If your PiFi feeder is making grinding noises, not dispensing food correctly, or displaying specific warning lights, it may be experiencing a food jam or mechanical obstruction.

Please refer to the indicator light status to confirm the issue:

• Solid Yellow: Indicates a food jam or impeller misalignment.
• Solid Yellow-Green: Indicates the hopper is overfilled. Please remove some food to resolve this immediately.

If you are experiencing these issues, please follow the troubleshooting steps below in order.

Step 1: Check Kibble Compatibility

PiFi is engineered to work best with standard dry kibble sizes.

1. Measure Kibble Size: Ensure your dry kibble is between 5–10mm in diameter.
2. Check Kibble Type: Avoid extra-large, irregular, sticky, or oily kibble, as these textures often cause jams.
3. Recommendation: Standard baked kibble ensures the smoothest rotation and portioning. If your current food is larger, consider mixing in smaller pieces or switching to a compatible size.

Step 2: Clean the Discharge Ramp

While most baked kibble slides smoothly, certain “puffed” or low-density kibble types may linger on the ramp due to static or friction.

1. Inspect the Ramp: Check if food is piling up on the slide leading to the bowl.
2. Clear Obstructions: Accumulated food can block the discharge sensor, preventing the next portion from dispensing. Use the included cleaning brush to clear any residue.
3. Prevention: If this occurs frequently, consider switching to a denser baked kibble for more reliable performance.

Step 3: Inspect Internal Components

Crumbs and dust can build up over time and interfere with the motor.

1. Empty the Hopper: Remove all food from the bin.
2. Clean the Chute: Check the dispensing chute and impeller area for lodged food.
3. Remove Residue: Use a dry cloth or brush to gently clear any crumbs, oil, or dust around the impeller.
4. Refill Carefully: Refill the hopper above the minimum line, but ensure you do not overfill past the max line.

Step 4: Verify Assembly (Bowl & Divider)

Improper assembly can cause mechanical resistance.

1. Check the Divider: Ensure the divider is fully inserted into its slot.
2. Check the Bowl: Ensure the bowl is not overfilled with uneaten food, which can back up into the chute.
3. Secure Parts: Reassemble all components and ensure they are seated securely.

Step 5: Check Agitator Alignment

The gray silicone agitator plays a critical role in moving food smoothly.

1. Inspect Position: Open the lid and look at the gray silicone stirring blade.
2. Correct Alignment: The blade should be positioned perpendicular (at a 90-degree angle) to the divider.
3. Fix Misalignment: If the blade is angled or hitting the divider, it will interfere with rotation. Gently adjust it or reinstall it to ensure it clears the divider during rotation.

Step 6: Power-Cycle the Device

If the physical path is clear, a system reset can clear the error status.

1. Unplug the feeder from the wall outlet.
2. Remove any backup batteries.
3. Wait 60 seconds for the system to fully reset.
4. Plug the device back in and re-insert the batteries.
5. Wait 30 seconds for the device to reconnect.

Test: Press the “Feed Now” button in the app. If the light returns to White and food dispenses, the issue is resolved.

Contact Support

If the indicator light remains Yellow or the grinding noise persists after completing these steps,  please submit ticket to contact PiFi Support with the following information:

• Device SN Code: Found in the App under Home >Settings⚙️ > Device Info, or on the label on the bottom of the feeder’s upper body.
• Login Email Address: The email address used to log into the myPiFi app.