This article outlines common grill sounds, like chirping, clicking, squeaking, and grinding and explains what they mean and how to fix them. It helps identify normal noises versus sound concerns that need attention.
Sounds that are Part Specific
Squeaking Sounds
On a Traeger Grill, squeaking usually comes from moving parts such as the auger motor, hinges, or fan blades. These noises are caused by friction and can be resolved with a light application of a multi‑purpose spray lubricant, such as WD‑40.
- Check the source: Identify whether the squeak is from the auger, lid hinges, or fan.
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Apply WD‑40:
- Auger motor → spray lightly where the motor shaft connects to the auger.
- Hinges/lid joints → apply at pivot points.
- Fan → a small spray at the central hub.
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Safety tips:
- Always unplug the grill before applying.
- WD‑40 is flammable — allow it to settle and evaporate fully before powering on or cooking.
- Use only a small amount and wipe away excess to avoid buildup.
Fan Sounds
Whirling Sounds
Grills have two fan blades that make whirling sounds. These sounds are normal and mean that the grill is functioning properly.
The fan may build up dust, grime or particles during use. If your fan is making noises the first step would be to check the fan for dust or debris.
Remove the hopper's bottom or side panel.
Check if there is debris or anything blocking the fan.
Clean debris from fan.
Clicking Sounds
The customer may hear clicking sounds. This means that their grill's fan blades are hitting the grill's wires.
To stop the clicking sounds, ask the customer to take the steps below:
Remove the hopper's bottom or side panel.
Check if there are wires blocking the fan.
Pull the wires away from the fan.
Shrill Sounds
If the fan emits a "shrill sound," the ball bearing is misaligned, and the induction fan needs to be replaced. This will be a continuous high-pitched sound.
See D2 Induction Fan for more information.
Buzzing Sounds
If there is something blocking or interfering with the fan turning, you may hear a buzz coming from the grill.
Remove the hopper's bottom or side panel.
Check if there is anything blocking or in the way of the fan turning like it should.
Remove anything that is blocking the fan.
Auger Motor Sounds
Clicking Sounds
The grill's motors spin slowly. If the customer hears their grill clicking, the motor may have problems. The motor may be hitting cables inside the hopper.
To fix the motor, ask the customer to take the step below:
- Grab a zip tie and bundle the cables inside the hopper together.
If the customer still hears motor sounds, see Clicking.
Auger Sounds
Grinding Sounds
If you hear grinding sounds, the grill's auger may be warped.
Check the Auger
It is normal for the auger to rest at the bottom of the auger tube due to its weight. But if it's warped (perhaps due to an auger jam) it can start grinding against the side (on 2 or more points) and make the noise.
- Check if the auger is warped.
- Access the auger on different types of grills:
- Remove the auger from the auger tube and place on an even surface.
- If it rolls smoothly, it is not warped.
- If the auger is warped, please contact customer support
Touchscreen Grill Specific Sounds
Chirping
On touchscreen grills any warning, error, or notification (probe plug-in, timer, etc.) should produce a chirp. Sounds can be turned off if users to not want the audible notifications.
General Grill Sounds
Loud Pop Sound
Lid burps are an audible pop or “burp” caused by pressure building inside a pellet grill when vapors or gas have nowhere to escape. The sound can be loud and unexpected, and some may describe it as an explosion. In rare cases, the lid can pop open, which may be startling.
For more on lid burps, see Lid Burps on Pellet Grills.