Display shows ER12; grill shuts down shortly after startup with a strong smoke smell but no sustained flame.

Safety first: Unplug the grill and allow it to cool. Smoke without flame can lead to flashback if the lid is opened suddenly.

• Clean firepot: Remove grates, drip tray, and heat diffuser. Vacuum out the firepot thoroughly, removing ash and unburned pellets.
• Check igniter: Inspect the hot rod igniter for damage or heavy carbon buildup. Clean the tip gently with fine sandpaper if sooted.
• Verify fan operation: Start the grill with the firepot visible (components temporarily removed) and confirm that the combustion fan runs and the igniter glows red within a few minutes. Then power off and unplug.
• Use fresh pellets: Empty the hopper if pellets are old or show signs of moisture. Refill with fresh, dry hardwood pellets.
• Replace igniter if weak: If the igniter glows only dimly or not at all, replace it with a Rösle-compatible hot rod igniter.
• Reassemble and test: Reinstall all internal components, plug in, and run a startup. Confirm that pellets ignite quickly and ER12 does not recur.