Twin Size Sheet Set - Breathable & Cooling Sheets - Hotel Luxury Bed Sheets - Extra Soft - Deep Pockets - Easy Fit - 3 Piece Set - Wrinkle Free - Comfy - White Bed Sheets - Twins Sheets - 3 PC

$27.99 (as of April 22, 2024 18:00 GMT +00:00 - )

Have you experienced the malfunction where in your best traeger grill ceases operation abruptly in the midst of the cooking process? Frequently deactivating the smoker during the culinary process and requiring its reactivation can engender dissatisfaction. Although automatic shutdown of a Traeger can occur for a variety of reasons, fortunately, many potential causes are amenable to straightforward repairs or routine maintenance.

This comprehensive guide will answer the question why does my traeger keep shutting off?. We’ll discuss the underlying mechanics behind each issue and provide troubleshooting steps to identify the root cause, as well as permanent solutions to keep your Traeger up and running reliably for all your BBQ needs. By proactively addressing maintenance requirements and comprehending the causes of shutoffs, one can minimize undesired interruptions and optimize grill uptime moving forward.

To provide context for how and why specific failures may initiate automated shutoffs as a safety measure, let’s begin with a synopsis of Traeger’s fundamental components and controls. Then we’ll delve into specific troubleshooting guides for each common problem.

How a Best Traeger Grill Works

Traeger pellet grills are powered by tiny wood pellets that are augured from the hopper into the burn pot chamber. The power to the auger motor and convection fan is regulated by an electronic control board, which in turn controls the pellet feed rate and ventilation. Readings from a temperature instrument that is affixed to the control board indicate the grill’s temperature.

A brief outline of the primary elements entailed:

Hopper: Supports and transfers the wood pellets into the auger tube.

Auger: An electrically powered screw mechanism that transports pellets from the hopper into the burn pot chamber.

Burn Pot: A metal enclosure where pellets are ignited and burned. Contains a heating element to assist ignition.

Heated air and smoke are circulated throughout the primary best traeger grill chamber by a convection fan.

Control Board: Receives input from the temperature probe and controls power to the auger motor and fan based on target setpoint and actual grill temp.

Temperature Probe: Monitors grill temperature and transmits readings to the control board.

A target temperature range is maintained by the control board in accordance with the dial or digital setting. It regulates fuel (pellet) feed rates and airflow to control the burn for consistent, even heating. If certain safety thresholds are exceeded, such as excessively high or low temperatures, the board will automatically shut the grill down as a failsafe measure.

Now, we shall examine the prevailing causes for a Traeger to intermittently close down, accompanied by suggested troubleshooting methods and remedies:

Why Does My Traeger Keep Shutting Off :Clogged or Jammed Auger

Plasmid auger systems that are obstructed or blocked are a significant contributor to prolonged shutdowns. Fine wood dust and detritus may accumulate within the auger tube over time, obstructing the smooth pellet transport. The control board may sense a lack of pellet feed or excessively high burn pot temps and shut off the grill as a safety precaution.

Troubleshooting steps:

While the burn pot is being removed, visually scrutinize the auger tube for any obstructions. Gently clear out any buildup with a small tool like a chopstick or coat hanger.

Check for overfilling or moisture-damaged pellets that could be breaking down and clogging the system. Only use high-quality pellets suited for grilling.

Vacuum out excess dust buildup from the hopper.

If severely clogged, consider removing and cleansing the entire auger assembly. YouTube has guides for disassembling Traeger augers.

To prevent recurrence, vacuum the hopper regularly and check for intake holes that may need cleaning. For lengthy cooks, empty the pellets from the hopper halfway through to avoid swelling from excess moisture.

Excessive Pellet Buildup in Burn Pot

When too many pellets accumulate in the burn pot without igniting fully, it can overwhelm the system and cause the fire to go out or temperature to spike dangerously. The control board interprets either of these scenarios as faulty operation and shuts off power.

Troubleshooting steps:

Here are the some methods of the question why does my traeger keep shutting off? Remove and empty excess unburned pellets from the burn pot after each cook.

Check the igniter coil and wiring for damage that could inhibit ignition. Replace as needed.

Try adjusting the hopper vent below the burn pot to increase airflow and promote more consistent burning.

Lower your target cook temperature if possible, as very high heats accelerate pellet accumulation in the pot.

To prevent excessive buildup, empty the burn pot regularly during long smokes. Optimize your pellet choice and airflow settings for stable ignition and consistent burns at your preferred heat levels.

Faulty Temperature Probe
Inaccurate temperature feedback to the control board may result in erroneous heating regulation and unanticipated power outages. Over time, temperature probes can become dirty, damaged, or lose calibration.

Troubleshooting steps:

Examine the instrument for physical damage, corrosion, or dirt accumulation that compromises conductivity. Clean or replace as needed.

Confirm the probe is securely plugged into the control board port.

Test with an alternative digital probe to compare readings – a difference suggests the factory probe needs replacement.

Check for issues like blocked vent holes that prevent the probe from getting an accurate ambient air temperature reading within the cooking chamber.

To maintain proper probe function long-term, store it loosely coiled when not in use rather than leaving it bent at sharp angles which can damage the wiring over multiple heat cycles. Consider replacing the factory probe every 2-3 years under normal use.

Insufficient Combustion Airflow

Why does my traeger keep shutting off? best traeger grill rely on optimal airflow to maintain an efficient burn. Issues restricting ventilation, like grease or ash buildup on fan blades, vents, and in exhaust pathways, can lead to inefficient burning, fluctuating temps, or outages if airflow is cut off.

Troubleshooting steps:

Remove and clean grease/ash buildup from the convection fan blades and housing. Use a brush attachment on a vacuum to clean out internal vents.

Ensure vents and chimney components are fully clear of blockages both inside and out.

Check for ash buildup restricting airflow under the burn pot as well. Vacuum or brush out completely.

Consider adding a grease management system to help prevent future grease buildup issues.

Consistent cleansing of the interior and exterior of the ventilation system is essential in order to avert combustion issues caused by inadequate airflow. Inspect frequently during heavy use.

Low Pellet Level / Empty Hopper
The control board safety sensors prevent burning with an empty hopper. If pellets run dangerously low, you may experience a cutoff until more are added. Always starting a cook with a full reservoir helps avoid interruptions.

Power Surges or Brownouts

Similar to other electric appliances, brief power fluctuations can sometimes cause a Traeger to automatically shut down as a precaution. This is more common during storms or at times of peak energy usage.

Troubleshooting steps:

Reset the breaker if a surge tripped it and retry. Contact your electric company if multiple surges are occurring.

Consider using a heavy-duty surge protector or uninterruptible power supply (UPS) device to help filter out minor disturbances.

Check for any loose connections in the outdoor power cord or control board that could impair power delivery.

Minor power issues usually resolve on their own, but a recurring problem may indicate the need for an electrician to inspect your home’s supply lines. A surge protector can provide extra protection against unrelated utility surges too.

Damaged or Worn-Out Control Board

After several years of continuous usage through all weather extremes, internal electronics can degrade or fail. Symptoms include unreliable temperature control, premature shutoffs, or inability to power on at all.

Troubleshooting steps:

Check for any obvious physical damage, corrosion, or loose connections on the control board that may impair functionality.

In the diagnostic mode (pressing buttons simultaneously), error codes may provide clues to specific component failures inside the board.

As a test, try connecting a new compatible replacement control board and see if shutdown issues persist before assuming it’s faulty.

High-quality aftermarket boards are widely available as replacements for old OEM boards at a fraction of the price of a new best traeger grill. Periodic board replacements every 5-7 years helps keep an aging unit running smoothly.

Thermal Overload from Overfilling or Excess Fuel
Traeger grills have maximum weight and fuel capacity limits. Overfilling the hopper or piling on too much raw grease/drippings inside can potentially cause a thermal overload if large amounts suddenly ignite at once.

Troubleshooting steps:

Never overload the hopper beyond what the manufacturer recommends (typically 20-25 lbs).

Avoid piling unused grease/drippings inside the best traeger grill chamber where flames could contact it.

Consider installing a grease management system like a grease cup or tray insert beneath food.

Lower your target

For more detailed and Informational articals visit