Visible flames and popping noises from grease; grease ignites in drip pan or barrel.
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
Immediate safety: Do not open the lid fully during an active grease fire. Keep the lid closed to starve the fire of oxygen. Unplug the grill. Have a Class B fire extinguisher ready. Never use water on a grease fire.
After the fire is out and grill is cool:
- Inspect for damage: Check wiring, RTD, and interior paint for heat damage. Replace any melted or burned components.
- Deep clean: Remove grates, drip pan, and heat deflector. Scrape and remove all grease from the drip pan, barrel bottom, and grease drain. Clean or replace foil liners if used.
- Clear grease drain: Ensure the grease channel and drain tube to the bucket are clear. Clean the grease bucket.
- Prevent recurrence: Clean the drip pan and barrel regularly, especially after cooking high-fat foods. Avoid running at very high temperatures with heavy grease buildup.
- Test operation: After cleaning and inspecting, run the grill empty at a moderate temperature to burn off any residual grease and confirm normal operation.
Warning: If wiring or structural components are significantly damaged, discontinue use and consult Recteq or a qualified technician before further operation.
Repair Difficulty
Required Part
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