Hi, and thanks for your feedback on the Tailgater 20. Assuming you are referring to the 180 setting, as is mentioned later in your review, this is actually an option on a different model grill than the reviewed one from this page. However, regardless of the grill, they should be able to maintain their set temperatures, whether it be at the low or high end of the settings, as long as the grill is reasonably clean, and quality pellets are being used. But if you believe that these are not related to your concerns, please reach out to Traeger Customer Service for assistance at 1-800-TRAEGER, even if your Tailgater is no longer under warranty. In the meantime, as long as you can still operate the grill at 225 (or the Smoke setting, if it does not have the same results as 180), this is still within the range of the ideal smoking temperatures, which is where blue smoke production is at its highest level for adding flavor to your food.