Pit Boss Temperature Overshoot — Won't Hold Set Temp

What Does This Error Mean?

Pit Boss running hotter than set temperature usually indicates over-feeding pellets or RTD probe in the wrong location.
Common: grill set to 225°F but running 250-280°F because the controller's old algorithm dumps too much fuel at low temps.
Newer Pro Series controllers handle this better than older P-series.
Workaround: set 25-50°F lower than target until you learn how your grill behaves.

Affected Models

Pit Boss 700FB
Pit Boss 820FB
Pit Boss Austin XL
Pit Boss Pro Series 850

Common Causes

Older P-series controller over-feeding at low set temps
RTD probe positioned incorrectly (too close to firebox)
Hot day causing more thermal momentum
Pellets producing more heat than expected (super-dry)
Damper wide open (need to partially close for low-temp cooks)

How to Fix It

Calibrate by setting lower.

If you want 225°F and grill runs 250°F, set to 200°F.
Track actual grill temperature with a separate calibrated thermometer.
Adjust set point until actual matches.
This isn't a bug fix; it's adapting to your specific grill's quirks.
Close damper for low-temp cooks.

Pit Boss has a damper at the rear of the cookbox.
Closing it reduces airflow, which reduces combustion rate, which reduces temperature.
For 225°F smoke cooks, partially close the damper.
Open fully for 350°F+ grilling.
Check RTD probe position.

RTD is the temperature sensor inside the cookbox.
If it's near the firebox or hanging too low, it reads cold and the controller dumps more pellets to compensate.
Reposition probe to the cooking grate level, away from direct firebox heat.
Use an external thermometer.

Pit Boss controllers vary in accuracy.
Place a calibrated thermometer (ThermoWorks DOT, Inkbird, or even an oven thermometer) on the grate.
Compare to controller reading.
Adjust set point based on actual grate temperature.
Upgrade the controller.

If you have an older P-series, an upgrade to newer Pro Series controller (60-150 USD) is dramatic improvement in temperature stability.
Newer firmware uses better PID tuning.
Check Pit Boss support for compatibility with your model.
Open the lid less.

Each lid open lets heat out, controller compensates by dumping pellets, then you close lid and the dumped pellets push temperature higher.
Plan cook to minimize lid opens.
Use external probes to monitor without opening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is overshoot a defect or normal?

Some overshoot is inherent to pellet grills — the auger has a delay between commanding and actual fuel arrival.
20-30°F overshoot at low temps is normal on most pellet grills.
50°F+ overshoot is excessive and points to controller or damper adjustment needed.