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Traeger grills are known for their versatility and ability to deliver consistent, delicious results. However, sometimes you may experience issues with your Traeger grill shutting off unexpectedly.
This blog post will provide a comprehensive guide on why your Traeger keeps shutting off and how to fix it.
Common Reasons Traeger Keeps Shutting Off
There are several reasons why your traeger keeps turning off. We’ve compiled a list of the most common reasons based on the search results provided.
1. Dirty or Damaged Sensors
Traeger Keeps Turning Off? Dirty or Damaged Sensors May Be to Blame. Grime on the temperature sensor can cause inaccurate readings, leading to the grill shutting off unexpectedly. Ensure you clean the sensor regularly to prevent dirt build-up and keep your grill functioning smoothly.
2. Build-up of Food Debris on the Heating Element
Traeger Shut Off by Itself? Food Debris on the Heating Element Might Be the Issue.
When food debris builds up on the heating element, it can negatively impact the grill’s performance and cause it to shut off unexpectedly. Ensure you clean the heating element after each use to prevent this problem and keep your grill functioning optimally.
3. Faulty Igniter
A faulty igniter can also cause your Traeger grill to keep shutting off. If the igniter is damaged or not functioning properly, it may prevent the grill from heating up and maintaining the desired temperature. In this case, you may need to replace the igniter.
4. Damaged Power Cord
A damaged power cord can cause your Traeger grill to shut off suddenly. Check the power cord for any damage, and if you find any issues, replace the cord to ensure a consistent power supply to your grill.
5. Settings are Too Low
If the settings on your Traeger grill are too low, it may cause the grill to shut off. Make sure to set the temperature to the appropriate level for your cooking needs.
If the grill is still shutting off, try increasing the temperature slightly to see if that resolves the issue.
6. Traeger is Overloading the Circuit
If your Traeger grill is overloading the circuit it’s plugged into, it may cause the grill to shut off.
To prevent this, make sure your grill is plugged into a dedicated circuit or use a heavy-duty extension cord to avoid overloading the circuit.
7. Thermostat Needs to Be Reset
Sometimes, your Traeger grill may shut off if the thermostat needs to be reset. In this case, you’ll need to reset the thermostat according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Wind and Lower Temperatures
Wind and lower temperatures can affect your Traeger grill’s performance and cause it to shut off unexpectedly.
To address this issue, try using a windbreak or moving your grill to a more sheltered location to minimize the impact of wind and low temperatures on your grill’s performance.
9. Fire Pot Troubles
Issues with the fire pot, such as pellet clumping or a blocked fire pot, can cause your Traeger grill to shut off. Regularly clean the fire pot and ensure that the pellets are in good condition to prevent this issue.
10. Old or Moist Pellets
Using old or moist pellets can lead to your Traeger grill shutting off. Always use fresh, dry pellets for optimal performance and to prevent any issues with your grill.
11. Tripped Outlet
A tripped outlet can cause your Traeger grill to shut off unexpectedly. If you suspect this might be the issue, check the outlet by plugging something else into it.
If power isn’t supplied to any other appliance, the outlet may be at fault. In this case, you may need to use another outlet or consult with an electrician to resolve the issue.
12. Controller Issues
Problems with the Traeger grill controller can also cause the grill to shut off. If you suspect a controller issue, try resetting the grill according to the manufacturer’s instructions. If the problem persists, you may need to replace the controller.
13. Defective Hot Rod
A defective hot rod can cause your Traeger grill to shut off unexpectedly. If you suspect this is the issue, you may need to replace the hot rod to resolve the problem.
14. Blown Fuse
A blown fuse can cause your Traeger grill to shut off. Check the fuse and replace it if necessary to fix the issue.
15. Cold Weather
Cold weather can impact your Traeger grill’s performance and cause it to shut off. To counteract the effects of cold weather, consider using an insulated blanket designed for your Traeger grill model to help maintain consistent temperatures.
How to turn off and reset a Traeger
If you’re experiencing issues with your Traeger grill, it might be helpful to try resetting the grill. Here’s a simple method to reset it:
- Turn off the grill and unplug it from the power source.
- Wait for the grill to cool down completely.
- Plug the grill back into the power source.
- Turn on the grill and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for setting the temperature and starting the grill.
If resetting the grill doesn’t resolve the issue, you may need to consult the manufacturer’s troubleshooting guide or contact Traeger customer service for assistance.
Final Thoughts
So, why does my Traeger keep shutting off? There are several reasons. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning the sensors, heating element, and fire pot, as well as using fresh, dry pellets, can help prevent many of these issues.
If you’re still experiencing problems after trying the solutions mentioned in this guide, it might be time to consult the manufacturer’s troubleshooting guide or contact Traeger customer service for additional support.
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.