Pit Boss Won’t Turn On (How to Fix)

If your Pit Boss won’t turn on, it can be frustrating. But don’t worry, there are several troubleshooting steps you can take to get your grill up and running again. Whether it’s a power issue, a faulty component, or a tripping GFCI outlet, we’ll guide you through the process of diagnosing and fixing the problem.

First, let’s start by checking the power source and cables. Ensure that your grill is properly plugged in and receiving power. If you’re using an external socket, such as a GFCI outlet, try plugging the grill directly into the outlet without any extension cables. Inspect the power cable for any damage or wear.

Key Takeaways:

• Check the power source and cables.
• Inspect the control panel and fuse for any issues.
• Test and troubleshoot each component of the grill.
• Replace any faulty Pit Boss components if necessary.
• Troubleshoot GFCI tripping issues.

Step 1: Check Your Source Of Power and Cables

To begin troubleshooting your Pit Boss grill that won’t turn on, it’s important to check the power source and cables. Start by ensuring that your grill is properly plugged in and receiving power. If you are using an external socket, such as a GFCI outlet, try bypassing any extension cables and plugging the grill directly into the outlet. You should also inspect the power cable for any damage or signs of wear. It’s crucial to rule out any power-related issues before moving on to other potential causes.

Checking the power source and cables is the first step in troubleshooting a Pit Boss grill that won’t turn on. A loose or faulty connection can prevent the grill from receiving power, leading to an unresponsive unit. By following these steps, you can ensure that the power supply to your Pit Boss grill is not the cause of the issue.

How to Check Your Power Source and Cables:

1. Inspect the power cable for any damage, fraying, or loose connections.
2. Make sure the power cable is securely plugged into the grill.
3. If using an external socket, such as a GFCI outlet, check if it is tripped or experiencing any issues.
4. If possible, bypass any extension cables or power strips and directly plug the grill into the outlet.
5. Test the outlet with another device to ensure it is working correctly.

Important: Always prioritize safety when dealing with electrical equipment. If you are unsure or uncomfortable handling power-related troubleshooting, it is recommended to consult a professional electrician.

Step 2: Remove The Pit Boss Control Panel And Check The Fuse

If your Pit Boss grill still won’t turn on after checking the power source and cables, the next step is to remove the control panel and check the fuse. The control panel is where the fuse is located, and a blown fuse can prevent the grill from powering on. By disconnecting the power and inspecting the fuse, you can determine if it needs to be replaced. If the fuse is intact, you may need to further troubleshoot the control panel and other components, such as the igniter or combustion fan, to identify any issues that may be causing the grill to not turn on.

Important note:

Always ensure that the power supply is disconnected before working on the control panel or any electrical components of the Pit Boss grill. Safety should be your top priority.

Step 3: Disconnecting and Testing The Pellet Grill Components

If your Pit Boss grill is still not turning on, it’s time to focus on the individual components of the grill. Many Pit Boss grills have detachable Molex connectors for components like the auger motor, hot rod igniter, combustion fan, and RTD temperature probe. Ensure that each connection is secure and check for any damage or shorts in the cables. You can systematically disconnect and reconnect each component while testing the control panel to identify which one may be causing the issue. By isolating the faulty component, you can then take steps to replace or repair it.

Disconnecting and Testing Pit Boss Pellet Grill Components

To troubleshoot the Pellet grill components, follow these steps:

1. Disconnect the power: Make sure the grill is unplugged or turned off before starting.
2. Auger motor: Locate the Molex connector for the auger motor, usually near the hopper. Disconnect the cable and inspect it for any damage or loose connections. Reconnect the cable securely.
3. Hot rod igniter: Find the Molex connector for the hot rod igniter, typically near the firepot. Disconnect and inspect the cable for any issues. Make sure the connection is tight when reconnecting.
4. Combustion fan: Locate the Molex connector for the combustion fan, usually at the rear of the grill. Disconnect and examine the cable for any damage or loose connections. Reconnect tightly.
5. RTD temperature probe: Look for the Molex connector for the RTD temperature probe, often near the cooking chamber. Disconnect and check the cable for any issues. Ensure a secure connection during reconnection.

After disconnecting and reconnecting each component, test the control panel to see if the grill powers on. If the grill still fails to turn on, repeat the process for each component until the faulty one is identified. This methodical approach will help you troubleshoot and resolve any component-related issues affecting the operation of your Pit Boss grill.

Step 4: Replacing Faulty Pit Boss Components

If during the component testing process you determine that a specific part is causing your Pit Boss grill to not turn on, it will likely need to be replaced. Common components that may require replacement include the auger motor, combustion fan, hot rod igniter, and RTD temperature probe. Each of these parts plays a crucial role in the grill’s operation, and a malfunctioning component can prevent the grill from powering on. Refer to the manufacturer’s instructions or seek professional assistance to ensure the proper replacement of any faulty Pit Boss components.

When replacing Pit Boss components, it’s important to have a clear understanding of the specific part you need to replace and how to properly install the replacement. Here is a breakdown of the key components and their replacement process:

Auger Motor Replacement

The auger motor is responsible for delivering the pellets to the firepot, providing the necessary fuel for grilling. If the auger motor is faulty, the grill may not function properly. To replace the auger motor:

1. Turn off the grill and unplug it from the power source.
2. Locate the existing auger motor.
3. Disconnect the wires or connectors attached to the auger motor.
4. Remove any screws or fasteners holding the motor in place.
5. Install the new auger motor, ensuring it is properly aligned.
6. Secure the motor in place using the appropriate screws or fasteners.
7. Reconnect the wires or connectors to the new auger motor.

Combustion Fan Replacement

The combustion fan helps to circulate air and ensure proper combustion within the grill. If the combustion fan is not functioning correctly, it can impact the grill’s performance. To replace the combustion fan:

1. Turn off the grill and unplug it from the power source.
2. Locate the existing combustion fan.
3. Disconnect the wires or connectors attached to the fan.
4. Remove any screws or fasteners holding the fan in place.
5. Install the new combustion fan, ensuring it is properly aligned.
6. Secure the fan in place using the appropriate screws or fasteners.
7. Reconnect the wires or connectors to the new combustion fan.

Hot Rod Igniter Replacement

The hot rod igniter is responsible for igniting the pellets and starting the grilling process. A malfunctioning hot rod igniter can prevent the grill from lighting up. To replace the hot rod igniter:

1. Turn off the grill and unplug it from the power source.
2. Locate the existing hot rod igniter.
3. Disconnect the wires or connectors attached to the igniter.
4. Remove any screws or fasteners holding the igniter in place.
5. Install the new hot rod igniter, ensuring it is properly aligned.
6. Secure the igniter in place using the appropriate screws or fasteners.
7. Reconnect the wires or connectors to the new hot rod igniter.

RTD Temperature Probe Replacement

The RTD temperature probe is responsible for measuring the internal temperature of the grill. A faulty probe can result in inaccurate temperature readings and improper cooking. To replace the RTD temperature probe:

1. Turn off the grill and unplug it from the power source.
2. Locate the existing RTD temperature probe.
3. Disconnect the wires or connectors attached to the probe.
4. Remove any screws or fasteners holding the probe in place.
5. Install the new RTD temperature probe, ensuring it is properly aligned.
6. Secure the probe in place using the appropriate screws or fasteners.
7. Reconnect the wires or connectors to the new RTD temperature probe.

When replacing any Pit Boss component, it’s crucial to follow the manufacturer’s instructions and guidelines. If you’re unsure about the replacement process, it’s always recommended to consult with a professional or contact Pit Boss Customer Care for assistance.

By troubleshooting and replacing faulty components, you can resolve the issues preventing your Pit Boss grill from turning on and get back to enjoying delicious grilled meals.

Troubleshooting GFCI Tripping

In some cases, the GFCI outlet may be tripping and causing your Pit Boss grill to not turn on. This can occur due to electrical faults, circuit overload, or other factors. To troubleshoot this issue, ensure that you are not overloading the outlet with too many appliances. Try plugging the grill into a dedicated outlet to see if the GFCI still trips. If the GFCI continues to trip, it may be necessary to inspect the igniter’s placement in the firepot and make any necessary adjustments. If the problem persists, contact the Pit Boss Customer Care team for further assistance and troubleshooting.

Electrical faults and circuit overloads can cause the GFCI outlet to trip, preventing your Pit Boss grill from turning on. Here are some steps you can take to troubleshoot GFCI tripping:

1. Check for overloading: Ensure that you are not using too many electrical appliances on the same circuit as the Pit Boss grill. Overloading the circuit can cause the GFCI to trip.
2. Use a dedicated outlet: Plug the grill directly into a dedicated outlet to eliminate the possibility of other devices causing the GFCI to trip.
3. Inspect the igniter placement: Check the placement of the igniter in the firepot. If it is misaligned, it may be causing a short circuit and tripping the GFCI. Make any necessary adjustments to ensure proper alignment.

By following these troubleshooting steps, you can determine the cause of GFCI tripping and resolve the issue, allowing your Pit Boss grill to turn on and function properly.

Conclusion

Troubleshooting a Pit Boss grill that won’t turn on can be frustrating, but following a systematic approach can help you identify and fix the issue. Start by checking the power source and cables to ensure they are working properly. If that doesn’t solve the problem, try removing the control panel and checking the fuse for any signs of damage. Testing and replacing faulty components like the auger motor, combustion fan, hot rod igniter, and RTD temperature probe may also be necessary.

Additionally, don’t forget to consider GFCI tripping issues, which can prevent your grill from turning on. Make sure the outlet is not overloaded and try plugging the grill into a dedicated outlet to test for any changes. If you’re still experiencing problems, contact the Pit Boss Customer Care team or refer to the manufacturer’s instructions for further assistance.

With these troubleshooting steps and a little patience, you’ll soon have your Pit Boss grill up and running again, ready to bring delicious grilled flavors to your next cookout. So don’t let a power issue dampen your grilling spirit. Take the necessary steps to fix the problem and get back to enjoying the perfect barbecue experience.