Control panel displays E1 and the smoker will not heat; fan may still run but heating element stays cold.

Safety first: Unplug the East Oak electric smoker from the outlet and allow it to cool completely before opening any panels.

Step-by-step checks:

• Inspect the internal temperature probe: Open the smoker door and locate the stainless temperature probe/RTD on the back or side wall of the cook chamber. Make sure it is not bent, broken, or coated in heavy grease. Clean gently with a non-abrasive pad.
• Check the sensor wiring: Remove the rear access panel (usually Phillips screws). Trace the small-gauge wires from the temperature probe into the cabinet and to the main control board. Look for cuts, burn marks, or pinched sections.
• Verify connectors: At the control board, locate the plug labeled "TEMP", "RTD" or similar. Reseat the connector: unplug it, inspect for corrosion or bent pins, then plug it back in firmly.
• Continuity test (optional but recommended): Using a multimeter set to ohms, test the RTD sensor leads (with the sensor disconnected from the board). A typical RTD will show a finite resistance (often 1–20 kΩ depending on design). If the meter reads OL (open) or infinite resistance, the sensor is open and must be replaced.
• Reassemble and test: Reinstall the rear panel, plug the smoker back in, and power it on. Set a low temperature and see if the E1 code clears.

When to replace parts: If the wiring and connectors are intact but E1 persists, replace the RTD temperature sensor assembly with an East Oak-compatible part. If a new sensor does not resolve the issue, the main control board may be faulty and should be replaced by a qualified technician.