A Traeger Grill is great because you have complete control over the temperature. This means you get the correct cooking temperature for anything you want to cook.
But, like any machine, it can go wrong from time to time. You might find that sometimes your Traeger Pellet Grill shows a high-temperature error. I will help you understand and troubleshoot the issues.
Table of contents
What Issues Occur at a High Internal Temperature
A Traeger Pellet Smoker can reach up to 400°F, however you don’t want to go over this temperature as it can be dangerous.
Cooking at the correct temp is important because;
– You may burn your food and make it inedible.
– Risk food poisoning from cooking the outside but having raw meat on the inside.
– Temperature rises cause fire hazards from wood pellets.
– Damage to the internal components of your Traeger Pellet Grill.
Is Your Traeger Temp Too High? – The Common Causes
There are many reasons this can happen from hot weather to a faulty temperature probes, below I will outline them all and how to fix each problem.
An Improper Startup
There are many different models and types of Traeger Grills, some of which will have a different start-up process. 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 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 official Traeger support page.
Closed-Lid Startup Process
– Turn it on.
– 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.
App Out Of Date
Traeger has a range of pellet grills that are WiFIR-enabled. This means you can remotely control the grill temperature via an app.
Set the temperature remotely? Make sure you are connected, and the app is up to date.
Troubleshooting The App
There are updates and newer versions of the Traeger App. Older versions may become incompatible with any connected devices.
– Go to the Account Name tab at the top of the Traeger app.
– Compare your current app version with the version on the app store.
– If it is out-of-date, you can select the current version in the store, which will update automatically.
Dirty Or Faulty RTD Probe
The RTD probe measures temperature, Monitoring and communicating the internal temperature to the 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.
– Note your temperature reading and compare it to another temp probe.
– Are they drastically different on the grill? You may need to do one of the following;
– Calibrate the temperature probe
– A new sensor may need to be ordered and replaced as per instructions.
If your Traeger grill won’t heat up, follow the instructions in this guide to help you.
How An Error Code Can Indicate A Heat Issue
Have a LEr error code on the control panel screen? The LEr stands for ‘High-Temperature Error Code; this occurs if your Traeger gets dangerously hot or precisely if it goes over 550°F.
This will happen if too much fuel has ignited, which can start a serious fire.
– Watch out for white smoke and active flames.
– Turn your Treager off at the power.
– Call emergency services if there is an active fire you can’t control.
Maintaining Your Traeger To Avoid Temp Spikes & Fires
General maintenance, such as regular inspection and cleaning after use, will drastically reduce the chance of grease buildup, excess unburnt pellets, or pellets running out.
Ensure you follow the below to avoid any build-up or pellet flow disruption.
– Changing the drip tray liners.
– Checking the auger shaft or auger motor for jammed pellets.
– Brushing down the hopper to remove dust.
Hot Weather Conditions
The summer months will affect the temperature of your Traeger Pellet Grill. It shouldn’t get too hot as this can increase the temperature to 30°F.
– Move your grill to a shaded area.
– Cook before the sun goes up or later in the day.
– Change your P-setting button to help with ambient temperature changes.
Opening The Lid During The Cooking Process
The Traeger is designed to insulate and hold heat. If your grill is running too hot, open the lid for 5 minutes.
This will allow cooler air to enter the cooking chamber. This will help lower the temperature if you find the temperature is dipping or your Traeger will not heat up, make sure you follow our 8-step process for diagnosing the issue here
The Optimum Temperature Range
The standard temperature range is 20°F above or below your set temperature. Remember to use separate probes for a temperature baseline.
Smoke On!
Charlie
Hi, I’m Charlie, I have been meat-smoking and grilling for the past 15 years. I have an array of different smokers, thermometers, and have a love for finding the right wood and charcoal combo My favourite recipes are my EXTRA CRISPY smoked pork belly, juicy pulled pork, smoked brisket, duck poppers, and ANY SEAFOOD I grill).
I loves sharing his tips with beginners, helping them navigate the world of smoking. I find it’s not just about cooking; it’s a quest for that perfect smoky flavor.
You will usually find me playing with the kids, perfecting my brisket bark, or sipping beers with boys around the fire. Can’t wait to share all my delicious smoking and grilling recipes with you!
You can read more about me on our About Us page.
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