Controller display shows ER-4 and grill will not ignite or shuts down during preheat.
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.
Possible Causes
How to Fix / Troubleshooting
Safety first: Unplug the grill and ensure it is completely cool before accessing the firepot or electrical compartment.
Steps to troubleshoot ER-4:
- Access the firepot: Remove cooking grates, drip pan, and heat deflector to expose the firepot. Inspect the igniter tip that protrudes into the firepot for cracks, heavy corrosion, or missing ceramic.
- Check wiring: From the underside or rear access panel, locate the igniter wires leading from the firepot to the controller. Ensure the connector is fully seated and wires are not burned or pinched.
- Test igniter resistance: With the grill unplugged, disconnect the igniter from the controller and measure resistance across the igniter leads. A typical hot rod will show a low but finite resistance (often 40–80 ohms). An open (OL) reading indicates a failed igniter.
- Inspect controller fuse (if accessible): Some Recteq controllers have an inline or board-mounted fuse for the igniter circuit. Check for a blown fuse and replace only with the same rating if blown. If it blows again immediately, there is a short in the igniter or wiring.
- Replace igniter: If the igniter tests open or is physically damaged, remove the mounting hardware, slide out the old igniter, and install a new Recteq-compatible igniter/hot rod. Route wires away from direct flame and secure them.
- Test ignition: Reassemble the interior, plug in the grill, and start an ignition cycle. Look for visible glow from the igniter through the firepot holes within a few minutes.
Note: If ER-4 persists with a known-good igniter and fuse, the controller output may be faulty and should be replaced by or through Recteq.
Repair Difficulty
Required Part
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