I have heard of WSM users using sand!
I have a WSM and I think the water in the pan (as water) has a minimal effect on cooking. It's more likely a heat sink. Many will argue that aspect. I used my Weber for 3-4 years and never did any comparison cooks so this is speculation on my part. My experience is that since the WSM is run by air intake only, the heat sink is a good way to minimize temp swings while constantly baby sitting the air openings. Sand would be the same. I was booted from their site for a walmart comment (whatever
, but after being a member for 3 years I never read of anyone using sand with water added as a 'moisturizer'. I'm sure that the added humidity may have some effect on the cook, but it seams it would be minimal.
In this case, I'm wondering if the same rule applies. It would be interesting to see a comparison between with/without water in the pan or less pan altogether.
That said; What's the grease catching/draining system in this thing? I can find nothing on the matter. Is the water pan the grease catcher?