I'm starting to season my UDS and noted when I took the lid off, all sorts of ash was flying about in the heat updraft.
Is this normal?
Also if I use a forced air type system - I'm thinking the air blowing in may stir up the ash too.
Lastly - does the ash in the basket end up choking the coal as it burns? I have seen some designs with a small rod attached to the coal basket to jiggle it about and loosten the ash - but is this really necessary or does it depend on the coal used?
Thanks!