Pit Boss Uneven Heat [6 Reasons and Solutions]

Pit boss uneven heat can be frustrating for anyone who wants to achieve the perfect cook every time. Though Pit Boss grills are known for their reliability but like any other grill, Pit Boss can sometimes suffer from uneven heat, where certain areas of the grill cook food faster or slower than others.

The Main Reasons for Pit Boss Uneven Heat are:

— Inadequate airflow and ventilation
— Burner alignment
— Damaged heat diffuser
— Worn out igniter
— Dirty firepot
— Uneven pellet distribution
— Low quality or moist pellet

There are several reasons why a Pit Boss grill may produce uneven heat. One common cause is a dirty or faulty RTD temperature sensor. Another possible culprit is a defective induction fan, which can cause the temperature to drop mid-cook. Or low-quality or moist wood pellets can cause the grill to produce inconsistent heat. Fortunately, we can address these issues and can enjoy the full potential of our Pit Boss grill.

Pit Boss Running Hotter Than Setting

When your Pit Boss grill runs hotter than the set temperature, it can be a result of several factors. Common causes include temperature fluctuations, calibration issues, ventilation problems, and damaged or worn parts. This issue can lead to uneven heat distribution, which results in inconsistent cooking results.

Great Pit Boss Recipes For Beginners

Pit Boss Smoke Coming Out of Hopper

Pit Boss Temp Lower Than Setting

Most of the time when your Pit Boss grill runs lower or hotter than the set temperature is because of the common issues discussed earlier. To address these problems some troubleshooting steps such as recalibrating the temperature settings, checking the Pit Boss heating element, and ensuring proper airflow can help solve the issue.

I will discuss each cause for Pit Boss uneven heating and how we can fix it.

Causes And How To Fix Pit Boss Uneven Heat

Uneven heat can result in undercooked or overcooked food, which can ruin your grilling experience. Here are some of the causes for the Pit Boss grill’s uneven heat.

1- Uneven Pellet Distribution

Improper pellet distribution is a common factor for uneven heat in Pit Boss grills. When the pellets are not evenly distributed in the hopper, the grill may not generate consistent heat throughout the cooking chamber. This can result in certain areas of the grill being hotter or cooler than others, leading to uneven cooking.

The uneven distribution of pellets can occur for several reasons. Firstly, if the hopper is not adequately filled, there may be gaps or uneven layers of pellets, causing uneven heat production. It is essential to keep the hopper sufficiently filled to ensure a consistent and continuous flow of pellets.

Over time, pellets can settle or clump together in the hopper, leading to uneven distribution. This can occur due to moisture absorption or improper storage conditions. Stirring the pellets occasionally with a pellet scoop or utensil can help break apart any clumps and promote better distribution.

Distribute Pellet Evenly

To fix the issue of uneven pellet distribution and promote even heat on your Pit Boss grill, follow these steps:

Fill the hopper adequately: Ensure that the hopper is filled to an appropriate level, allowing for consistent pellet flow.
Stir the pellets: Regularly stir the pellets in the hopper to break apart any clumps and promote even distribution. This can be done with a pellet scoop or a utensil designed for this purpose.
Check for pellet quality: Ensure that the pellets you are using are of good quality and not overly moist or damaged. High-quality pellets will burn more evenly, contributing to consistent heat distribution.

2- Dirty Firepot

Another reason for uneven heat distribution in Pit Boss grills is a dirty firepot. The firepot is responsible for igniting and maintaining the fire that generates heat for cooking. When the firepot becomes clogged with ash, grease, or debris, it can obstruct the airflow and disrupt the combustion process, resulting in uneven heat output.

To understand how a dirty firepot effects uneven heat, it’s important to recognize how the firepot functions.

The firepot contains small holes or slots that allow air to flow through, enabling proper combustion of the pellets. When these holes become clogged, it restricts the airflow, causing an imbalanced burn and uneven heat distribution across the cooking surface.

A dirty firepot can occur due to ash buildup from previous grilling sessions or the accumulation of grease and food particles. It is essential to clean the firepot regularly to prevent these issues and maintain optimal heat distribution.

Firepot Cleaning

To clean the firepot and ensure even heat on your Pit Boss pellet grill, follow these steps:

Allow the grill to cool: Ensure that the grill has completely cooled down before attempting to clean the firepot. This will prevent any accidental burns.
Remove the firepot: Depending on the model of your Pit Boss grill, the firepot may be removable. Refer to your grill’s manual for instructions on how to safely remove the firepot.
Clean the firepot: Use a grill brush or scraper to remove any ash, debris, or buildup from the firepot. Pay close attention to the small holes or slots, ensuring they are clear and free of obstructions.
Empty the ash collection tray: Many Pit Boss grills have an ash collection tray located beneath the firepot. Empty this tray regularly to prevent ash buildup that could interfere with heat distribution. I like to use an ash vacuum cleaner to clean it. It makes the process of cleaning more effortless and efficient.
Reassemble the firepot: Once the firepot is clean and free of debris, carefully reassemble it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.

Ash Vacuum w/Metal Storage Tan

3- Worn Out Igniter

If the igniter is worn out, it may not light the pellets evenly, resulting in uneven heat. Make sure to check the igniter regularly and replace it if necessary.

The igniter lights the pellets in a Pit Boss grill. If the igniter has worn out, it may fail to consistently ignite the pellets, which results in Pit Boss’s uneven heat distribution.

It’s essential to regularly inspect the igniter for any signs of wear or damage. If you notice that the igniter is not functioning properly or is no longer producing a consistent spark, it’s recommended to replace it.

Igniter Replacement – Fire Pot Burn Pot and Hot Rod Ignitor Kit Replacement for Pit Boss Pellet Grill

To replace the ignitor, follow these steps:

Turn off the Pit Boss grill and unplug it from the power source for safety.
Locate the igniter, which is typically positioned near the firepot.
Carefully disconnect the wiring connected to the igniter.
Remove the worn-out igniter from its mounting bracket or housing.
Install a new igniter by securely attaching it to the mounting bracket or housing.
Reconnect the wiring to the new igniter, ensuring a proper connection.
Plug in the Pit Boss grill and turn it on to test the new igniter.

By replacing a worn-out igniter, you can ensure that the pellets ignite consistently and evenly, which results in improved heat distribution throughout the grill.

4- Damaged Heat Diffuser

The heat diffuser in a Pit Boss grill is important in distributing heat evenly across the cooking surface. If the Pit Boss heat diffuser is damaged, it may not distribute heat evenly, resulting in hot and cold spots on the grill. It’s important to regularly inspect the heat diffuser for any signs of damage, such as cracks, warping, or rusting.

Heat Diffuser Replacement – Pellet Pro Smoke Daddy OEM Heavy Duty 10 Gauge Pit Boss Heat Diffuser

To fix the issue caused by a damaged heat diffuser, follow these steps:

Ensure that the Pit Boss grill is turned off and unplugged for safety.
Locate the Pit Boss heat diffuser, which is typically positioned above the firepot and below the cooking grates.
Carefully remove the damaged heat diffuser from its position.
Inspect the diffuser for any visible damage, such as cracks or warping.
If the diffuser is damaged beyond repair, it’s recommended to purchase a replacement heat diffuser compatible with your Pit Boss grill model.
Install the new heat diffuser by placing it securely in the designated position.
Ensure that the diffuser is properly aligned and fits snugly in place.
Once the new heat diffuser is installed, you can plug in the Pit Boss grill and turn it on to test for even heat distribution.

By replacing a damaged heat diffuser, you can restore the proper heat distribution in your Pit Boss grill, eliminating hot spots and ensuring more consistent and even cooking results.

5- Defective Induction Fan

Another possible culprit for uneven heat in Pit Boss grills is a defective induction fan. The induction fan maintains a consistent airflow and temperature inside the grill.

If the fan is not functioning properly, it can result in temperature fluctuations and a drop in heat which results in hot and cold spots.

First, inspect the induction fan for any visible damage or signs of malfunction. Make sure it is clean and free from any obstructions, grease, or debris that could impede its operation.

If you suspect a defective fan, it is recommended to contact Pit Boss customer support or a professional technician to diagnose and replace the faulty part.

Replacing a defective induction fan with a genuine Pit Boss replacement part is crucial to restoring proper airflow and temperature control in your grill.

Pit Boss offers a range of induction fan kits specifically designed for their grills, ensuring compatibility and optimal performance. Consult the Pit Boss website or authorized dealers for the appropriate replacement fan for your specific model.

Induction Fan Kit for Pit Boss,

Dibay Auger Motor, Induction Fan Kit, Fire Burn Pot and Hot Rod Ignitor for Pit Boss Wood Pellet Grill Parts Replacement

6- Checking Pit Boss Heating Elements

Pit Boss grills typically use various types of heating elements, depending on the specific model and design. Such as electric heating elements, which are powered by electricity to generate heat. Certain Pit Boss grills may also incorporate infrared heating elements.

It’s important to refer to the specific product manual or consult the manufacturer to understand the heating elements used in your particular Pit Boss grill model.

Wrap Up: Pit Boss Uneven Heat

It is important to address the issue of uneven heat in your Pit Boss grill. To tackle this problem, focus on proper pellet distribution, regular cleaning of the firepot, checking and replacing the igniter if needed, and inspecting the heat diffuser for any damage.

By taking these key steps, you can enjoy consistent and deliciously cooked meals on your Pit Boss grill, ensuring a satisfying grilling experience every time.

I’m off to find out the different types of grill foods, their seasons, and how to conduct outdoor cooking properly. I’ll also show you some of my grill-worthy cooking tools & accessories!