Controller displays ER-4 and grill will not ignite or shuts down shortly after start

Safety: Unplug the grill and ensure it is cool before working near the fire pot.

• Check pellets: Open the hopper and verify pellets are dry and flowing freely. If pellets are swollen or crumbly, empty the hopper and vacuum out dust. Refill with fresh, dry hardwood pellets approved for Memphis grills.
• Clean fire pot: Remove cooking grates and diffuser. Vacuum all ash from the fire pot and surrounding area. Ensure the air holes in the fire pot are clear.
• Inspect igniter: Locate the hot rod igniter in the fire pot. It should protrude slightly into the pot. Check for cracks, heavy corrosion, or a broken ceramic insulator.
• Test igniter operation: With the fire pot exposed, plug in the grill and start an ignition cycle. Do not touch the igniter. Within 3–5 minutes, the tip should glow red. If it stays cold, unplug the grill and proceed.
• Check wiring: Access the control board compartment. Find the igniter leads and ensure the connector is fully seated. Look for burned or brittle insulation. Repair or replace damaged wiring with high-temp wire.
• Replace igniter: If the igniter does not heat and wiring is intact, remove the retaining screw or bracket, slide the igniter out, and install a Memphis-compatible hot rod igniter. Route the new leads along the original path and reconnect to the controller.
• Reassemble and test: Reinstall the diffuser and grates, then run a startup. Confirm that pellets ignite within a few minutes and ER-4 does not reappear.