Understanding the errors in GTmetrix tests


As a website performance optimization tool, the goal of Peqi is to ensure that your site loads quickly and efficiently. We use GTmetrix to test the speed and performance of sites using our tool. However, sometimes tests may show errors that are not related to our product, but rather inherent issues with the GTmetrix platform or its application. In this article, we will explore these common errors, their causes, and how to identify them.

The page took too long to load

This error occurs when GTmetrix does not detect a CPU idle period during page load, indicating that JavaScript or other heavy tasks are continuously running. To resolve this type of issue, you need to optimize JavaScript to reduce CPU load, consider breaking long tasks into smaller chunks, and review scripts to avoid unnecessary executions.

The page took too long to load

Occurs when GTmetrix does not detect a network idle period, indicating that the page is continuously loading resources. To resolve this issue, minimize the number of network requests and reduce the size of loaded resources. Here, you can use techniques like asynchronous loading and lazy loading to improve network efficiency.

The page did not display any content

This error occurs when GTmetrix cannot detect any visible content rendering on the page. In this case, you need to check for HTML or JavaScript errors that may be preventing content rendering. Ensure that the main content is not blocked by third-party scripts.

Failed to find the Largest Contentful Paint

Occurs when GTmetrix cannot identify the largest visible element during site loading. Here, ensure that the main elements of your site are being loaded correctly and efficiently, avoiding loading blocks that could delay the display of the largest visual elements.

Browser crashed while auditing the page or browser ran out of memory while auditing the page

This error occurs when the browser used by GTmetrix crashes or runs out of memory during the audit. To resolve this, reduce the complexity and size of scripts and resources loaded on the page. Consider optimizing or dividing heavy tasks to avoid overloading the browser.

Debugger in page JavaScript pausing JavaScript execution

This error occurs when a debugger embedded in the page's JavaScript pauses script execution. In this case, you should remove any breakpoints or debugging commands from the JavaScript code before conducting the analysis.

The URL did not appear to be an HTML page

Occurs when GTmetrix does not recognize the URL content as an HTML page. Try verifying if the provided URL is correct and if the content returned by the server is indeed an HTML page.

For more information, you can visit the official GTmetrix documentation.

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