NOTICE
All repairs should be performed by a certified technician. Southern Pride of Texas® is not liable for any damages, or injury if you choose to attempt repairs on your own.
When dealing with high voltage, and moving drive systems there is a risk of extreme injury, or even DEATH.
Southern Pride Smoker – No Power To Burner Assembly
Step 1 – Thermostat Check
1A. Digital Thermostat
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Look for the “Call for Heat” light on the control panel.
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If lit → proceed to Step 2.
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If not lit → replace thermostat controller.
 
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1B. Mechanical Dial Thermostat
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With the burner expected to be ON, measure voltage from each thermostat terminal to case ground.
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Both sides should read 120V to ground.
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If both sides = 120V → proceed to Step 2.
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If only one side = 120V → replace thermostat.
 
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Step 2 – High Limit Sensor Check
Locate the high limit sensor (location varies by model):

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Inside meat compartment above left door (square plate with recessed circle and 2 central screws + 4 corners).
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Or inside left wall of meat compartment (same square plate design).
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Or in service compartment corner (newer units).
 
Test:
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Measure voltage from each side of high limit → case ground.
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120V on both sides → proceed to Step 3.
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No 120V on either side → broken wire between thermostat and high limit.
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120V on one side only → replace high limit.
 
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Step 3 – Burner Assembly Voltage
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Check for 120V at the wall outlet feeding the burner assembly.
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If 120V present but burner does not light → go to Burner Troubleshooting Guide.
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If no 120V present → broken wire between high limit and burner assembly.
 
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✅ End Result: This procedure isolates the fault to either the thermostat, high limit sensor, wiring, or burner assembly.
Burner still not working? Click here for Burner Troubleshooting Guide.