Troubleshooting Common Traeger Pellet Grill Problems

Traeger pellet grills have revolutionized backyard cooking, offering wood-fired flavor with push-button convenience. At Cooking For Profit, we understand the value they bring—whether for home enjoyment or catering gigs. However, like any piece of equipment, they can sometimes encounter issues. Don’t let a hiccup ruin your cookout! This guide covers the most common Traeger grill problems and how to fix them.

Common Traeger Grill Issues and Solutions

Understanding the potential problems can help you quickly diagnose and resolve them—getting you back to grilling perfection.

1. Temperature Fluctuations

Causes:

• Poor Quality Pellets: Wet, old, or inconsistent-sized pellets burn unevenly.
• Dirty Temperature Probe: Grease buildup on the RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector) probe causes inaccurate readings.
• Environmental Factors: Cold, wind, or direct sunlight can affect performance.
• Low Pellet Hopper: Insufficient fuel causes temperature swings.
• Incorrect Startup: Skipping the proper startup procedure leads to instability.
• Component Failure: Faulty RTD probe or controller (though rare).

Solutions:

• Use high-quality, dry hardwood pellets. Store them in an airtight container.
• Clean the RTD probe with a non-abrasive pad or fine steel wool every few cooks.
• Position the grill away from strong winds. Use an insulation blanket in cold climates.
• Keep the hopper filled before and during long cooks.
• Follow the official Traeger startup procedure precisely every time.
• Check all connections. If issues persist, consult your manual or contact Traeger support.

2. Auger Not Feeding Pellets

Causes:

• Pellet Jam: Wet or oversized pellets, or sawdust buildup, clog the auger tube.
• Empty Hopper: A common but easily overlooked issue.
• Auger Motor Failure: The motor may have stopped working.
• Shear Pin Failure: Some models have a breakable shear pin to protect the motor.

Solutions:

• Turn off and unplug the grill. Clear any jam manually and use a shop vac to clean out dust.
• Check and refill the pellet hopper.
• Listen for auger motor noise. If silent, it may need replacement.
• If applicable, inspect and replace a broken shear pin.

3. Igniter Failure (Grill Not Lighting)

Causes:

• Faulty Igniter Rod: May have burned out and no longer glows red.
• Incorrect Startup: Pellets might not reach the fire pot in time.
• Excess Ash: Ash buildup can smother ignition.
• Wiring Issues: Loose or disconnected igniter wiring.

Solutions:

• Ensure pellets reach the fire pot during startup.
• Clean the fire pot before each cook to remove ash.
• During startup (carefully), check if the igniter rod glows red—replace if it doesn’t.
• With the grill unplugged, check and secure the igniter wiring.
• As a temporary fix, consult your manual for safe manual ignition methods.

4. Grill Produces Excessive or Dirty Smoke

Causes:

• Grease Buildup: Grease on the drip tray or barrel can smolder.
• Wet Pellets: Damp pellets create thick, low-quality smoke.
• Low Temperature Setting: Below 225°F can produce more visible smoke.
• Startup Phase: Initial ignition often creates white smoke (this is normal).

Solutions:

• Clean the drip tray regularly. Use drip tray liners for easier maintenance.
• Use dry, well-stored pellets.
• Cook at proper temperatures and monitor smoke output.
• Wait for the startup smoke to clear before placing food on the grill.

5. Error Codes (LEr, HEr, Err)

Common Codes & Meanings:

• LEr (Low Error Reading): Grill dropped below 125°F for 10+ minutes.
• HEr (High Error Reading): Grill exceeded 550°F—often caused by grease fires.
• Err: Faulty or disconnected RTD probe.
• Er1, Er2, etc.: Model-specific error codes—check the manual.

General Troubleshooting:

• Check and refill the hopper if you get a LEr code.
• Clean the grill thoroughly—watch out for grease fires (use baking soda, never water).
• Ensure RTD probe is clean and connected.
• Power cycle the grill: unplug for 30 seconds and restart.
• Consult your Traeger manual for detailed error definitions.

6. Fire Goes Out During Cooking

Causes:

• Out of Pellets: The most common cause.
• Auger Jam: Prevents fuel delivery.
• Excess Ash: Can choke the flame.
• High Winds: May extinguish the fire.
• Component Failure: Controller or fan issues.

Solutions:

• Check pellet levels and refill if necessary.
• Ensure pellets are feeding and fire pot is clean.
• Follow full startup procedure if the fire has gone out.
• Move the grill out of strong wind zones.

Preventative Maintenance: Keeping Your Traeger in Top Shape

The best way to avoid problems is to prevent them with regular care. Cooking For Profit recommends these simple maintenance habits:

• Clean After Each Cook: Brush the grates and empty ash from the fire pot.
• Deep Clean Every 20–50 Hours: Clean the RTD probe, drip tray, and barrel interior.
• Use High-Quality Pellets: Store them in a dry, airtight container.
• Empty Hopper if Not in Use: Prevent moisture damage by emptying for long-term storage.
• Check Connections: Occasionally ensure all wiring is secure (with grill unplugged).
• Follow Official Procedures: Always use the correct startup and shutdown process.

Conclusion: Maximize Your Traeger Experience with Cooking For Profit

While Traeger grill issues can be frustrating, most are easy to troubleshoot with a bit of knowledge. Keep your grill clean, follow proper procedures, and stay stocked with quality pellets. With these tips from Cooking For Profit, you’ll enjoy smooth operation and delicious results every time.

Looking for more grill tips and recipes? Explore our guide here or try some of our favorite wood-fired dishes today!