All of the bubbling paint, sticky substances, and dirty smoke reviews are true.  I have done 5-6 dry runs with my cold smoker to burn off any toxins and to find the right recipe to produce clean, blue smoke before I actually cook with it - no success as of yet.  The unit heats up fast and burns through dry chips quickly - although the instructions say not to soak chips, I highly recommend it.  Lots of smoke is lost from the chimney and flip down lid as they don't line up well.  I bought some air vent tubing to set unit apart from my larger one and reduce heat - but, until I get the right smoke, I won't cook for my family with it.  I want to love this thing but we're definitely not there yet.  I'll adjust my rating if I figure out these issues.