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You’ve probably heard of Traeger grills if you’re a barbecue lover. These top-of-the-line grills are known for their even cooking and great flavor. But what happens when your Traeger hot rod goes bad?
A few things can happen when your Traeger hot rod starts to go wrong.
First, you may notice that the grill isn’t cooking as evenly as it used to. This can be a sign that the hot rod can no longer generate enough heat to cook the food properly.
Another sign that your Traeger hot rod has gone bad is if you start to notice rust outside the grill. This is usually an indication that moisture has gotten into the hot rod and is causing it to rust.
If you notice either of these signs, it’s crucial to replace your Traeger hot rod as soon as possible. A new hot rod will ensure that your grill cooks evenly and tastes great.
Why Would a Hot Rod Go Bad In a Traeger?
There are a few reasons why a Traeger hot rod might go bad. One of the most common reasons is that the hot rod is old and used extensively. Over time, the hot rod can break down and become less effective. Like all devices, wear and tear take their toll on equipment.
Another reason a Traeger hot rod might go bad is that it has been exposed to moisture.
This can happen if the grill is stored outside in the elements or isn’t properly covered when not in use. Moisture can cause the hot rod to rust, eventually leading to it breaking down completely.
Finally, another reason why a Traeger hot rod might go bad is because of improper cleaning. It’s important to clean your grill after each use, but you also need to be careful not to damage the hot rod. Improper cleaning can damage the hot rod and lead to it going bad.
How Long Does a Traeger Hot Rod Last?
A Traeger Hot Rod can last from a few months to several years, depending on how well it is cared for and used. However, there are a few signs that your hot rod may be nearing the end of its life:
The grill doesn’t get as hot as it used to. This is the most common sign that a hot rod is going bad. The heat emanating from the rods will diminish over time, making it harder to cook food evenly.
There is visible wear and tear on the rods. If you can see any cracks or chips in the rods, they likely need to be replaced.
The grill produces less smoke than it used to. This could be due to a build-up of residue on the rods, which impedes their ability to produce smoke.
Your grill is taking longer to preheat than it used to. This could be a sign that the heating element is beginning to fail and will need to be replaced soon.
If you notice any of these signs, it’s important to replace your hot rod as soon as possible. A bad hot rod can make it difficult to cook food evenly, but it can also be a fire hazard. Be sure to consult your owner’s manual for instructions on properly replacing your hot rod.
How Often Should You Replace the Traeger Hot Rod?
The Traeger hot rod is a vital component of your pellet grill. This metal rod sits atop the flames and ignites the pellets, providing heat to cook your food.
Over time, the hot rod can become damaged or corroded, affecting its ability to properly ignite the pellets. So, how often does it need replacement?
There is no definitive answer, as it depends on how often you use your grill and what type of pellets you burn. However, we recommend replacing it every 2-3 years to ensure peak performance.
Replacing the Traeger hot rod is a relatively easy process that anyone can do. Simply remove the old rod and insert the new one in its place. Here are the steps for how to replace the Traeger hot rod:
Step 1: Start by removing the old hot rod from the grill. You can do this by unscrewing it from the bracket that holds it in place.
Step 2: Next, take the new hot rod and screw it into the bracket. Make sure it is tight so that it doesn’t come loose while in use.
Step 3: Finally, turn on the grill and test the new hot rod to ensure it is working properly. If everything looks good, you’re all set!
You should always check out the owner’s manual before changing anything on the Traeger grill.
If you do not feel comfortable replacing components, you should contact Customer Service and have a technician come out to your location and replace the parts.
Final Thoughts
The Traeger hot rod is an essential part of the grill and helps to ensure that your food is cooked evenly.
If you think that the hot rod might be damaged, it’s important to take action immediately. Look for the signs discussed in this article, and if you notice any of these issues, it’s time to get a new hot rod for your Traeger grill.
Once again, if you do not feel comfortable replacing the hot rod, get a professional to come out and do it for you.
Robert is a certified Pitmaster, with over a decade of experience in smoking the best meats you’ll ever feast upon. He also has a Bachelor of Business Administration from the University of Texas at San Antonio. When he’s not researching technical topics, he’s most likely barbecuing in his backyard.