Pellet burner question

[TMB]

OK here is the question.....

If the hot rod on a Traeger (cause that's the hopper I used) get dirty with ash build up where only 1/2 of the rod is glowing red would I be better to leave it alone or try to remove the build up??

I don't want damage the rod just make it more efficient.
Any help would be great

 

[RickB]

That is pretty much normal.I would not try to clean the rod. As long as you are not having ignition problems leave well enough alone. Just keep the fire pot clean.

 

[HoDeDo]

Actually you want to vac the dust off from around the rod. The ash can end up being corrosive, and over time will lead to premature death of the hot rod.

 

[TentHunter]

The ash can end up being corrosive, and over time will lead to premature death of the hot rod.

This makes perfect sense, especially if using oak based pellets. Oak contains a lot of tannic acid. That's why its used in wine making.


A Scotch Brite pad should work fine without damaging the rod.