Grill struggles to reach set temperature and stays 50–100°F below target.

Safety first: Turn the grill off, unplug it, and allow it to cool before cleaning.

• Step 1 – Clean fire pot and burn area: Remove grates, drip tray, and heat baffle. Vacuum ash and debris from the fire pot and surrounding area. Ensure the air holes in the fire pot are clear.
• Step 2 – Use dry, quality pellets: Empty the hopper and refill with fresh, premium hardwood pellets. Avoid pellets that are swollen, crumbly, or dusty.
• Step 3 – Check combustion fan: Confirm the fan runs strongly during operation. Weak airflow reduces combustion efficiency. Replace the fan if it is slow or noisy.
• Step 4 – Inspect lid seal: Check for warped lids or damaged gaskets that allow excessive heat to escape. Replace the lid gasket if your Cuisinart model uses one and it is worn.
• Step 5 – Compensate for weather: In cold or windy conditions, use a grill blanket and position the grill out of direct wind to help maintain temperature.