Strong smoke smell or smoke leaking heavily from hopper lid during operation.

Safety first: Use caution around hot surfaces and smoke; ensure adequate outdoor ventilation.

Step-by-step checks:

• 1. Inspect chimney: Ensure the chimney cap is properly adjusted and the stack is not blocked by soot, nests, or foil.
• 2. Improve airflow: Clean the combustion fan intake and verify the fan is running at normal speed.
• 3. Check hopper lid seal: Ensure the hopper lid closes fully. Replace any damaged gasket if equipped.
• 4. Reposition grill: Move the grill to reduce direct wind blowing into the exhaust or hopper area.

When to call a technician: Persistent backdraft despite clear exhaust and good fan operation may indicate a fan or control issue requiring service.