[ThePict]

That really sucks Mark. Never had that issue myself, but living down here in a warm, sunny climate likely has a great deal to do with that. I use my Traeger year round so that may have a bit to do with it as well.
I remember my BIL Mike had that issue once with a US built model that he keeps on his covered porch, but since he started emptying the hopper for your ten month rainy season he hasn't had any issues.
If your going back to charcoal take a look at the Big Green Egg. We love ours and it gets as much use as the Traeger does. We often find ourselves debating which unit to use as each of them have unique qualities. You can tell a serious BBQ day at my house when we get them both going at once!