HELP for a newb....

I have a Harman p61 (manual start) and have been burning Energex Pellets. Recently the pellets have not been burning completely and is burning behind the burn pot (flames are not coming just straight up). I'm a total newb this season. I have had no other issues and this is puzzling to me. I have noticed that its struggling to keep the heat up as it was in weeks prior. What am I doing wrong? Is it just because it's winter cold and no longer fall cool? Thanks for your patience in advance

It seems like you have no mechanical issues, I would say tear it down and CLEAN-CLEAN IT and then it should be good to go
sounds like you need more draft

Cliff

What are your settings on the panel?

I am going to clean tomorrow. I was thinking that, it's been a couple of weeks of hard use since last.

My settings:
room temperature thermostat
feed - 3
temp - 80
blower - mid

thanks guys!

Def start with a good cleaning. Clean the ESP. Try putting the feed rate on 4. Is your room sensor real close to the stove? If you put it on 90° does it come to life?

The sensor is extended all the way, not close tot he stove. I put it on hot and it seems to sputter. I pull the blower down and the temp down and its seems to be more effective. Up until Friday Pm it was humming, no problems. I think your right, a good cleaning will work a miracle. My first season, I guess it's part of the learning process.
Thanks!!

Are you using an OAK? Check for obstructions. If not, check the inlet for the same.

No OAK, lined through the chimney. I'll check for obstructions.
Thanks!

BTW, all it needed was a nice cleaning. We are cleaning once every 2 weeks. That keeps her going well. Thanks!

It shouldnt need it that often but if you are up and running...thats whats important. Set the feed rate on 4 and forget it. As a newbie, have you read the thread in my signature yet?

Your deflector plate needs to sit nice and snug in the notches. If not, the flame will appear to be coming up from the back of the burn pot.

yup...flame guide, harman part # 3-00-08534......$20-$30 from your wonderful local Harman dealer.......