Tahoma FAQ

We recommend two people to assemble the grill

How do you assemble the grill?

You can follow the step-by-step directions in the grilling guide or use the BILT App to walk you through the assembly

What should the distance be from my router to the Tahoma?

We recommend using your mobile device to confirm you have 2 bars of Wi-Fi signal strength at the location of the smoker/grill.

What GHz band does the router support, 2.4GHz or 5.0 GHz?

Make sure your are connecting your grill to a 2.4Ghz Wi-Fi signal. Both your smart device and product will need to be connected to the same home 2.4 Ghz Wi-Fi SSID. 5Ghz Wi-Fi signals could cause connection issues.

Do I need to plug the Tahoma in to operate?

Yes, the grill needs to be plugged in to a standard GFCI outdoor plug and needs 120 volts to operate.

Can I use an extension cord?

Yes, an extension cord can be used to help reach an outlet. Only use an outdoor type with 3 prong grounding plug, rated for 15 amperes or more, approved by UL, marked with a "W" and a tag stating "Suitable for Use with Outdoor Appliance". Use the shortest length extension cord required. Do not connect 2 or more extension cords together. Keep connections dry and off ground. Do not let cord hang over edge of table top or other items where it can be pulled by children or tripped over.

Do I need to preseason my grill?

Yes, seasoning your grill before cooking will burn off any manufacturing residues, protect your grill surfaces and create the beginning of a cooked-in surface treatment that will add to the flavor of your cooks. We recommend seasoning your grill for 2 hours at 350 degrees Fahrenheit

What kind of fuel do I use with Tahoma?

We recommend using charcoal briquettes for the best cooking experience. Do NOT use match light charcoal with the Tahoma.

How much fuel can the Tahoma hopper hold?

The hopper can hold up to 16lbs of charcoal. Do NOT fill the hopper above the max fill line inside the hopper.

How much fuel should I add?

We recommend that you use only the amount of charcoal fuel that is necessary for the cook temperature and duration that your need. See chart for recommended charcoal usage.

Can I use match light charcoal with my grill?

No, do NOT use any match light charcoal with Tahoma. This will cause the charcoal to burn too hot and too fast and could cause damage to your smoker. Match light charcoal also uses chemical accelerants which could alter the taste of your food. We recommend using standard charcoal briquettes.

You can search for Oklahoma Joe's in the Android or Apple App store or click the following links.

Will I have to pay anything to use the Oklahoma Joe's mobile app?

No, there is no fee to download and use the Oklahoma Joe's mobile app.

Why is it important to download the app?

Downloading the application and connecting your grill to WiFi allows you to update your unit's controller firmware to the latest version, ensuring the best performance and cooking experience.

How do I update the firmware on my Tahoma?

Smaller updates to the product's controller firmware will be done seamlessly in the background. Other larger updates will be prompted at the beginning of turning your product on to ensure your cook is not interrupted. You then have the choice to update now or later. We recommend always cooking on the most up-to-date version of the firmware for best results and experience.

Can I shut down my grill from the app?

Yes, go to the "Cook" tab, and press and hold the power button for 3 seconds that is located at the top of the screen.

Can I turn on my grill from the app?

No, due to safety concerns and regulation, you must be at your grill to turn on your appliance

What products are compatible with the Oklahoma Joe's app?

The app is currently designed to work with the Oklahoma Joe's Tahoma Auto-Feed smoker, but can also be used to look up recipes, How-Tos, and search for accessories.

If my grill is not connected to WiFi can the grill's firmware be updated through Bluetooth?

No, you must have your grill connected to WiFi to be able to update the product controller.

How do I delete the Oklahoma Joe's app from my device?

You can delete the app following the steps required by your device OS.

What is the Bluetooth range?

Bluetooth range is 100FT line-of-sight without obstacles between the radio and the grill.

Weather and foilage can affect performance.

Is a network password required to connect my grill to WiFi?

Yes, you will need the password for whatever network you are trying to connect your product to.

What phone types does app work with?

The mobile app is optimized to work with Android OS 13 and iOS 16. Use of older phones and older operating systems may encounter some problems using the app.

Can I connect the app to my smartwatch?

Yes, once you have downloaded the Oklahoma Joe's app on your smart device, you should now be able to find the app within your smartwatch.

Does the Oklahoma Joe's app work with Alexa or Siri?

At this time there is not support for smart assistances. There are plans to integrate smart assistants in the future.

Why am I missing access to certain features and functions like the cook graphs and cook session history?

Certain features and functions within the app require a Wi-Fi connection to wrok properly such as Cook graphs, cook session history, and Lockscreen push notifications. We recommend connecting and using a Wi-Fi connection for the best cooking experience and functionality.

How do I update the Oklahoma Joe's app? If you do not have auto application updates enabled, check your app store for the most recent available updates for the Oklahoma Joe's app.

Can I have multiple grills connected to my app?

At this time, only one grill may be associated with the mobile app at a time.

Can I control one grill with multiple devices?

Yes, this is possible only with Wi-Fi. Simply clear the BLE settings on the grill and pair with a second device. The first device will lose the ability to control with Bluetooth but both grills will be able to remotely control with Wi-Fi.

How do I check my WiFi connection on my app and smoker?

You can see the number of bars on the wireless icon increase or decrease with the signal strength. You can also see whether the device is cloud conneted by going into the settings menu of the mobile application.

How do I check my Bluetooth connection on my app and smoker?

You can determine if your device is bonded with the phone operating system menu, but you can check information on the connection type in the mobile application settings.

How do I connect my grill to Bluetooth?

When you are setting up your Tahoma in the Oklahoma Joe's mobile app it will have you connect to the grill via Bluetooth. If you become disconnected and need to reconnect go to "Account" tab at the bottom, click "Settings" tab at the top, click "Support", then click "How to Connect". From this screen, you can click "Pair Bluetooth" and follow the prompts

How do I connect my grill to WiFi?

When you are setting up your Tahoma in the Oklahoma Joe's mobile app it will have you connect to the grill via WiFi, after connecting bluetooth. If skip this step or you become disconnected and need to reconnect go to "Account" tab at the bottom, click "Settings" tab at the top, click "Support", then click "How to Connect". Pair your phone to bluetooth first, if it isn't already paired. After your bluetooth is paired, you can connect via WiFi.

Why am I not getting notifications to my phone/ mobile app?

You need to ensure your grill is connected to WiFi to get push notifications on your phone/ mobile app. If your WiFi is connected go to settings on your phone and make sure you have notifications enabled for the Oklahoma Joe's app.

Why am I not getting audible alerts to my phone?

You need to ensure your grill is connected to WiFi to get push notifications on your phone/ mobile app. If your WiFi is connected go to settings on your phone and make sure you have notifications enabled for the Oklahoma Joe's app.

What notifications are there for in the mobile app?

There are notifications for the following: When your grill hits it's preheat set temperature, when your timer expires when one of your food probes hits the set temp when your fuel in the hopper is running low, when the ash pan drawer is open, and when the hopper lid is open.

There is no damper you need to control. The great part about the Tahoma Auto-Feed smoker is it will regulate the air intake for you to maintain a consistent temperature in the cook chamber.

How do I set a target temperature for the cook chamber?

In the app click on the "Cook" tab at the bottom of the app, scroll to the desired temperature, and click "Set temperature". Once the temperature is set you should hear an audible beep from the grill. To set the temperature on the grill, click the knob and scroll to the desired temperature, and click the knob to confirm. Once the temperature is set you should hear an audible beep from the grill.

How do I set a target temperature for one or multiple food probes?

When a food probe is plugged into the bottom of the control panel, it will register and show the temperature of the probe on both the control pane and in the app. The probe temperature can be set on the control panel or in the app. For the control panel, press the lower right button that has the probe icon, turn the dial to the desired temperature setting and push the know-in to confirm. You can toggle to the next probe by pushing the food probe button and repeating the process to set the temperature for that probe. To set the probe in the app, go to the "Cook" tab and select the probe at the bottom of the screen. (probe(s) must be connected to the control panel to be seen in the app) After you select the probe you would like to set, you will be give the option to "use temperature guides" or "set temperature manually". Choose which option you want, select your desired temp and press the orange set button to confirm. When the probe reaches the set target, the probe will beep at the control panel and send a notification via app to indicate target temp has been reached.

Why is my unit smoking so much? Too much smoke?

It is normal to see a large amount of smoke on initial lighting of the charcoal.

Will the grill lose heat when the lid is open?

Yes, the temperature in the cook chamber will drop

How do I turn off my grill when I'm done cooking?

You can power down the grill by pressing the power button on the control panel of the grill or from the "cook" tab in the mobile app

When I turn off my grill and close the damper, will the fuel stop burning?

The Tahoma is not an airtight product and, in some cases, may allow air to enter the unit following power shutoff and damper closing. With the 16-pound capacity, you can enjoy up to 13 hours of uninterrupted cook time; however, we recommend that you use only the amount of charcoal fuel that is necessary for the cook temperature and duration that you need. This will allow you to have an amazing cooking experience while optimizing your fuel usage and avoiding the loss of unused charcoal following shutdown.

Can I leave the hopper lid open while cooking?

No, the hopper lid must remained closed during cooking. If the hopper lid is not closed tight with the latch, the fan will shut off until the lid is closed tight.

How do I cook with wood chunks?

Yes, you can mix wood chunks in with your charcoal briquettes in the hopper.

Can I smoke with Wood Chips?

Yes, you can mix wood chips in with your charcoal briquettes in the hopper

Can I cook/smoke with logs?

No, you can not use wood logs in the Tahoma. We recommend using charcoal briquettes (do NOT use match light charcoal) in the hopper and you can add a few wood chunks or chips for flavor.

I'm burning through charcoal faster than advertised, why?

Cooking at high temperatures and cold ambient (outside) temperatures will require more fuel.

How do I light the charcoal?

1. Make sure the damper is in the open position (turn clockwise).
2. Turn the unit on, but do not set a temperature on the control panel.
3. Open the cook chamber lid, ash pan, and hopper lid and check for old charcoal and ash, remove if necessary. Left over charcoal in the hopper is okay.
4. Fill the hopper with charcoal to desired level and close the hopper lid.
5. If lump charcoal, wood chips/ chunks are added make sure to start off with 2lbs of charcoal briquettes to ensure a consistent start up.
6. Open ash drawer and place 2 firestarters on the stand inside the ash pan. We recommend using Oklahoma Joe's All-Natural Firestarters.
7. Light the firestarters, close and latch the ashpan drawer.
8. Close the cook chamber lid once you start to see smoke flowing into the cook chamber.
9. Set the desired temperature by turning the knob on the control panel and press the knob to confirm.

How do I light the charcoal if no fire starters are available?

For best results, we recommend using Oklahoma Joe's firestarters to light the Tahoma. If none are available, you can use crumpled newspaper or part of the charcoal bag to light the charcoal. Wad up pieces of newspaper or part of the charcoal bag and place them on the platform in the ash drawer. Light paper and close and latch the ashpan drawer.

Why did my grill shut itself off?

The grill could shut itself off for 3 reasons. Please contact customer service if feel like one of these 3 reasons doesn't apply to your situation.

1. Flameout Watch - If the system temperature cannot rise above a predefined threshold after 20 minutes, the display starts to flash ""chk/hpr/chk/dam/per"" meaning ""check hopper, check damper"" as it activates the watch cycle. The system tries to re-establish combustion and achieve the heat setting for 10 minutes. After 10 minutes have passed, if the measured temperature remains below the threshold, the system turns off the unit in an orderly and controlled manner.
2. Overheat Watch - Unless the system is in shutdown cycle, the control system will activate the ""Overheat Watch"" cycle if the cooking chamber temperature is above 700°F (371°C). If the cooking chamber temperature, measured by the probe, remaines above 700°F (371°C) for 3 minutes, control system will display an error message. The shutdown cycle will also be activated. The shutdown cycle will shut off all the electrical components and turns off the unit in an orderly and controlled manner.
3. Standby Mode - If the grill is powered on, but the control knob is not set to any smoking or grilling target temperature, the control system shifts into standby mode. If the system remains idle for 5 minutes in the standy mode with no inputs from the user, the system will shutdown and power off."

How do I maintain my grill/smoker?

Before your first cook we recommend preseasoning your grill. If you are doing a lot of low temperature cooking, there is potential for excess grease buildup on the heat baffle. We recommend doing a burn off at 550°F for 20 minutes every couple of smoking sessions. Between each cook we recommend the following: 1) Once the grill has cooled down wipe down the exterior of the grill and then apply a thin coating to the interior and exterior of the grill with a high-burn point oil like canola or grapeseed oil. 2) Once the charcoal has had time to burn out and the ash has cooled, empty the ash pan into a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. 3) Scrape the grease, grime, and remaining food off the grates with a safe grill brush. We recommend the OKJ grill brush (1517365R06 - link to item). 4) Once everything has cooled down empty the grease tray into a metal container with a tight lid. 5) Unplug the grill and cover it with the customer Tahoma Cover (5375187P04 - link to item) to keep it protected from the elements.

How do I clean my grill/smoker?

Between each cook we recommend the following:

1. Once the grill has cooled down wipe down the exterior of the grill and then apply a thin coating to the interior and exterior of the grill with a high-burn point oil like canola or grapeseed oil.
2. Once the charcoal has had time to burn out and the ash has cooled, empty the ash pan into a metal container with a tight-fitting lid.
3. Scrape the grease, grime, and remaining food off the grates with a safe grill brush. We recommend the OKJ grill brush.
4. Once everything has cooled down empty the grease tray into a metal container with a tight lid.

How often do I need to empty my grease trap?

The grease trap is located underneath the cook chamber and can easily slide out from the left side of your grill. We recommend checking and emptying the grease trap before every cook

Where can I buy accessories for Tahoma?

Accessories can be purchased from the Oklahoma Joe's website (www.oklahomajoes.com) or from the mobile app on the "Discover" tab and "Shop" header

Do I need a cover for my Tahoma?

While a cover is not required we do recommend using a cover to protect your smoker and ensure a long-lasting appliance. Keeping your Tahoma out of the elements, like rain, will prevent any damage to the electronics and will be less likely to rust out.

How do I reset my Tahoma grill?

To reset your Tahoma, power the unit on. While the unit is on, press and hold the power button and the controller knob at the same time. Continue to hold both buttons until the controller produces an audible beep.

Where can I get recipes?

You can view recipes in the Oklahoma Joe's mobile app on the "Recipes" tab or through the Oklahoma Joe's website. We recommend checking out the "Recipes" tab of the Oklahoma Joe's mobile app there are interactive recipes specifically for Tahoma that will help guide you through the cook.

How do I store my grill when it is not being used?

Always unplug your appliance when not in use and store it away, so it stays out of the elements. We recommend using the custom rip-stop cover (5375187P04 - link to item) to protect your appliance

How do I register my product for warranty?

You can register the warranty on your grill when you are setting up your grill in the mobile app. After you select your product select "Register Product/ Guides" and "Register Grill Warranty", before you connect your mobile app to the grill. If you missed the product registration during setup, go to "Account" tab at the bottom, then click the "Settings" tab at the top, then click "Support", then click "Register Product/ Guides", then click "Register Grill Warranty", and follow the prompts.

What constitutes a warranty? (How do I know if my product is still under warranty?)

Warranty on Tahoma is 2 years, from purchase date, on all parts

I need to order a replacement part; product is still under warranty?

To order replacement parts, during warranty, please contact customer service at 800-318-7744 M-Sa 9AM - 7PM EST.

I need to order a replacement part; product is no longer under warranty.

If you know what part you need you can order them from www.oklahomajoes.com. If you aren't sure what part you need please contact customer service at 800-318-7744 M-Sa 9AM - 7PM EST.

Where can I locate the model/serial number on my product?

The model number and serial number can be located on a sticker on your grill that will be located on the base of the product in between the two wagon-style wheels.

What is error E01 (FAN Not dEt)?

1. The control system cannot detect the fan or there is a fan malfunction. To resolve the error:Unplug the grill from the power.Remove the Pit Control panel and ensure all wires are not damaged and are firmly connected.Reassemble and retry.
2. If the error persists, please call Oklahoma Joe's customer service for support.

What is error E04 (tMP SnS Err)?

The control system cannot detect the temperature probe or the temperature probe malfunction. To resolve the error:

1. Unplug the grill from the power.
2. Remove the control panel and ensure all wires are not damaged and are firmly connected.
3. Reassemble and retry.

If the error persists, please call Oklahoma Joe's customer service for support.

What is the error E05 (tmP Sns Err)?

The control system detects abnormal signals from the temp. probe (e.g. reading above 700°F for an extended period) or the control system detects a temperature above 750°F. If the controller detects a sharp overheat or overheats for an extended period, it will automatically shut down the system. In the case of excessive heat or fire - immediately close the grill lid, press the power button and allow the grill to completely cool. Once the grill is cool: 1) Open ash pan and dump excess ashes. 2) Empty grease cup. 3) Inspect the left side of the cooking chamber for the grease cup. Inspect for any blockage and clean if necessary. 4) Reassemble and retry. Frequently cleaning your grill will help prevent grease fires. If the error persists, please call Oklahoma Joe's customer service for assistance.

What if temperatures won't rise or I see message saying "chk/hpr/chk/dam/per" on the screen?

These are both signs that you are not getting proper heat in the cook chamber. This situation can be caused by several factors. Follow these steps, if you are still unable to resolve the problem, please contact customer service.

1. Check charcoal supply – Is there sufficient charcoal in the hopper? If not, load it up and try again.
2. Check the damper – Is the damper at the front panel open? If not open the damper by rotating the knob clockwise.
3. Check for hopper jam – If your damper is open, next you’ll need to check for hopper jam. These can be caused by a number of factors such as using damp or crumbling charcoal or buildups in the hopper from previous users.
4. Check the fan – Once you’ve confirmed your hopper is jam-free, next you’ll want to check the fan is running to make sure it’s working properly. Note that if the unit was left unattended for an extended period of time, the control system might turn the fan off to protect the system. In that case, the fan should be reactivated as the user reset the unit via the control knob. Also, if the system detects that either the hopper lid or the ashpan drawer is open, it stops the fan. Make sure the hopper lid and the ashpan drawer are closed and the latches are locked.
5. Check for ash buildup – If your charcoal supply is ok, the damper is open, and the fan is running, check for a buildup of ashes in the ashpan. If ashes are not draining properly, they can cover the fire-grate and prevent charcoal from igniting and/or properly burning. Here’s how to assess ash buildup:Turn off the grill and allow to cool.Partially open the ashpan drawer.Check for any ashes or unburnt charcoal in the ashpan. If there is a buildup, remove the fire grate to allow the ashes and unburnt charcoal to flow into the ashpan. Then remove the ashpan and empty the ash and unburnt charcoal. CAUTION: Partially warm charcoal can reignite when exposed to fresh air. Always wait for the unburnt charcoal to fully cool down. Also, you can use fireproof ash containers.
6. Check chamber temperature probe - If there is no ash buildup, check to see if the temperature probe is malfunctioning:Empty the hopper.Turn the grill on and set to "250".Allow the system to run for about 2 minutes.Using a lighter, carefully heat the tip of the internal temperature sensor on the left side of the grill wall and look for an increase in the temperature reading on the control screen.If the temperature does not rise, check the wire connectionsTurn off and unplug the grill.Remove the control panel.Ensure all wires are firmly connected.Reassemble the grill and asses the temperature probe with the same method.If the temperature still does not rise, your chamber temperature sensor may need to be replaced. Please call customer service for assistance.
7. What if Is see smoke from the hopper? - This is a sign that you are not getting proper airflow in the cooking chamber, or the hopper lid is no properly closed.
8. Check the hopper lid - Is the hopper lid fully closed and the latches locked? Make sure both latches on the hopper lid are closed.
9. Check smokestack - If the hopper lid is fully closed, check the smokestack and cap for any obstruction and clear it, if needed. Use protective gloves as the grill will be very hot!
10. Check the hopper lid gasket - If there is no obstruction in the smokestack, check to see if the sealing gasket on the hopper lid is damaged. If the damper is open, the smokestack is clear, and there is no ash buildup and you still have a heavy smoke leak from the hopper after the lid latches are locked, your hopper gasket may need to be replaced. Please call Oklahoma Joe's customer service for assistance. Note that light occasional smoke leakage when the system is pressurizing the cooking chamber is a normal part of the operation.

What should I do if I have a problem with my product?

Search the FAQ's to see if you find an answer to your question. If you are still having issues please call our customer service support line at 800-318-7744

How do I reach Customer Support?

Customer service support can be reached at 800-318-7744 from 9AM - 7PM EST on Monday - Saturday or by email at customersupport@charbroil.com.

Please have your model # and serial # available when contacting us.