Choosing the Right Extension Cord for Your Traeger Grill: A Helpful Guide

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Traeger pellet grills have revolutionized the world of home barbecue by taking the complexity out of fire management, allowing you to focus on perfecting your seasoning and cooking techniques. 

However, with the added convenience comes the need for a constant electrical source. While Traeger grills come with a power cord, you may require an extension cord for more flexibility or safety reasons. 

In this blog post, we will guide you on choosing the right gauge and length of an extension cord for your Traeger grill and provide some product recommendations to help you make an informed decision.

How is a pellet grill powered?

A pellet grill, also known as a pellet smoker, is an electric-powered cooking device that uses indirect, radiant heat generated by burning wood pellets for smoking food. The hardwood pellets provide a naturally sweet, spicy, and smoky flavor to the food being cooked.

The process begins with an auger moving the wood pellets from the hopper to the fire pot. Once the pellets reach the fire pot, they are ignited by a component called the HotRod, which creates flames and adds the wood-fired flavor to the food. 

An internal fan circulates the heat and smoke around the food for even and consistent cooking, while a drip tray helps keep flames away from the food and prevents flare-ups. The heat and smoke produced by the burning pellets are circulated throughout the grill by the same fan that adds air to the flames.

What gauge extension cord do I need for a Traeger grill?

For a Traeger grill, it is recommended to use a 12 or 14-gauge extension cord to ensure the best performance. A 12-gauge extension cord is considered heavy-duty and is suitable for longer distances, offering flexibility for other uses as well. A 14-gauge extension cord is also suitable for your Traeger grill, especially when used within normal distances from the outlet.

When selecting an extension cord, make sure it is grounded and weatherproof. Additionally, it is important to use the shortest length possible, ideally 50 feet or less, and avoid connecting two extension cords together to minimize power loss and ensure safety.

Is a Traeger power cord detachable?

Yes, the power cord on a Traeger grill is detachable. It is located on the backside of the hopper. If you need to replace the power cord, you can purchase a new one from Traeger’s website.

How do you replace the power cord on a Traeger grill?

To replace the power cord on a Traeger grill, follow these steps:

1. Disconnect the power cord from the outlet and the grill.
2. Access the internal portion of the power cord through the bottom of the hopper. Depending on the grill model, you may need to remove the protective grate by removing the screws securing it in place [3].
3. Remove the old power cord and replace it with the new one.
4. Reassemble any components you removed during the process, such as the protective grate.

For a visual guide on replacing the power cord, you can watch these videos on YouTube:

• “Traeger Grills – Troubleshooting: How to Replace the Power Cord”
• “How to Replace the Power Cord Traeger Grill”

If there is any damage to the power cord or if you need a replacement, contact Traeger’s Customer Service.

Best extension cord for pellet grill

The best extension cord for a pellet grill should have the following criteria:

1. SJTW rating for safe outdoor use and weatherproofing.
2. 12-gauge wire to safely transmit at least 700 watts of power.
3. Three-prong male and female ends.
4. Length between 25 feet and 100 feet, using the shortest possible length for optimal performance

Some recommended extension cords for pellet grills include:

1. Grillinator heavy-duty extension cord, which is specifically designed for use with pellet grills.
2. UltraPro 3-Outlet Power Strip, offering multiple lengths, 3 outlets, and support for up to 125VAC/13A/1625W.

Make sure to choose an extension cord that meets the criteria listed above to safely power your pellet grill outdoors in any weather.

Traeger pro 575 power cord

You can find a replacement power cord for your Traeger Pro 575 grill from various sources:

1. Traeger AC Power Cord, available for $19.99, is an 8-foot power cord compatible with all Traeger grill models, including the Pro 575.
2. On Amazon, you can find a 120V NEMA Power Cord Replacement Parts KIT0257 for Traeger Pro 575/780 and Ironwood 650/850 Wood Pellet Grills. This 8-foot power cord is designed for easy installation and is water-resistant and dustproof.
3. Another option on Amazon is the DONSIQIZZ Pellet Smoker Grill Power Cord Kit, which is a 6-foot power cord compatible with Traeger Ironwood 650 & 885, Pro Series 575 & 780, and Timberline 1300 & 850.

You can choose from these options to find a suitable power cord replacement for your Traeger Pro 575 grill.

Traeger pro 780 power cord

You can find a replacement power cord for your Traeger Pro 780 grill from the following sources:

1. Traeger AC Power Cord, available for $19.99, is an 8-foot power cord compatible with all Traeger grill models, including the Pro 780.
2. On Amazon, you can find a 120V NEMA Power Cord Replacement Parts KIT0257 for Traeger Pro 575/780 and Ironwood 650/850 Wood Pellet Grills. This 8-foot power cord is designed for easy installation and is water-resistant and dustproof.

Choose from these options to find a suitable power cord replacement for your Traeger Pro 780 grill.

Understanding Extension Cord Gauges

The gauge of an extension cord refers to the thickness of the wire inside the cord, which determines how well it can deliver power. 

A lower gauge number indicates a thicker wire, capable of handling a higher electrical load. When choosing an extension cord for your Traeger grill, consider both the gauge and the length, as longer cords offer more resistance, which can result in less power reaching your grill.

12 Gauge Extension Cords for Traeger Grills

A 12 gauge extension cord is a heavy-duty option suitable for your Traeger grill, even at longer distances. It also provides versatility for other uses. 

One recommended product is the Southwire 50-foot outdoor cord, available on Amazon for $34.79 (as of February 2022). This cord features a lighted end, indicating when power is on, and a highly visible yellow jacket to reduce tripping hazards.

14 Gauge Extension Cords for Traeger Grills

A 14 gauge extension cord is a medium-duty option that works well for your Traeger grill within reasonable distances from the outlet. 

For a budget-friendly and highly visible choice, consider the Flexzilla Pro extension cord, available on Amazon for $19.99 (as of February 2022). Its neon green color ensures visibility and safety.

12 Gauge vs. 16 Gauge Extension Cords

While the best gauge depends on your specific needs, a 12 gauge extension cord can generally handle more power and deliver it over longer distances than a 16 gauge cord. 

This makes the 12 gauge cord a better option if you need to position your Traeger grill further from your house.

Safety Considerations

Using an outdoor extension cord with an appropriate gauge is safe for use with your pellet grill. 

However, Traeger’s owner’s manual advises European users against using extension cords. For other locations, monitor the cord during use and stop using it if it heats up.

Electrical Draw of an Electric Smoker

Traeger grills have a relatively low electrical draw, requiring around 4 amps during startup and 1.5 amps during the rest of the smoking process. 

This means you don’t necessarily need the lowest gauge extension cord if you only need to move your grill a short distance.

Final Thoughts 

Selecting the right extension cord for your Traeger grill is crucial for ensuring optimal performance and safety. Remember to consider the gauge and length of the cord, as well as the electrical requirements of your grill. 

By following these guidelines and choosing a suitable outdoor extension cord, you can enjoy greater flexibility and a better barbecue experience.