Light a chimney of charcoal, once it's ready dump in the firebox add a log (10-12 inches log 2-4 inches wide). Have exhaust full open and fire box door open. When the first log is about done add another and close door. Once temp reaches where you want (Jambo is designed to cook best at 275), close exhaust about half way. It should settle in at 275. When temp drops, add another log. 1 log at a time is all it should take. Fire should be a bed of coals with 1 log, smoke will be invisible or very thin blue. Depending on weather conditions, 1 log will maintain 275 for 35-60 minutes.