If the Weber Searwood pellet grill will not ignite, this guide will help identify the cause and resolve the issue. Most ignition problems can be resolved with simple checks of the pellet supply, burn pot condition, and power connection. This guide applies to Weber Searwood 600 and Weber Searwood XL 600 pellet grills.

 

Common Causes of Ignition Failure

• Empty or low pellet supply in hopper
• Moisture damaged or poor quality pellets
• Excessive ash buildup in the burn pot blocking airflow
• Auger jammed with pellets or debris
• Glow plug issue or electrical problem
• Power supply interruption or outlet malfunction
• Controller error or improper startup sequence

 

Step-by-Step Troubleshooting

Step 1: Check the Pellet Hopper

1. Open the hopper lid and check the pellet level
2. Ensure the hopper contains an adequate supply of pellets (at least one quarter full recommended)
3. Inspect pellets for moisture damage—pellets should be firm, dry, and free flowing
4. If pellets appear swollen, soft, crumbled, or clumped together, they are moisture damaged
5. If pellets are moisture damaged, empty the hopper using the pellet release handle, discard damaged pellets, and refill with fresh, dry Weber All Natural Hardwood Pellets
6. Store pellets in an airtight container in a dry, indoor location to prevent moisture absorption

Step 2: Inspect and Clean the Burn Pot

1. Run a shutdown procedure and allow the Weber Searwood to cool completely
2. Unplug the Weber Searwood from the electrical outlet
3. Open the lid and remove the cooking grates
4. Remove the Flavorizer bar, heat diffuser, and heat deflector to access the burn pot
5. Inspect the burn pot for excessive ash buildup that may block airflow
6. Use a shop vacuum to remove all ash and debris from the burn pot
7. Use a scraper if needed to loosen stubborn ash deposits
8. Do not use water or liquid cleaners in the burn pot
9. Ensure the burn pot is completely clean and dry
10. Replace the heat deflector, heat diffuser, Flavorizer bar, and cooking grates
11. Close the lid

Step 3: Check the Auger Operation

1. Ensure the hopper is filled with pellets
2. Ensure the pellet release handle is in the closed position to allow pellet flow
3. Plug the Weber Searwood into the electrical outlet
4. Wake the controller by pressing the menu button or turning the main dial
5. Turn the dial to select a temperature and press the dial to confirm
6. Listen for the auger motor sound during the startup sequence—the auger should make an audible motor sound as it feeds pellets
7. If the auger motor is silent or makes unusual grinding sounds, the auger may be jammed
8. If you suspect an auger jam, run a shutdown procedure, unplug the Weber Searwood, and contact Weber Customer Support for guidance

Step 4: Verify Power Supply

1. Check that the Weber Searwood power cord is fully plugged into the grill and the electrical outlet
2. Verify the electrical outlet is functioning by testing with another appliance
3. Check the household circuit breaker or fuse to ensure it has not tripped
4. Inspect the power cord for visible damage—do not use if cord is damaged
5. If using an extension lead, ensure it is outdoor rated, properly earthed, and meets the power requirements (14-gauge cable, maximum 4 metres)

Step 5: Check for Error Codes

1. Observe the controller display for error codes
2. Common error codes related to ignition failure include:
   • E3 (Loss of Flame): Check pellet supply and clean burn pot
   • E6 (Flame Not Started): Clean burn pot thoroughly and check pellet quality
   • E1 (Auger Jam): Check for pellet jam or obstruction—contact Weber Customer Support
3. Consult the Owner's Manual troubleshooting section for specific error code meanings and recommended actions
4. After addressing the indicated issue, restart the Weber Searwood

Step 6: Verify Correct Startup Procedure

1. Ensure the Weber Searwood startup sequence is followed correctly:
2. Wake the controller by pressing the menu button or turning the main dial
3. Turn the dial to select the desired cooking temperature
4. Press the dial to confirm the temperature selection
5. The Weber Searwood will begin the ignition sequence automatically
6. Close the lid and wait for ignition—do not open the lid during the ignition sequence
7. Ignition typically occurs within a few minutes
8. You will see smoke rising from the chimney and the current temperature will begin to rise on the controller display

 

What to Expect During Normal Ignition

• The auger motor will begin feeding pellets into the burn pot
• The fan will operate to provide airflow
• The glow plug will heat the pellets in the burn pot
• Within a few minutes, pellets will ignite and smoke will be visible from the chimney
• The current temperature on the controller display will begin to rise
• The Weber Searwood will continue to heat toward the set temperature

 

When to Contact Weber Customer Support

• Ignition failures persist after cleaning the burn pot and verifying pellet quality
• The auger motor does not operate or makes unusual grinding sounds
• Error codes persist or recur after troubleshooting
• The glow plug appears damaged or non-functional
• The controller does not respond to input
• Physical damage to components is observed
• Any safety concern or unusual operation

Contact Weber Customer Support at weber.com or consult the Owner's Manual for contact information.

 

Tips to Prevent Ignition Issues

• Use only Weber All Natural Hardwood Pellets stored in an airtight container in a dry, indoor location
• Inspect pellets before each cook—discard pellets that show signs of moisture damage
• Empty the burn pot of ash after every few cooks using a shop vacuum when the Weber Searwood is completely cool and unplugged
• Clean the burn pot immediately if you notice ignition difficulties
• Always run a full shutdown procedure after each cook—do not unplug the Weber Searwood during shutdown
• Keep the hopper lid closed when the Weber Searwood is not in use to prevent moisture entry
• Ensure the pellet release handle is in the closed position during cooking to allow proper pellet flow
• Perform periodic deep cleaning maintenance every 4 to 6 weeks or as needed based on usage
• Store the Weber Searwood in a covered, dry location when not in use

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long should it take for the Weber Searwood to ignite?

A: Ignition typically occurs within a few minutes of starting the ignition sequence. You will see smoke rising from the chimney and the current temperature on the controller display will begin to rise. If no smoke appears within 10 minutes, run a shutdown procedure and troubleshoot the issue.

Q: What if the Weber Searwood starts but shuts off quickly?

A: This may indicate a flameout caused by insufficient pellet feed, excessive ash in the burn pot, or poor quality pellets. Check the hopper pellet level, clean the burn pot thoroughly, verify pellet quality, and restart the Weber Searwood.

Q: Can I manually light the Weber Searwood pellet grill?

A: No. The Weber Searwood uses an automatic electric glow plug ignition system. Do not attempt to manually light pellets, as this is unsafe and may damage the grill. If the automatic ignition system fails repeatedly, contact Weber Customer Support.

Q: How do I know if the glow plug is working?

A: During the startup sequence, you should hear the fan and auger motor operating. The glow plug heats pellets inside the burn pot but is not directly visible during operation. If the Weber Searwood does not produce smoke within 10 minutes and the burn pot is clean with adequate pellets, the glow plug may not be functioning. Contact Weber Customer Support for diagnosis.

Q: What should I do if I hear the auger motor but pellets are not feeding?

A: Ensure the hopper is filled with pellets and the pellet release handle is in the closed position. Check for pellet bridging or clumping in the hopper that may prevent pellet flow. If pellets still do not feed, the auger may be jammed. Contact Weber Customer Support for guidance.

Q: Can damp pellets cause ignition failure?

A: Yes. Moisture-damaged pellets may not ignite properly, may produce excessive ash, or may jam the auger. Always use fresh, dry Weber All Natural Hardwood Pellets stored in an airtight container. Discard pellets that show signs of moisture damage.

Q: Should I open the lid during the ignition sequence?

A: No. Keep the lid closed during the ignition sequence to allow the burn pot to heat properly and pellets to ignite. Opening the lid releases heat and may delay or prevent ignition.