Does anyone have any advice for keeping a small coal stove lit in my asbsence?

I am using "pea" coal so it's easier for the new coal added to light, however, it's so hard to keep it at a constant temp while im not there. I can keep it maintained for a couple days solid, but then it (the bottom vent w/ the shaker) gets choked w/ creasote and dies out. So far im not happy with this heating medium. It's dirty & a pain in the ***. Any help would be great.

Thanks!