Updated: July 2025
A clogged auger is one of the most frustrating issues pellet grill owners face. When your auger stops feeding pellets properly, your entire grilling session comes to a halt.
This comprehensive guide will walk you through exactly how to unclog your pellet grill auger, identify what caused the blockage, and prevent future clogs from happening.
While the process requires some disassembly, it’s completely manageable for most grill owners with basic tools and patience.
Follow these detailed steps and you’ll have your pellet grill back to smoking perfectly in no time!
What Is a Pellet Grill Auger?
The auger is the heart of your pellet grill’s feeding system. This spiral-shaped screw mechanism transports wood pellets from the hopper through a tube directly into the burn pot, where they ignite to create heat and smoke.
Think of it as a conveyor belt that automatically delivers fuel to maintain consistent temperatures. When the auger becomes clogged, pellets can’t reach the fire, causing temperature drops, uneven cooking, or complete shutdown of your grill.
A functioning auger is essential for:
- Maintaining steady cooking temperatures
- Ensuring consistent smoke production
- Preventing pellet jams and feed issues
- Achieving even heat distribution
The good news? Unclogging an auger doesn’t require professional repair skills—just the right approach and some basic tools.
Common Causes of Auger Clogs
Understanding why augers clog helps you prevent future issues. Here are the most frequent culprits:
Moisture-Damaged Pellets (Most Common Cause) Wood pellets are made from compressed sawdust held together by natural lignins. When exposed to humidity, rain, or condensation, pellets absorb moisture and crumble back into sawdust. This creates a paste-like substance that jamming the auger tube.
Grease and Food Residue Cooking oils and grease can drip down into the auger housing over time. Combined with pellet dust, this creates sticky buildup that impedes auger movement.
Poor Quality Pellets Cheap or poorly manufactured pellets often contain excess sawdust, bark, or foreign materials that can jam the auger mechanism.
Environmental Debris Dust, dirt, leaves, or other outdoor debris can enter the hopper during storage, especially if your grill isn’t properly covered.
Extended Storage Issues Pellets left in the hopper for weeks or months can absorb atmospheric moisture, even in seemingly dry conditions.
Tools You’ll Need
Before starting, gather these essential tools:
- Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead)
- Allen key set or appropriate bolts for your model
- Vice grips or pipe wrench
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Long-handled wire brush
- Shop vacuum with attachments
- Needle-nose pliers or tongs
- Sandpaper (medium grit)
- Clean rags or paper towels
Step-by-Step Auger Unclogging Process
Step 1: Safety and Preparation
Ensure your grill is completely cool and unplugged from power. Remove all pellets from the hopper and set them aside. Take photos of your grill’s current assembly before disassembly—this will help during reassembly.
Step 2: Access the Auger
Remove the pellet hopper by unscrewing the mounting bolts (typically 4-6 bolts around the base). Some models require removing heat shields or side panels first. Consult your owner’s manual for your specific model’s disassembly sequence.
Carefully disconnect any electrical connections to the auger motor. Most use simple plug-and-play connectors, but take photos before disconnecting.
Step 3: Remove the Auger
Locate where the auger connects to the motor drive shaft. Detach the auger from the motor coupling—this usually involves removing a single bolt or pin.
Using vice grips or a pipe wrench, turn the auger clockwise (following the screw direction) to remove it from the tube. If it’s severely clogged, you may need significant force to break it free.
Step 4: Clear the Blockage
Inspect both the auger screw and the auger tube with a flashlight. Clogs typically occur at:
- The hopper entrance where pellets enter
- The burn pot end where pellets exit
- Bends or joints in the auger tube
Remove visible debris using tongs or pliers. For stubborn clogs, you may need to:
- Break up hardened pellet masses with a chisel
- Use a wire brush to scrape tube walls
- Vacuum out loose debris with a shop vac
Step 5: Clean the Auger
Clean the auger screw itself using sandpaper and a wire brush. Remove any built-up residue, rust, or pellet paste. The auger should move smoothly in and out of the tube when clean.
Test fit the auger in the tube—it should rotate freely without binding or resistance.
How to Clean the Auger Housing
Thorough cleaning prevents future clogs. Use a long-handled wire brush to scrub the entire length of the auger tube. Pay special attention to:
- Corners and bends where debris accumulates
- The junction between hopper and tube
- The burn pot entrance area
Use a shop vacuum to remove all loose particles and dust. For stubborn grease buildup, use a degreasing cleaner and allow proper drying time before reassembly.
Reassembly Tips
Reverse the disassembly process, ensuring:
- The auger coupling is properly aligned with the motor
- All electrical connections are secure
- Bolts are tightened to manufacturer specifications (don’t overtighten)
- All safety shields and covers are properly reinstalled
Test the auger operation by running a brief cycle before loading pellets.
Prevention Tips for Future Clogs
Store Pellets Properly
- Use airtight containers or sealed bags
- Keep pellets in a dry, climate-controlled area
- Never leave pellets in the hopper for extended periods
Regular Maintenance Schedule
- Clean the auger housing every 20-25 cooking sessions
- Inspect pellet quality before each use
- Keep your grill covered and dry when not in use
Quality Pellets Matter
- Invest in premium hardwood pellets with low moisture content
- Avoid pellets with excessive dust or debris
- Check pellet reviews and certifications
When to Call a Professional
While most auger clogs are DIY-fixable, contact a professional if you encounter:
- Electrical component damage
- Bent or damaged auger screws
- Motor coupling issues
- Repeated clogs despite proper maintenance
Conclusion
Unclogging your pellet grill auger is a manageable maintenance task that every pellet grill owner should know. By understanding the causes, following proper procedures, and implementing preventive measures, you can keep your grill running smoothly for years to come.
Remember: prevention is always easier than repair. Store your pellets properly, perform regular maintenance, and your auger will rarely give you trouble. Happy grilling!
