I know that smoke in the hopper is not good. How much are you talking about? When I start my Harman Accentra from cold, there is some smoke in the hopper when it first lights up for a few minutes- until it gets hot, I am guessing. Smoke in the hopper continuously gets creosote like remnents on the auger, and top of the feed plate, I believe. When I do clean my stove, there is always hard stuff (sorry- am having a brain fart- cannot think of correct word!), on te top plate, and in the corners of the feed bin. How much is normal- how much is related to the quality of pellets? I am wondering if the pipe/chimney needs to be cleaned again. Also, the glass gets very dirty within a day or a few days. Thanks.