Warning: Disconnect power before servicing.
ErrBase

How to Reset Pit Boss ERR Code: Step-by-Step Guide

Quick Answer

Pit Boss ERR reset is straightforward but the key is addressing the root cause before resetting. If you just cycle power without fixing the problem, ERR returns immediately. The reset procedure: 1) Turn the controller dial to OFF.

Pit Boss ERR reset is straightforward but the key is addressing the root cause before resetting. If you just cycle power without fixing the problem, ERR returns immediately. The reset procedure: 1) Turn the controller dial to OFF. 2) Unplug the grill from the wall outlet. 3) Wait 30 seconds. 4) While unplugged, clean the firepot with a shop vac. 5) Check the RTD probe connector behind the controller. 6) Plug back in. 7) Turn to SMOKE setting for initial startup. 8) Wait 5-7 minutes for the fire to establish before increasing temperature. If ERR returns within the first 2 minutes of startup, the RTD probe has failed and needs replacement.

PitbossPelletgrillSeverity: low80% DIY Success
Time to Fix
10–60 min
Difficulty
beginner
Parts Cost
$15 – $25
Tools Needed
Shop vacuum (for firepot cleaning), Flashlight

What Does the ERR-RESET Code Mean?

Reset: turn off, unplug 30 seconds, clean firepot, check probe connector, plug in, start on SMOKE. If ERR returns in under 2 minutes, probe has failed. Fix the root cause before resetting.

Most Likely Causes

Based on aggregated repair data, here is the probability breakdown for this error code:

ERR from transient temperature fault40%
ERR from ash buildup in firepot24%
ERR from probe connection issue14%
ERR from pellet issue12%
ERR from wind or weather10%

Symptoms You May Notice

  • ERR on display
  • Need to restart grill
  • Mid-cook ERR interruption

Can you reset a Pitboss pelletgrill to clear the ERR-RESET code?

Turn the grill off. Unplug for 30 seconds. Plug back in. Set to shutdown cycle to clear the firepot. Then restart.

Tools Required for Diagnosis

Shop vacuum (for firepot cleaning)FlashlightMultimeter

Diagnostic Checklist

Follow these steps in order. We start with the easiest external fixes before opening up the machine.

1

Turn the controller to OFF

Turn the controller to OFF. Unplug the grill from the wall outlet. Wait a full 30 seconds.

2

While unplugged

3

Plug in

Replacement Parts

If your diagnostic testing proves the component has failed, you will need a replacement. We recommend OEM parts over aftermarket for water-handling components.

Part Name
Pit Boss RTD ProbeModel-specific · $15–$25

Repair vs. Replace Calculator

Appliance Age (Years)7 Yrs
Labor Approach
Our Verdict
REPAIR
Estimated Cost: $20 (Parts) vs $850 (New Machine)

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I reset ERR without unplugging?
Turning the dial to OFF and back to SMOKE may work for transient errors, but a full unplug for 30 seconds is more reliable. The controller's microprocessor needs a full power cycle to clear some fault states.
ERR reset works but ERR comes back mid-cook every time. Why?
A recurring ERR during cooking (not at startup) usually means either the firepot is filling with ash mid-cook (clean more thoroughly) or the RTD probe has an intermittent connection (wire is barely making contact and heat expansion breaks it). Check the probe wire routing.
Do I need to clean the firepot every time I reset ERR?
Yes. Even if the firepot was not the cause of ERR, cleaning it during the reset process ensures the best chance of a clean restart. It takes 30 seconds with a shop vac and prevents future issues.

Related Pitboss Pelletgrill Error Codes

Code: ERRPit Boss ERR: Complete Diagnosis Guide

Models Known to Experience ERR-RESET Errors

This repair applies to most Pitboss pelletgrills with this error code. Common model numbers include:

Austin XL, Laredo 1000, Pro Series 850, Navigator 850, Lexington

Last verified for technical accuracy on March 15, 2026