Pit Boss Backdraft / Burn-Back into Hopper

Pellets back-burning into hopper, with smoke or smoldering pellets visible in hopper.

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Safety Warning

This repair may involve working with high voltage components or water connections. Always unplug the appliance before removing any panels.

If you are not confident in your ability to perform this repair safely, we strongly recommend contacting a professional technician.

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Possible Causes

Excessive ash in firepot and auger tube, Strong wind forcing flame back, Running grill on very low settings for long periods, Missing or damaged auger-to-hopper seal

How to Fix / Troubleshooting

Safety first: Immediately turn the grill OFF, unplug it, and close the hopper lid. Do not open the hopper until smoke subsides.

  • Step 1 – Extinguish safely: Allow smoldering pellets in the hopper to burn out with the lid closed, or carefully remove them into a metal container and douse with water outdoors.
  • Step 2 – Deep clean auger and firepot: After cool, remove pellets, clean the firepot, and vacuum ash from the auger intake area.
  • Step 3 – Inspect auger seal: Ensure any factory-installed auger-to-hopper seal or bushing is intact to limit flame travel.
  • Step 4 – Avoid extreme low settings in high wind: Run at moderate temperatures or shield the grill from wind to reduce backdraft risk.
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Repair Difficulty

Medium 3/5

Required Part

Auger Bushing / Seal
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