I bought this smoker a couple of weeks ago.  Today is the first time that  I've used it.  It seems to get the proper temperature, as long as the file is burning.  Numerous times, I have checked the fire to find that it has gone out, and the temp has dropped.  There is a  slight breeze blowing today.  Possibly that is the problem?  I bought this smoker so I wouldn't have to keep checking it, but, I am having to check more, and generally restart the file.  I would not recomed this smoker, without informing the prospect customer of the fire issue