Controller shows E7 and smoker will not power the heating element

Safety first: Unplug the smoker and verify it is completely cool before opening the control compartment.

Diagnostic steps:

• Check heating element first: Disconnect the heating element leads and measure its resistance. A dead short (near 0 Ω) or open circuit indicates a bad element that may have damaged the controller.
• Inspect control board: Look for a small relay or triac device that switches power to the element. Check for burn marks, cracked cases, or discolored PCB around it.
• Verify wiring: Ensure the wires from the control board to the element are intact, not burnt, and firmly connected.
• Replace failed parts: If the element is shorted, replace it with a Smokin-It compatible heating element before installing a new control board. If the element is good but the relay/triac is visibly damaged or E7 persists, replace the control board.

Warning: Do not attempt to bypass the relay or hard-wire the element. This is unsafe and can cause fire or shock. If you are not comfortable testing live circuits, contact a qualified appliance technician.