I see a lot of questions about problems with heat generation. Certainly the shutdown cycle is important to ensure it's working; to facilitate 'as advertised' operation next time. I've had my smoker for about 4 mos now. I've had some intermittent issues with start up, but once it's going, it's going! I checked the instructions that came with it and it says to check the firebox " . . . once in a while." Really?? If you're 6, 'once in a while' means tomorrow. If you're 70, it might mean once a year.
I called Traeger to seek their recommendation and sure enough, their "once in a while" means about every 15-20 hrs. I asked the lady, "Why not just say that?" She agreed!
Bottom Line: If the ash in the firebox covers the heating rod, you can have less than advertised operation. If humidity has swollen your pellets, this turns into a guarantee.
I'm pretty sure I cover the heating rod with ash every time I use it, but haven't checked. I will begin a more thorough observation now that I know it's a 15-20 hr ( 3 to 5 uses ) recommendation. I've got a brisket, pork butt, and some wings through that machine since the last time I vacuumed it. I'm thinking I've got another item on the 'to-do' list today.
Hope this helps. ;)
I called Traeger to seek their recommendation and sure enough, their "once in a while" means about every 15-20 hrs. I asked the lady, "Why not just say that?" She agreed!
Bottom Line: If the ash in the firebox covers the heating rod, you can have less than advertised operation. If humidity has swollen your pellets, this turns into a guarantee.
I'm pretty sure I cover the heating rod with ash every time I use it, but haven't checked. I will begin a more thorough observation now that I know it's a 15-20 hr ( 3 to 5 uses ) recommendation. I've got a brisket, pork butt, and some wings through that machine since the last time I vacuumed it. I'm thinking I've got another item on the 'to-do' list today.
Hope this helps. ;)
