Step-by-Step: Fixing the Dreaded Pit Boss ERR Code

Imagine this: You're all set for a perfect BBQ evening, and out of nowhere, your Pit Boss grill flashes the dreaded ERR code. Panic sets in. But, before you let this hiccup ruin your plans, we've got your back!

Dive into our comprehensive guide, designed to help you understand and troubleshoot the Pit Boss ERR code. Whether you're a seasoned griller or a newbie, our step-by-step solutions will ensure your grill is up and running in no time. Let's get started!

ERR Code Explained 

Firstly, the only way to fix this issue is to get an understanding of what it means. In simple terms, the code is an indication that there are connectivity problems with the temperature probe of the grill. This can either mean two things: the probe has connectivity issues, or it is damaged or dirty. 

There are many reasons why this could suddenly happen to the Pit Boss grill. These include a thermometer gone bad, low temperature of the grill, etc. Fortunately, the good news is that you can fix this error by opting for different troubleshooting methods. 

Different Ways You Can Fix This Error Code

As soon as you see the ERR code, you might go into a frenzy of panic. There is no need for that because there are various steps you can take to resolve this issue and get your grill in working order. We have listed some of the most common ways below that will help you fix the ERR code:

A Dirty Probe Should Be Cleaned

All of us are guilty of not maintaining or cleaning things we own, including the pellet grills. We get lazy, procrastinate the cleaning, and it doesn’t end up happening. Well, negligence of cleanliness can lead to an ERR code on the Pit Boss grill. 

The manufacturer recommends that customers clean this probe every two to three times they cook. A dirty probe means it will cease to function optimally. You can look at the probe to determine whether the dirt is the issue here. 

If it is, then you need deeply clean the probe and the grill. You will need some water, soap, and a scrubbing pad for this purpose. Once you clean it, it should be in working order again. 

Make Sure The Connection Of The Probe Is Secure 

The most common reason for the ERR code is when the temperature probe has connectivity issues. For example, if the connection of the probe is loose, then this code will show up on the screen. First, look behind and see whether the probe is in connection with the control board. 

You can follow these steps to check the connection:

• Look at the electrical component located behind the hopper
• There will be screws holding the board together. Take them out
• You will now have access to the probe wire connectors 
• Check if each of them is connected properly without being lose
• If they are loose, make sure they are securely in place 

Once you are done with these steps, you can turn up the grill to check whether the code has gone or not. When the ERR code goes away, the display will show you a few dots on the screen to let you know it is starting. As soon as the dots disappear, the grill will begin working for you to cook delicious food. 

Unplug It For Half An Hour 

Unplugging something and plugging something back in is a trick as old as time to get something to work again. If you have seen the ERR code for the first time, you can do this to check if it works. Simply disconnect the grill for half an hour and then connect it back again. 

Sometimes, the logic of the control can be confused, and the issue can resolve when you simply unplug the device and plug it back again. If it still doesn't clear, then you will have to move on to other steps to resolve this issue. 

Ensure There Is No Damage 

When you check the temperature probe for cleanliness and connection, you also need to check for damage. If that is the case, then the ERR code will show up, which you will have to clear accordingly. We recommend that you begin by checking the temperature probe to see any visible signs of damage. 

Common damage to the temperature probe is that it bends. You can touch the grill from the sides to see whether this has happened. Bending also causes problems with the ability of the probe to sense accurate temperature. 

It is a common problem because the wire that the probe is created from is delicate. When you move the grill around a lot, it can easily bend and damage. In some cases, it might even end up breaking. 

If you have done all the checks, and there is no visible damage, then you need to test it to determine its functionality. An easy way to make this happen is to use another temperature probe and compare the reading. Huge differences between the readings mean that your temperature probe is not working properly. 

The best option at your disposal is to use an infrared gun because it provides accurate readings each time. You can aim it at the grill to check what you need to do. Unfortunately, you will have to replace the temperature probe and get a new one if you want the ERR code to disappear and the grill to work again. 

Reach Out To The Customer Support Of Pit Boss

When you have done everything you possibly can, and the ERR code is still showing up, then you need to reach out to the brand. Pit Boss has an exceptional customer support team that is highly knowledgeable and available at all times. They will listen to your issue and provide you with tips on what you can do to fix this issue. 

If those tips still don't work, then they will send a professional to work out the issue for you. Just make sure that your warranty is in check. Expiration means you will have to pay out of your own pocket if the damage is extensive and the grill requires replacement or comprehensive repairs. 

Top Resources To Find Help For The Pit Boss ERR Code 

As you go online, you will find endless resources that will help you with fixing the Pit Boss ERR code. Here are a few of them to provide you with some direction on where you can find the best fixes:

1. The Pit Boss Website 

The first instinct you should have is to visit the Pit Boss website and see if you can find any help there. Pit Boss has a support option that includes cooking guides, blogs, and a lot more that can help enhance the grilling experience. These blogs can be helpful in learning more about the model you have and what you can do to resolve certain issues. 

There are a lot of articles that will provide you with the information you need to make sure your grill is in optimal working order. You can also find their customer care option on the website. Go through each of these to see whether any of them can be helpful to what you require. 

2. Online Forums 

Discussion boards and forums have been helpful for many people to figure out what is wrong with their grills. Some of these platforms include Quora, Reddit, specific grilling and barbecuing forums, and more. Here, people come together to discuss the different issues they face and find help from other users. 

Sometimes, you can do all the technical research in the world, but the issue can still persist. So, going through online discussion boards and forums will provide you with a unique perspective on why the grill is showing the ERR code. Then, you can read and implement these experiences to see whether any of these suggestions work for you. 

3. YouTube Tutorials 

Many amateur and professional chefs have a YouTube channel and help people by cooking on different grills. On the other hand, you will also find people posting reviews, troubleshooting tutorials, and more on a certain product. You can enter your query in the search bar, and it will show you the relevant results regarding the ERR code. 

The good thing about opting for YouTube videos is that you will get a visual explanation of how to fix the issue. This will give you the confidence you need to begin resolving the problem with ease. So, follow these steps, and maybe one of these will work to disappear the ERR code showing up on the screen. 

4. The Manual Of The Grill 

An invaluable resource is the manual of the grill that many people throw away because they think it is of no use. When you purchase the Pit Boss grill, make sure you store the manual in a safe place to refer to it in case of such issues. As soon as the ERR code shows up, you can look at the manual and see what it has to tell you about fixing the code. 

It is filled with detailed instructions and possible fixes you can implement to resolve any common issue with your grill. Only refer to the other methods when there is no solution in the manual. These are usually comprehensive, and you will get the answer you are looking for. 

Some Other ERR Codes That Can Show Up On The Pit Boss Grill 

Finally, here are some other error codes that are common and what they mean:

ERH Code 

This code can also show up as HER, depending on the model you have, but they mean the same thing. ERH code means that the grill is overheating, and you need to bring the temperature to a cooler level for it to work. A grease fire is the most common reason that this code shows up. 

We can't stress enough how important it is for you to clean the grill to avoid facing such fires and issues. Most of the time, you can resolve this issue by cleaning the pellet grill. 

ER2 Code 

When the pellet grill fails to create a fire, this error code will show up. It means that the temperature did not rise more than 160C in thirty minutes. The top reason for this issue is the hopper being out of wood pellets.

Another reason could be that the auger has blocks or the motor is failing. You can check if there are enough pellets within the hopper. If that is the case, then you must check the auger and its motor to see if it is in working condition. 

ERP Code 

Last but not least, the ERP code means that you haven't shut down the unit the way you were supposed to. When this takes place, the auger shuts, but the fan is still running to ensure that the pellets are still in the burn pot. If you have faced a power outage during your cooking session, then this can be the reason for this issue. 

Even if you didn't shut down the unit in your previous session properly, this error could show up. It is easy to fix by just letting the entire shutting-down procedure take place. 

Final Thoughts 

Hopefully, all of these solutions helped you resolve the ERR code or any other common error code showing up on the Pit Boss grill. If the issue still persists, we recommend that you talk to the manufacturer. They will know what to do best and provide you with the right solution. 

In extreme cases, you might have to replace the components or the entire grill. This is why it is good to have a warranty so that these problems don’t cause any financial loss. Once the company resolves the issue, you can get back to cooking fantastic food.