Grill produces excessive white smoke and sooty residue on food; pellets smolder instead of burning cleanly.

Safety first: Let the grill cool before cleaning internal components.

Step-by-step checks:

• 1. Use quality pellets: Switch to dry, food-grade hardwood pellets. Avoid pellets stored in damp environments.
• 2. Clean firepot thoroughly: Remove all ash and unburned pellets. Ensure air holes in the firepot are clear.
• 3. Inspect fan intake and blades: Clean grease and dust from the fan and intake vents to restore airflow.
• 4. Check exhaust: Make sure the chimney and exhaust path are not blocked and the cap is properly adjusted.

When to call a technician: If heavy smoke persists with clean internals and good pellets, the fan may be underperforming and require replacement or the control board may be mis-timing the feed.