Display shows “Err5” and smoker will not heat or shuts down shortly after starting.

Safety first: Unplug the smoker and verify it is completely cool before accessing the heating element.

• Visual inspection: Remove the interior drip pan and water pan to expose the heating element. Look for breaks, heavy corrosion, or warping of the element.
• Check wiring: From the rear or bottom access panel, inspect the element’s spade connectors. Tighten any loose connections and look for signs of overheating or melted insulation.
• Test element continuity: Disconnect at least one wire from the element and measure resistance across the terminals with a multimeter. An open circuit (infinite resistance) indicates a failed element that must be replaced.
• Verify high-limit thermostat: If the element tests good, check continuity through the high-limit thermostat in series with the element. Replace if open at room temperature.
• Control board relay: If both element and thermostat are good, the heating relay on the control board may be defective, requiring control board replacement.