The smoker interior is excessively sooty with black residue on the food.

Safety first: Allow the smoker to cool completely before cleaning.

Steps:

• 1. Reduce wood quantity: Use the minimum amount of dry hardwood recommended by Cookshack.
• 2. Open the vent: Ensure the exhaust vent is open enough to allow smoke to flow freely.
• 3. Clean the interior: Scrape and wipe down heavy creosote deposits from the walls and ceiling.
• 4. Adjust cooking style: Avoid running at very low temperatures with heavy smoke for extended periods.