Control panel displays E3 and the smoker stops heating mid‑cook or will not start.

Safety first: Unplug the smoker and allow it to cool fully. Do not bypass safety devices.

• Verify ventilation: Check that the top exhaust vent is open and unobstructed. Remove any foil, grease buildup, or debris blocking airflow. Ensure the smoker is not placed in an enclosed space that traps heat.
• Inspect the high‑limit thermostat: Access the back or bottom panel to locate the high‑limit thermostat (small round or rectangular disc thermostat mounted to the cabinet, usually in the upper area). Check for signs of overheating or melted terminals. Some models have a manual reset button—press it firmly if present.
• Check wiring to high‑limit: Ensure the spade connectors are tight and not burnt. Replace any discolored or brittle wires with high‑temperature appliance wire.
• Test the high‑limit thermostat: With the unit unplugged, disconnect one lead and test continuity across the thermostat at room temperature. It should read closed (near 0 Ω). If open and not resettable, replace the high‑limit thermostat with the correct Dyna‑Glo part.
• Control board evaluation: If the high‑limit is good and ventilation is clear, but E3 recurs, the control board may be falsely detecting overtemp or driving the element too long. Inspect for burnt components and consider replacing the main control board.