I live in New York and keep mine outside 24/7, but I have the original not the digital. I don't have any grease on my gears, and do not use grease as a lubricant. I apply graphite for lubrication. I've had my smoker for 3.5 years, and during that time I have not had a very hard winter. Though I have used the smoker in temperatures as low as 18°F.