with Alexa and Google Assistant, 1800W 15A Smart Home WiFi Outlet, Child Lock, Away Mode
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B088PNCJFQ/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1
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Looks like you are going to have a great cooking area!
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Make sure you have easy access to the power outlet for the grill.
It is recommended to unplug grill when not using it.
Maybe put in a switch or shut off breaker
Switch or breaker only disconnects the hot line.
Lightening strike could still take out the grill through the neutral wire.
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No disrespect, I really do appreciate all the help but I'm not worried about lightning hitting my grill underneath my pergola. I think there's a higher probability of the world ending from an alien invasion. :help:
This is from the Memphis site:
"we recommend unplugging the grill between usages. For Built-in situations that may make this inconvenient, we recommend installing an on/off switch that is easily accessible so the power can be turned off between grilling sessions."
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One of the reasons for unplugging between uses is that rarely outdoor rodents (including squirrels; i.e. tree "tree rats") will chew insulation off wiring and can cause fires or shockhazards. Happens in attics if vermin have entry. Of course if you have an isolated wiring to your outdoor kitchen then you can turn off the power at the fusebox. Or if the receptacle has built in circuit breaker no problem. But I still do not leave plugged in appliances outside (except for the heat tape on my sprinkler manifold--but has 15 amp circuit breaker at the socket.)
I can tell you from personal experience, that lightning does not have to hit your grill directly. We had a lightning strike next to our house a few years ago, and it killed 3 TVs, an expensive music amplifier, dishwasher, and wash machine. And three wall receptacle. Fried the electronics. We were told by insurance inspector that this was a common occurrence. That the high voltage enters the ground and travelled into the ground wire system and into our house wiring. I was skeptical of that explanation, after all ground should be ground but apparently and instant high load entering the ground can travel in all directions until it is diminished. We never did find the strike point! And fortunately I had insurance on all the TV's and Stereo (Best Buy). Had to buy the dishwasher, and got a new control panel for the wash machine. I replaced the receptacles with ground faults. I have high quality circuit breakers on all my stereo and TV now. :2cents:
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I can't tell you how much electronic stuff we've had fried from a lightning strike nearby. It's more than I care to remember and most of it was on expensive surge protectors that didn't work. We unplug everything now when we have a storm approaching. Just my :2cents:.
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No disrespect, I really do appreciate all the help but I'm not worried about lightning hitting my grill underneath my pergola. I think there's a higher probability of the world ending from an alien invasion. :help:
This is from the Memphis site:
"we recommend unplugging the grill between usages. For Built-in situations that may make this inconvenient, we recommend installing an on/off switch that is easily accessible so the power can be turned off between grilling sessions."
As Okie Smokie said, Lightening hitting the grill isn't the reason for unplugging the power cord. Lightening hits the power lines and travels to the equipment.
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Ok, I get it. Lightning is very rare around here but I'll figure something out to be safe.
The only power for the grill plugs into the control box, correct?
Anyone have any power suggestions? Better to put some outlets in the wall above the counter or in the kitchen frame, or just inside underneath? I'm leaning towards 3 on the wall above, one on the right side frame on the outside of where the fridge is, and one on the outside behind the left side (as well as the ones I need inside.
Also, I'm putting 3cm quartzite on the countertop but any ideas for that backsplash wall? Leave the stucco or put something there?
Thanks!
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Ok, I get it. Lightning is very rare around here but I'll figure something out to be safe.
The only power for the grill plugs into the control box, correct?
Anyone have any power suggestions? Better to put some outlets in the wall above the counter or in the kitchen frame, or just inside underneath? I'm leaning towards 3 on the wall above, one on the right side frame on the outside of where the fridge is, and one on the outside behind the left side (as well as the ones I need inside.
Also, I'm putting 3cm quartzite on the countertop but any ideas for that backsplash wall? Leave the stucco or put something there?
Thanks!
Yes, only power for grill plugs into controller.
Make sure you have an outlet near the grill for a small vacuum for cleaning ashes out of the grill.
My controller is on the side like yours, and the outlet for the vacuum is between controller and corner.
I don't have a wall, so that may be easier for you.
Put outlets on the ends of the islands if you can. You never know if you will get another pellet smoker, or ? ? ?
Think about things you don't do out there now, but might, make margaritas, have a deep fryer on the counter, etc. Put in outlets for them.
A thinner quartzite might be the easy option for backsplash.
You might want something high behind the grill to keep smoke off the stucco.
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I would definitely want a backsplash and put twice the number of plugs you think you might need. They're cheap and it's easier to do now than add them later.
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I would definitely want a backsplash and put twice the number of plugs you think you might need. They're cheap and it's easier to do now than add them later.
I would also consider putting in higher amps on the breaker for those outlets than you think you may need. Running several things at a time or running things to keep food warm may consume more than 15 amps. I know I can not run more than one electric steam table on a 15 amp line. When I have 2 or 3 of them running in my garage for a party, I have to find outlets on different breakers so I don't trip one of them.
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I would definitely want a backsplash and put twice the number of plugs you think you might need. They're cheap and it's easier to do now than add them later.
I would also consider putting in higher amps on the breaker for those outlets than you think you may need. Running several things at a time or running things to keep food warm may consume more than 15 amps. I know I can not run more than one electric steam table on a 15 amp line. When I have 2 or 3 of them running in my garage for a party, I have to find outlets on different breakers so I don't trip one of them.
Agree, or at the very least, run 12ga wire to all the outlets instead of 14ga.
You can always change the breaker from 15A to 20A if you are tripping the 15A breaker.
You can't do that if you have 14ga wire.
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Thanks for that...I am VERY lucky in that this space I'm putting my kitchen seems like it was designed for me to put my kitchen there. The wall I butt up against, is my garage with a guest unit. I have a water heater right there so I get hot water for my sink, I have a drain cleanout to tap into, I had gas already there for furnace and hot water heater, and I also have an electrical panel right on the other side of that wall as well. BIG SCORE!
SO, I'm having the electrical run all new circuits and a dedicated one for the Memphis as they recommend. He thought that was as funny as I thought it was since it only draws 4 amps, but whatever. I will have a lot out there from that panel though. All the outlets, smoker, refrigerator, equinox roof (it is EVER gets installed--that is a whole other story--ordered in Sept or Oct).
Once this thing is done, I will not want to leave my home except to play golf. I'll have to start calling it "The Compound". Covid even made me put in a gym!
:clap: :clap: :clap: :clap: :clap:
:bbq: :bbq: :bbq: :bbq: :bbq:
:beer: :beer: :beer: :beer: :beer:
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I’m on the final stretch...just installed my Memphis elite.
Does this app even work? It crashes when I enter the grill info.
Will post pics when all other components are in.
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Would there be a current update you might be missing?
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I have the latest app update and grill has the latest firmware that I see (3.04).
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I’m on the final stretch...just installed my Memphis elite.
Does this app even work? It crashes when I enter the grill info.
Will post pics when all other components are in.
I had a lot of issues with mine too when first installed.
Besides the bad RTD, when shutting it down, it would go into cool-down mode, then for some reason in a few minutes would start back up.
Had problems getting the WiFi configured as well.
Worked fine for about 9 months, but last time I used it the WiFi wasn't working.
Will have to play with it next time I'm ready to use it. A few weeks I think.
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It’s driving me a little crazy. It looks great, quality of the grill seems great, temp control seems great, and was easy to connect the grill to my home WiFi.
But, no matter what I do, I cannot get the app to go past the screen where I enter the MAC address. Crashes every time. Thought maybe it was because of the new Apple privacy and it doesn’t allow you to say whether it’s ok to access local network, but even tried on a couple older devices with older iOS and still crashed just the same.
I called tech support while they were still open, had to leave a vm and no call back.
My old pellet grill is a Green Mountain and while that was a pain connecting as well, even that was better than this. Hope I get it figured out.
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It’s driving me a little crazy. It looks great, quality of the grill seems great, temp control seems great, and was easy to connect the grill to my home WiFi.
But, no matter what I do, I cannot get the app to go past the screen where I enter the MAC address. Crashes every time. Thought maybe it was because of the new Apple privacy and it doesn’t allow you to say whether it’s ok to access local network, but even tried on a couple older devices with older iOS and still crashed just the same.
I called tech support while they were still open, had to leave a vm and no call back.
My old pellet grill is a Green Mountain and while that was a pain connecting as well, even that was better than this. Hope I get it figured out.
Can't help you with Apple.
My phone is Android. Problem I had was the page to enter the info on never displayed.
I ended up using my tablet (Android also) and the page showed up there.
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Yeah, I saw somewhere that with Android you have to go to a web address. But that part wasn’t my prob...that the wife part.
It’s the next step that isn’t working for me which is connecting the grill to my app.
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Just thought of another thing...
My Router is in my garage, and I have a WiFi Extender in my family room (closer to grill than router).
The signal wasn't strong enough at the grill and I ended up buying a different Extender to solve the problem.
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Thank you, but like I said, WiFi isn’t the problem. I have a strong signal, it is connected. I’ve messed to much with his and I hate not being able to solve a problem. I installed an android emulator on my of so I could install the Android Memphis app to make sure it isn’t an Apple thing and it doesn’t get to the next step on there either.
I’m gonna mess around a little more with some other ideas and hope I can figure it out. So many more productive things I could be doing...like figuring out what I’m going to smoke first!!!
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Pretty sure Customer Service will be back to you on Monday or Tuesday!
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OK, I guess I misunderstood what you meant when you the problem was connecting the grill to the app.
I assumed it was a WiFi issue.
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Nothing else I tried had any luck so I guess I’m waiting on that.
Here is a sneak preview of the side that’s done.
The one thing they fail to tell you about the grill controller is that even though you can put it anywhere you want, the flipping opening for the probes is only on the left side!!! I’ll need to figure out an extension or something, especially since I bought an extra.
I did have the electrician install a dedicated circuit for the Memphis, even though I’m sure it isn’t needed, and I also put a sleek hidden switch above the refrigerator that you cannot see in the picture. You can’t see if even if you’re down low looking at the refrigerator. It’s perfect and cuts power to the Memphis. I also have a WIFI plug controller that I can delay a power off or turn off from inside or from Alexa if I forget to flip the switch and don’t feel like going back outside.
I did take 02ebz06’s advice and I installed a separate Ethernet extension that gores from the back of the grill to the controller to I can remove the controller more easily. That cable was a pain to feed through when I did it with the grill removed, so glad I did that! TY for that one!
Lastly, the family wants pizza, so I’m gonna see how it turns out on here. I really enjoyed my GMG pizza attachment. Worked so well and cooked perfectly so gonna try to use the cover from that inside my grill and instead of the pizza stone pictured, use a pizza steel that I mainly use indoors.
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That all looks very nice. I am in the early stages of planning something for a new deck at my new home. I am debating on having it against the house or in a corner of the deck where I can see outwards instead of looking at the wall.
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Nothing else I tried had any luck so I guess I’m waiting on that.
Here is a sneak preview of the side that’s done.
The one thing they fail to tell you about the grill controller is that even though you can put it anywhere you want, the flipping opening for the probes is only on the left side!!! I’ll need to figure out an extension or something, especially since I bought an extra.
I did have the electrician install a dedicated circuit for the Memphis, even though I’m sure it isn’t needed, and I also put a sleek hidden switch above the refrigerator that you cannot see in the picture. You can’t see if even if you’re down low looking at the refrigerator. It’s perfect and cuts power to the Memphis. I also have a WIFI plug controller that I can delay a power off or turn off from inside or from Alexa if I forget to flip the switch and don’t feel like going back outside.
I did take 02ebz06’s advice and I installed a separate Ethernet extension that gores from the back of the grill to the controller to I can remove the controller more easily. That cable was a pain to feed through when I did it with the grill removed, so glad I did that! TY for that one!
Lastly, the family wants pizza, so I’m gonna see how it turns out on here. I really enjoyed my GMG pizza attachment. Worked so well and cooked perfectly so gonna try to use the cover from that inside my grill and instead of the pizza stone pictured, use a pizza steel that I mainly use indoors.
I don't think I used the Memphis probe more than once.
I use the Thermoworks Smoke remote thermometers.
You can use a Maverick, Thermoworks, or any other remote thermometer with the grill.
The cables are thin enough that you can close the lid on them and don't have to use the probe hole.
They still haven't made the probe hole big enough to conveniently put 2 or 3 cables it.
I started my pizza making venture with just a 3/4" thick fibrament stone in my Memphis Pro when I was in Texas.
Cranked to 600 or 650 and it worked great.
I would recommend a thicker stone, at least 3/4" or a baking steel.
Thicker will retain the heat longer, and reduce recovery time if you are going to do more than one pizza.
Looks very nice by the way. :clap:
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Good to know with the probe. Wish I hadn’t overspent on an extra. I do have another thermometer unit I use and like but just like on the GMG, I do like to use programs based on the internal temp and smoker temp...if this app ever works.
I did swap out the stone for a pizza steel and I made four mini pizzas since we all like different things these days and also so I could mess around and do them differently. ALL of the crust bottoms turned out perfectly no matter which way I did it, but on most, the crust edges weren’t quite done. The pizza hood didn’t do a thing. Was thinking next time I’ll try the direct heat under the stone and hood on and lower heat? Anyone try something like that?
At one point, in between pizzas, I had it cranked up and it caught fire, so I turned it way down until it recovered. I only had the hood on for the first one since I felt like it made it cooler inside it how it was.
I ended by just having the pizza steel on there, setting at 600°, pizza for 2 minutes, then turning and then raising to 650° for 3 or so minutes until it looked done but trying not to open since no hood... The best was was my own, fortunately and it was delish but I will keep trying other things to make it simpler. I had it down on the GMG and that used so many fewer pellets!
Anyone find or modify the pizza oven attachment to work? I love how it was direct heat to the bottom. I only had to set the GMG to 325° in order to get the 600° inside the pizza oven that worked great for my pizzas.
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I didn't get a call back from Memphis so I submitted an online request and just heard back finally. Like I read someone else having the same problem, hopefully anyone else sees this post that has trouble, but seems a lot of people have a problem with the name part because it's wrong in the Memphis cloud from the start. Not sure why they wouldn't g et a better handle on this, but whatever. They fixed it and now connected.
Kitchen finally together except for the two pieces that have been on backorder forever.
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Very nice, Congrats!!! :clap:
I like the brick color.
How does that drawer below the Memphis work for you?
Mine drags.
Hate to have to do it, but I'm going to have to yank it out of there and see if I can raise the slides up a little.
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Really nice set-up you have built! :clap:
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That is quite impressive, nicely done.
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Looks great.
I'm still skeptical about having any grill that close to the walls of my house though.
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So what did the wi-fi connection issue end up being?
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About being so close to the house, I'm nervous about the Tec and how hot it gets. Didn't realize it exhausts at the top back of the hood, right tat that wood windowsill. So, I have to figure something out to keep the heat away from there. Everything else stucco, so not worried.
The issue was the app, not Wifi, but the name was wrong on the server and so the app crashed when I wrote the info in the app to match it up. Gott write the Mac Address and the Grill Name, which is supposed to be Memphis by default and you change it when you add it, but it wasn't Memphis. It was an unknown on their server, which is the same problem someone else had on some other review I saw somewhere.
Tech support did see that my Wifi firmware needed to be updated as well, but I connected no problem. And updating the firmware wasn't too hard, but it is a real pain to pull out the grill and those brackets kinda suck. The nut for the back bracket (that is supposed to be stuck on there) popped out and fell in the cabinet to make it even more fun.
Hopefully I won't be pulling this thing out any more.
I think the biggest downside of this project is now that it's done (pretty much), I am REALLY hungry.
Here is a pic of the larger area with the fireplace I had built, the pergola and the equinox I had put in my pergola frame. Just need the backordered furniture to come. Loveseat and chairs near the fireplace and then outdoor teak extendable dining table.
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Looks like that will be a great entertaining area. Have fun and enjoy it!
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Beautiful, does the pergola provide rain protection or is it just your typical sun shade?
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Beautiful, does the pergola provide rain protection or is it just your typical sun shade?
I believe it is similar to the one I had at last house.
A louvered roof that you can open/close with a remote.
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Gee, it looks even more inviting than I thought it was.
Have a great time there!
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Thanks, yes! Remote, phone app, or Alexa and then I have a sensor that will auto close if it rains. I really like it so far.