Grill struggles to reach high temperatures (e.g., cannot exceed 350–400°F) even with lid closed.

Safety first: Let the grill cool before cleaning internal components.

Steps to restore high-heat performance:

• Deep clean firepot: Remove all internal components and thoroughly vacuum the firepot and surrounding area. Ensure all air holes in the firepot are clear.
• Inspect combustion fan and intake: Access the fan and clean any grease or debris from the blades and intake vents. Confirm the fan spins freely.
• Use quality pellets: Switch to a known high-quality, dry hardwood pellet brand. Avoid pellets stored in humid environments.
• Check for leaks: Inspect the lid gasket and body seams for large gaps that could leak heat. Replace worn gaskets if present.
• Test in calm conditions: High wind or very cold ambient temperatures can limit top-end heat. Test on a calm day to isolate grill issues from weather.

Note: If the grill still cannot reach high temperatures after cleaning and pellet changes, the controller may not be driving the auger or fan at full output and may require replacement.