Auger Not Feeding Pellets During Ignition

Problem

The auger does not feed pellets during ignition, but the auger operates normally in Diagnosis Mode.

Customers may also describe this issue as:

• Auger not feeding
• No pellets during startup
• Stove will not feed pellets
• Auger works in diagnostics only
• Pellets not dropping
• Feed motor works but stove will not start

The stove may fail to ignite because pellets are not entering the burn pot.

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Symptoms

One or more of the following may occur:

• No pellet feed during ignition
• Auger works in Diagnosis Mode
• Stove starts ignition cycle but pellets do not drop
• Empty burn pot after startup attempt
• Failed ignition

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Possible Cause – Hopper Lid Safety Switch

Comfortbilt pellet stoves include a hopper lid safety switch.

This safety feature prevents pellet feeding if the hopper lid is not fully closed.

The feature helps prevent access to moving components while the auger is operating.

Common causes:

• Hopper lid not fully closed
• Pellets trapped around hopper opening
• Hopper switch not engaging
• Faulty hopper lid switch

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Resolution Steps

Step 1 – Check Hopper Lid Closure

Inspect the hopper opening.

Remove pellets or debris preventing the lid from closing completely.

Verify:

• Lid closes fully
• Lid sits flat
• No pellets interfere with the seal

Restart the stove and test pellet feed.

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Newer Models – Safe Mode / Limit Bypass

Some newer models allow the hopper lid switch to be temporarily bypassed through Safe Mode.

Enable Limit Bypass

1. From the Home Screen, press and hold the Enter button (Left Arrow) until Set Data appears.
2. Scroll to:

#7 – Safe Mode

3. Press Enter.
4. Locate:

• Limit
• Vacuum

5. Press the UP Arrow until the bubble next to Limit is shaded.
6. Exit the menus using the Exit button (Right Arrow).

A Safe Mode indicator should appear on the Home Screen.

This indicates the hopper lid switch is being ignored and pellet feed can continue with the lid open.

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Older Models – Roller Lid Switch

Older stove models may use a roller-style hopper lid switch.

If the switch is faulty:

• Manual bypass may be required
• Switch replacement may be required

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If Pellet Feed Stops After Ignition

If pellets feed during startup but stop after ignition begins, the issue may be related to the vacuum switch system.

See vacuum switch troubleshooting:

Vacuum Switch Fault – Stove Fails to Enter Heating Mode

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Important Notes

If the auger works in Diagnosis Mode, the auger motor is often functioning correctly.

The issue is commonly related to:

• Hopper lid switch
• Safety interlock
• Switch engagement
• Feed permission logic

Verify safety inputs before replacing components.

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Escalate To Support If

Contact support if:

• Hopper lid closes correctly but feed does not start
• Safe Mode does not restore operation
• Roller switch appears damaged
• Auger no longer works in diagnostics
• Feed stops unexpectedly after ignition begins