You set up the fuel the same way you normally do. I always just fill the grate with an empty coffee can in the middle with the bottom cut out, and pour the hot coals in the middle. Then remove the coffee can, add a few chunks of wood, and close her up. When the cook is done, I close the top vent, remove the fan, and insert the silicon plug. When its cold, I just shake the grate to get rid of the ash, and leave the partially burned coals for next time. Either way, it doesn't matter what method you use when using the ATC.