9 Common Problems With Pit Boss Smokers & Their Fixes
Pit Boss smokers are a popular choice for BBQ enthusiasts, but they may experience common problems that can be frustrating for users.
One of the most common issues is the Pit Boss smoker not turning on or heating up, which could be due to a malfunctioning control board or power source. Another issue is the smoker fan not working properly, which can cause uneven cooking and temperature fluctuations.
Pellet smokers not holding temperature is another common problem that users may encounter, which could be due to a damaged temperature sensor or gasket.
Pit Boss smokers may run out of pellets while cooking, which can be easily avoided by checking the hopper before use. If the smoker fan is making strange noises, this may indicate a problem with the fan motor or blades that require replacement.
Users may also experience their Pit Boss smoker temperature rising, which could be due to a faulty thermostat or control board. Another common problem is the smoker not feeding pellets, which could be caused by a clogged auger or hopper.
Furthermore, users may find their Pit Boss smoker is running too hot, which could be due to a buildup of ash or an issue with the temperature control.
If the fan is not working on the Pit Boss pellet grill or if the fan won’t shut off, it could be due to a damaged motor or a faulty wiring connection. Many of these common problems with Pit Boss smokers can be fixed with some basic troubleshooting steps or repairs.
1. Pit Boss Smoker Not Turning On
If your Pit Boss smoker is not turning on, it can be frustrating, especially if you have been looking forward to a barbecue. The good news is that there are several reasons why your smoker is not turning on, and most of them can be fixed relatively easily.
1. Check the Power Source: Before anything else, make sure that your Pit Boss smoker is properly plugged into a power source. Sometimes, it may appear to be plugged in, but the plug may not be inserted correctly or may have come loose. Also, check to see if the outlet you’re using is working properly.
2. Check the Fuse: If your Pit Boss smoker still won’t turn on, check the fuse. If the fuse has blown, it needs to be replaced before you can use your smoker again. The location of the fuse may vary depending on the model of your smoker, so check the user manual for the specific location.
3. Check the Igniter: The igniter is an essential part of the smoker’s heating mechanism. If it’s not working, your smoker will not turn on. If the igniter is broken, it will need to be replaced.
4. Check the Temperature Controller: If your smoker is not turning on, the temperature controller may be the culprit. The temperature controller is responsible for regulating the temperature of the smoker. If it’s not working, your smoker may not turn on, or it may not heat up correctly.
5. Check the Pellet Hopper: If your Pit Boss smoker runs on pellets, it’s possible that the pellet hopper is clogged, which can prevent the smoker from turning on. Make sure to clean the pellet hopper regularly to avoid this issue.
6. Check the Wiring: Check the wiring to make sure that all the connections are secure and in good condition. Loose or damaged wiring can prevent your smoker from turning on.
2. Pit Boss Smoker Not Heating Up
If you are facing the issue of your Pit Boss smoker not heating up, it can be very frustrating. But before you panic, there are several reasons why this could be happening, and most of them can be easily fixed.
1. Poor Quality Pellets: One of the most common reasons why a Pit Boss smoker may not heat up is because of poor quality pellets. Low-quality pellets have a lower density and lower BTU output, which means they won’t generate enough heat to keep your smoker going. Always try to use high-quality pellets to avoid this issue.
2. Igniter Problems: Another common reason why your Pit Boss smoker may not be heating up is due to issues with the igniter. If the igniter is not working correctly, then it will not light the pellets, and your smoker will not heat up. You can fix this issue by checking the igniter and replacing it if necessary.
3. Temperature Sensor Issues: If your Pit Boss smoker is not heating up to the desired temperature, it could be due to a faulty temperature sensor. If the sensor is not working correctly, it will not register the temperature correctly, and your smoker may not heat up. You can fix this by replacing the sensor.
4. Airflow Issues: Another common issue that can cause your Pit Boss smoker to not heat up is due to airflow problems. Make sure to clean the air vents and the chimney to ensure proper airflow. If there is not enough airflow, then the pellets will not burn properly, and your smoker will not heat up.
3. Pit Boss Smoker Fan Not Working
The fan plays an essential role in regulating the temperature inside the smoker by controlling the amount of oxygen that reaches the fire. If the fan isn’t working correctly, it can lead to inconsistent temperatures or even a total failure to heat up.
There are a few reasons why your Pit Boss smoker fan might not be working. One possibility is that there’s a blockage in the fan or air intake, preventing air from flowing through properly.
Another potential issue could be a faulty fan motor or wiring. It’s also possible that the fan isn’t receiving power due to a blown fuse or tripped circuit breaker.
To diagnose the problem with your Pit Boss smoker fan, start by checking for any blockages in the air intake or fan itself. Remove any debris or obstructions that you find, then try turning the smoker on again to see if the fan is working correctly.
If the fan still isn’t working, check the fan motor and wiring for any signs of damage or wear. If necessary, replace the fan motor or wiring.
If the fan still isn’t working after checking for blockages and replacing the motor or wiring, the issue might be with the control board. In this case, it’s best to contact Pit Boss customer service or a professional technician for assistance.
Another issue that can occur with Pit Boss smoker fans is that they won’t shut off, even after the smoker has been turned off. This could be due to a faulty fan switch or a wiring problem. To fix this issue, you may need to replace the fan switch or wiring.
In some cases, a constantly running fan could also be caused by a malfunctioning thermostat. If the thermostat is stuck in the “on” position, it will continue to run the fan even when the smoker is turned off. To fix this issue, you’ll need to replace the thermostat.
Regular maintenance can help prevent fan issues with your Pit Boss smoker. Clean the fan and air intake regularly to keep them free from debris, and check the wiring and other components periodically for signs of wear or damage.
4. Pellet Smoker Not Holding Temperature
Sometimes the temperature of the smoker may not be consistent, which can be frustrating for a cook. This problem of pellet smokers not holding temperature can be due to various reasons.
One of the most common reasons why a pellet smoker may not hold the temperature is the accumulation of ash in the firepot. The ash can clog the auger, which causes the smoker to stop producing smoke and heat.
To fix this issue, it is essential to clean the smoker regularly, especially the firepot and the grill grates.
Another reason why a pellet smoker may not hold the temperature is due to the failure of the thermostat. A malfunctioning thermostat can prevent the smoker from regulating temperature, which can cause temperature fluctuations.
To fix this issue, it is crucial to replace the faulty thermostat with a new one.
A dirty temperature probe can also cause a pellet smoker not to hold the temperature. A temperature probe that is covered in grease or dirt can produce inaccurate readings, leading to temperature fluctuations.
To fix this issue, it is essential to clean the temperature probe regularly.
Sometimes, the problem of pellet smokers not holding temperature can be due to the type of pellets used. If the pellets are of low quality or are too old, they can produce less smoke and heat, causing temperature fluctuations.
To fix this issue, it is advisable to use high-quality pellets that are compatible with the smoker.
One possible solution to a pellet smoker not holding temperature is to recalibrate the temperature controller. This can help in adjusting the temperature settings and ensure that the smoker maintains a consistent temperature.
Adding insulation to the smoker can also help in maintaining a consistent temperature. Insulation helps in preventing heat loss and keeps the smoker at a stable temperature. This solution is particularly useful during cold weather conditions.
It is essential to keep the smoker well-maintained to avoid any problems with temperature fluctuations. Regular cleaning, checking the parts for damage, and replacing faulty components can help in ensuring that the smoker performs optimally.
5. Pit Boss Ran Out of Pellets While Cooking
If you are a Pit Boss owner and you’ve experienced running out of pellets in the middle of a cook, you know how frustrating it can be.
First, it can ruin the meal you were preparing, and second, it can damage your smoker. When your Pit Boss runs out of pellets, it can cause the fire to go out, leading to temperature drops and a loss of heat. This can result in undercooked or overcooked food.
To fix this issue, you should always keep an extra bag of pellets handy. Before starting a cook, make sure you have enough pellets to last for the entire duration of the cook. Also, keep an eye on the pellet hopper’s level and refill it as necessary.
If you do run out of pellets while cooking, do not open the smoker’s lid immediately. This action can release heat and smoke, causing temperature fluctuations, which can affect the cook’s outcome.
Instead, switch off the smoker and allow it to cool before opening the lid. Refill the hopper with fresh pellets and re-ignite the smoker, letting it warm up before resuming the cooking process.
It’s also important to note that running your Pit Boss out of pellets can damage your smoker’s auger system. This system is responsible for feeding pellets to the fire pot. When there are no pellets, the auger can still run, leading to heat buildup that can damage the motor.
Therefore, it’s crucial to prevent running out of pellets while cooking by always having enough pellets on hand.
6. Pit Boss Smoker Fan Making Strange Noises
A Pit Boss smoker fan making strange noises is not a desirable situation. Several reasons can cause the fan to make weird sounds. One of the reasons could be the accumulation of dirt and debris inside the fan, causing it to make strange noises.
Another possible cause could be a damaged or misaligned fan blade, which creates an imbalance in the fan’s rotation and creates sound. In some cases, a faulty motor or bearings could also cause the fan to make strange noises.
To fix a Pit Boss smoker fan making strange noises, you need to identify the cause first. Start by cleaning the fan blade and the area around the fan to remove any accumulated dirt or debris.
If the noise persists, check the fan blade for any visible damage or misalignment. If the blade is damaged, you may need to replace it. If it’s misaligned, try adjusting it to see if the noise goes away.
If the noise persists even after cleaning and adjusting the fan blade, the problem could be a faulty motor or bearings.
In this case, you may need to replace the motor or bearings to fix the issue. It’s essential to keep your Pit Boss smoker’s fan and components clean and well-maintained to prevent any issues in the future.
7. Pit Boss Smoker Temperature Keeps Rising
Pit Boss smokers are known for their ability to provide consistent and precise temperature control. However, if you’re experiencing issues with your Pit Boss smoker’s temperature constantly rising, there could be several reasons why this is happening. Here are some of the possible causes and solutions to fix the problem:
1. Damaged Temperature Probe: If your temperature probe is damaged, it may send incorrect temperature readings, causing the smoker to keep heating up. Check the probe’s condition and replace it if needed.
2. Dirty or Clogged Auger: A dirty or clogged auger can cause uneven pellet feeding, which may result in a rise in temperature. Clean the auger to remove any debris or pellets stuck inside.
3. Airflow Issues: Poor airflow can also lead to temperature fluctuations. Check for any obstructions in the smoker’s air vents and clean them as needed. Ensure that the fan is functioning correctly, as well.
4. Malfunctioning Control Board: A malfunctioning control board can cause the smoker’s temperature to rise uncontrollably. Check the control board and replace it if necessary.
5. Damaged Gasket: A damaged or worn-out gasket can also cause airflow issues, leading to temperature spikes. Inspect the gasket and replace it if needed.
6. Overfilled Pellet Hopper: Overfilling the pellet hopper can cause an uneven pellet feed, leading to temperature fluctuations. Ensure that the pellet hopper is filled to the recommended level only.
8. Smoke Food Unevenly
One of the most frustrating things that can happen while smoking food on a Pit Boss smoker is when the food is not cooking evenly. There are a few reasons why this could happen, but fortunately, there are also some easy fixes you can try.
1. Uneven heat distribution: This is a common issue that can cause uneven cooking. Make sure that you are preheating your smoker and placing your food in the correct position on the grates. You may need to rotate the food during cooking to ensure it cooks evenly.
2. Clogged or dirty burn pot: If the burn pot is clogged or dirty, it can cause an uneven flame which can lead to uneven cooking. Clean the burn pot regularly and ensure that it is not clogged with debris or ash.
3. Temperature fluctuations: If the temperature in your smoker fluctuates too much, it can cause uneven cooking. Make sure to monitor the temperature and adjust the settings as needed to maintain a consistent temperature.
4. Improper air circulation: Poor air circulation can cause hot and cold spots in your smoker, leading to uneven cooking. Ensure that your smoker has proper ventilation and that the air is circulating evenly.
5. Food placement: Where you place the food on the grates can also affect how evenly it cooks. Try to place food in the center of the grate to ensure even cooking, and avoid overcrowding the grate.
9. Pit Boss Smoker Not Feeding Pellets
Pit Boss smokers are designed to use wood pellets as fuel to smoke meat, but sometimes the pellet feeder can malfunction and cause problems.
One common issue is the Pit Boss smoker not feeding pellets properly. Here are some reasons why this might happen and what you can do to fix it.
1. Empty Pellet Hopper: If your Pit Boss smoker is not feeding pellets, the first thing to check is the pellet hopper.
If it’s empty, your smoker won’t be able to feed pellets into the burn pot. To fix this, simply add more pellets to the hopper and make sure the auger is working properly to feed the pellets into the firepot.
2. Auger Jammed: Another reason why the Pit Boss smoker may not be feeding pellets is that the auger is jammed.
If this is the case, you’ll need to clear the jam and make sure the auger is working properly. You can do this by removing the hopper and clearing any pellets that may be stuck in the auger. Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when doing this.
3. Faulty Auger Motor: A faulty auger motor can also cause the Pit Boss smoker not to feed pellets. If the motor is not working, the pellets won’t be pushed into the firepot.
To check if this is the problem, listen for any unusual sounds coming from the motor. If you don’t hear anything, you may need to replace the motor.
4. Clogged Firepot: Sometimes, the firepot can become clogged with ash or other debris, preventing pellets from feeding properly.
To fix this, turn off the smoker and allow it to cool down. Then, use a vacuum or brush to remove any debris from the firepot. Be sure to clean the firepot regularly to prevent this from happening again.
FAQs
Can my Pit Boss smoker run hot?
Yes, it is possible for a Pit Boss smoker to run hot due to a malfunctioning heating element or temperature control system. You may need to troubleshoot or contact customer support for assistance.
Why is my Pit Boss pellet grill getting too hot?
Several reasons could cause your Pit Boss pellet grill to get too hot, including a clogged auger, a malfunctioning temperature controller, or an issue with the fan or igniter. It would be best to investigate the cause or seek professional help.
What is the difference between my Pit Boss actual temperature and the thermometer?
The actual temperature on a Pit Boss pellet grill refers to the temperature inside the grill, while the thermometer is an external device used to measure the temperature. If there is a significant difference between the two, you may need to calibrate your thermometer or check for hot spots in the grill.
Does the fan not working on my Pit Boss pellet grill affect the temperature?
Yes, the fan plays a critical role in maintaining the temperature in a pellet grill by supplying the right amount of oxygen to the fire. If the fan is not working, it may result in inconsistent or fluctuating temperatures, affecting the quality of your food.
Why won’t the fan shut off on my Pit Boss pellet grill?
A faulty temperature controller or a malfunctioning fan could cause the fan to continue running even when the grill is turned off. It would be best to check the wiring or seek professional assistance to resolve the issue.
