What are you using to measure the temp in the tower?
sounds like one of two issues, low voltage to the element or a bad element... check the voltage at the smoker,... should be between 115 and 120 volts,,, heating element should be between 28 and 32 ohms is memory serves me right
You're not running the primary power through an extension cord, are you? Unless it is a big, heavy duty extension cord, the Bradley will not run properly with it.