How to Load a Traeger Stove With Pellets

Switch the power on the Traeger stove to the off position before loading wood pellets into the hopper. Unplug the unit to ensure no power is running.

Open the stove lid. Remove the grill, grease catcher and heat baffle, which is a slotted piece of metal just above the firepot. Set aside while loading the stove with pellets.

Open the hopper door, located inside the body of the unit against the front-facing side. Shine a flashlight into the hopper so you can clearly see the auger, which moves the pellets from the hopper to the firepot. Make sure there is nothing blocking the auger.

Plug in the Traeger stove. Turn on the power. Shine the flashlight into the hopper to check if the auger is moving freely without any obstructions. Hold your hand over the inside of the stove to feel for air movement, which indicates the fan is functioning properly.

Turn off the power. Pour a bag of manufacturer-recommended wood pellets into the hopper until it is filled. Close the lid of the hopper. Only use wood pellets specifically designed for use within Traeger stoves.

Turn on the power to the unit to push the wood pellets from the hopper into the fire pot, which is a process known as charging. Listen for the sound of the pellets falling into the firepot, then turn the unit off.

Turn on the unit when you are ready to cook. Let the stove heat for 10 minutes before cooking.