grill keeps saying "err" on the display and shuts down. sometimes it’s err1, sometimes err2. what’s the difference?

Diagnosis

The "ERR" codes on the Char-Griller Gravity Fed 980 indicate a critical failure in the feedback loop between the digital controller and the hardware components. Because this grill relies on a forced-air system to regulate charcoal combustion, the controller constantly monitors the RPM of the blower fan and the electrical resistance of the temperature probes. When a value falls outside the factory-set parameters, the system triggers a safety shutdown to prevent uncontrolled combustion or inaccurate cooking temperatures. ERR1 specifically refers to a "Blower Fault." This happens when the controller sends power to the fan, but the tachometer sensor does not detect the correct rotational speed. This is usually caused by physical obstructions—like a clump of ash or a stray piece of charcoal—jamming the impeller blades, or a loose wiring harness between the fan motor and the main control board. ERR2 refers to a "Temperature Sensor Fault." The controller monitors the internal RTD (Resistance Temperature Detector) probe. If the probe is damaged, shorted, or disconnected, the controller cannot read the heat levels. Because it doesn't know if the grill is at 225°F or 600°F, it shuts down immediately to prevent the unit from overheating and damaging the porcelain coating or the internal hopper structure.

How to Fix It

Depending on which code is appearing, follow these specific hardware reset and cleaning procedures:

1. For ERR1 (Blower Issues): Power down the unit and unplug it from the wall. Locate the fan assembly at the base of the hopper. Remove the four mounting screws holding the fan shroud in place. Use a vacuum or compressed air to clear all ash buildup from the fan blades. Manually spin the impeller with your finger to ensure there is no resistance. Check the 2-pin connector leading from the fan to the control board; unplug it and plug it back in firmly to ensure a secure connection.
2. For ERR2 (Probe Issues): Inspect the internal temperature probe (the metal rod that extends into the firebox). Check for any visible bends or breaks in the wiring leading from the probe to the control panel. If you have a food probe plugged into the auxiliary port, unplug it immediately to see if the error clears; a faulty external probe can sometimes trigger a system-wide ERR2.
3. System Hard Reset: Once the hardware is cleaned, unplug the grill for exactly 60 seconds. This clears the volatile memory of the controller. Plug it back in and ignite the grill using the standard startup procedure to see if the error returns during the initial fan-ramp phase.

If That Didn't Work

• Replace the Blower Motor: If ERR1 persists despite a clean fan, the motor's internal tachometer has likely failed. You will need to replace the blower assembly. Ensure the new motor is seated flush against the air intake chute to prevent air leakage, which can cause the motor to overwork and overheat.
• Replace the RTD Temperature Probe: If ERR2 remains, the internal probe has likely developed an "open circuit" due to repeated heat cycling. This requires replacing the internal probe assembly. When installing the new probe, ensure the wiring is routed away from the hot exterior walls of the firebox to prevent the insulation from melting.
• Inspect the Power Supply: If you are seeing alternating ERR1 and ERR2 codes, the issue may be an unstable power source. If you are using a long, thin extension cord, the voltage drop can cause the controller to glitch. Plug the grill directly into a grounded 120V outlet to rule out power fluctuations.
• Control Board Swap: If neither the fan nor the probe fixes the issue, the logic board itself has a failed capacitor or relay. This requires replacing the entire digital control panel assembly.

Heads Up

• Ash Management: The most common cause of ERR1 is ash accumulation. Always vacuum the bottom of the hopper and the fan area every 2-3 cooks to prevent debris from entering the motor housing.
• Probe Care: Never use metal tongs or scrapers on the internal temperature probe. Even a small dent in the probe housing can alter the resistance reading and trigger an ERR2 code.
• Cool Down Period: Avoid turning the grill off and immediately back on. Let the controller cycle down naturally to avoid "thermal shock" to the electronic components.
• Weather Protection: The control board is sensitive to moisture. Use a high-quality, breathable grill cover to prevent humidity from corroding the internal circuitry, which often leads to intermittent ERR codes.