Pit Boss Error Codes: Quick Fixes & Replacement Parts

Pit Boss pellet grills are reliable, but error codes can still appear. Most issues come from a dirty RTD temperature probe, an unprimed auger, a grease fire, or a loose meat probe.

Use this quick guide to diagnose the code, fix the problem, and know when to replace a part.

Safety first: Turn off the grill, unplug it, and let it cool completely before cleaning or inspecting parts.

Pit Boss Error Code Quick Reference

1. Er1 / Err / ErL — Temperature Probe or RTD Fault

These codes mean the control board is not getting a good reading from the RTD temperature probe inside the cooking chamber.

Common causes:

• Loose or damaged RTD wire

• Dirty RTD probe covered in grease or ash

• Bad RTD temperature probe

Quick fix:

1. Turn off and unplug the grill. Let it cool.

2. Empty the hopper, auger, and burn pot.

3. Check the RTD probe connection and wiring.

4. Clean the RTD probe with a 1:1 water and vinegar mix.

5. Reconnect the Molex connector securely.

If the code returns, replace the RTD temperature probe .

2. Er2 — Ignition Failure / Fire Not Established

Er2 means the grill did not reach the required temperature within about 30 minutes. The fire was not established.

Common causes:

• Hopper is empty

• Auger not primed

• Auger blockage or failed auger motor

• Bad hot rod igniter

• Ash blocking airflow in the burn pot

Quick fix:

1. Check the hopper has pellets.

2. Prime the auger until a few pellets drop into the burn pot.

3. If the auger does not move, clear the blockage or replace the auger motor .

4. Test the hot rod igniter: set the dial to Smoke and place your hand above the burn pot. If you feel no heat after 1 minute, replace the hot rod igniter .

5. Clean ash from the burn pot and air holes.

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3. Er3 — Fire Has Gone Out

Er3 is similar to Er2, but the fire was established first and then went out.

Common causes:

• Hopper ran out of pellets

• Auger blockage

• Failed induction fan

• Blocked airflow from ash

Quick fix:
Check pellets, clear the auger, clean the burn pot, and test the induction fan. The hot rod igniter is less likely to be the problem because the fire started once.

Parts to check: auger motor, induction fan.
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4. ErH — Overheating

ErH is one of the most common Pit Boss error codes. It means the cooking chamber exceeded the safe operating temperature.

Most of the time, ErH is caused by a grease fire from infrequent cleaning, especially after cooking fatty meats.

Quick fix:

1. Turn off the grill and let it complete its shutdown cycle.

2. Unplug and let it cool completely.

3. Remove grates, grease tray, and heat baffle.

4. Vacuum ash from the firepot.

5. Clean the grease tray and drip pan.

6. Check and clean the RTD temperature probe.

7. Use good-quality pellets with less dust.

If ErH returns after a deep clean, the RTD probe or control panel may need replacing.

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5. ErP — Improper Shut-Down

ErP means the grill did not go through its proper shutdown cycle. This often happens after a power outage or if the grill was unplugged during operation.

Quick fix:
Turn the temperature dial to OFF. Wait 2 minutes. Then set it to Smoke or your desired temperature. In most cases, no part is needed.

6. noP — Meat Probe Fault

noP means the meat probe is not connected properly or is damaged.

Quick fix:

1. Inspect the meat probe cable for cuts, tears, or knots.

2. Reinsert the plug until you hear a snap.

3. If the code remains, replace the meat probe .

4. If a new meat probe still shows noP, the control panel may need replacing.

7. SmokeIT Additional Error Codes

Some Pit Boss models with SmokeIT integration may show additional error codes. Examples include Gen 2 Pro Series and Platinum Series models such as Lockhart, KC Combo, Laredo 1000, and Brunswick.

If you see a code not listed here, check your model’s manual or contact us with your model number and error code.

Clean First, Replace Only When Needed

Many Pit Boss error codes are solved by cleaning and resetting the grill. Replace parts when you confirm:

• RTD probe is damaged or still faulty after cleaning

• Hot rod igniter produces no heat

• Auger motor does not turn

• Meat probe is damaged

• Control panel still shows the code after new probes are installed

Need Pit Boss Replacement Parts?

We stock common Pit Boss replacement parts, including:

• RTD temperature probes

• Hot rod igniters

• Auger motors

• Meat probes

• Control panels

• Induction fans

Not sure which part you need? Send us your Pit Boss model number and error code, and we’ll help you find the right replacement.
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FAQ

What is the most common Pit Boss error code?
ErH is very common and is usually caused by a grease fire or lack of cleaning.

How do I reset my Pit Boss after an error code?
For ErP, turn the dial OFF, wait 2 minutes, then restart. For other codes, fix the underlying issue first.

Can I keep cooking with ErH?
No. ErH means overheating. Turn off the grill and clean it before using it again.

Why does my Pit Boss keep showing Er1?
A dirty, loose, or failed RTD temperature probe is the usual cause.

Where can I buy Pit Boss replacement parts?
You can order RTD probes, hot rods, auger motors, meat probes, control panels, and fans etc from our Store .