Are you experiencing difficulty in getting your Pit Boss pellet grill smoker to heat up? This is a common issue among grill enthusiasts, and there could be a variety of reasons behind it.
In this article, we will cover the common causes of heating issues, along with quick and easy solutions. Whether you’re a seasoned user or just starting out, you should read carefully to ensure that you are getting the best performance from your Pit Boss pellet grill smoker.
Reasons Why Your Pit Boss Pellet Grill Smoker Won’t Heat Up
If you’re having trouble getting your Pit Boss pellet grill smoker to heat up, you’re not alone. There are a variety of factors that could be at play, from simple temperature control issues to more complex problems with your grill components.
Here are some of the most common reasons why your pit boss pellet grill smoker won’t heat up, and what you can do to troubleshoot and resolve these issues.
1. Direct Sunlight
Direct sunlight can have a significant impact on the heating ability of your Pit Boss pellet grill smoker. When the grill is exposed to direct sunlight, the temperature inside the grill can rise too high, which can cause fluctuations and inconsistent heating. This can result in unevenly cooked food and can be frustrating for pitmasters.
To address this issue, it is recommended that you move your grill to a shaded area if possible. This will ensure that the grill is not exposed to direct sunlight, and the temperature will be more consistent. If moving the grill is not an option, consider using a grill cover or umbrella to block the sunlight. Additionally, make sure the exhaust vent is not facing the sun. This will help prevent sunlight from entering the grill and affecting the temperature.
By taking these steps, you can ensure that your Pit Boss grill is not negatively affected by direct sunlight. You can enjoy perfectly cooked food every time, without having to worry about temperature fluctuations. So, the next time you fire up your grill, make sure you consider the impact of sunlight and take steps to prevent it from affecting your cooking temperature.
2. Wet Pellets
Wet pellets can be a major problem for Pit Boss Pellet Grill Smokers, causing issues with temperature control while cooking. When pellets get wet or damaged, they break down into dust in the hopper and auger, preventing consistent burning and causing temperature fluctuations.
To avoid this issue, it is important to always store your pellets in an airtight container when not in use. Additionally, it’s important to test your pellets before use by doing a “snap” test to ensure they are fresh and dry. Good quality pellets should have a moisture content of no higher than 10 percent.
To prevent moisture buildup in your pellets, it’s important to invest in a pellet storage bucket and lid. These accessories will help to keep your pellets dry and fresh and prevent any issues with temperature control during cooking.
3. Flame Broiler Issues
If you’re experiencing flame broiler issues with your Pit Boss Pellet Grill Smoker, there are several things you should check to ensure it’s working optimally. Firstly, ensure that the flame broiler is positioned correctly with the grease drain and bracket and that it’s completely closed during normal cooking. If you’re cooking with an open flame, use the top slider on the flame broiler and ensure that the main grill lid is open.
The angle of the flame broiler is also important, with it being tilted on the right side and a bit higher on the left side. It’s not uncommon for the flame broiler to rust or warp due to high heat and oxidation, but it should not show any holes that are not from manufacturing. If it does have holes, then this is likely a manufacturing fault and should be addressed with Pit Boss customer care.
Lastly, it’s important to keep the flame broiler clean by using a putty knife or sliding the cover back and forth to scrape off the debris. This will ensure that it continues to function correctly and distribute heat evenly to your food. By following these steps, you should be able to avoid any flame broiler issues and enjoy delicious grilled meals.
4. Auger Jamming Issues
If your Pit Boss pellet grill smoker won’t heat up properly, one of the most common causes could be an auger jam. Therefore, it’s essential to know how to troubleshoot and identify this issue.
The first step in identifying the issue is checking for any feeding problems by looking for clumped or piled up pellets in the hopper. Clear out any debris and check if the auger is turning correctly to ensure that it’s not clogged. If you find that the auger is not turning, you might need to replace it.
On the other hand, if your auger is turning, but the pellets are still not moving from the hopper to the fire pot, then they’re probably jammed, and you’ll need to remove them. To do so, turn off the grill and unplug it from the outlet.
Then remove the pellets by unscrewing the auger tube from the fire pot assembly and clearing out the jammed pellets. After removing the jam, inspect the auger tube for any damages or misalignments. If you find any, it might be necessary to replace the auger tube to avoid future jams.
However, sometimes, even if the wood pellets are dry, the fire pot is clean, and the auger is working correctly, you might still have trouble heating up your pellet grill. In such cases, there could be a malfunctioning part, such as a weak induction fan or a bad hot rod. In such cases, you should get in touch with Pit Boss customer care for troubleshooting assistance.
5. Temperature Swings or Issues
Temperature swings or issues can be frustrating when trying to cook on your Pit Boss pellet grill smoker. However, there are several steps you can take to tackle this issue.
First, it’s essential to make sure that your grill is clean and your airflow is optimized. A dirty grill can cause temperature swings, so regularly clean the cooking grates, grease tray, and control panel. Additionally, check and clean the flame broiler if your model has one. Optimizing airflow means ensuring that the intake and output vents are not obstructed, and the fan blades work correctly.
Using low-quality pellets can also prevent holding a stable temperature. These pellets might contain dust or filler material, leading to fluctuations in temperature. Therefore, use high-quality wood pellets that offer consistent heat and smoke flavor.
Monitoring outside temperatures is another factor that can impact your smoking experience. Suppose you are cooking in hot weather conditions. In that case, you might need to reduce the cooking temperature to adjust for the ambient temperature or create a shaded area to reduce the heat transfer from direct sunlight. Similarly, in cold weather, you may need to adjust the temperature a little higher.
If you still experience temperature swings, you can try using heavy-duty foil to wrap your heat baffle or to line the drip tray. Before using foil, check for a faulty heat baffle or damaged drip tray.
Another helpful tip is to reduce the amount of food cooked at once, making sure that there is enough space between the food items when cooking. Overcrowding the grill can cause temperature swings and slow cooking.
Lastly, if your model features a flame broiler, ensure that it’s correctly positioned or angled. Incorrect placement might obstruct the heat flow, leading to poor temperature consistency.
By following these steps, you can tackle temperature swings and experience a more consistent and successful smoking experience on your Pit Boss pellet grill smoker.
6. LCD Screen Problems or Outages
If you encounter an issue with the LCD screen on your Pit Boss Pellet Grill, it may not light up or display any information. There could be a few reasons causing these problems.
First, ensure that the grill is properly plugged in, and the temperature dial is turned on. If it doesn’t fix the problem, check the circuit board fuse to make sure it hasn’t blown out.
At times, the GFI might be tripped, causing the LCD screen to shut down completely. Check the ground-fault circuit interrupter to reset it.
Also, verify that all connections and components are dried up, as moisture can cause the LCD screen to malfunction. Furthermore, use an extension cord that is no longer than 25 feet to allow for sufficient power supply.
Taking these troubleshooting steps will help you isolate the issue. If none of the above methods work, you should contact Pit Boss customer care for further assistance.
7. Grill Lid Not Closing Properly
If you’re having trouble closing the grill lid on your Pit Boss pellet grill smoker, there are several potential causes and solutions to consider.
The first thing to check is the hinge pins or spring hinges. Over time, these components can wear down and become damaged, causing issues with the lid’s alignment. If you notice any damage, you may need to replace these parts.
Another possible cause is a warped grill lid. If the lid itself is not flat and level, it can be difficult or impossible to get it to close securely. Depending on the severity of the warping, you may be able to straighten the lid out, or you may need to have it replaced entirely.
It’s also important to check the seal around the grill lid. A damaged or worn seal can allow air to escape, making it difficult to reach and maintain your desired cooking temperature. If the seal is damaged, it will need to be replaced.
Next, inspect the latch and handle on the lid. If these components are not securely fastened, it can cause the lid to sit at an uneven angle and make it difficult to close properly.
Finally, check for any debris or grease that may be obstructing the lid’s closing mechanism or preventing it from sitting flush. Clean any buildup you find and try closing the lid again.
By following these steps, you should be able to troubleshoot and resolve any issues with your Pit Boss pellet grill smoker’s lid.
8. Hot Weather Causing Temperature Fluctuations in the Internal Temperature of the Grill
When using a pellet grill smoker during hot weather conditions, you may experience temperature fluctuations in the internal temperature of the grill. This can be frustrating and affect the quality of your cooked food. Fortunately, there are steps you can take to mitigate this issue.
One of the first things to consider is the location of your grill. It’s important to place your grill in a shaded area, as direct sunlight can impact the ability of the grill to maintain consistent temperature levels. Additionally, you may want to consider using a grill cover to help regulate temperature in extreme weather conditions.
Another option is to use ceramic briquettes in your grill. These briquettes can help keep the temperature stable by retaining heat, even in hot weather conditions.
It’s also important to ensure that the grill fan and control board are in good working condition, as these components can also impact the temperature fluctuations. Check for any malfunctions or issues and have them repaired promptly.
Lastly, avoid opening the grill lid frequently, especially during hot weather conditions. Each time you open the lid, you release heat and make it more difficult to maintain a consistent cooking temperature.
By following these tips, you can mitigate the effects of hot weather on the internal temperature of your grill and ensure a more enjoyable grilling experience.
9. Grease Bucket Overflowing or Malfunctioning
The grease bucket is an essential part of any Pit Boss Pellet Grill Smoker as it collects all the excess grease and fats from your grill. However, sometimes it can malfunction or overflow, causing a mess and potential safety hazard. To address this issue, it’s important to follow a few simple steps.
The first step is to turn off your grill and allow it to cool down before handling the grease bucket. Next, remove the bucket from the grill and dispose of any excess liquid. Once you have emptied the bucket, inspect it for any cracks or damage that could be causing the malfunction. If you find any, it’s important to replace the bucket to avoid any potential safety hazards.
If your grease bucket is overflowing, it’s important that you empty it frequently to avoid any potential hazards. This also prevents any grease from spilling onto your cooking grates and ruining your food. Additionally, make sure to monitor the grease bucket during your grilling process to avoid any future issues.
To properly clean your grease bucket, it’s best to hand wash it with soap and water. Make sure to rinse it well and allow it to dry completely before replacing it back on your grill. It’s important to ensure that the bucket is properly aligned with the grease spout before replacing it back on the grill.
Conclusion
In conclusion, if you are experiencing temperature issues with your Pit Boss grill, there are several potential factors that could be the cause. From pellet quality to dirty temperature probes, it’s important to thoroughly troubleshoot the issue to identify the root cause.
By following the tips and tricks outlined in this article, you can ensure that your grill is heating up to the proper temperature and cooking your food effectively. And if all else fails, don’t hesitate to reach out to Pit Boss customer care for further assistance.
