Yoder Smokers 20" Heat Management Plate

Yoder Smokers 20-inch Heat Management Plate — Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Yoder 20" Heat Management Plate?

This is a perforated steel plate designed to drop into the Yoder 20" offset smoker (e.g. Wichita) just below the main cooking grate. It’s part of Yoder’s “Heat Management System” meant to help balance heat and smoke across the cooking chamber.

How does the heat management plate improve cooking performance?

The plate’s perforations regulate how much heat and flame reach the cooking grate, reducing hot spots and promoting more even cooking across the length of the smoker. It also includes a damper above the firebox; when opened, it allows direct flame exposure for more searing capability.

Which smoker models is it compatible with?

It’s designed for the Yoder 20" offset smokers (such as the Wichita). The product page states it “drops directly into your pit just below the main cooking grate” for the 20" Wichita model.

How do I install it?

Installation is straightforward: remove or lift out the main cooking grate, then lower the heat management plate into place so it sits firmly above the firebox area. The perforated design must face upward, and the damper slide should be aligned to your existing firebox damper slot.

Are there any drawbacks or trade-offs?

While the plate helps smooth out temperature variation, some pitmasters note that it slightly limits direct flame contact, which could reduce aggressive sear in certain areas. That said, Yoder’s own forum staff notes that the benefit in heat distribution tends to outweigh any downsides.