Controller display shows ER-5 and grill stops feeding pellets or shuts down unexpectedly.

Safety first: Unplug the grill. Do not place fingers near the auger while power is connected. Allow the grill to cool fully before disassembly.

Steps to troubleshoot ER-5:

• Check pellet condition: Open the hopper and inspect pellets. If they are swollen, crumbly, or damp, empty the hopper completely and discard wet pellets. Moist pellets can swell and jam the auger.
• Inspect auger movement: With the grill unplugged, remove pellets from the hopper until you can see the auger. Try to rotate the auger by hand (using pliers on the exposed end if needed). It should move with moderate resistance. If it is completely stuck, there is likely a jam.
• Access auger motor: Remove the side or rear access panel to expose the auger motor. Check that the motor mounting bolts are tight and that the motor wiring connector is fully seated on the controller.
• Clear auger jam: If jammed, remove the auger motor mounting bolts, slide the motor off the auger shaft, and then pull the auger out of the tube from the hopper side. Scrape and vacuum out compacted sawdust and debris from the auger tube. Clean the auger flights thoroughly.
• Reassemble and test: Reinstall the auger into the tube, remount the motor, and ensure the set screw or coupling is tight. Refill with fresh, dry pellets. Plug in the grill and start a feed test or ignition cycle to confirm the auger turns smoothly.

When to seek help: If the auger motor hums but does not turn even with a free auger, or if ER-5 persists, the motor or controller output may be defective and should be replaced.