Introduction
If you own a Traeger grill, you know how important it is to properly prime the auger before starting your cooking session. The auger is responsible for delivering the pellets to the firepot, ensuring consistent heat and smoke production. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to prime the auger on your Traeger grill, ensuring optimal performance and delicious results.
Step 1: Preparing the Grill
Before priming the auger, make sure your Traeger grill is clean and in proper working condition. Remove any leftover ashes or debris from the firepot and ensure the pellet hopper is filled with high-quality wood pellets.
Step 2: Powering On the Grill
Plug in your Traeger grill and turn it on. Set the temperature to the desired level, allowing the grill to warm up and reach the set temperature. This process will help in priming the auger effectively.
Step 3: Accessing the Auger
Open the grill’s hopper lid and locate the auger. It is usually located at the bottom of the hopper, connected to the firepot. Take a moment to inspect the auger for any visible signs of damage or blockage.
Step 4: Clearing the Auger
If you notice any blockage or obstruction in the auger, carefully remove it using a long, thin object like a wooden skewer or a pipe cleaner. Gently insert the object into the auger and move it back and forth to dislodge any debris.
Step 5: Priming the Auger
To prime the auger, you will need to manually add a few wood pellets into the firepot. Take a handful of pellets and carefully place them into the firepot, ensuring they do not fall into the auger tube. This will help kickstart the pellet delivery process.
Step 6: Lighting the Pellets
Use a long-reach lighter or a torch to ignite the pellets in the firepot. Make sure to keep your face and hands at a safe distance while lighting the pellets. Allow the pellets to burn for a few minutes until a small bed of glowing embers is formed.
Step 7: Closing the Lid
Once the pellets are lit and a bed of embers is formed, close the grill’s hopper lid. This will create a controlled environment inside the grill, ensuring the heat and smoke generated by the burning pellets are properly distributed.
Step 8: Allowing the Grill to Stabilize
After closing the lid, give your Traeger grill some time to stabilize. This will allow the auger to adjust to the temperature and pellet delivery system. It is recommended to wait for about 10-15 minutes before starting your cooking session.
Step 9: Monitoring the Auger
While cooking, keep an eye on the auger to ensure it is continuously delivering the pellets to the firepot. If you notice any issues, such as pellet jams or inconsistent pellet delivery, pause the cooking process and inspect the auger for any blockages or malfunctions.
Step 10: Regular Maintenance
To ensure the auger performs optimally, it is essential to perform regular maintenance. Clean the auger and firepot after every cooking session, removing any ash or debris. Additionally, inspect the auger for any signs of wear and tear, replacing it if necessary.
Conclusion
By following these steps, you can easily prime the auger on your Traeger grill, ensuring consistent heat and smoke production for delicious grilled meals. Remember to perform regular maintenance to keep your grill in top-notch condition and enjoy the best outdoor cooking experience.