Fix Pellet Stove Auger Jams with These Expert Tips

Pellet stoves are a great way to heat your home efficiently and economically. However, like any mechanical device, they can sometimes experience problems. One common issue is a jammed auger. An auger is a spiral-shaped device that feeds pellets from the hopper into the burn pot. If the auger becomes jammed, the stove will not be able to operate properly.

Causes of Pellet Stove Auger Jams

There are several possible causes of a jammed pellet stove auger, including:

• Foreign objects: Small objects, such as rocks or pieces of wood, can get into the auger and cause it to jam.
• Clogged hopper: If the hopper is clogged with pellets, the auger will not be able to feed pellets into the burn pot.
• Damaged auger: The auger can become damaged over time, which can cause it to jam.
• Worn-out motor: The motor that drives the auger can wear out over time, which can cause the auger to jam.

How to Fix a Pellet Stove Auger Jam

If your pellet stove auger is jammed, there are several steps you can take to fix it:

1. Check for Foreign Objects

The first step is to check for foreign objects that may be jammed in the auger. To do this, turn off the stove and unplug it from the power outlet. Then, remove the hopper and inspect the auger for any foreign objects. If you find any objects, remove them carefully.

2. Clean the Hopper

If the hopper is clogged with pellets, you will need to clean it out. To do this, remove the hopper from the stove and empty out the pellets. Then, use a vacuum cleaner to remove any remaining pellets from the hopper.

3. Inspect the Auger

Once you have cleaned the hopper, inspect the auger for any damage. If you find any damage, you will need to replace the auger.

4. Replace the Motor

If the motor that drives the auger is worn out, you will need to replace it. To do this, remove the motor from the stove and disconnect the wires. Then, install the new motor and reconnect the wires.

5. Reassemble the Stove

Once you have fixed the auger, reassemble the stove. To do this, insert the auger into the hopper and replace the hopper on the stove. Then, plug the stove into the power outlet and turn it on.

6. Test the Auger

Once the stove is turned on, test the auger to make sure it is working properly. To do this, press the start button on the stove. The auger should start to turn and feed pellets into the burn pot.

7. Monitor the Stove

Once you have fixed the auger, monitor the stove to make sure it is operating properly. If the auger jams again, you may need to call a qualified technician for assistance.

Troubleshooting Tips

If you are having trouble fixing a pellet stove auger jam, here are a few troubleshooting tips:

• Make sure that the stove is turned off and unplugged from the power outlet before you begin working on it.
• Use a flashlight to inspect the auger for any damage.
• If you are not comfortable working on the stove yourself, call a qualified technician for assistance.

Key Points: Troubleshooting Pellet Stove Auger Jams

Pellet stove auger jams are a common problem, but they can be fixed with a little troubleshooting. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to fix the jam and get your stove up and running again in no time.

What You Need to Learn

1. What are the symptoms of a jammed pellet stove auger?

The symptoms of a jammed pellet stove auger include:

• The auger does not turn when the start button is pressed.
• The auger turns slowly or erratically.
• The auger makes a grinding noise.
• The stove does not produce any heat.

2. What are the causes of a jammed pellet stove auger?

The causes of a jammed pellet stove auger include:

• Foreign objects in the auger
• Clogged hopper
• Damaged auger
• Worn-out motor

3. How can I fix a jammed pellet stove auger?

To fix a jammed pellet stove auger, you can:

• Check for foreign objects
• Clean the hopper
• Inspect the auger
• Replace the motor
• Reassemble the stove
• Test the auger