Why Does My Pellet Stove Auger Keep Jamming? Here’s The Answer!

Are you finding why does my pellet stove auger keeps jamming? If so, this blog post is for you. Pellet stoves provide efficient heat to your home and are a low-maintenance way to heat your house.

Why Does My Pellet Stove Auger Keeps Jamming?

Pellet stoves provide great heat, but they can be a challenge to keep working smoothly. If your pellet stove auger keeps jamming, it’s frustrating and inefficient. There are a few reasons why this might happen.

One reason your pellet stove auger keeps jamming is because of the pellets themselves. Not all pellets are the same, and not all stoves will work well with every brand. Some pellets are denser than others, and your stove may be set up to work best with a particular density. If the pellets you’re using are too dense, they may not flow through the auger properly, causing it to jam.

Another reason your pellet stove auger keeps jamming is because of the quality of the pellets. Pellets can become stale or contaminated over time, and this can cause problems in your stove. Stale pellets may not flow smoothly through the auger, and contaminated pellets can cause blockages.

If your pellet stove auger keeps jamming, it’s important to check the pellets you’re using. If you’re using the wrong type of pellets, switching to a different brand or type may help. If you’re using high-quality pellets, but they’re still jamming, you may need to clean your stove or replace the auger.

Cleaning your pellet stove can help it run smoothly. Over time, ash and other debris can build up in your stove, and this can cause the auger to jam. Cleaning your stove regularly can help prevent this from happening.

If your pellet stove auger keeps jamming, you may need to replace it. This is a relatively simple repair, and it’s often much cheaper than buying a new stove.

In conclusion, your pellet stove auger keeps jamming because of the quality of the pellets, or because of the pellets themselves. If you’ve tried using different types of pellets and the problem persists, you may need to clean or replace your stove.

What Causes Pellet Stove Auger Jams?

• 1. Incomplete combustion: When pellet stoves burn inefficiently, they produce excess ash and soot, which can accumulate in the auger and cause it to jam.
• 2. Overfeeding: Feeding the stove too much fuel at once can cause the pellets to compact and form blockages in the auger.
• 3. Foreign objects: Small objects, such as screws or nails, can become lodged in the auger and cause it to jam.
• 4. Moisture: Moisture can cause pellets to stick together and form blockages in the auger.
• 5. Wear and tear: Over time, the auger can become worn or damaged, which can cause it to jam.

How Do I Prevent My Pellet Stove Auger From Jamming?

Jammed augers in a pellet stove are a common problem. Fortunately, there are several things you can do to prevent your auger from jamming.

First and foremost, make sure your pellet stove is well-maintained. Clean it regularly, including the auger, and make sure the filters are replaced as needed. This will keep your stove running smoothly and prevent problems from occurring.

Secondly, use only high-quality pellets in your stove. Low-quality pellets can cause more ash and clinker, which can clog the auger. Look for pellets that are certified by the Pellet Fuels Institute (PFI).

Thirdly, avoid overfilling the hopper with pellets. Pellets expand as they absorb moisture, so overfilling the hopper can cause the pellets to spill over and jam the auger.

Finally, check the auger regularly for signs of wear and tear. If you notice any cracks, dents, or other damage, replace the auger as soon as possible.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent your pellet stove auger from jamming.

What Are Some Tips For Removing A Pellet Stove Auger Jam?

Pellet stoves are an efficient way to heat your home, but they can sometimes experience issues. One common problem is the auger jam, which occurs when the auger becomes stuck in the hopper. Here are some tips for removing a pellet stove auger jam:

1. Check the auger: If the auger is stuck, try rotating it manually to see if it will come loose. If the auger does not rotate, you will need to remove it.

2. Remove the auger: To remove the auger, you will need to disconnect it from the motor and remove it from the hopper. To do this, you will need to remove the screws that hold the auger in place.

3. Clean the auger: Once the auger is removed, you will need to clean it. Use a brush to remove any debris that may be stuck to the auger.

4. Check the motor: If the auger is stuck, it may be due to a problem with the motor. Check the motor for any signs of damage, such as loose wires or a broken belt.

5. Replace the auger: If the auger is damaged or worn out, you will need to replace it. To do this, you will need to purchase a new auger and install it in the hopper.

What Are Some Common Symptoms Of A Pellet Stove Auger Jam?

Some common symptoms of a pellet stove auger jam include:

1. Difficulty feeding pellets into the firebox: If the auger is jammed, it will not be able to feed pellets into the firebox, which will result in difficulty starting a fire or keeping the fire burning.

2. Strange noises: A jammed auger may make strange noises, such as squealing or grinding, which can be heard when the stove is in operation.

3. Insufficient heat output: A jammed auger may prevent the stove from producing enough heat, or may cause the fire to go out completely.

4. Excessive smoke: A jammed auger may cause excessive smoke to be produced, as the pellets may not be properly fed into the firebox.

5. Difficulty turning the auger: In some cases, the auger may be difficult to turn, which may indicate that it is jammed.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it is important to check your auger for any signs of jamming and to take any necessary steps to clear the jam.

How Do I Properly Maintain My Pellet Stove Auger To Prevent Jams?

Properly maintaining your pellet stove auger is essential for preventing jams and ensuring smooth operation. Here are some steps you can follow to properly maintain your pellet stove auger:

1. Regularly inspect the auger for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks or fraying.

2. Clean the auger regularly, using a brush or vacuum cleaner to remove any dust or debris.

3. Lubricate the auger according to the manufacturer’s instructions, using a high-quality lubricant specifically designed for pellet stoves.

4. Check the pellets regularly to ensure that they are of good quality and free from moisture or other contaminants.

5. Keep the auger clean from dirt and debris to prevent clogging.

6. Inspect the auger regularly for any signs of wear or tear, such as cracks or fraying.

7. Regularly clean the auger using a brush or vacuum cleaner to remove any dust or debris.

8. Lubricate the auger according to the manufacturer’s instructions, using a high-quality lubricant specifically designed for pellet stoves.

9. Check the pellets regularly to ensure that they are of good quality and free from moisture or other contaminants.

10. Keep the auger clean from dirt and debris to prevent clogging.

In a nutshell

In conclusion, if your pellet stove auger keeps jamming, it is typically due to one of these common reasons: excessive ash build up, worn or damaged auger parts, or a misaligned or broken Auger Motor Coupling. By regularly cleaning and maintaining your pellet stove, replacing any worn parts, and ensuring proper alignment, you can keep your auger running smoothly and your pellet stove burning efficiently. If you are experiencing persistent auger jamming issues, it is advisable to consult a pellet stove technician to identify and resolve the issue properly.