Temperature Problems

[RobertF]

I have a new Pro 780 Traeger that I have used 3 times now. The "actual" temperature on the display reads about 30 degrees higher than the actual temp (not set temp). I have checked it with multiple temp probes using a separate system. Is there any way to correct this issue, or do i need to just turn the temp up higher on the grill to achieve the desired cooking temp?

 

[RustyJake]

Welcome to the world of inaccurate ambient probes. Traeger is known for this issue. As per your last comment, yes. Definitely use a 3rd party (accurate and trusted) probe and use that for your pit reference temperature. Once you learn your grill, you can just set the Traeger to what you know is the correct offset to achieve the temperature you want.

 

[RayClem]

The problem with the temperature calibration is that you need both a slope and an offset. Every grill is different, but mine cooks at 200F if I set the grill to 225F. Then if I want to cook at 400F, I have to set the controller to 450F. Once you learn how your specific grill works, you will know where to set the controller to get your desired cook temperature, Just do not assume that the 30 degree offset will hold throughout the entire temperature range.

 

[Shedd]

I have a new Pro 780 Traeger that I have used 3 times now. The "actual" temperature on the display reads about 30 degrees higher than the actual temp (not set temp). I have checked it with multiple temp probes using a separate system. Is there any way to correct this issue, or do i need to just turn the temp up higher on the grill to achieve the desired cooking temp?

Welcome! I’ve got a 780 Pro and yes at first I was really aggravated with the thing. It seems that at first mine was off like yours and on into a long cook it actually gets closer. The meat probe is really a piece of crap and I took everyone’s advice and use a third party probe. I’ve had mine over a year now and never thought I’d admit it but I actually really like it now. I came from cooking with pits, then offsets and over a 20 year relationship with my XL green egg. I use my 780 more than my egg now. I cook a lot not only for myself but I’m involved with a big group of friends that cook for gatherings, events as well as I donate food and time to youth shelters and organizations. I’ve gotten to where I cook ahead, freeze or refrigerate and re heat using a Sous Vide. I’ve quit worrying about my grill temps or how long the cook takes, I only do low and slow so I set it on 235 and let it cook until it hits my target temp. I cook butts at night when I’m planning to be around the next day. I like a good smoke flavor and the Traeger can’t reach my level however I use smoke tubes and they work well. Keep us posted on how your cooks go as well as share some pics and experiences along the way.