Traeger Grills Recalls Wood Pellet Grills Due to Fire Hazard

What was recalled

In the fall of 2018, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) announced a significant recall involving portable wood-pellet grills manufactured by Traeger Grills. This action affects two specific lines from the company’s portfolio: the Scout and the Ranger models. These are not large, stationary kitchen appliances or massive commercial units; they are designed to be compact, mobile cooking centers for outdoor enthusiasts who value portability without sacrificing the authentic flavor that only wood pellets can provide. In total, approximately 16,100 of these units were included in this recall, representing a substantial number of households across the country that may have been using these grills for backyard dinners, camping trips, or tailgating events.

To help you identify whether your grill is part of this specific batch, it is important to look closely at the physical design and markings. The recalled units are black-metal rectangular boxes featuring a clamshell opening that allows access to the cooking surface. On the top of the grill, you will find the brand name "Traeger" clearly marked. There are distinct visual differences between the two models that can serve as quick identifiers. The Scout model is distinguished by an image of mountains printed on the top of the grill. It also features a curved silver handle located on the front, along with a round dial used to adjust the temperature. In contrast, the Ranger model lacks the mountain imagery but instead has a straight silver handle on the front and utilizes a push-button touchpad for temperature control rather than a dial.

When considering the size and weight of these units, it helps to understand their portability trade-offs. Both models measure approximately 21 inches in length, 20 inches in width, and 13 inches in height, making them relatively compact compared to full-sized smokers. However, they are still substantial pieces of equipment. The Scout weighs about 45 pounds, while the Ranger is heavier at approximately 60 pounds, a weight that includes its cast iron griddle. These dimensions and weights indicate that while they are portable, they are built for durability and heat retention rather than lightness.

These grills were sold nationwide in the United States. The recall was officially issued on September 25, 2018, meaning that any units purchased prior to this date may be subject to the safety concerns outlined by the agency. If you own a black-metal Traeger grill with either of the described control mechanisms or visual markers, it is crucial to verify your specific model against the recall details immediately, as the potential risks associated with these devices require prompt attention and remediation.

The hazard, explained

To understand why this recall is necessary, it helps to look at the mechanics of how these portable pellet grills operate and where that process can go wrong. Traeger grills are designed to burn wood pellets at relatively high temperatures to cook food. This heat source creates a byproduct: liquid grease. In any grill, some fat renders from the food and drips down into a collection tray known as a drip pan or drip tray. The purpose of this tray is simple—it catches the excess oil so it doesn’t drip directly onto the fire, which would cause dangerous flare-ups.

In the specific case of the recalled Scout and Ranger models, the issue lies in the design of that grease collection system. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), grease can leak from the drip tray rather than staying contained within it. When this leakage occurs, the hot oil bypasses the intended collection point and drips directly onto the heating element or the bottom of the grill’s firebox. Because these are wood-pellet grills, the temperature inside the cooking chamber is already elevated to sustain combustion. When a steady stream of hot grease falls onto a surface that is significantly hotter than its ignition point, it can vaporize and ignite almost instantly.

This creates a scenario where a small, manageable amount of cooking residue turns into a sudden, intense fire. The hazard is particularly tricky because the leak may not be immediately obvious to the user during normal operation. You might notice smoke or smell burning oil before you see flames, but by that time, the fuel source for the fire—the accumulated grease—is already feeding the blaze. This is why the CPSC has classified this as a serious fire hazard rather than a minor malfunction.

While no injuries have been reported in connection with these six documented incidents of grease fires, the potential for harm is real. Grease fires are notoriously difficult to extinguish with water and can spread rapidly if not addressed immediately. They can damage the grill beyond repair, start fires on nearby combustible surfaces like wooden decks or patio furniture, and pose a significant risk to anyone standing nearby. Understanding that the core problem is a failure in containment—allowing fuel to reach a heat source—highlights why simply cleaning the grill more often is not enough. The physical design flaw means that grease will leak regardless of how well you maintain it, making the remedy (a replacement part or unit) essential for safety.

Who is most at risk

While the Traeger Scout and Ranger grills are designed as portable, user-friendly cooking tools for outdoor enthusiasts, the specific nature of this fire hazard creates a particular set of risks for those who own or frequently use these units. The core issue lies in the mechanism of failure: grease leaking from the drip tray. This is not an electrical short circuit that might be noticed by a warning light, nor is it a structural collapse that happens instantly. Instead, it is a slow-burning accumulation of flammable material that can ignite unexpectedly. Therefore, the individuals most at risk are those who use these grills in environments where they cannot monitor the cooking process continuously or where the grill is situated near other combustible materials.

First and foremost, users who operate these portable grills on decks, patios, or in garages are at heightened risk. The Scout and Ranger models are compact, measuring approximately 21 inches long and 20 inches wide, which makes them popular for small spaces like apartment balconies or crowded picnic tables. However, this portability often leads to placement decisions that prioritize convenience over safety. If the grill is placed too close to wooden railings, vinyl siding, dry leaves, or outdoor furniture, a grease fire that starts in the drip tray can quickly spread to these surrounding items before the owner realizes there is a problem. The risk is amplified because the fire originates from within the unit, potentially hidden from immediate view until flames become visible.

Certain groups of users may also be more vulnerable due to their ability to respond to such hazards. For instance, elderly individuals or those with limited mobility who rely on these grills for independent outdoor living may find it difficult to react quickly if a grease fire ignites. The recall notes that there have been six reported incidents of grease fires; while no injuries have been reported so far, the potential for serious harm increases if the user is physically unable to move the grill or access a fire extinguisher rapidly. Similarly, families with young children present an elevated risk profile. Parents who are busy managing children at a barbecue may inadvertently leave the portable grill unattended for longer periods. If grease leaks and ignites while attention is diverted, the combination of open flames and curious toddlers creates a dangerous scenario where the primary hazard (fire) becomes secondary to the immediate physical danger to small children.

Additionally, first-time users or those unfamiliar with wood-pellet grill maintenance are at greater risk. The Scout and Ranger grills require regular cleaning of the drip tray to prevent grease buildup. Users who do not understand that this maintenance is critical for fire prevention may neglect it until a hazardous situation arises. Unlike traditional charcoal grills where ash is visible, the hidden nature of the pellet grill’s internal grease management system means that risk accumulates invisibly. Those who treat these devices with the same casual maintenance habits as simpler grills are inadvertently putting themselves and their neighbors at risk. It is not just about owning the grill; it is about understanding that a malfunctioning drip tray turns a cooking appliance into a potential arson device if left unchecked.

How to tell if you have the recalled item

If you own a portable wood-pellet grill, taking a moment to verify its specific model is one of the most important steps you can take for your home’s safety. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has identified that this recall specifically affects Traeger Grills’ Scout and Ranger portable models. Because these grills share similar designs and functions, it is crucial to distinguish between them to ensure you are checking the right device. Both units are designed as black-metal rectangular boxes featuring a clamshell opening that provides access to the grilling surface. They are compact enough to be portable, measuring approximately 21 inches in length, 20 inches in width, and 13 inches in height. However, their weight and control mechanisms offer clear visual cues to help you identify which model you possess.

To determine if you have the Scout model, look closely at the top of the grill lid. The Scout is distinguished by an image of mountains printed on its upper surface. On the front of the grill, you will find a curved silver handle. This handle is integrated with a round dial, which you use to adjust the cooking temperature. If your grill features these mountain graphics and a circular temperature dial, it is likely the Scout model, which weighs approximately 45 pounds. On the other hand, if your grill lacks the mountain image but instead features a straight silver handle on the front, you may have the Ranger model. The Ranger also includes a push-button touchpad for adjusting temperatures rather than a dial. This model is heavier, weighing about 60 pounds when including its cast iron griddle. In both cases, the brand name "Traeger" should be clearly marked on the unit.

While visual identification is the fastest way to narrow down your search, you should also check your purchase records or the grill itself for specific model numbers, as these are not detailed in the general description but are often located on a sticker near the power cord or inside the lid. If you bought your grill recently, it may have been sold at major outdoor retailers or directly through Traeger’s online store. Since the recall was announced on September 25, 2018, any portable pellet grills matching these physical descriptions purchased prior to that date should be treated with caution. If you are unsure whether your specific serial number is included in the affected batch of 16,100 units, do not rely solely on visual inspection. The safest approach is to contact Traeger Grills directly using the customer service number or email provided in the official recall notice. They can verify your unit’s status instantly, ensuring you do not miss out on the free replacement or repair options available to you.

What to do — step by step

Your refund, repair, or replacement options

If you have determined that your Traeger Scout or Ranger grill is part of this recall, the first and most important step is to stop using the unit immediately. Once you have safely removed it from your active cooking routine, you will need to reach out to the manufacturer to initiate the resolution process. The Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has confirmed that Traeger Grills is offering three distinct remedies for this fire hazard: a free replacement grill, a free replacement drip tray to repair the existing unit, or a full refund of your purchase price. It is crucial to understand that you are not obligated to choose one option over another based on what might be easiest at first glance; rather, you should select the remedy that best fits your long-term needs and comfort level with the product.

To access any of these options, you must contact Traeger Grills directly. The company has established specific channels for recall-related inquiries to ensure your case is handled correctly. You can call their dedicated support line at 800-872-3437. This line is open seven days a week, from 5 a.m. to 7 p.m. Pacific Time, which provides significant flexibility if you are in a different time zone or have a busy schedule. Alternatively, you may submit your request via email at productsafety@traegergrills.com. For those who prefer digital navigation, Traeger has set up a dedicated section on their website at www.traegergrills.com. You should navigate to the "Product Safety" area online to find detailed instructions and forms specific to this recall.

When you make contact, be prepared to provide specific details about your unit to verify that it is indeed part of the 16,100 grills affected by this issue. While the recall notice does not explicitly list a required serial number format in this summary, having your model type (Scout or Ranger) and purchase information ready will help expedite the process. The choice between a repair and a replacement often depends on your personal preference for portability versus convenience. If you choose the free replacement drip tray, you will need to install it yourself to resolve the grease leak issue. However, if you are concerned about the structural integrity of the rest of the grill or simply want a fresh start, opting for the full free replacement grill is available. Similarly, if you no longer wish to own this specific model due to the safety concerns, a full refund is an option that removes the hazard from your home entirely.

It is worth noting that all three options are provided at no cost to you. The manufacturer has committed to covering the expenses associated with sending out replacement parts or processing refunds. Do not hesitate to ask clarifying questions during your call or email exchange if you are unsure about the timeline for shipping a replacement tray or the method of reimbursement for a refund. By taking these steps, you are not only securing your own safety but also ensuring that the defective component is properly addressed by the manufacturer. Remember, the goal here is to eliminate the fire risk associated with grease leaking from the drip tray, and any of these three paths will achieve that outcome effectively.

What can happen if you ignore it

It is completely understandable why you might hesitate to stop using your Traeger grill. These are significant investments in your outdoor cooking routine, and the thought of pausing your weekend barbecues or family gatherings for a recall process can feel like an inconvenience rather than a necessity. However, ignoring this specific safety notice carries risks that go far beyond mere frustration. The core issue here is not a minor malfunction that might affect flavor or temperature consistency; it is a fundamental structural failure in how the grill handles waste material. When you continue to use the recalled Scout or Ranger models, you are allowing grease to leak from the drip tray without proper containment. This is not a theoretical risk—it is an active, accumulating hazard that transforms your cooking appliance into a potential fire starter.

The gravity of this situation is underscored by the fact that Traeger Grills has already received six confirmed reports of grease fires associated with these specific units. While it is reassuring that no injuries have been reported to date, the absence of harm so far does not mean the risk is low; it simply means you have not yet encountered the worst-case scenario. Grease fires are particularly dangerous because they burn at extremely high temperatures and can spread rapidly. If leaked grease accumulates in areas where it should not be, or drips onto hot components like the heating element or the bottom of the grill body, it can ignite unexpectedly. This creates a flash fire that can quickly engulf the grill itself, potentially spreading to nearby flammable materials such as wooden decks, patio furniture, or overhanging branches.

Beyond the immediate threat of uncontrolled flames, there is the risk of toxic smoke and chemical exposure. Burning grease releases noxious fumes that are harmful to inhale, posing a serious health risk to you, your family, and your pets who gather around the grill. Furthermore, a fire originating from the internal mechanics of a portable grill can damage the unit beyond repair, turning a safety recall into a total financial loss. By ignoring the recall, you are essentially gambling with your home’s safety and your personal well-being for the sake of convenience. The six reported incidents serve as a stark warning that this is not a rare edge case but a predictable outcome of the design flaw. Continuing to operate the grill means continuing to feed the fire hazard, increasing the statistical likelihood of a dangerous event every time you light it.

Ultimately, the consequence of inaction is the erosion of trust in your equipment’s reliability. A grill should be a tool that brings people together safely, not a source of anxiety or potential disaster. The current situation places you in a position where you are managing a known defect rather than enjoying a meal. If a fire were to occur due to continued use of the leaky drip tray, the liability and emotional toll would be immense. You might face property damage claims, medical expenses, or the simple, profound distress of knowing that a preventable accident occurred because the recall notice was overlooked. The path forward is clear: the risk of ignoring this warning outweighs any temporary inconvenience of stopping use. Your safety and the safety of your home are far more valuable than the few weeks it takes to process a replacement or refund.

Staying safe: broader tips

While the specific issue with these Traeger grills involves a manufacturing defect in the drip tray design, the underlying risk—grease accumulation leading to fire—is common to almost all wood-pellet and charcoal grilling experiences. Understanding how to manage this inherent hazard can protect your home and family long after any single recall is resolved. The primary culprit in grill fires is not usually the fuel source itself, but rather the buildup of grease and fat drippings that ignite when exposed to high heat over time. This is why regular maintenance is not just about keeping your equipment clean for better flavor; it is a critical fire prevention strategy.

To significantly reduce the risk of grease fires in any portable or stationary grill, you should establish a strict cleaning routine before and after every use. Once the grill has cooled sufficiently to handle safely, scrape the grates and remove any loose debris. More importantly, pay close attention to the areas below the cooking surface where grease collects. For pellet grills like those involved in this recall, ensure that the drip tray and grease management system are emptied and wiped down regularly. If your model does not have a removable tray, use a grill brush and appropriate cleaning tools to prevent buildup from hardening into combustible residue. Never ignore small spills or splatters, as they can carbonize and become highly flammable during subsequent high-temperature cooks.

Proper placement of your grill is equally vital for safety. Always operate your pellet grill on a stable, non-combustible surface such as concrete, pavers, or brick, never on wooden decks, vinyl siding, or near overhanging branches. Maintain a clear zone of at least three feet around the entire appliance to ensure that heat and sparks do not ignite nearby furniture, curtains, or dry vegetation. Additionally, always keep your grill in a well-ventilated area. While pellet grills produce less smoke than charcoal, they still generate carbon monoxide and other combustion byproducts. Never use a wood-pellet grill indoors, in a garage, or in any enclosed space, as the lack of airflow can lead to dangerous gas accumulation.

Finally, stay informed about the broader landscape of product safety. Subscribe to email alerts from the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) to receive immediate notifications about new recalls relevant to your household items. Regularly check the manufacturer’s website for service bulletins or updated user manuals that may introduce safer operating procedures. By combining vigilant maintenance with proper placement and ongoing education, you can enjoy the benefits of outdoor cooking while maintaining a safe environment for yourself and your neighbors.