We strive to provide you with authoritative, trustworthy, and expert advice. In doing so, the staff at bbqdropout.com performs extensive research, editing, and fact checking to every post on this webiste. If you feel that this article can improve, please feel free to reach us at staff@bbqdropout.com
Before continuing this article, I wanted to let you know that I have a YouTube channel where I showcase all sorts of video content related to BBQ. Subscribing would mean a lot to me, and I very much appreicate all the support!
Most times, you will find an issue is right at the beginning of, no matter what task you encounter. They always say the hardest part is always to get to the start line.
One of those instances is when you want to start using the Traeger, and you find out there is a problem getting it started. One of the most common problems is issues with igniting.
Sometimes it will stay on, other times it won’t come on, and the rest of the time, it takes forever it seems to light the grill. Keep reading for more advice and tips on how to solve the problem.
Troubleshooting Issues with Igniting the Traeger
If you’re having issues with getting your Traeger to ignite, there are a few things you can try.
The first is to check and make sure that the power switch is turned on. Sometimes people forget to do this simple step and wonder why their grill isn’t working.
Other times, the issue could be with the pellets themselves. If they are too wet or old, they won’t light as easily. You can also try letting the pellets sit out for a bit so they will be dryer and easier to ignite.
If those two things don’t work, then it’s likely an issue with the igniter itself.
This part can get gunked up over time and need to be replaced. It’s an easy fix that you can do at home with just a few tools. Once you have the new igniter in place, your Traeger should light easily and be ready to use.
If you’re still having issues with your igniter, then it’s time to call customer service for help.
They can walk you through some other troubleshooting steps and, if need be, send you a replacement part. In most cases, though, following these simple tips will get your Traeger up and running in no time.
New Traeger is Taking a While to Ignite
If you’ve just purchased a new Traeger and it’s taking a while to ignite, there are a few things you can try.
First, make sure that the power switch is turned on. Secondly, check the pellets. If they are too wet or old, they won’t light as easily.
Try letting them sit out for a bit so they will be dryer and easier to ignite. Finally, if you have the Igniter set to “High,” try setting it to “Medium” or “Low.”
When you get a new Traeger, the last thing you expect or want is the problem with it.
It’s brand new and should not have issues, but it is still a mechanical and technical device that could have been damaged in shipments or manufactured with faulty devices.
How Long Should Traeger Stay Igniting?
Traeger should stay igniting until the pellets are fully lit. This process can take a few minutes, so be patient.
Once the pellets are fully lit, the Traeger will automatically shut off the igniter. If your Traeger is staying on for longer than a few minutes, it could be an issue with the Igniter. Check to see if it needs to be replaced.
Why Does My Traeger Take So Long to Ignite?
Traeger pellet grills are a top choice for many grill masters. They’re known for their excellent build quality, consistent performance, and easy-to-use controls.
However, one thing that some Traeger owners complain about is the time it takes for the grill to ignite.
If you’re wondering why your Traeger is taking longer than normal to ignite, there are a few possible reasons. Here are some of the most common:
1. Your pellets are too moist: When pellets get wet, they don’t light as easily.
If your pellets are too moist, they can absorb moisture from the air and become difficult to ignite. To avoid this problem, make sure to store your pellets in a dry place.
2. Your grill is cold: If your grill is cold, it will take longer for the pellets to ignite.
This is because the heat generated by the igniter has to travel through the metal of the grill before it can reach the pellets. To help your grill ignite more quickly, try preheating it for 10-15 minutes before adding your pellets.
3. You’re using a lower-quality pellet: Some pellet brands are known for being difficult to ignite.
If you’re using a lower-quality pellet, it may take longer for your grill to reach ignition temperature. To avoid this problem, make sure to use a high-quality pellet with a low moisture content.
4. There’s something blocking the igniter: If there’s something blocking the igniter, it can prevent the heat from reaching the pellets. To fix this problem, simply remove whatever is blocking the igniter and make sure that it’s clear before trying to ignite your grill again.
5. The igniter is damaged: If the igniter is damaged, it may not be able to generate enough heat to reach the pellets. In this case, you’ll need to replace the igniter in order to get your grill working properly again.
Final Thoughts
These are some of the most common reasons why your Traeger might take longer than normal to ignite.
By troubleshooting these problems, you should be able to get your grill up and running in no time.
We hope we have touched the issues that helped you get back to doing what you love to do most, grilling!
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.