Why Does My Pellet Stove Keep Shutting Off? Troubleshooting Guide

You arrive home after a long day at work, expecting to step into a warm, cozy haven. Instead, you’re greeted by a cold, unwelcoming chill, and the familiar hum of your pellet stove is eerily absent. Frustrated, you check the stove and see that it’s shut off—again. You mentally calculate how long it will take to restart it, wondering if you’ll need to troubleshoot or call for repairs.

This scenario is all too common for pellet stove owners, especially during the colder months when reliable heating is essential. Pellet stoves are marvels of efficiency, but they’re not without their quirks. When they shut off unexpectedly, it can leave you scrambling to identify the cause while battling the chill in your home.

The good news? Most of these issues are preventable with routine maintenance and some basic troubleshooting. Whether it’s a blocked air intake, a malfunctioning sensor, or simply a build-up of ash, the underlying problem is often straightforward to resolve. With a bit of know-how and the right tools, you can diagnose and fix many common problems yourself—keeping your stove running smoothly and your home warm.

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting Guide

Step 1: Inspect the Door Gasket

Why It’s Important: A properly sealed door ensures that the stove maintains optimal airflow and combustion efficiency. A worn or damaged gasket can cause air leaks, leading to poor performance.

How to Inspect and Replace the Gasket:

1. Check for Gaps: Close the door and use a thin strip of paper. Place it between the gasket and the stove frame. Pull the paper gently; if it slides out easily, the gasket may not be sealing properly.


2. Inspect for Wear: Look for cracks, fraying, or compressed areas along the gasket.


3. Replace the Gasket: Remove the old gasket by peeling it off the door channel. Clean the channel thoroughly with a wire brush to remove old adhesive. Apply a high-temperature adhesive to the channel and press the new gasket into place. Allow it to cure according to the adhesive instructions.

Step 2: Test the Low-Limit Switch

Why It’s Important: The low-limit switch detects whether the fire has gone out and shuts the stove off if necessary. A faulty switch can cause premature shutdowns.

How to Test the Low-Limit Switch:

1. Locate the Switch: Refer to your stove’s manual to find the low-limit switch, typically near the exhaust blower.
2. Bypass for Testing: Disconnect the wires from the switch and temporarily connect them with a jumper wire. Turn on the stove. If it runs without shutting off, the switch is faulty and needs replacement.
3. Replace the Switch: Turn off and unplug the stove. Remove the mounting screws, disconnect wires, and install a new low-limit switch. Reconnect wires and secure the switch in place.

Step 3: Clean the Combustion Blower

Why It’s Important: The combustion blower ensures proper airflow for burning pellets. Ash and soot buildup can reduce efficiency and lead to shutdowns.

How to Clean the Combustion Blower:

1. Turn Off the Stove: Unplug the unit and allow it to cool completely.
2. Access the Blower: Remove the side panel to access the blower motor.
3. Clean the Blower Blades: Use a vacuum cleaner with a hose attachment to remove loose ash and dust. For stubborn buildup, use a small brush to clean the blades thoroughly.
4. Inspect the Blower Gaskets: Check for wear or damage. Replace the gaskets if needed.
5. Reassemble: Replace the side panel and plug the stove back in.

Step 4: Clear Blockages in the Burnpot

Why It’s Important: The burnpot is where the combustion occurs. Clogged air holes can disrupt airflow and extinguish the fire.

How to Clean the Burnpot:

1. Remove the Burnpot: Open the stove door and pull the burnpot straight out.
2. Clean the Air Holes: Use a small metal tool or a brush to clear ash from the holes.
3. Scrape the Burnpot: Remove hardened deposits using a scraper or putty knife.
4. Reinstall: Ensure the burnpot is seated securely in its slot.

Step 5: Verify Hopper and Auger Functionality

Why It’s Important: Consistent pellet feeding is critical to maintaining the fire. Hopper and auger issues can lead to shutdowns.

How to Check and Clear the Hopper and Auger:

1. Inspect the Hopper: Ensure it is at least ¼ full with dry, high-quality pellets. Check for "bridging" (pellets sticking together and not feeding properly). Stir the pellets if needed.
2. Clean the Auger Tube: Turn off and unplug the stove. Remove any visible debris from the auger tube using a vacuum. Rotate the auger manually to check for jams.