What a pellet grill does at start and shutdown
A pellet grill runs a short routine every time it lights and every time it cools. This site explains the feed cycle, the igniter, the fire pot, the startup smoke and the cooldown, as makers and fire services describe them. It also covers what to check before each light-up.
It's for people who own a pellet grill, or are thinking of buying one, and want to know what it's doing behind the lid.
All the start and stop notes
What Happens When a Pellet Grill StartsWhat a pellet grill does between the power button and cooking heat, from the auger and igniter to the first smoke, as makers describe it.
The Prime or Feed Cycle ExplainedWhy a pellet grill's auger can run before the fire starts, when makers say to prime it, and what the prime button does and doesn't do.
How the Igniter Lights the Fire PotHow a pellet grill's igniter rod works, what the flashing display means, and the lighting times that makers give.
Startup Smoke and What It MeansWhy a pellet grill puts out thick white smoke at the start, when makers say it should thin out, and what Pit Boss says about vents and pellets.
Where to Light a Pellet Grill SafelyWhat a maker and fire services say about open air, distance from walls and buildings, and never using a pellet grill indoors or in a garage.
The Cooldown or Shutdown CycleWhy a pellet grill's fan keeps running after cooking, how long makers say the cycle takes, and why they say to let it finish.
A Pre-Start Checklist from the ManualWhat makers and fire services say to check on the fire pot, ash, pellets, hopper, vents and lid before each light-up of a pellet grill.