Controller displays ER-5 and grill stops feeding pellets

Safety: Unplug the grill before working on the auger or hopper. Pellets and metal edges can be sharp; wear gloves and eye protection.

• Empty hopper: Scoop or vacuum pellets out of the hopper to expose the auger intake. Look for clumps of swollen pellets or foreign objects (screws, staples, etc.). Remove any obstructions.
• Check auger movement: With the hopper mostly empty, plug in the grill and briefly start it. Look down into the hopper to see if the auger is turning. If it hums but does not turn, unplug and proceed to clearing a jam.
• Clear auger jam: Remove the access panel to reach the auger motor. Disconnect the auger motor from the control board. Remove the motor mounting bolts and slide the motor and auger shaft assembly out of the tube if possible. Use pliers or a wooden dowel to break up compacted pellets and push them out of the tube.
• Inspect auger flighting: Check the auger for bends, heavy rust, or damage. Clean off pellet dust and rust. Lightly sand and wipe clean.
• Test auger motor: With the auger removed, briefly power the motor (following Memphis service instructions) to confirm it spins freely. If it stalls, grinds, or fails to turn, replace the auger motor.
• Reassemble: Reinstall the auger into the tube, remount the motor, and reconnect wiring. Ensure the auger spins freely by hand before powering up.
• Refill and test: Refill the hopper with fresh, dry pellets and run a startup. Confirm that pellets feed smoothly and ER-5 does not return.