Here's how I work my Tiptop. First I use 2/3 of the charcoal you normally would. I have the bottom wide open and the Tiptop wide open. When I get about 35 degrees away from the temp I want I close the bottom completely. When I reach the full temp then I close the Tiptop. The Tiptop will now open and close and regulate the air and keep the temps constant. You have to watch it for a few minutes to make minor adjustments to set it correctly. After that you should be good to go. I have held 250 or whatever I need for hours this way. The air will draw in at the top and exhaust at the same time. If you find you need more air then open the bottom 1/4 inch....no more. Make sure to pull the silicone band down over the egg top to create a good seal around the bottom of the Tiptop. Hope that helps