Upgrading the Weber Performer Charcoal Grill with a Smoker Thermometer

by Jason Steffes April 7, 2021

Midwest Hearth Meter Installed on Top of the OEM Bezel of a Weber Performer Grill

As many enthusiasts know, the Weber Kettle is one of the best "poor-man's" smokers you can buy. Accessorized well, it can smoke as well as a $1000+ kamado for the average homeowner.

The Weber Performer is a nice step up and gives you a useful cart with some table space and storage for your charcoal and accessories. While the Performer's included temperature meter is a good starting point, it is woefully inadequate for the home-griller wanting to turn their kettle into a real smoking machine.

New Thermometer Sitting on Top of the OEM Bezel

OEM Weber Thermometer vs. New Thermometer on Top of the OEM Bezel

As described in a previous post, the small size of the OEM thermometer squeezes the optimal smoking temp range into such a small area that it is extremely difficult to read - especially from a distance. The Midwest Hearth BBQ Grill/Smoker Thermometer offers a much larger 2" dial with a temperature range that is much more appropriate for smoking. Also, the colorful temp zones make it easy to check your temps from a distance.

Below I will illustrate a couple of installation options for the new temp meter on your Weber Performer (or other Kettle that has an OEM thermometer).

You will notice when you remove the old meter and bezel, there is an "extra" hole that holds the bezel from spinning. If you choose to mount the new thermometer you will want to seal this extra hole with a dab of high-temp silicone sealant to prevent smoke from escaping. The large size of the new thermometer will easily hide the old hole.

Another option (that I did with my own kettle) is to place the new thermometer right on top of the old Weber bezel. It sticks up a bit this way, but I personally like the look.

Lid After Removing OEM Bezel and Meter

Install Option 1 - No Bezel

Install Option 2 - On Top of the OEM Bezel.

Of course, if you have an Original Weber Kettle, you may not even have a thermometer on your lid. No worries, our Midwest Hearth BBQ/Smoker Thermometer can easily be installed on your lid by drilling a 1/2" hole where you want to locate the meter. Then install the probe and tighten on using the included wing nut. Then enjoy the performance of your new backyard smoker!