This situation is very similar to, and can have all of the same causes as pellets failing to light at all. (inadequate power, compromised pellet quality, poor air flow, etc...)
BUT, here's something else to consider...
I have a theory that opening your lid too often, too early, or UNDER-filling your pellet hopper could also cause a problem.
As anyone coming from the traditional, all-wood cooking world–who REALLY understands fire management–will tell you; HOW you build your fire is absolutely crucial to how well it performs over the duration of the cook.
My theory is that while the burn may begin as normal, when you open the lid to add your food, the pellets can (ESPECIALLY IF YOU'VE UNDER-FILLED the pellet hopper) shift, rearranging the contents and changing the relationship of lit / about to light / unlit pellets.
This may sound insignificant, but it's not. ESPECIALLY if you didn't have a thorough start to begin with. This is another very good reason to wait that suggested 10-20 minutes after seeing smoke, to add your food!
NOTE: I've not scientifically tested this theory myself. As it would take several, multi-hour, closely-monitored cooks to truly verify. But if you are experiencing this problem, and have a practice of under-filling your hopper, it MAY be worth investigating!
Be well. W -
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