Traeger Error Codes Explained: Every Code, Meaning, and Fix

If your Traeger® grill is displaying an error code, it is telling you exactly what went wrong so you can fix it. The most common Traeger error codes are HEr (overheating), LEr (low temperature/flameout), ER1 (bad temperature sensor), ER2 (EEPROM failure), and noP or Err (no pellets or auger fault). Each one has a specific meaning and a specific fix.

This guide covers every error code you will encounter on both modern WiFIRE/D2-equipped Traeger grills (Woodridge™, Ironwood, Pro Series WiFIRE) and older non-WiFi controllers. We will explain what triggered the error, how to resolve it, and how to prevent it from happening again.

How Traeger Error Codes Work

Traeger controllers continuously monitor grill temperature, component status, and pellet feed. When a reading falls outside the acceptable range, the controller shuts down the grill and displays an error code on the LCD screen.

On WiFIRE/D2 controllers (found on Woodridge™, Ironwood, and newer Pro Series models), error codes also appear as push notifications in the Traeger app on your phone. The app sometimes provides additional context about the error.

On older controllers (non-WiFi models, pre-2019 grills), error codes display on the small LCD or LED screen on the controller dial. These controllers show fewer error types and provide less detail.

Important: When any error code appears, the grill enters a shutdown cycle. Allow the shutdown to complete fully (the fan will run for several minutes to cool the grill) before attempting to restart.

HEr — High Temperature Error

What it means: The grill's internal temperature exceeded the safe maximum threshold (typically around 550degF). The controller detected a runaway temperature situation and shut down the grill to prevent damage.

Common causes:

• Grease fire: Accumulated grease on the drip tray or heat baffle ignited, causing a rapid temperature spike
• Too many pellets in the fire pot: If the grill was shut down improperly during a previous cook and restarted, unburned pellets can accumulate and create a large flare-up on ignition
• Lid left open during startup: Opening the lid during the startup cycle can cause improper combustion that leads to overheating once the lid is closed
• Stuck auger: If the auger continues feeding pellets when it should not, excess fuel can cause overheating

How to fix it:

1. Allow the grill to complete its shutdown cycle (fan will run to cool things down)
2. Once cool, open the lid and inspect for signs of a grease fire — blackened drip tray, melted liners, heavy soot
3. If a grease fire occurred, thoroughly clean the drip tray, heat baffle, and all interior surfaces
4. Remove the drip tray and heat baffle — vacuum out the fire pot and check for excess pellets
5. Replace drip tray liners and clean the grates with a grill brush
6. Restart the grill with the lid closed and monitor closely during the startup cycle

Prevention: Clean your drip tray and replace liners regularly, especially after cooking fatty meats (brisket, pork shoulder, ribs). Never skip the shutdown cycle — always use the grill's Shutdown mode rather than just unplugging it.

LEr — Low Temperature Error

What it means: The grill temperature dropped below the minimum threshold (typically below 125degF during a cook) for an extended period. This usually means the fire went out — a flameout.

Common causes:

• Ran out of pellets: The hopper emptied during a long cook
• Pellet jam in the auger: Pellets stopped feeding to the fire pot
• Wet or degraded pellets: Low-quality pellets that do not burn consistently
• Excessive wind: Strong wind blowing through the grill can extinguish the fire
• Ash buildup in fire pot: Too much ash smothered the flame
• Cold weather: Ambient temperatures below freezing make it harder to maintain grill temp

How to fix it:

1. Allow the shutdown cycle to complete
2. Open the grill and check the hopper — are there pellets in it?
3. Check the fire pot — is it full of unburned pellets? If so, vacuum them all out before restarting (restarting with a full fire pot can cause an HEr error or flashback)
4. If the hopper is empty, refill with quality pellets like Traeger Signature Blend
5. If pellets are in the hopper but did not reach the fire pot, you may have an auger jam. See our Traeger auger not turning guide
6. Clean the fire pot and restart

Model-specific notes:

• Woodridge™ and Ironwood with D2 controllers: These have better temperature recovery and are less prone to LEr errors. The D2 drivetrain adjusts fan and auger speed dynamically to maintain temperature
• Pro 575 and Pro 780: More susceptible to flameouts in windy or cold conditions due to thinner barrel walls. Consider positioning the grill near a windbreak

Prevention: Always check your pellet level before a long cook. On grills without a hopper sensor, set a phone reminder to check pellets every 2-3 hours. Keep the fire pot clean and use high-quality pellets.

ER1 — Temperature Sensor (RTD Probe) Error

What it means: The controller cannot read the internal temperature sensor (RTD probe). The RTD is the metal probe that protrudes into the cook chamber, usually on the left side near the fire pot. If the controller cannot get a valid temperature reading, it cannot safely operate the grill.

Common causes:

• Disconnected RTD probe wire: The wire connecting the RTD to the controller has come loose
• Damaged RTD probe: The probe is corroded, bent, or the internal element has failed
• Damaged wiring harness: A wire in the harness running from the RTD to the controller is broken
• Controller failure: The controller's input for the RTD has failed (less common)

How to fix it:

1. Power off and unplug the grill
2. Locate the RTD probe inside the cook chamber — it is a small metal rod, usually on the left side
3. Trace the wire from the RTD probe to where it connects to the controller on the back of the hopper assembly
4. Disconnect and reconnect the RTD wire at the controller — make sure the connection is firm
5. Inspect the RTD probe itself for visible damage, heavy corrosion, or bends
6. Plug the grill back in and restart
7. If the error persists, the RTD probe likely needs replacement. Replacement RTD probes are available from Traeger for around $15-25

Model-specific notes:

• On WiFIRE models, the Traeger app may provide more detail about the sensor failure
• On older controllers, the ER1 code may also appear if the temperature reading is stuck at a specific value rather than changing as the grill heats

ER2 — EEPROM Failure

What it means: The controller's internal memory (EEPROM) has experienced a read or write error. The EEPROM stores the controller's firmware and calibration settings. This is the least common error code and typically indicates a hardware failure.

Common causes:

• Controller hardware failure: The EEPROM chip on the controller board has failed
• Firmware corruption: A failed firmware update or power loss during a firmware update corrupted the stored data
• Power surge: An electrical surge damaged the controller's memory

How to fix it:

1. Power off the grill and unplug it for 60 seconds
2. Plug it back in and try to power on
3. On WiFIRE models, try updating the firmware through the Traeger app — this may overwrite the corrupted data
4. If the error persists after a firmware update or on a non-WiFi model, the controller needs to be replaced

Important: ER2 almost always requires a controller replacement. If your grill is under warranty, contact Traeger support before purchasing a replacement controller. Traeger's warranty covers controller failures.

Cost note: Replacement controllers range from $70-200 depending on the model. WiFIRE/D2 controllers for Woodridge™ and Ironwood models are on the higher end. Check if your grill is still under warranty before paying out of pocket.

noP / Err — No Pellets or Auger Error

What it means: The controller detected that pellets are not being fed to the fire pot. On newer WiFIRE controllers, this may display as "noP" (no pellets). On some models, a generic "Err" code can also indicate this condition.

Common causes:

• Empty hopper: The simplest cause — you ran out of pellets
• Auger jam: Pellets are in the hopper but the auger is blocked and cannot feed them
• Auger motor failure: The motor that drives the auger has failed
• Wiring issue: The connection between the controller and auger motor is loose or damaged
• Hardened pellets: In cold weather, moisture can cause pellets to expand and lock up in the auger tube

How to fix it:

1. Check the hopper — if empty, refill with fresh pellets
2. If the hopper has pellets, listen carefully at startup. Can you hear the auger motor? A humming sound without movement suggests a jam. No sound at all suggests a motor or wiring issue
3. For a jam: empty the hopper, vacuum the auger tube, and try to clear the blockage. Full details in our auger troubleshooting guide
4. For a motor issue: check the wiring connection at the motor and controller. If secure, the motor may need replacement
5. After clearing the issue, restart with a clean fire pot

Model-specific notes:

• Woodridge™ series: Includes a pellet sensor in the hopper that provides a more accurate noP warning before the fire pot actually runs dry
• Older Pro Series and Tailgater models: No pellet sensor — the noP error only triggers after the fire pot temperature drops, meaning the flameout has already occurred

WiFIRE vs. Older Controller Error Code Differences

Understanding which controller your Traeger has helps with troubleshooting:

WiFIRE/D2 Controllers (2019 and newer):

• Display error codes on a full LCD screen with text descriptions
• Send push notifications to the Traeger app
• Support over-the-air firmware updates that can fix software-related errors
• More error code granularity — can distinguish between different failure types
• Found on: Woodridge™ series, Ironwood series, Pro 575/780 WiFIRE, Timberline

Older AC Controllers (pre-2019):

• Display error codes on a small LED or basic LCD
• No app connectivity or remote notifications
• Cannot be updated — firmware is fixed
• Fewer error codes — some issues display as generic "Err"
• Found on: older Pro Series, Lil Tex, Junior, Tailgater, some Ranger models

If you are unsure which controller you have, check whether your grill connects to the Traeger app. If it does, you have a WiFIRE controller.

Prevention Tips

Most Traeger error codes can be prevented with consistent maintenance:

• Clean the fire pot every 3-5 cooks to prevent both HEr and LEr errors
• Use the Shutdown cycle every time — never just unplug the grill after cooking
• Keep pellets dry and use quality brands. Traeger Hickory and Signature Blend are reliable options
• Replace drip tray liners regularly with Traeger drip tray liners to prevent grease fires
• Protect your grill with a fitted grill cover to keep moisture out of the hopper and electrical components
• Update firmware on WiFIRE models whenever the app prompts you
• Inspect wiring once per season for loose connections, corrosion, or damage

When to Contact Traeger Support

Contact Traeger customer support (1-800-872-3437) when:

• ER2 errors persist after a power cycle and firmware update — controller replacement is almost certainly needed
• ER1 errors persist after checking and reconnecting the RTD probe — the probe or controller needs replacement
• HEr errors repeat despite thorough cleaning — there may be a controller malfunction causing the auger to overfeed
• Your grill is under warranty — do not purchase replacement parts out of pocket if Traeger will cover them
• You see error codes not listed here — Traeger occasionally introduces new codes with firmware updates

Have your grill's model number and serial number ready when you call. The serial number is on a sticker inside the hopper.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I just ignore a Traeger error code and restart?

You should never ignore an error code. While a restart may clear the error temporarily, the underlying cause is still there. An ignored HEr error could lead to a grease fire. An ignored ER1 could mean the grill has no temperature regulation. Always diagnose and fix the root cause before restarting.

Why does my Traeger show LEr when it is cold outside?

In temperatures below 35degF, your Traeger has to work much harder to maintain cooking temperature. The thinner-walled models (Pro 575, Pro 780) are especially susceptible. Use a Traeger insulation blanket in cold weather, position the grill out of the wind, and allow extra preheat time. If you still get LEr errors, the fire may be struggling — check pellet quality and fire pot cleanliness.

How do I clear an error code on my Traeger?

On WiFIRE/D2 controllers, error codes clear automatically after the shutdown cycle completes and you restart the grill. On older controllers, unplug the grill for 30 seconds and plug it back in to reset. If the error code returns immediately after restart, the issue has not been resolved.

Do firmware updates fix error codes?

Sometimes. Firmware updates on WiFIRE models can fix software-related issues like incorrect error triggers or calibration problems. However, firmware updates cannot fix hardware failures (bad RTD probe, dead auger motor, failed EEPROM). Always update to the latest firmware as a first troubleshooting step on WiFIRE grills.

What does it mean when my Traeger displays no error but still will not heat?

If the controller powers on normally with no error code but the grill does not heat, check the fire pot area first. The igniter may have failed (no glow), or the fan may not be running. See our detailed guide on Traeger not heating up for a full diagnostic walkthrough.

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Need more Traeger troubleshooting help? Visit our complete guides hub for maintenance tips, fix-it walkthroughs, and how-to articles. Having temperature problems? Read our guide on Traeger temperature swings. Want an in-depth look at the newest Traeger models? Check out our Woodridge review.