Troubleshooting pellet stove issues doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Most pellet stove problems come down to a few common causes: airflow restrictions, dirty components, ignition issues or pellet quality.
This pellet stove troubleshooting guide walks you through the fixes step-by-step so you can keep your home warm and avoid unnecessary service calls. Whether your pellet stove is not working, keeps shutting off, or simply isn’t burning pellets completely, you’ll learn how to diagnose the problem and when it’s time to call a professional.
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Pellet Stove Won't Turn On
One of the most common pellet stove problems homeowners face is when a pellet stove won’t turn on, and the cause is often simpler than it seems. Before calling for service, check a few key areas, many homeowners discover that troubleshooting pellet stove problems starts with a few simple fixes.
Power Supply: Confirm the stove is plugged in and the outlet works. Try resetting your home’s circuit breaker. If your stove has a fuse, inspect and replace it if blown.
Door or Hopper Switch: Safety switches prevent startup if the door or hopper isn’t sealed correctly. Close them tightly and listen for the click of proper contact.
Thermostat Settings: Ensure the thermostat is set above room temperature and calling for heat.
Control Board or Igniter: If you’ve ruled out the basics, the control board or igniter may be faulty and require professional repair.
If your pellet stove still does not work even after performing these steps, contact your local Forge & Flame dealer for a full diagnostic service call.
Pellet Stove Keeps Shutting Off
A pellet stove keeps shutting off when something interrupts proper combustion. This is one of the most common pellet stove problems and fortunately one of the easiest to fix. In most cases, the issue comes down to airflow, fuel delivery or a safety sensor doing its job. When the stove can’t maintain a stable burn, it automatically shuts down to prevent overheating or poor combustion.
If you’ve ever wondered “why does my pellet stove keep shutting off,” the answer is often simple: a dirty firepot, poor-quality pellets, restricted air intake or a vacuum or temperature switch detecting unsafe conditions. Before calling for repairs, give the stove a thorough cleaning, especially the burn pot, ash traps and vent system, and make sure the hopper is feeding pellets consistently. Many homeowners find that resolving airflow or fuel issues is all it takes to keep the stove burning continuously.
Read Next: How to Use a Pellet Stove During a Power Outage blog.
Pellet Stove Blower Not Working
A pellet stove blower not working can cause uneven heating or complete airflow loss. The blower’s job is to circulate warm air. When it fails, your stove overheats or shuts down.
Start by turning off the unit and unplugging it. Remove the side panels to check the convection blower for dust or ash buildup. Vacuum debris from the fan blades and housing. Dirty blades slow performance and reduce efficiency.
If the blower motor still doesn’t start after cleaning, listen for humming, which can indicate an electrical fault or worn bearings. In some cases, you may need to replace the motor entirely. Always use a certified technician for electrical repairs.
Pellet Stove Not Burning Pellets Completely
If your pellet stove is still not burning pellets completely, the cause usually comes down to airflow restrictions, pellet quality or a clogged burn pot. Poor combustion means wasted fuel, lower heat output and more ash. In many cases, pellets not burning completely is the result of moisture or restricted oxygen flow.
Start by ensuring you’re using clean, dry pellets. Moist pellets lead to half-burned pellets, excessive smoke and low heat. Next, inspect your burn pot and air intake. Ash buildup blocks airflow, causing incomplete burns and preventing the flame from reaching full strength.
Your flame should burn bright yellow or white, a lazy orange flame almost always signals poor oxygen flow. Clean your venting system and consider adjusting the air-to-fuel ratio if your model allows. With regular cleaning and quality pellets, you’ll avoid pellets not burning completely and improve heat output and efficiency.
Read more in the How to Choose the Perfect Wood Pellets blog.
Pellet Stove Troubleshooting and Maintenance Tips
Preventative maintenance is the easiest way to avoid pellet stove issues before they start. Routine cleaning improves airflow, prevents ignition problems and ensures your stove burns efficiently.
| Frequency | Part | Cleaning Procedure |
| Daily or As Needed | Fire Pot |
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| Weekly or as needed | Firebox |
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| Glass |
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| Monthly or As Needed | Door Inspection |
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| Hopper |
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| Annually or as needed | Electrical Components |
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| Convection Blower |
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| Exhaust Blower |
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| Venting |
Soot, creosote and fly ash will collect in the exhaust venting system and restrict the flow of the flue gases. This build up will occur more quickly in horizontal sections and elbows. Disassembly may be required.
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For ongoing reliability, schedule professional maintenance before every heating season. This ensures your system is tuned, clean and ready for consistent performance.
Contact a Dealer to Get the Right Forge & Flame Pellet Stove for Your Space
Even the best-maintained stove will eventually need professional care or replacement. By following this pellet stove troubleshooting guide, you can handle small issues confidently and know when it’s time to call in an expert.
Forge & Flame pellet stoves are designed for efficiency, durability and ease of maintenance. Our precision engineering reduces ash, improves airflow and makes troubleshooting simple. Whether you’re upgrading an older model or buying new, we’re here to help.
Find your perfect match. Browse Forge & Flame Pellet Stoves or Find a Dealer Near You today.
