Jotul Series 8AP draft concerns

[NurseNancy]

I am new to wood stoves only having used used an old Jotul 602 for 1 season. This is the setup I now have for a barely used Jotul Series 8 AP my landlord recently installed. I know I have probably have draft problems from the chimney not following 10-2-3ft rule. Do I also have draft problems due to the pipe going from 6" to 8" at the ceiling? I am burning fairly seasoned madrone, but often having trouble maintaining burn if I engage the draft slider. I also can get a lot of smoke billowing in-house when I reload. I also read that draft problems can cause accelerated creosote buildup. Before I talk to my landlord, I would appreciate someone explaining or pointing me where to read about the draft problems and creosote issues. Thank you kindly.

 

[begreen]

How well seasoned and dry is the firewood? Partially seasoned wood may be the cause of the smoke and difficulty burning.

Note that is not a proper or adequate hearth for a wood stove and not what is required for this specific model.