A Traeger Grill is great because you have complete control over the temperature.This means you get the correct cooking temperature for your delicious food.
But like anything, your Traeger Smoker or grill might not perform as it should. A common problem is temperature swings.
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But if your Traeger all-in-one grill doesn’t get hot then it’s pretty much useless. So let’s go through the learning process and troubleshoot any heating issues.
Is There a Temp Error Code Showing on the Control Board Screen?
Error codes are displayed on the digital display on the control panel if there is a fault. Think of a Traeger Pellet Grill as a computer.
It is programmed to diagnose potential issues to help you solve them. There are a variety of codes however today we are focusing specifically on the LEr code.
Low-Temperature Error Code
The LEr stands for ‘Low-Temperature Error Code’.
This occurs if your Traeger turns off from a stalemate of consistent temperature.
Or precisely if it goes lower than 125°F. If are finding your Traeger is getting too hot, then you need to follow this resource.
Traeger Not Hot – Maintenance/Procedure & Product Issues
Wood Pellet Issues
A Traeger grill uses quality wood pellets as fuel for heating. They are fed down the hopper and into an auger.
Before into the ignition chamber and firepot. An induction fan then disperses the heat and smoke into the cooking chamber.
A pellet issue is the most common reason and simple reason for it not heating.
No Pellets In The Hopper
The most simple and common issue is that you have no fuel in your pellet hopper. Cooking for extended periods? Keep an eye out for your pellet level and make sure you haven’t run out of pellets.
– Understand and estimate the cooking time of a hopper full of your pellets.
– Get a pellet alarm.
– WiF Traeger Grills have a sensor that monitors the pellet level via the app.
Low-Quality Pellets
Bad pellets can have a lot to do with your grill not coming to temp. They will not ignite if they are poorly made.
And can cause an internal pellet jam. Low-grade pellets are sold and marketed for pellet grills.
These wood pellets tend to be made from cheaper materials and are not pressed correctly. Good pellet quality is indicated by them being dry, dense, and shiny.
– Make sure they move freely through the hopper and auger.
– Buy Traeger pellets.
– Prime the grill after replacing the pellets.
Moist Wood Pellets
Proper storage of wood pellets will stop them from swelling due to moisture.
– Do not leave excess pellets in the hopper if you aren’t cooking.
– Store airtight in a dark and dry place.
– Check the size of potential moist pellets before adding them to your hopper.
Setting The Right Start-Up Procedure
There are many different models and types of Traeger Grills.
Some of which will have a different start-up process.
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If done incorrectly this can cause temperature spikes.
WiFIRE Traeger Grill
– Make sure the grill lid is closed.
– Turn it on.
– Set your desired temperature for the cooking chamber.
– Ignite it should take 4-5 for the Trager to ignite
It should take 15 minutes for it to reach the right temperature.
– Check against the app and Traeger controller screen.
AC Traeger Grill
Older AC models will either need a closed-lid or open-lid start-up.
To check your model go to the below official Traeger support page.
CLOSED-LID STARTUP PROCESS
– Turn it on via the power switch.
– Turn the temperature dial to the desired temperature.
– After about 2 minutes, whiteish-gray smoke should come out of the chimney.
– The grill should reach the desired temperature within 15 minutes.
– The current temperature will display on the controller as it preheats.
– Wait at least 10 minutes before placing food on the grill.
OPEN-LID STARTUP PROCESS
– If the grill requires an open-lid start-up, follow these steps
– Plug in and turn on your grill.
– With the lid open, set your Traeger grill to the SMOKE setting and hear the fan running.
– Wait 5 minutes for the fire to ignite and establish.
-You will hear a difference in the fan once the flame gets rolling.
– Wait for an additional 5-10 minutes, keeping the lid open.
– Close the lid.
– Set the temperature to the desired temperature.
– Allow the grill to preheat for approximately 10 to 15 minutes.
Setting The Shut-Down Procedure
Your Traeger has a shutdown procedure. This will communicate to the computer that the Treager has stopped the cooking cycle.
If this isn’t done it can cause issues with the start-up and grill temperature.
Failure Of Proper Maintenance
General maintenance will drastically reduce the chance of normal operation. Examples of this would be regular inspection and cleaning after use.
Like preventing grease build up or looking for unburned pellets.
Make sure you follow the below to avoid any build-up or pellet flow disruption.
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– Emptying the grease trap.
– Changing the drip tray liners.
– Brushing down the hopper to remove dust and ash buildup.
– Cleaning after use.
– A deep clean every 30 hours of use.
Not Enough Power to Your Traeger
If there isn’t adequate power to the Traeger then it won’t be heating pellets!
Check the owner’s manual for the voltage of your grill to the power outlet.
Traeger Not Hot – Environmental/Faulty Internal Components
Cold or Windy Weather Conditions
Weather conditions will affect the internal temperature of your Traeger.
– Buy a wind guard and insulating grill cover.
– Cook when the sun is at its highest.
– Change your P-setting button to help with ambient temperature changes.
Dirty or Faulty Rtd Probe
The RTD probe measures temperature.
Monitoring and communicating the internal temp to the temperature controller.
This could be damaged, dirty or have a loose connection.
Troubleshooting a Faulty Probe
– Check there is no visible damage to the RTD sensor which is located
– Look for bends, cracks, or chips.
– No damage? You will need to test the ambient temperature.
– Make note of your temperature reading and compare it to another temp probe. You may need to calibrate the probe
– Are they drastically different on the grill?
– A new sensor will need to be ordered and replaced as per instructions.
Jammed Auger
A blocked auger is common for your Traeger not to achieve temperature. This is because no pellets are being fed into the ignition chamber.
This will require a bit of work but is important. It also helps you further understand how your Traeger works.
We have a whole article on how to clear a jammed auger.
Traeger Warranty Policy Notes
– Check your warranty policy and warranty claims.
– There is a three-year warranty period for all Traeger models.
– Contact Traeger’s customer service department if you are unsure.
– Be aware of how consequential damages may affect your warranty coverage.
Smoke On!Charlie
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