Char-Broil Open Heating Element or Power Circuit Failure

Smoker powers on but will not heat at all (no error code displayed)

Advertisements

Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

Advertisements

Possible Causes

Burned‑out heating element, Loose spade connector at element terminals, Failed relay on control board, Tripped internal thermal fuse

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Unplug the smoker and allow it to cool completely before opening any panels.

  • Confirm no heat: Set the smoker to a high temperature (e.g., 275°F) and wait 10–15 minutes. If the cabinet remains cold and the element does not glow or warm, proceed with checks.
  • Inspect the element: Look for visible breaks, heavy scaling, or burn marks on the Char‑Broil heating element.
  • Check wiring: Remove the rear or bottom panel and verify that both element terminals have firmly attached spade connectors. Tighten or replace any loose or burned connectors.
  • Test element continuity: Disconnect one wire from the element and measure resistance across the terminals. An open circuit indicates a failed element that must be replaced.
  • Check thermal fuse / high‑limit: Locate any inline thermal fuse or high‑limit thermostat in series with the element. Test for continuity; replace if open with the correct temperature‑rated OEM part.
  • Replace failed parts: Install a new Char‑Broil heating element or thermal fuse as needed, reassemble, and test for proper heating.
Advertisements

Repair Difficulty

Medium 3/5

Required Part

Heating Element
Check Price on Amazon

We may earn a commission from links on this page.

Advertisements