DCS Grills FLARE-UP Error: Excessive flare-ups
The dcs grills error code flare-up indicates Excessive flare-ups. This guide covers symptoms, diagnostic steps, and repair options. Controlling Flare-Ups on a DCS Grill Brief flare-ups when fat hits a hot surface are a normal part of grilling. What is not normal — and requires immediate attention — is persistent, large-scale flaring that continues throughout […]
No
DIY Fixable
From $250
Typical Repair Cost
60-120 min
Pro Repair Time
Quick Assessment
Answer to continue safely
Is it safe to keep using?
No. Excessive and uncontrollable flare-ups present a fire hazard and should be resolved before continued use. Clean the grill thoroughly before the next cooking session.
Can I reset the code?
No. No reset applies — grease accumulation and flame tamer condition must be physically addressed through cleaning and part replacement.
When to stop immediately?
Stop if you notice: Flames exceed the height of the open lid during normal cooking, Fire continues burning after all burner knobs are turned to OFF.
Symptoms You May Notice
Tall flames shoot above the cooking grate repeatedly
Large flame columns 6 inches or more above grate level occur frequently during cooking, especially when fat drips.
Food surfaces are heavily charred
The exterior of food is blackened or burned far faster than the interior cooks, indicating excessive heat from flare-up events.
Visible fire in the firebox between cooks
Flames continue burning in the base of the firebox even with burner knobs at low settings, fed by accumulated grease.
Smoke heavier than normal throughout cooking
Thick smoke persists continuously throughout the cooking session rather than only appearing briefly after meat is placed.
Possible Causes
Grease-saturated ceramic briquettes
Ceramic briquettes that have absorbed excessive fat become a continuous fuel source and cause persistent, uncontrollable flare-ups when heated.
DIY PossibleClogged grease management drain
The grease drain channel and collection tray can become fully blocked, causing pooled liquid fat to ignite directly under the cooking grate.
DIY PossibleDamaged flame tamer not redirecting drips
A warped or cracked flame tamer fails to vaporize and redirect fat drips away from the flame, allowing them to fall directly onto the burner.
DIY PossibleSafe Checks You Can Do
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1
Burn off and clean the ceramic briquettes
Run the grill on high with lid closed for 15 minutes to attempt a burn-off. After cooling completely, flip all briquettes grease-side down. Replace any that are heavily saturated — they will not burn clean.
If the grill produces more than 5 minutes of heavy smoke during the burn-off, remove and soak briquettes in hot soapy water instead.
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2
Clear the grease drain and collection tray
Remove the drip tray below the firebox. Discard collected grease safely — never pour hot grease down a drain. Clean the drain channel with a degreaser and confirm it flows freely.
Check the drain after every 3–4 uses during high-volume seasons to prevent dangerous grease accumulation.
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3
Inspect and replace damaged flame tamers
With grill cold, remove grates and examine each flame tamer. Look for visible warping, cracks, or holes that would allow fat to pass through directly to the burner. Replace any damaged pieces.
DCS stainless flame tamers are designed to vaporize fat — a warped piece is significantly less effective than a flat one.
When to Call a Professional
Contact a qualified technician if:
- Flare-ups persist after full cleaning and briquette replacement
- Grease drain channel appears damaged or corroded beyond cleaning
- Evidence of fire damage to internal firebox components
Need Professional Help?
Find qualified technicians in your area for proper diagnostics and repair.
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